What Is a Semi-Private Golf Course and Who Can Play There?

Which type of course would you rather play on?

I am not referring specifically to links, parkland, and desert courses. I’m referring to both private and public courses. This post will describe what a semi-private course is and who may play it.

I also suggest which golfer is best suited for a local muni, private club, or semi-private golf course. I also highlight the pros and cons of semi-private golf courses.

 

What is a SemiPrivate Course of Golf?

A semi-private golf course has paying delegates. Non-members are welcome to play on the tees. This means that the club earns revenue from both golf membership dues as well as green fees from members.

This allows the establishments to hire more qualified staff and maintain the course. Semi-private courses are more well-maintained, making them enjoyable to play on. Although they are not as well-maintained as private clubs’, they offer golfers excellent value for their money.

These courses generate variable and constant revenue streams as compared to private membership clubs. Semi-private courses, when the links are quieter, can be opened up to the general population and generate revenue through green fees and food & beverage.

Private clubs receive their membership fee monthly, or annually. This income helps to pay for the operations. Exclusive private golf clubs charge an exorbitant fee from their members.

Semi-private golf courses can afford to offer a high-quality, affordable experience because they make revenue from the public.

 

Examples Of Semi-Private Golf Courses

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines is an excellent example of a semi private golf course. You can play the host venue of two US Open if you’re a San Diego resident for less than $80. However, if you are not from “America’s Finest City,” you can expect to cough up approximately $250.

Out-of-towners who want to play Torrey PinesA membership may be considered for a few times per year. The initial year fee is $500. After that, the renewal fees are $175.

Pebble Beach

Pebble BeachThis exception is to the usual rule for semi-private golf outings at a reasonable price. A total of $575 is what it takes to play a round at the home of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. It is $18,000 to join, but you will pay $260 per monthly.

Pebble Beach, despite its membership program is open to everyone, making it a public course.

Pinehurst

Pinehurst has been the host of three US Open Championships. It is still a well-known golf course. It is part a nine-course complex. The most well-known is No. 2. The nine Pinehurst layouts can be described as resort courses. They are also very affordable.

Green fees vary depending on the course and season. They can range from $50 to $450. You can expect to pay approximately $450 if your tee time is at the highly coveted No. 2 course.

 

The pros and cons of semi-Private golf courses

Pros

Well-Maintained

Semi-private courses have the ability to hire the right people and purchase the best equipment. The golf facilities are maintained well. The fairways, greens and rough are well maintained, while the clubhouse and restaurants are in good repair.

Relatively Affordable

As you can see, green fees for visitors vary depending on whether a course is semi-private or not. You can still enjoy a well-maintained layout for as low as $100 in some cases. That is a bargain.

Naturally, courses like Pinehurst No. 2 and Torrey Pines will be more expensive than others. 2 will be more expensive, but this is to be expected from venues that host PGA Tour events.

Play at a faster pace

Semi-private golf courses are more expensive to play than municipal clubs. Therefore, it often attracts a serious type of golfer who doesn’t embarrass themselves over 18 holes. These golfers tend to be more polite and respect the rules.

Semi-private clubs also need marshalls and starters to keep the pace of play steady and provide support when necessary. To keep the field moving quickly, a marshall must be attentive.

Superior Facilities

Semi-private courses offer a greater range of facilities. The clubhouse, halfway house, pro shop, and clubhouse are generally in better condition than municipal courses. They offer a wider range products and services.

Cons

Members Get Preferential Tee Times

Semi-private courses have the disadvantage of giving members preference. As it should. However, that means you need to work around the club’s schedule. Sometimes management will allow you to tee off in late afternoon for 9-holes.

Additionally, you don’t need to forget about playing on club competition days.

Higher Green Fees than Municipal Courses

Semi-private courses have higher green fees than municipal courses, as you can see. While some of these courses are affordable, they can still be expensive for those on a tight budget.

 

My Recommendation about Courses to play

For beginners

I recommend starting your career at a municipal level. The relaxed attitude of the field officials and the field is a great environment to learn. There is no pressure, and there are no stuck-up people. These are the courses that you can make mistakes.

Golfers on a Budget

Municipal courses are a great option for golfers who want to maximize their time and save as much money as possible. This is where you can save the most money.

For special deals, check out semi-private courses in your local area on occasion. Tee Off offers a range of discounted green fees and can be signed up.

Low Handicappers

The manicured fairways and greens of semi-private and private courses will be appreciated by the most discerning golfers. The surrounding golfers are just as serious about the game as you are. They are also familiar with the rules and etiquette. This will ensure that the pace of play is faster.

 

Related Reading: Coaching is a must-have before you hit the links. You can budget and prepare for your investment by reviewing our guide on how many lessons you should take.