Private Golf Courses vs. Public Golf Courses

            One of the many dilemmas of a golfer is: “Should I spend a lot of money on joining a private golf course, or do I play at a public golf course?”  There is no right or wrong answer; it just depends on what you are looking for.  Both private golf courses and public golf courses have their advantages and disadvantages.

    A public course is ideal for the golfer that does not play very often.  What’s the sense in paying every month for a membership that does not get used?  If you don’t play more than once a week over the summer, and do not play often during the winter, a public course would probably make more economic sense.  Also, if you are all about trying out new courses, and see yourself getting bored playing the same eighteen holes every time you play, then definitely consider a public course. 

  A private course on the other hand, is best for a golfer that plays multiple times during a week, and frequently plays over the winter.  More money would probably be saved in the long run in paying a set amount of money each month on membership and a cart pass, than to pay fifty to one hundred dollars for every round.     

A private club is very attractive because of the social atmosphere.  Not only can you and your friends go out and play at a familiar place, but you have the potential to meet more people with similar interests.  It is also a great place for networking, and making good connections.  Many private clubs have weekly leagues and hold special member tournaments that are very fun to participate in.  They are often a great way to make friends.  Some leagues even have special events where you can play at other courses against players from different courses. 

            Depending on what you are looking for, and how much money you are willing to spend, both private and public clubs have their ups and downs.  It pays to research specific prices; as there are expensive private clubs, and public courses.