Georgia Golf Course Statistics
- Total Golf Courses: Georgia has 435 golf courses, with a mix of public, private, and municipal options to suit all kinds of players.
- Oldest Golf Course: The Savannah Golf Club, established in 1794, is recognized as one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States. It has been in continuous operation since its founding, making it a cornerstone of Georgia’s golfing history.
- Longest Golf Course: The Creek Golf Course at Hard Labor Creek in Social Circle, Georgia, is known for its challenging layout. From the back tees, it stretches to approximately 6,437 yards.
- Easiest Golf Course (by Course Rating): Candler Park Golf Course is known as a great golf course for beginners. like Pine Hills Golf Club in Winder is also known for its more forgiving layout, making it suitable for beginners.
- Hardest Golf Course (by Course Rating): The Creek Golf Course at Hard Labor Creek is often cited as one of Georgia’s most challenging courses. Its first hole has been voted by golfers as “Georgia’s toughest starting hole.”
Unique Golf Course Holes
Georgia’s courses feature several distinctive holes:
- Augusta National Golf Club’s 12th Hole (“Golden Bell”): Part of the famed Amen Corner, this par-3 is renowned for its beauty and difficulty, with Rae’s Creek guarding the front of the green.
- East Lake Golf Club’s 15th Hole: A challenging par-5 that requires strategic play, especially with its well-placed bunkers and water hazards.
The 5 Hardest Golf Holes
While subjective, the following holes are often regarded as particularly challenging:
- Augusta National’s 12th Hole (“Golden Bell”): A short par-3 that demands precision due to swirling winds and a narrow green.
- Augusta National’s 11th Hole (“White Dogwood”): A long par-4 with water guarding the green, making approach shots perilous.
- East Lake’s 16th Hole: A demanding par-4 with a narrow fairway and a green protected by water.
- The Creek at Hard Labor’s 1st Hole: Known as Georgia’s toughest starting hole, this par-4 requires accuracy off the tee to navigate the challenging layout.
PGA - Peachtree Golf Club’s 5th Hole: A long par-4 with a well-bunkered green, testing both driving and approach skills.
Private vs. Public Golf Courses in Georgia
Georgia has a great mix of courses, so there’s something for everyone—no matter your budget or experience level. Out of the 435 golf courses in the state, almost half are public, which means you’ve got plenty of options if you’re looking for accessible places to play. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Public Courses: With 216 public courses (49.7% of all courses), Georgia makes it easy for everyone to get out there and play. You’ll find everything from laid-back courses perfect for beginners to more challenging layouts, all with that welcoming southern vibe.
- Municipal Courses: Georgia has 60 municipal courses (13.8%), which are run by local governments and typically offer some of the most affordable rounds. These are great options if you’re looking to get in a quick, budget-friendly round with friends.
- Private Courses: For those after a premium experience, Georgia has 159 private courses (36.5%).
This balance of public, municipal, and private courses means you can find the perfect place to play, whether you’re just getting started or looking to join a club and dive deeper into the game. Georgia really has something for every golfer.
Must-Play Golf Courses in Georgia
Georgia offers a variety of courses, each with its unique character and scenic beauty. Here are a few must-play courses across the state:- Bear’s Best Atlanta (Suwanee, GA): Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this course features 18 replicas of his favorite holes from his courses around the world, creating a unique experience for golfers.
- Chateau Elan Golf Club (Braselton, GA): Known for its stunning scenery and challenging layouts, Chateau Elan offers 45 holes of golf, including the renowned Chateau and Woodlands courses.
- Bobby Jones Golf Course (Atlanta, GA): This reversible nine-hole course provides a modern twist on classic golf and is one of the most unique golfing experiences in Georgia.
Historic Golf Events in Georgia
Georgia isn’t just known for its courses; it’s also home to some of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments:
- The Masters Tournament: Held annually at Augusta National Golf Club, The Masters is one of golf’s four major championships and attracts fans from around the world to Augusta every April.
- The Tour Championship: Hosted at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, this tournament marks the finale of the PGA Tour season, featuring the top 30 players in the FedEx Cup standings.
- PGA Tournaments at the Palmetto Golf Club: The Palmetto Golf Club, one of Georgia’s oldest courses, has a storied history and has hosted numerous golf legends over the years.
- 1996 Olympics Golf Demonstration: During the Atlanta Summer Olympics, golf was featured as a demonstration sport at the Atlanta Athletic Club, highlighting the sport’s global appeal.
Golfer Statistics in Georgia
- Golf Course Usage: With a mild climate, Georgia courses see steady usage year-round, attracting both locals and tourists.
- Participation Rates: Golfing remains a popular sport in Georgia, with consistent participation among both on-course and off-course golfers.
Famous Golfers from Georgia
Georgia has produced several legendary golfers who have left their mark on the sport:
- Bobby Jones: An Atlanta native, Jones is one of the most celebrated golfers of all time. He co-founded Augusta National Golf Club and helped create The Masters Tournament, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
- Tommy Aaron: Hailing from Gainesville, Aaron became the first native Georgian to win The Masters in 1973, a historic achievement that’s celebrated to this day.
- Bubba Watson: Although born in Florida, Watson calls Georgia home and is a two-time Masters champion. His unique style and impressive career have made him a fan favorite.
Economic Impact of Golf in Georgia
- Number of Jobs: The golf industry in Georgia supports over 55,000 jobs, encompassing roles in golf facility operations, tourism, manufacturing, and related services.
- Revenue and Growth Trends: The total economic impact of Georgia’s golf industry is estimated at $5.3 billion, reflecting the industry’s growth and its importance to the state’s economy. This figure includes direct spending on golf facilities, equipment, and events, as well as indirect and induced impacts on related industries.
- Golf Tourism: Georgia’s golf tourism is a substantial economic driver, generating approximately $1.5 billion in economic activity. This includes spending on accommodations, dining, transportation, and other travel-related expenses by visitors attending golf events or playing at the state’s courses.
- Golf Businesses: Georgia is home to a diverse range of golf-related businesses, including over 362 golf facilities and several prominent golf equipment manufacturers. Companies like Club Car and E-Z-GO, which produce golf carts, are headquartered in the state, contributing significantly to both employment and economic output. GSGA
Golf Courses By City
Related Articles
Unlock a Better Golf Swing with QuickFixGolf
At TeeTime Golf Pass, we’re committed to
If you want to try some of the most beautiful golf courses in
Ohio State Parks and Great Lodges have some awesome golf courses that
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to questions about the golf courses on TeeTime Golf Pass below:
Georgia has approximately 435 golf courses, offering a mix of public, private, and municipal courses that suit every type of golfer.
The Palmetto Golf Club, established in 1892, is Georgia’s oldest continuously operated golf course and one of the oldest in the Southeast.
Some of Georgia’s top public courses include Bear’s Best Atlanta, Chateau Elan Golf Club, and Bobby Jones Golf Course. These courses offer a fantastic experience for all golfers.
Georgia is home to legendary golfers like Bobby Jones, Tommy Aaron, and Bubba Watson, each of whom has made a significant impact on the game.
Georgia hosts The Masters at Augusta National Golf Club and The Tour Championship at East Lake Golf Club, drawing fans and players from around the world.
Georgia’s golf courses offer a blend of challenging layouts, scenic views, and rich history. Whether you’re new to the game or an experienced player, the Peach State is a fantastic place to enjoy the sport. For those looking to explore Georgia’s courses with great deals, be sure to check out the TeeTime Golf Pass, which offers discounts on golf courses statewide.