Dreamscape: Bayonne Golf Club

Looking out from the clubhouse, across an expansive 130 acres of open terrain, it’s clear why Bayonne Golf Club is known as one of the most captivating courses in the country. The masterfully designed Eric Bergstol landscape pays homage to the old links-style courses of Ireland and Scotland. Its windswept dunes and pristinely groomed fairways, coupled with views of the Manhattan skyline and New York Harbor, offers anyone who steps onto the property a truly unique setting to experience the best the game has to offer, just moments outside the hustle and
bustle of the city.

Since opening in 2006, the Eric Bergstol designed course has earned praise and acclaim for its ingenious engineering. Devoid of trees, each hole was crafted among the course’s towering man-made dunes, some of which reach heights of 100 ft; the ideal setting for catching a cool breeze in the afternoon. In order to construct the course and clubhouse, managment noted that costs exceeded $130 million, making it one of the most expensive clubs ever assembled in New Jersey.

Although picturesque, the par 71, 7,120-yard course is not without its challenges. Bayonne Golf Club may remain true to the coastal links courses of old, but its trials and tribulations of play are of the American variety. Its rolling hills and dynamic elevations are just some of the environmental obstacles golfers will face on the green. Perhaps the course’s most audacious challenge lies on its long, downward 16th hole. The hole, which is at the heart of the property and in perfect view of Lady Liberty, is guarded by two bunkers and a narrowing fairway that bends as golfers make their final approach.

The course’s clubhouse reigns over the grounds from atop the dunes, reminiscent of a Cape Cod lighthouse standing guard over the coastline. Clubhouse amenities include a pub, indoor and outdoor dining areas, locker rooms and a library. While belonging to the club certainly exudes exclusivity, its patrons come from all over the world; including local, national and international members. But like the view, the club’s many conveniences cannot be overlooked. The practice facilities include a putting green (just steps from the clubhouse), a water range on the Hudson River, and a short game area. Members can arrive by car, club ferry or by private or charter helicopter.

Though its stunning terrain and membership perks are the club’s backbone, the real allure of Bayonne Golf Club comes from its proximity to New York City. Like something out of a dream, you make your way through the property’s twists and turns, but you never lose sight of the surrounding metropolis.