If you’ve never been to a private golf course before, there are a few things you’ll want to do if you don’t want to stand out as a rube. I have five things to watch out for on your first visit. Here’s what to know about your first trip to a private golf course.
Playing at a private course can be intimidating for your first time, especially if you’re new to golf. But if you’re lucky enough to get an invite, gracefully accept it and study these tips to make you look cool when you’re playing at a private golf course.
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Private Golf Course Etiquette
Look, I know golf etiquette is a sore subject for some people, but it makes a difference when you’re playing at a private course.
I even made a video about it.
Private Course Etiquette Video
Here are the main takeaways.
Related: What’s an executive golf course?
1. Use the Bag Drop
I know you might be thinking you’re a man of the people and don’t want to cause any trouble, but that’s just not how private golf courses are set up. Chances are, they knew you were coming before you did. They already have a cart picked out for you and a spot on the driving range ready for a warm-up session. Most places will even clean your clubs before you tee off, so take advantage.
If you go to the parking lot, the back shop employees are instructed to help you, so you’re essentially making more work for them by bypassing the bag drop.
2. Don’t Offer to Pay
Private golf courses don’t accept direct payments. The member gets invoiced for every dollar spent each month. Despite your best intentions, in most cases, the pro shop or clubhouse restaurant can’t process your payment. If you offer to pay, everyone will know it’s your first time visiting a private golf course.
To repay your member friend, you’ll need to do it away from the golf course on another occasion. Until then, enjoy the pampering!
Related: How much does a country club membership cost?
3. Dress for Success
Your local course might allow you to wear untucked shirts, backward hats, and cargo shorts, but private golf courses have strict dress codes. If you’re not dressed appropriately, the pro shop staff will inform the member, and the member will tell you how to fix your outfit. If you’re wearing the wrong attire, your friend might have to purchase new clothing for you right then and there.
Private Course Pro Shops aren’t cheap, so ask your member friend about the dress code to ensure you arrive in style.
4. Remove Your Hat in the Clubhouse
This is a golf tradition that is often forgotten. Don’t be the person who needs to be reminded to take off their hat in the clubhouse. Private golf courses uphold long-standing traditions, so respecting them is key.
And while we’re on that subject, the guest page at Augusta also advises you that cell phones aren’t allowed either.
5. Bring Spare Clothes
Lastly, bring a change of clothes if you’re staying for dinner. You don’t need a tuxedo, but bring a nice shirt, pants, fresh socks, and business-casual shoes. You shouldn’t wear your sweaty golf clothes to dinner in the fancy clubhouse.
Summary
Playing at a private golf course can be daunting, especially for newcomers. Accept the invitation gracefully and follow these tips to fit in seamlessly. The main takeaways? Use the bag drop service, as private courses are set up to handle your equipment and have made arrangements in advance. Carrying your bag from the parking lot only creates extra work for the staff who are prepared to assist you.
And don’t offer to pay directly. Private courses bill the member who invited you, and your payment might not be processed. Instead, repay your friend away from the course later on and enjoy the amenities provided.
Dressing appropriately is crucial. Unlike casual local courses, private clubs have strict dress codes. Ensure your outfit is up to code to avoid inconveniencing your member friend, who might have to purchase suitable clothing from the pricey Pro Shop.
Last, bring a change of clothes if you plan to stay for dinner. After a round of golf, changing into a nice shirt, pants, fresh socks, and business casual shoes is essential. Staying in your golf clothes is inappropriate for a fancy clubhouse dinner.
This demonstrates an understanding of the club’s expectations and helps you fit in better. Following these guidelines can help you navigate a private golf course confidently and avoid any faux pas.
Clint is PGA-certified and was a Head Teaching Professional at one of Toronto's busiest golf academies. He was also featured on Canada's National Golf TV program, "Score Golf Canada," twice. He graduated with a degree in Golf Management from the College of the Desert in California and studied under Callaway's co-founder, Tony Manzoni. He has a handicap index of 6.2 and spends the winters near Oaxaca, Mexico, where he plays twice a month at the Club de Golf Vista Hermosa. He's written over 100 articles at GolfSpan since 2021. You can connect with Clint at LinkedIn, FB, his website, or Clintcpga@gmail.com.
