13 Best Golf Courses in Maryland: Top Picks for 2024

Colin McCarthy

golf courses in Maryland

Maryland, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich golfing history, features some of the finest golf courses on the East Coast.

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just beginning, Maryland’s diverse range of courses provides unique experiences for every skill level. From the rolling hills of the Piedmont region to the serene coastal plains, these top 13 golf courses are sure to impress.

This curated list highlights premier destinations like Worthington Manor Golf Club, Rum Pointe Golf Course, and Links at Perry Cabin, each offering exceptional design and challenging play.

With options ranging from public to semi-private courses, such as Bulle Rock Golf Club and Eagle’s Landing, golfers can enjoy both scenic beauty and top-notch facilities.

Whether seeking a scenic round or a challenging game, these courses offer the perfect blend of stunning views and top-quality play. Explore Maryland’s best golf courses and make unforgettable memories on the green.

Maryland’s 13 Best Golf Courses to Tee Off This Year

Discover Maryland’s 13 best golf courses to tee off this year. From scenic views to challenging layouts, explore top courses that promise an exceptional golfing experience for all skill levels.

1. Worthington Manor Golf Club

Worthington Manor Golf Club

Worthington Manor Golf Club in Urbana, Maryland, is a premier public golf course that’s gained rave reviews.

The course spans 118 acres of lush landscape, offering a green fee of $69, making it accessible yet high-quality. Golfers appreciate the challenging layout, featuring tight fairways and undulating greens.

A reviewer from GolfPass noted playing on November 16, 2023, and highlighted the course’s excellent condition. The greens were described as extremely fast but manageable once they got used to the speed. This course is a must-visit on any Western Maryland golf tour.

2. Rum Pointe Golf Course

Rum Pointe Golf Course

Rum Pointe Golf Course in Berlin, Maryland, offers a premier public golfing experience. Designed by Pete Dye, this links-style course is renowned for its beautiful scenery and strategic layout. With a green fee of $55, it provides excellent value for money.

Players enjoy the course’s mix of challenge and playability, accentuated by the occasional strong winds off the bay. Reviews highlight the friendly staff and efficient playtime, often completing rounds in exactly 4 hours.

LarrySap’s review mentions the course’s thoughtful design, saying, “Pete Dye gives you enough to think about to keep things interesting.”

Ideal for golfers visiting the Ocean City area, Rum Pointe continues to receive high praise for its unique terrain and enjoyable golfing atmosphere.

3. Links at Perry Cabin

Links at Perry Cabin

Links at Perry Cabin in Saint Michaels offers golfers a premier experience. With a green fee of $128, this resort course is known for its welcoming staff and beautiful layout.

Many visitors highlight the exceptional customer service, as noted by Tshump: “From the start, the staff is very welcoming! We held an event there for our Veteran Tour the VGA. We were treated like members from the moment we arrived until we left the property.”

Golfers appreciate the course’s challenging yet enjoyable design. It offers stunning views and well-maintained greens, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

The course is also praised for its perfect blend of strategic holes and serene environment, ensuring a memorable golfing experience.

4. Bulle Rock Golf Club

Bulle Rock Golf Club

Bulle Rock Golf Club in Havre de Grace stands out as one of Maryland’s best public courses. Designed by Pete Dye, this course features a challenging and fun layout, appreciated by seasoned golfers. With a green fee of $75, it’s considered a steal by many.

Golfers praise the friendly and welcoming staff, from the pro shop to the starter. The course conditions remain top-notch even in the cold season. Fast-rolling greens and solid fairways enhance the experience.

Visitors often comment on the superb maintenance of the tee boxes and fairways. Although some regret not bringing their own clubs, the overall experience at Bulle Rock is highly recommended.

5. Eagle’s Landing

Eagle's Landing

Located in Berlin, Maryland, Eagle’s Landing is a public golf course with a green fee of $50. It’s known for its beautiful marsh and water views, offering players a scenic backdrop with minimal housing interference.

The course’s conditioning consistently impresses golfers, providing a well-maintained and interesting layout.

Golfers appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, which adds to the overall enjoyable experience. Reviews often highlight the course’s excellent upkeep despite the challenges of weather conditions, making it a favorite for many.

This course remains a top choice for those visiting nearby Ocean City, earning high praise from regular visitors.

6. Maryland National Golf Club

Maryland National Golf Club

Located in Middletown, Maryland, Maryland National Golf Club is a semi-private club that offers a challenging yet scenic golfing experience. With a green fee of $62, players are treated to a course designed with intelligent layout and strategic holes.

The reviews highlight the stunning vistas and tough greens, adding complexity to each round. One golfer noted, “Two putting on most holes felt like an achievement,” emphasizing the skill required.

The final three holes are particularly stiff, providing a memorable and slightly daunting end to the round. Maryland National is perfect for golfers seeking both beauty and challenge.

7. Whiskey Creek Golf Club

Whiskey Creek Golf Club

Nestled in Ijamsville, Maryland, Whiskey Creek Golf Club stands out as a top public golf course. The course boasts 495 pristine acres, offering a delightful blend of challenging play and stunning natural beauty.

Golfers enjoy the meticulously maintained fairways and greens, with many praising the friendly staff. A round at Whiskey Creek costs a green fee of $65, delivering excellent value for the quality provided.

One reviewer, mrahm1, noted, “Always a good time here. Course is in great condition and the staff is always very friendly.” This endorsement highlights the consistency in service and course upkeep.

Whiskey Creek’s design, featuring rolling hills and scenic vistas, provides an unforgettable golfing experience in the heart of Maryland.

