8.06

Bethpage State Park (Red Course)

Course info

ACCESS
Public
EST.
1935
GRASS
Rye
SEASON
April–November
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
70
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
70
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
9.2
City
Farmingdale

Score

8.06
Design
40%
8.4
Conditions
25%
7.8
Desirability
15%
8.0
Scenery
10%
7.7
Fun
5%
7.8
Uniqueness
5%
7.4

Difficulty

Overall
Moderate

Slope 127

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 9.2

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
65
$
70
$
75
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

The 14th hole borders more than 10 acres of active polo fields, reflecting the property's historic use before it was developed for public golf.

About

Designed by A. W. Tillinghast in 1935, Bethpage Red is a standout among municipal courses with strategic bunkering, rolling parkland terrain, and a reputation for being playable yet challenging. The course features hilly, tree-lined holes and expansive greens, embodying the golden age of golf architecture in the heart of Long Island.

Caddie Tip

Keep drives in play on challenging doglegs, especially at the 6th and 18th. The greens have subtle breaks, so take extra time reading them. Walkers should prepare for significant elevation changes, particularly on the opening and closing holes. A conservative approach often scores best here.

The Main Challenge

Elevated, protected greens with subtle slopes place a premium on accurate iron play. Many holes demand strategic tee shots to correct spots on the fairway, with deep bunkers and sloping terrain punishing careless approaches. The uphill finishing stretch tests endurance and shotmaking, especially under pressure.

The Good

Golfers praise the Red for its strategic variety and strong starting and finishing holes. The layout offers excellent shot values regardless of skill level, providing memorable par 4s, expansive bunkering, and an overall experience that stands out in the public golf scene.

The Not So Good

Pace of play can be slow during peak times due to high demand, and some players note that roughs can be patchy or inconsistent after heavy use. Since it’s a municipal course, basic amenities can occasionally feel crowded or outdated on busy weekends.

Signature Hole:

#

6

No items found.

The par 4 6th is a sharp dogleg with a visually straightforward tee shot that tempts players to cut the corner. The green sits atop a ridgeline with a saddle-shaped putting surface and fall-offs left and long right, rewarding precise distance control and strategic tee shot placement.

Clubhouse

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Amenities include a spacious clubhouse with a snack bar, restaurant, locker rooms, showers, and a lounge. The facility is centrally located for all five Bethpage courses, with efficient access to the first tee and solid pre- and post-round gathering areas.

Practice Facilities

No items found.

The course features a full driving range, dedicated pitching and chipping areas, and an expansive putting green. On-site PGA teaching professionals are available for lessons, and rental clubs and carts are offered for convenience.

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.

New York
U.S.A.