Top 7 Golf Courses in Austin Texas | Public and Private

From historic public gems to exclusive private clubs, Austin's golf scene caters to all skill levels and budgets. Discover the best golf courses in the Texas capital.

Austin, Texas, blends urban energy with natural beauty, making it a golfer's paradise with courses that offer challenging play and stunning Hill Country views. Among its many attractions, golf emerges as a significant draw, offering both residents and visitors a chance to enjoy this leisurely yet challenging sport. Let's see the top 7 golf courses in ATX!

1. Austin Country Club (Private) – Historic Excellence on the Colorado River

Austin Country Club, founded in 1899 and redesigned by Pete Dye in 1987, is Austin's premier private golf course, offering an 18-hole championship layout with stunning views of the Colorado River and Texas Hill Country. The par-72 course, stretching 6,825 yards, features challenging bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens that test precision and strategy. Members enjoy luxurious amenities, including a clubhouse with dining, tennis courts, and a pool.

Exclusivity is key, with membership by invitation only, starting at $50,000 initiation. Its history of hosting PGA events like the WGC-Dell Match Play cements its status. For those seeking elite play, it's unmatched.

2. The Hills of Lakeway Signature Course (Private) – Nicklaus-Designed Lakeside Luxury

The Hills of Lakeway's Hills Signature Course, a private 18-hole masterpiece designed by Jack Nicklaus in 1981, stretches 7,004 yards with a par-72 layout overlooking Lake Travis, featuring dramatic elevation changes, water hazards, and strategic bunkering amid native oaks and wildflowers. Renowned for its challenging holes and breathtaking views, the course tests strategy and skill while providing a luxurious escape.

As part of the Lakeway Resort community, members access multiple pools, a marina, spa, and fine dining, with initiation fees starting at $50,000. It's perfect for golfers seeking upscale amenities and variety, with access to three other courses.

3. Lions Municipal Golf Course (Public) – Historic and Affordable Icon

Lions Municipal Golf Course, known as "Muny," is Austin's oldest public course, opened in 1924 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This 6,001-yard par-71 layout offers a classic parkland design with tree-lined fairways and small greens, challenging all skill levels.

As a public municipal course, it's affordable with green fees under $50, making it accessible for locals. Amenities include a pro shop and driving range. Its role in desegregating Austin golf in 1950 adds cultural significance.

4. Avery Ranch Golf Club (Public) – Scenic Public Gem in North Austin

Avery Ranch, a public 18-hole course designed by Andy Raugust in 2002, spans 7,121 yards with a par-72 layout featuring rolling hills, water features, and native oaks.

Its signature hole #7, a par-3 over a canyon, offers breathtaking views. Green fees range from $50–$80, with amenities like a clubhouse, practice facilities, and events space. It's popular for tournaments and weddings.

5. Spanish Oaks Golf Club (Private) – Exclusive Hill Country Luxury

Spanish Oaks, designed by Bobby Weed in 2006, is a private 7,243-yard par-72 course in Austin's Hill Country, featuring dramatic elevation changes, bunkers, and water hazards. Members enjoy a clubhouse, spa, and pools in a gated community. Initiation fees exceed $100,000. It's known for privacy and luxury.

6. River Place Country Club (Private) – A Hill Country Retreat with Classic Design

River Place Country Club, a private gem in Northwest Austin, offers an 18-hole championship course designed by Tom Kite in 1984, spanning 6,600 yards with a par-71 layout that winds through rolling hills, mature oaks, and scenic creeks. Known for its challenging yet fair play, the course features tight fairways, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens that demand precision, making it a favorite for golfers of all levels.

Members enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with amenities including a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, and fitness center, all set in a serene residential community. Initiation fees hover around $30,000, with monthly dues providing access to events and lessons. It's an ideal spot for those seeking exclusivity and recreation in Austin's Hill Country.

7. Falconhead Golf Club (Public) – Links Style Public Course in West Austin

Falconhead, a public 7,302-yard par-72 course designed by PGA Tour Design in 2003, features a links-style layout with rolling terrain, bunkers, and water hazards. Green fees $50–$90 include cart. Amenities include a clubhouse and practice areas. It's challenging yet accessible.

Honorable Mentions

Barton Creek Fazio Canyons (Private) – Scenic Hill Country Masterpiece

Barton Creek Resort's Fazio Canyons course, designed by Tom Fazio in 2000, is a private gem nestled in the Texas Hill Country, offering dramatic elevation changes and limestone cliffs across its 7,153-yard par-72 layout. The course demands accuracy with narrow fairways and strategic bunkering, complemented by stunning views of creeks and canyons. Amenities include a spa, multiple pools, and fine dining at the resort. Membership requires resort affiliation, with fees around $40,000. It's a haven for serious golfers seeking tranquility and challenge.

Grey Rock Golf Club (Public) – Affordable Challenge in South Austin

Grey Rock, formerly Circle C, is a public 6,909-yard par-72 course designed by Jay Morrish in 1992, offering wide fairways and strategic bunkering amid oaks and creeks. Green fees are $40–$70, with a pro shop and restaurant. It's family-friendly and hosts events.

Criteria For Selecting The Best 7 Golf Courses in Austin

When selecting the best golf courses in Austin, Texas, it is essential to consider a variety of criteria to ensure a comprehensive evaluation that encompasses both private and public options. The diverse terrain of Austin, with its rolling hills, meandering rivers, and lush greenery, provides a stunning backdrop for a day on the links. Public courses in Austin are plentiful and provide accessibility and affordability, making them popular among both locals and tourists.

Austin private golf courses that are renowned for their exclusivity, impeccably maintained grounds, and top-tier facilities. Networking with club members can also provide opportunities to play on private courses; sometimes a member may invite you as a guest. Additionally, consider reaching out directly to the club's management to inquire about any guest policies or opportunities for non-members to play on private courses.

Regardless of the type of course, familiarizing yourself with the club's rules and dress code is essential. Respecting the course etiquette will not only enhance your experience but also ensure that you are welcomed back in the future. Public courses like Lions Municipal offer walk-up play, but reservations are recommended.