8. River Marsh Golf Club – Hyatt Chesapeake Bay

River Marsh Golf Club - Hyatt Chesapeake Bay

Located in Cambridge, Maryland’s River Marsh Golf Club provides a picturesque 18-hole course for golfers. The facility is part of the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort, making it an excellent destination for both relaxation and sport.

The course spans 6,800 yards and showcases breathtaking river views and finely manicured greens.

Several water hazards and bunkers dot the layout, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. Golfers frequently commend the course for its strategic design and pristine condition. Green fees start at $85, reflecting the premium experience.

Golf Magazine has praised River Marsh for its combination of natural beauty and top-notch facilities. Players enjoy a well-paced round, typically finishing in under four hours, ideal for a full day of resort amenities.

9. Oakland Golf Club

Oakland Golf Club

Oakland Golf Club in Oakland, Maryland, offers an engaging golfing experience on a public course. The green fee is $70, and while some might find it a bit pricey, golfers can often get good deals on golf websites.

The course is known for its fast but fair greens and a somewhat hilly front 9. Despite wet conditions from the previous day, players noted the course and greens were in good shape.

Positive feedback highlights the good carts and very friendly staff, making it an enjoyable visit. Ideal for those seeking a well-maintained and challenging course, Oakland Golf Club delivers a solid golfing experience.

10. Mountain Branch Golf Course

Mountain Branch Golf Course

Mountain Branch Golf Course, located in Joppa, Maryland, offers a semi-private golfing experience. With a green fee of $62, it features a well-maintained layout suitable for golfers of all skill levels.

Players have highlighted the impressive mix of holes and the impeccable condition of the greens. Despite minor inconveniences like slow pace and falling leaves, the course consistently gets high praise.

The on-site clubhouse bar/restaurant is considered one of the best in Maryland, making it a perfect spot to relax after a round. Grab a pint and enjoy the lively atmosphere, creating a memorable end to a day on the course.

This blend of excellent facilities and competitive pricing makes Mountain Branch a must-visit in Maryland.

11. Blue Mash Golf Course

Blue Mash Golf Course

Blue Mash Golf Course in Laytonsville, Maryland, offers a top-notch public golfing experience with a green fee of $64. The course stands out for its well-maintained fairways and challenging layout, making it a favorite among local golfers.

Visitors often praise the great pace of play, especially during the off-season. According to reviews, the staff is super friendly and welcoming, contributing to an overall enjoyable round.

Golfers appreciate the scenic views and the strategic design that caters to various skill levels. Blue Mash provides an excellent setting for both casual games and serious practice, ensuring a rewarding experience for all who visit.

12. Ocean City Golf Club – Newport Bay

Ocean City Golf Club - Newport Bay

Located in Berlin, Maryland, Ocean City Golf Club – Newport Bay is a top public golf course known for its stunning water views and excellent condition. With a green fee of $49, it is an affordable and high-quality golfing option.

Reviewers frequently praise its picturesque scenery and well-maintained fairways. The club provides beautiful landscapes and welcoming amenities for a pleasant experience for all golfers.

Other standout features include the diverse range of challenging holes and the attentive, friendly staff. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced golfer, Ocean City Golf Club – Newport Bay offers an enjoyable and memorable round of golf.

13. Swan Point Yacht & Country Club

Swan Point Yacht & Country Club

Swan Point Yacht & Country Club in Issue, Maryland, offers a unique golfing experience with scenic views of the Potomac River.

The semi-private club boasts a meticulously maintained 18-hole course, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With a green fee of $49, it provides excellent value for money.

Golfers appreciate the course’s challenging yet enjoyable layout, featuring water hazards and lush fairways. One reviewer highlighted, “I would highly recommend this course.

A hidden gem!” Plus to golf, Swan Point offers various amenities, including a clubhouse, restaurant, and yacht club, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a weekend golfer, Swan Point promises a rewarding round amidst beautiful surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top golf courses in Maryland mentioned in the article?

The article highlights several top golf courses, including Whiskey Creek Golf Club, River Marsh Golf Club, Oakland Golf Club, Mountain Branch Golf Course, Blue Mash Golf Course, and Ocean City Golf Club – Newport Bay.

Which course is praised for its challenging layout and scenic views?

Whiskey Creek Golf Club in Ijamsville is praised for its challenging layout and scenic views.

What is the starting green fee at River Marsh Golf Club?

The starting green fee at River Marsh Golf Club in Cambridge is $85.

How much does it cost to play at Oakland Golf Club?

The green fee at Oakland Golf Club in Oakland is $70.

What is special about Mountain Branch Golf Course?

Mountain Branch Golf Course in Joppa offers a semi-private golfing experience with a green fee of $62, and is praised for its layout and clubhouse amenities.

Conclusion

The 13 best golf courses in Maryland offer a diverse range of experiences, ensuring that avid golfers and casual players alike can find something to enjoy.

From scenic views and challenging layouts to well-maintained fairways and affordable green fees, these golf courses provide everything a golf enthusiast could desire.

Remember to book in advance, as popular courses like Whiskey Creek and River Marsh tend to fill up quickly. Each of these courses, whether public or semi-private, has its own unique charm and amenities, making Maryland a top destination for golf lovers.

With stunning landscapes and exceptional facilities, Maryland’s golf courses cater to both seasoned pros and beginners eager to improve their game.

Whether you’re teeing off in the rolling hills or near serene water bodies, the selection promises memorable golfing experiences.

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Colin McCarthy

Golf is about mastering your misses and learning from them. I seek answers on the how and why of the golf swing, gaining experience even when answers elude me. With over 11,000 hours of teaching and a hunger for learning, I welcome any questions. My goal is to introduce golf to as many as possible, simplifying the game for all to enjoy. Passionate, eager, and ambitious, I'm here to teach, listen, and learn. LinkedIn

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