Bethpage: Play the Dream
For many New York golfers, playing at Bethpage—especially the legendary Black Course—is more than just a bucket list goal. It’s a dream.
With its world-class design, major tournament pedigree, and famously tough layout, Bethpage Black is as iconic as it is challenging. But as any local golfer knows, getting a tee time there is a challenge in itself and the competition is fierce. Even seasoned golfers with years of experience and deep local knowledge have never set foot on the Black Course, simply because they couldn’t win the reservation lottery.
That’s why we created this page—to share tips, tricks, and real-world strategies to help you beat the odds and finally secure that coveted spot at Bethpage. From understanding the timing of the reservation window to using the online booking system efficiently and even knowing when to try your luck as a walk-up, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a first-timer dreaming of conquering Bethpage Black or a long-time local still chasing that elusive tee time, this guide is here to give you a better shot. Because every golfer deserves the chance to test their game on one of the greatest public courses in the world.
Don’t leave it up to luck—learn how to play the system and earn your place on the fairway. Your Bethpage story starts here!!
Post-Reservation Procedures
Once your reservation is confirmed, follow these steps:
Required Items:
Fees:
* Important: Retain the cart payment receipt throughout your round, as it must be presented to the starter and upon cart return.
* Note: Some courses, like the Black and Red, may require showing your ID to the starter. It's advisable to take a photo of your ID, though some starters may not accept digital copies. Consider checking in with the starter before picking up the cart.
Required Items:
* Note: For the Black and Red courses, New York ID is mandatory. Some starters may not accept digital copies, so presenting the physical ID is recommended.