Golf Course: What to Consider Before Choosing a Location

Getting out to the golf course can be a great way to have some fun, whether you are a beginner or a professional. The vast array of courses in every city can make it hard to select the best one, though. Before you get overwhelmed, consider a few ways to pick good location, especially when you are just starting out in this sport.

One of the most important factors is the difficulty of the golf course. If you are a seasoned pro, you will want to choose the more difficult courses since you will be bored and feel like you are wasting time and money otherwise. If you are a beginner, though, you will get frustrated fast with harder courses, so you should choose a beginner's location if you want to fit in the most amount of practice. Most courses list the handicap of their holes, making it easy to choose. You should also read reviews to find out what actual members say about the difficulty, or ask your golfing buddies.

The appearance of the golf course should also matter since you will be looking at it for hours. Most courses have plenty of greenery, clearly, but the type will differ. For example, some feature lots of rolling hills, while others are flat and just have lots of trees that provide plenty of shade. Some locations have a lot of water features, instead, while others have a moderate mix of all these aspects. You can often see pictures of each one online so you can get an idea of how it looks before you decide whether to go. Plus, you can always go to each one at least one time so that you can compare them all and decide which you like best.

The amenities of each golf course should also be considered. For example, many offer practice areas, such as a driving range, so you can improve your game before golfing. Many also have a gift shop so you can buy golfing equipment, and they might also feature a restaurant and bar, allowing you a place to gather with friends after your round.

Finally, think about the practical details. Find out how to set your tee time, as many modern locations let you do it online or on the phone so it is fast and easy. You should also find out what is included in the green fees. Most include a golf cart and 18 holes, and the rates tend to change depending on whether it is a weekend, weekday, or holiday. In addition, find out what you can wear, since many locations require a collared shirt and do not allow jeans. You can check the website of the location you are considering to find out for sure what the rules are.

Before you select the best place for you, think about these details. They will help determine whether you have a good time practicing this sport, whether you are advanced or just learning the basics of the game still.