There’s no denying that feeling of ease and happiness knowing that you have a home club—a place where you can practice in peace, tee up at a moment’s notice, and host guests. The United States has over 16,000 golf courses, so there is no shortage of places to play, but having that sacred home club is not so easy to find for many players. Some residential club communities are geared more towards all-inclusive offerings with beaches, pools, dining and much more, things that appeal to the entire family. Many provide the full resort experience with specialized services and amenities, while other membership clubs are there for one reason only—golf. Fortunately, with so many offerings, there is a golf club out there that's the right fit for any player.
Along the east coast, there are resorts, communities, and clubs that provide a level of service and overall experience that caters to a group of International members who simply expect the very best. This collection provides a club for every taste, and while we admit that there are additional options certainly worthy of this list, these eight unquestionably have a lot to offer their members. Who knows? You may just find your home club—assuming you live on the east coast, that is.
Boca Raton Resort & Club
Boca Raton, FL
Being part of the Premier Club at this exclusive Waldorf Astoria Resort allows for a luxurious lifestyle among the lush surroundings, with a near endless amount of amenities and services. Regardless if you’re a full-time resident or only able to escape for a vacation getaway, the Boca Raton Resort & Club’s golf, tennis, spa, marina, restaurants, and fantastic Beach Club will satisfy the most discerning members. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that all members and guests want for nothing and provide an exemplary level of service that is classic “Waldorf.”
Emerald Dunes Club
West Palm Beach, FL
A Palm Beach treasure, Emerald Dunes is the ultimate when you’re looking for a super-exclusive club with an over-the-top clubhouse that only compliments the challenging golf course. Here, it’s all about golf and the entire atmosphere is unforgettable. An impressive practice facility, genuine staff, and world-class golf course design and conditions all come together beautifully. Maintaining a very limited number of members, Emerald Dunes is a fantastic solution for the astute potential member looking for an intimate setting with an unparalleled level of personalized service.
Pinehurst Country Club
Pinehurst, NC
While there is a rich history of golf synonymous with the Pinehurst resort, the membership here provides the best of both worlds. It gives access to multiple championship golf courses and the private member facilities where you can socialize and get that community feel. As they say, “Pinehurst is not a club, it’s a way of life,” and this club only continues to get better thanks to a fairly recent $4 million renovation.
Pound Ridge Golf
Pound Ridge, NY
This one offers a unique membership option for those looking for a golf course that provides not only a challenge, but also pristine conditions and phenomenal surroundings in the hills just north of New York City. The membership is essentially a debit-based plan that is a great solution for today's golfer who doesn't want to commit to initiation fees, dues and food/beverage minimums. Plus, Pound Ridge was just ranked the No. 4 course in New York by Golfweek, and No. 5 by GOLF Magazine, so it’s clear that this course is a must-play for the area.
Seabrook Island Club
Seabrook Island, SC
Located just a short drive from the great city of Charleston, Seabrook and Kiawah Islands are a beautiful escape, with a peaceful resort vibe. With a recent addition of a beautiful clubhouse, beach club, lake house and more, the challenging golf courses are merely a small part of the entire seaside club experience found at Seabrook Island. While the facilities provide all the desired services and amenities expected of an exclusive club membership, the 2,200-acre barrier island has been tastefully developed to accent the pristine homes found among the natural environment. And for members with horses, special rates apply for boarding at the state-of-the-art equestrian center.
The Breakers Palm Beach
Palm Beach, FL
Palm Beach has no shortage of golf opportunities and The Breakers is as iconic as they come in terms of historical masterpieces in Florida. The Ocean Course is the oldest golf course in Florida and only part of the package when you become a member at The Breakers. Along with world-class tennis, multiple amenities and services at the hotel, you also get member access to the Beach Club—complete with pools, luxury bungalows, and more.
The Cliffs
Asheville, NC
For those looking to escape to the hills of the Carolinas and purchase some real estate within the over 20,000 acres surrounded by an additional 100,000 acres of national forests, state parks, mountain lakes and preserved land in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, The Cliffs is the answer. This private residential community is a golfer’s dream and provides a long list of member benefits and amenities. Looking beyond the seven championship courses with one-of-a-kind views, a membership also provides exclusive access to five wellness centers, 21 restaurants and private event venues, clubhouses, marinas, the beach club, tennis complexes, equestrian center, hiking trails, wine clubs, an organic farm, and activities throughout the entire year for the entire family.
Trump National Golf Club
Potomac Fall, VA
It’s true that when it comes to rolling out the red carpet to members and guests, Trump National and International properties are in a class of luxury all by themselves. Just outside of the nation’s capital, this club is built around two extraordinary golf courses along the peaceful shores of the Potomac River, and is enhanced with swimming, year-round tennis, a fitness center, and a variety of dining and social events for members. An added bonus is the world-class indoor tennis facility debuting this fall. With such an idyllic setting, members appreciate the world-class instruction at the state-of-the-art Trump Golf Academy. With several membership options (including full golf, corporate, tennis, and junior), the Trump National Golf Club is a great solution for any perspective member looking to experience the ultimate in “Trump” hospitality.
