Hempstead, New York
Hempstead Golf & Country Club is a true throwback—a private enclave shaped by the hand of Tillinghast, now undergoing a thoughtful restoration. This is not a bucket-list destination, but for those who get the invite, the layout rewards precision and a love of classic strategic golf.
If you’re lucky enough to play, check out the old trophy case in the clubhouse—it features artifacts and memorabilia from the 1923 New York State Amateur.
Hempstead Golf & Country Club is a classic example of New York Golden Age golf, boasting routing and strategic values traceable to Tillinghast’s hand and currently in the midst of a meticulous restoration. The course favors thoughtful play, with reachable par 5s that reward placement over power, varied par 4s that require approach management, and green complexes reasserting bold, Golden Age contours. Tall trees and mature parkland features frame holes, but the architectural DNA is evident in risk/reward options, fairway movement, and subtle greenside challenges. Ambitious restoration is set to reveal even more of Tillinghast’s original character in the coming years.
Complex layered history, with both Peter W. Lees and A.W. Tillinghast credited—modern restoration respecting both.
A mid-length par 4 demanding a well-placed drive toward a subtly turning fairway and a precise approach into a green with restored contours. The green is best attacked from the left, but deep bunkers and mature trees punish the greedy line.
Favor the center-left off the tee for the preferred angle into a tricky, well-guarded green. Risking too aggressive a line brings sand and trees into play.
Deep front-left bunker and tree trouble right ensure any errant approach is penalized.
Traditionally well-manicured with a focus on classic parkland presentation; some rough edges possible during restoration phases.
Efficient member pace—expect fast rounds and brisk play, especially on weekdays.
Warm, local, tradition-steeped; strictly private but with a relaxed classic club feel.
Traditional country club attire required.
Approach play is at a premium—bring your best wedge and 8-iron games for scoring chances.
Brush up on classic bunker avoidance and recovery—restoration has reintroduced some gnarly shapes.
You'll want solid walking shoes and a light bag for a pleasant stroll across gently undulating terrain.
Read up on Golden Age slopes—there are subtle false fronts and multi-tiered challenges lurking.
Club founded as a social and golf organization
Land acquired for the golf course
First official course opens
Hosts New York State Amateur Championship
Tillinghast designs the current layout
Zinkand/Weiman master plan restoration begins
The club's design lineage is a rare tangle of Peter W. Lees, rumored Devereux Emmet involvement, and ultimately A.W. Tillinghast’s signature layout in 1927. Visitors walk fairways touched by several legends and nearly a century of design evolution.
Beginning in 2026, architects Dave Zinkand and Joel Weiman orchestrated a restoration to reclaim Tillinghast’s vision, with classic bunkering and green tones returning to the forefront. The master plan will keep the course evolving into the next decade.
The 1923 New York State Amateur marked Hempstead’s first brush with statewide golf prestige. A century later, the proud legacy is felt in every handshake and on the tightly prepared greens.
Hempstead is the beating heart of Nassau golf tradition—rarely seen by outsiders, passionately beloved by the Long Island contingent, and a storied private sanctuary for generations.
The club’s current layout traces directly to A.W. Tillinghast and remains one of his less-publicized New York designs.
Artifacts from the 1923 New York State Amateur—still held in the clubhouse—are a touchstone of the club’s heritage.
A multi-year restoration plan (2026–2033) is bringing back classic Tillinghast contours and bunkering.
A roster of members includes generations-long Long Island families passing down traditions.
U.S. Open and PGA Championship pedigree—nationally ranked must-play.
Strong value, Golden Age style, and outstanding conditions beside the Black.
One of America’s purest Golden Age walks for those with access.
Classic heritage and Long Island club tradition.
Modern Long Island architecture—invites only, but pure golf.
Garden City or Westbury is ideal, putting you within a short drive of Hempstead and the Bethpage complex, plus easy access to other Nassau clubs.
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: Erie Golf Club is a natural next stop after Hempstead Golf & Country Club: it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
Why it matches: Buffalo Dunes Golf Course is a natural next stop after Hempstead Golf & Country Club: it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
Why it matches: Brookville Country Club is a natural next stop after Hempstead Golf & Country Club: it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
U.S. Open host, major Tillinghast public masterpiece
U.S. Open and PGA Championship venue
Host of multiple U.S. Opens and PGA Championships
Walker Cup and renowned classic
PGA Tour playoff host, revered parkland layout
Community Sentiment
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