
Rockaway Hunting Course
Rockaway Hunting Club



About this course
Rockaway Hunting, nestled in the storied sands of the Five Towns, whispers tales of early American golf, a place where the sport took root and social bonds were deeply intertwined with sporting life. The windswept links-style layout, a rarity so close to New York City, unfolds over rolling terrain punctuated by undulating fescue grasses, a testament to its origins as a haven for those seeking a taste of the Scottish game. It requires a creative ground game with bump and runs and a careful touch with the putter. Originally designed in the late 19th century, Rockaway Hunting's layout has seen subtle refinements over the years, retaining its old-world charm while adapting to modern play. While not a stern test for today's tour professionals, the course favors those who can work the ball in the wind and possess a keen understanding of links strategy; a fade on a few key holes is certainly rewarded. Beyond the course, Rockaway Hunting fosters a unique atmosphere, a refuge for families and children who grow up learning about the course and club. The clubhouse, a monument to tradition, is an extension of its members' homes. The club's social fabric is as integral to the Rockaway Hunting experience as the challenge of the course itself, creating an environment that is steeped in history, with families whose ties to the club span generations.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Private column compares member-only and guest-restricted courses.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in NY
Quick facts
- Location
- Lawrence, NY, USA
- Access
- Private
- Year built
- 1900
- Holes
- 18
- Designer(s)
- Tom Bendelow, A. Tillinghast
- Par
- 70
- Length
- 6,371 yards
- Difficulty
- 73.1/129
- Course Vaults score
- 8.4
Getting there
The journey to Rockaway Hunting Club begins at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), a mere fifteen minutes west along the southern edge of Long Island. For members arriving by private aircraft, Republic Airport in Farmingdale or the Atlantic Aviation FBO at JFK provide discreet alternatives closer to the club's storied gates. The final approach threads through the quiet, tree-lined streets of Lawrence, where the suburban sprawl of Queens gives way to the manicured exclusivity of the Five Towns, culminating at one of America's most historically guarded and architecturally significant private clubs - a sanctuary that has remained deliberately invisible to the outside world for well over a century.

FAQ
Common questions about Rockaway Hunting
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Rockaway Hunting has a Course Vaults score of 8.4 out of 10 based on 63 logged golfers.
Rockaway Hunting was designed by Tom Bendelow and A. Tillinghast.
Rockaway Hunting is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Rockaway Hunting is 70.
Rockaway Hunting plays 6,371 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Rockaway Hunting is 129.




