Top Delaware Public Golf Courses

🏌️‍♂️ Top Delaware Public Golf Courses (Based on Wikipedia, Google Reviews & Course Profiles)

Though small in size, Delaware delivers quality over quantity when it comes to public golf. With lush parkland layouts, links-style challenges near the coast, and some resort-style options tucked into rolling countryside, the First State is an underrated golf destination. Whether you’re teeing off in Wilmington or playing the coastal routes near Rehoboth Beach, these public-access courses combine beauty, challenge, and value.

1. Bayside Resort Golf Club – Jack Nicklaus
   📍 Selbyville, DE
   🌊 Coastal championship layout with marshland views
   🎯 Demanding from the back tees, but playable for all levels
   🏆 Often ranked Delaware’s #1 public course
   🗒️ Course site

2. Deerfield Golf Club – Algie Pulley (Renovated by Ault, Clark & Associates)
   📍 Newark, DE
   🌳 Mature wooded layout with dramatic elevation changes
   🏛️ Former DuPont private club now open to the public
   🍂 Popular for fall colors and scenic vistas
   🗒️ Course site

3. The Rookery South – Pete Oakley
   📍 Milton, DE
   🌾 Open layout with water hazards and native grass
   🛎️ Player-friendly with fun green complexes
   👨‍👩‍👧 Great option for vacationers near the beach
   🗒️ Course site

4. White Clay Creek Country Club – Arthur Hills
   📍 Wilmington, DE
   🏇 Set on the grounds of Delaware Park Racetrack
   🌊 Features creeks, wetlands, and sharp strategy
   🎯 One of the more challenging public tracks in the state
   🗒️ Course site

5. Hooper’s Landing Golf Course – Alfred H. Tull
   📍 Seaford, DE
   🌿 Classic small-town muni with solid bones
   💲 Excellent value with walkable layout
   🏌️‍♂️ Hosts leagues, tournaments, and juniors
   🗒️ Course site

6. The Rookery North – Course originally part of Shawnee CC
   📍 Milford, DE
   🌳 Shorter, more traditional layout
   👪 Great for beginners and casual rounds
   💰 Affordable and friendly staff
   🗒️ Course site

7. Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club – Rick Jacobson
   📍 Ocean View, DE
   🏖️ Resort-style 27-hole facility near Bethany Beach
   💨 Links-style challenges with ever-present wind
   ⛳ Well-maintained and very playable year-round
   🗒️ Course site

8. Back Creek Golf Club – Allen Liddicoat & David Horne
   📍 Middletown, DE
   🌾 Prairie-style design with wide fairways and bold bunkering
   🎯 One of the best public courses in northern Delaware
   🍽️ Popular restaurant and practice facilities
   🗒️ Course site

9. Jonathan’s Landing – Fred Garbin
   📍 Magnolia, DE
   🪶 Fun and casual course with water in play
   🌤️ Flat layout, ideal for walking
   💲 Great deals and friendly for all skill levels
   🗒️ Course site

10. Middleton’s Golf Course – Family-owned local course
    📍 Townsend, DE
    🌾 9-hole gem with country charm
    🧒 Excellent for beginners or a quick round
    💵 Value-focused with good conditions
    🗒️ Course site

🏌️‍♀️ Why Golf in Delaware?

• 🏖️ Beach & inland access in under 2 hours

• 🎯 Mix of classic and modern designs

• 🗺️ Easy to navigate and uncrowded

• 💲 Budget-friendly and beginner-welcoming

• 🍂 Stunning seasonal scenery