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Course Report
By the first tee, there is a sign which reads: "The Black Course is an extremely difficult course which we recommend only for highly skilled golfers." This iconic sign has become a bucket-list photo spot, but its exact origin is a mystery—even club historians can't pinpoint when it first appeared. Most believe it was installed sometime in the 1960s or later, and it was put there to discourage less-skilled golfers from tackling one of the world's most challenging public courses.
About
Bethpage Black is one of five courses at Bethpage State Park and is acclaimed for its demanding layout, challenging length, and championship pedigree. Designed by legendary architect A.W. Tillinghast and opened in 1936, it hosts major events like the U.S. Open and PGA Championship. Known for its penal rough, iconic bunkering, and walking-only policy, it is revered as one of America’s greatest public courses.
Caddie Tip
Keep the ball in the fairway at all costs, as the rough is extremely penal and missing tees or approaches can quickly add strokes. Pick conservative targets on approach shots and respect every bunker; recoveries are challenging with the deep, signature bunkers. A strong short game is vital to survive the lightning-fast greens.
The Main Challenge
The most daunting challenge at Bethpage Black is its long, punishing layout with thick rough and massive, strategically placed bunkers. Players face narrow fairways that punish misses severely, and the fast, undulating greens test even accomplished putters. Scoring well requires every shot in the bag, strategic thinking, and consistent execution.
The Good
Golfers love Bethpage Black for its authenticity, legendary challenge, and the honor of competing on a course renowned for hosting major championships. The walk-only policy, dramatic bunkering, and grand scale evoke a pure golf experience and sense of accomplishment that stands out among public-access courses.
The Not So Good
Pace of play can often be slow, frequently exceeding 5 hours, and advanced tee times are extremely hard to secure due to high demand. Many wish for improved clubhouse facilities, especially better pre-round food options and an updated pro shop.
Signature Hole:
#
4
The par-5 4th hole at Bethpage Black is the course’s most famous. Stretching over 517 yards, it demands both length and precision, with a dramatic tee shot leading to a fairway defended by large bunkers and a challenging, elevated green. The hole rewards a strategic approach for birdie opportunities but can punish errant shots with deep rough and treacherous sand traps.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse offers locker rooms, basic food and beverage, and a pro shop, with limited seating and sometimes long lines. More ambitious amenities are lacking, but staff are helpful and the necessary essentials for visitors are provided.
Practice Facilities
Practice facilities include a driving range, pitching/chipping area, and putting green. Range opening hours can be unpredictable, and space may be limited on busy tournament days. Still, the facilities allow for basic warmup and short-game work before a round.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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