For some people there has always been a somewhat negative perception about a public golf course, with the inference that it is not as well maintained as private courses or country clubs. The reality is, that just like many businesses open to the public, there are good ones and ones that are not so good, and there are others that rival some of the best private courses in terms of grounds condition and amenities. Some also believe that those who play on a public golf course are not serious about the quality of their game.

Pretentiousness aside, a public golf course gets considerably more play than private courses, requiring more maintenance and requires a grounds crew that understands what foot traffic and an abundance of divots can do to the condition of the fairways. Some of the better crews working at a public golf course can maintain the links to a condition that rivals the country clubs and a private golf course, without the added expense of membership.

Memberships in private clubs can be pricey with the selling point being better course conditions and fewer people on the course, making play faster and less stressful than that on a public golf course. However, those that consider a public golf course their home turf, there is something stuffy about other courses that brag about having fewer people play on their grounds.

Cost Is Often Major Consideration Choosing Courses

Having the notation of being a public golf course does not always equate to being less expensive. While private courses play only to those holding a valid membership, the public golf course is available to everyone and if the course owner hopes to maintain it in an appropriate manner, they may have to charge more than other public courses in the area to pay for the better care and treatment of the facility.

Most golfers are willing to pay slightly more to play on a public golf course that is in good condition, where some food may be offered and the employees make them feel like a welcome addition to their daily work instead of an intrusion. Many of these courses, especially those near popular vacation areas often offer some of the best golf available.

At prices that may be higher than what many vacationers are used to paying, they gladly hand over the extra money to play on a well-maintained public golf course. Especially when they can go home and brag about their great game on a great golf course while on vacation.