Golf on Long Island's North Shore
Long Island has a celebrated golf heritage, and the North Shore around Smithtown offers rolling terrain, mature trees and views of Long Island Sound and the Nissequogue River. Golfers here enjoy a wide range of options, from municipal courses with affordable resident rates to historic private clubs with exclusive memberships.
The golf season typically runs from April through November, with peak conditions in late spring and early fall. Many local courses also offer practice facilities, junior programs and leagues that make the game accessible for players of every skill level.
How We Selected These Courses
We considered course design, conditioning, scenery, accessibility, value, amenities and proximity to Smithtown. The list includes public, municipal and private courses within a short drive of the town.
1. Smithtown Landing Country Club
Owned and operated by the Town of Smithtown, Smithtown Landing Country Club offers an 18-hole course and a nine-hole layout with a classic North Shore setting. Residents enjoy discounted rates and membership options, and the clubhouse provides dining and event space for community gatherings.
2. Sunken Meadow State Park Golf Course
Located in Kings Park, Sunken Meadow offers 27 holes in three nine-hole combinations near the shores of Long Island Sound. It is one of the most popular public facilities in Suffolk County, known for its scenic setting and affordable greens fees.
3. Nissequogue Golf Club
Nissequogue Golf Club in St. James is a private club with a long history and a picturesque setting near the water. Its traditional design and attentive membership culture make it one of the most respected clubs on the North Shore.
4. St. George's Golf & Country Club
Designed by famed architect Devereux Emmet, St. George's in the Stony Brook area is a classic private course known for its strategic bunkering and natural routing. It frequently earns recognition among the best classic courses on Long Island.
5. Indian Hills Country Club
Located in Fort Salonga, Indian Hills offers rolling terrain and views across Long Island Sound. Its private membership enjoys a well-conditioned course and a welcoming clubhouse atmosphere.
6. Crab Meadow Golf Course
Crab Meadow in Northport is a town-owned course with dramatic elevation changes and water views. It provides an enjoyable, affordable round for golfers seeking a scenic public option near Smithtown.
7. The Hamlet Golf & Country Club
Situated in Commack, The Hamlet offers a private golf experience within a residential community. Its well-maintained course and social amenities appeal to families who want golf integrated into their lifestyle.
8. Willow Creek Golf & Country Club
Willow Creek in Mount Sinai features a modern design with water hazards and challenging greens. Its full-service clubhouse and social calendar make it a popular choice for members across northern Suffolk County.
9. Middle Island Country Club
Middle Island Country Club offers 27 holes of golf on wooded terrain and is known for welcoming outings and public play. Its variety of nine-hole combinations keeps rounds interesting for frequent players.
10. Bethpage State Park
A short drive west, Bethpage State Park is home to five courses, including the legendary Black Course, host of multiple major championships and the Ryder Cup. Playing the Black is a bucket-list challenge for serious golfers across Long Island.
Golf Trends on Long Island
Golf participation has grown significantly in recent years, with more young players and families taking up the sport. Simulator facilities, launch monitors and data-driven coaching are increasingly common, and many clubs are investing in sustainable turf management practices that conserve water.
Tips for Golfers in Smithtown
Book tee times early on weekends, particularly at popular public courses. Look into resident rates and season passes for municipal facilities, and take advantage of twilight rates for budget-friendly rounds. Junior clinics are a great way to introduce kids to the game.
Practice Facilities and Golf Instruction
Beyond full courses, Smithtown golfers benefit from driving ranges, indoor simulator studios and PGA-certified instructors throughout Suffolk County. Indoor simulators have become especially popular during Long Island winters, allowing players to keep their swings sharp from December through March. Many clubs and public facilities also offer group clinics for beginners, women's leagues and junior camps that make the game welcoming and accessible.
Golf Etiquette and Pace of Play
Busy weekend tee sheets make pace of play a priority on Long Island courses. Arrive early, be ready to hit when it is your turn and repair ball marks and divots to keep greens in top condition for everyone.
Public Versus Private Golf
Golfers near Smithtown can choose between affordable public and municipal courses and private clubs with membership requirements. Public courses offer flexibility, resident discounts and a welcoming environment for casual players and beginners. Private clubs provide exceptional course conditions, reliable tee times, social events, dining and family amenities such as pools and tennis. Many golfers start with public play and later explore private membership as their interest in the game deepens. Visiting a club as a guest is a great way to experience its culture before committing to membership.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a beginner, a weekend golfer or a dedicated competitor, the Smithtown area offers a rich variety of courses. From affordable town-owned layouts to historic private clubs, the North Shore is an exceptional place to play.