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Golf New Jersey

Most visitors think of Atlantic City when they think of New Jersey, and understandably so. Between the casinos and the beach and the boardwalk attractions, Atlantic City shines and rolls out the carpet to welcome visitors into the state. But there’s another very good reason to think of New Jersey, and that’s for golf. New Jersey just happens to have a very secure place as home of the #1 golf course in the country.

Designed by George Crump and H.S. Colt, Clementon’s Pine Valley Golf Club opened in 1918. Nearly a century later, this course still embodies the very best aspects of the game. No other course, public or private, has held the #1 spot in the nation since Golf Digest began rating courses in 1985. That in itself just about makes New Jersey a golf plgrimage destination. Though there are other courses borrowing the Pine Valley name, the #1 course in the land features 18 regulation holes and offers a consistently challenging course which demands sound strategy as well as skill. The intriguing history of this course is itself a testimony to dedication. George Crump only ever designed this one course, and died before all were completed. Amongst the principles he adhered to was that no other hole should be seen from the one that you’re playing at the time. The course was an act of love and though other famous designers, (including Tom Fazio,) have had a hand in it over the years, the design is still attributed to Crump. Private equity, you’ll need to know a member to play there.

Directly across the state, you’ll find that the famed Atlantic City holds plenty of pleasures for the golfer as well. The Atlantic City Country Club, private for over a century, has been bought out by Harrah’s and is now open to the public. Definitely a must-play course, this is a class act all the way from the service and attention the staff lavishes on guests, to the quality of the course itself. Pampering often happens at golf resorts, but seldom is it done so well on the course itself. Of course luxuries are not inexpensive, but if you’re able to spend it, 18 holes at the Atlantic City Country Club is a pleasure you’ll remember your whole life.

If it’s a challenge you’re after, Shore Gate Golf Club may very well be the toughest course around. Precision counts all the way around, and the course punishes mediocrity with an entire day’s worth of bunkers. Not for the faint of heart, but a true feather in the cap for those who prove worthy.

If you prefer something a bit more laid back, the Harbor Pines Golf Club may be more to your liking. Sand is a hazard, as it is for most courses in this region, along with water, but nothing most players can’t handle. Plan a double-header if you like, and play the Blue Herron Pines Golf Club. Both courses are in Egg Harbor Township, but the Blue Herron is going to extract a higher price for mistakes. The Garden State offers many fine courses as side dishes to the entree, the #1 course in the United States. When evening comes around, hit the casinos and appreciate the difference between Atlantic City and Las Vegas. An outstanding golf vacation destination, great golfing can be found across the entire state!