Delaware Golf Course Statistics
- Total Golf Courses: Delaware has around 47 golf courses, offering a mix of public and private options.
- Oldest Golf Course: Wilmington Country Club, founded in 1901, is among the oldest and most prestigious courses in the state.
- Longest Golf Course: The Bayside Resort Golf Club in Selbyville measures an impressive 7,545 yards from the championship tees, offering a challenge for long hitters.
- Hardest Golf Course: Shawnee Country Club is known for its tough 18th hole, which has been the deciding factor in many state championships.
- Public vs. Private Courses: Wilmington golf courses include several private clubs, but there are also numerous public courses that offer great accessibility to golfers of all skill levels.
Unique Delaware Golf Course Features
Even though Delaware is a small state, its golf courses offer unique challenges and scenic views that make them stand out:
- Shawnee Country Club (Milford, DE): Known for its iconic 18th hole, which challenges golfers with steep bunkers and tight fairways, Shawnee is a must-play for those looking for a challenging round.
- Bayside Resort Golf Club (Selbyville, DE): This course, located near the beaches of southern Delaware, combines length and beauty, making it a favorite for golfers looking for a challenge paired with stunning coastal scenery.
- Deerfield Golf Club (Newark, DE): This course is known for its picturesque layout, particularly the uphill challenge on the 9th hole, which will test both your strategy and your stamina.
The 5 Hardest Golf Holes in Delaware
Delaware may not have the toughest golf courses in the world, but it certainly has its share of challenging holes. Here are five that’ll test your skills:
- Hole 18 at Shawnee Country Club (Milford): This tough par-4 requires precision off the tee, with bunkers and trees ready to punish wayward shots.
- Hole 9 at Deerfield Golf Club (Newark): A steep uphill par-4 that demands accuracy and distance, making it one of the trickiest holes in the state.
- Hole 8 at Wilmington Country Club (Wilmington): A long par-4 with a dogleg that requires smart club selection and an accurate approach to avoid the well-placed bunkers.
- Hole 17 at Baywood Greens (Long Neck): Known for its water hazards and narrow landing zones, this par-5 can make or break your round.
- Hole 12 at Bayside Resort Golf Club (Selbyville): This long par-4, with water down the left side, challenges golfers to stay precise with both their drive and approach shots.
Public vs. Private Golf Courses in Delaware
Delaware provides a balanced mix of public and private courses, making it easy to find a round that fits your budget and skill level.
- Public Courses: Delaware offers a good number of public courses, including Deerfield Golf Club and Baywood Greens, known for their beautiful settings and approachable green fees, typically ranging from $40 to $75. You can always save with golf deals at TeeTime Golf Pass.
- Private Courses: Delaware also has its fair share of private clubs like Wilmington Country Club and Fieldstone Golf Club, offering members a more exclusive experience with meticulously maintained greens and a more challenging play.
Top Historical Golf Course Events in Delaware
Though Delaware might not host major international tournaments, it’s home to plenty of local championships and events that make it a thriving hub for regional golf:
- Delaware State Golf Association Championships: These state-level competitions bring together the best local golfers to compete on some of Delaware’s top courses, including Shawnee Country Club and Wilmington Country Club.
- Charity Tournaments: Courses like Bayside Resort and Baywood Greens often host charity tournaments that attract players from across the region, contributing to both the sport and the community.
Economic Impact of Golf in Delaware
Golf isn’t just a recreational activity in Delaware; it also plays a significant role in supporting the state’s economy:
- Industry Size: The Golf Courses & Country Clubs industry in Delaware is expected to reach $151.5 million in 2024.
- Number of Businesses: There are 31 golf course and country club establishments in Delaware1.
- Job Creation: The golf industry in Delaware directly employs 1,417 people1. This is part of the broader tourism industry in the state, which employs over 44,000 people.
- Golf Tourism: While specific golf tourism numbers aren’t provided, Delaware welcomed 9.2 million visitors overall in 2018, who accounted for $3.5 billion in economic impact.
Revenue and Economic Contribution:
- The golf industry is part of Delaware’s tourism sector, which generated $545.1 million in state and local taxes and fees in 2018.
- Each Delaware household would have had to pay an additional $1,562 in taxes without the contribution from tourism.
- Growth Trends: The Golf Courses & Country Clubs industry in Delaware is expected to grow at an annualized rate (specific rate not provided) over the five years to 2024
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to questions about the golf courses on TeeTime Golf Pass below:
Delaware is home to around 47 golf courses, including a mix of public and private options.
Shawnee Country Club is considered one of the toughest, with a rating of 36.0 and slope of 113, especially its challenging 18th hole, which is known for its difficult layout.
Deerfield Golf Club and Baywood Greens are two of the most popular public courses, offering beautiful scenery and great golfing conditions.
Green fees at Delaware’s public golf courses generally range from $40 to $75, depending on the course and time of year. You can always save on Delaware golf course deals with TeeTime Golf Pass. Check them out in our Mid-Atlantic Golf Pass here.
Wilmington Country Club, established in 1901, is one of the oldest courses in the state.
While Delaware hasn’t produced many famous professional golfers, it’s home to a growing community of talented amateurs and juniors.
Delaware might be small, but its golf scene is anything but. Whether you’re looking for a casual round or a serious challenge, Delaware’s courses offer a wide range of experiences for golfers of all skill levels. So grab your clubs and explore the unique courses that make this state a hidden gem for golfers!