14seanh
Having been an avid golfer for over 20 years, it remains one of my "bucket list" items to play the Old Course at St. Andrews. Until that great day comes, I am quite content to test my golfing prowess by playing "links" golf at Tallgrass Golf Course. Designed in 2000 by Gil Hanse, Tallgrass possesses all but one of the elements of a true linksland golf course - a seaside view. The course is wide open - not a single tree on it, relatively gently rolling terrain, and fortified by bunkers that are generously scattered throughout the course. When a golfer turns the corner of the clubhouse, and views the course for the first time, the "grand reveal" of Tallgrass is presented to them. As you make your way to the first tee, you will find the view of the entire golf course to be quite exhilarating and inspiring.With the maximum length of 6500 yds and change, Tallgrass is not a "championship" length (by 2014 standards) golf course. It does not need to be. There are two great equalizers that present a lofty challenge for any level of golfer - including the single digit handicap player. The undulating greens of Tallgrass makes two-putting a goal - not an expecation. Also, Tallgrass has its "namesake"; hit an errant shot, and you can find yourself deep within the punitive tall fescue grass, that make it very difficult to advance the ball of any length.I think there are a number of fantastic holes on this golf course. On the front, you have number 2 - a par 4 which presents a blind second shot for most golfers but for the "Tiger" or "Bubba" variety. Number 4 is great par 3 that requires some shot making ability to land and hold the green on your tee shot. The 5th forces you to consider where you want to land your ball to give you the best angle into the green. Number 8, in the spirit of "Redan", is a wonderful par 3 to a heavily fortified blind green that slopes from front to back. The back 9 offers just as many memorable holes. Numbers 10, 11, 12,13 are great strategic "short" par 4's. The 14th is a short par 3 that is guarded by several bunkers. Number 15, the last of the three par 5 holes, is a wonderful hole that has water on the right running the entire first half of the hole. And then you get to 16... Number 16 is the number one handicap hole - and rightly so. You have to hit a strong tee-shot favoring the right side of the fairway to have an opportunity of landing the green on your approach shot. The final par 3 greets you on #17 with another blind tee shot - where you may only be able to see the top of the flag. The round comes to a close with a very difficult par 4 that challenges you, once again, to think about position - and execute it. I have but one complaint. Number 6 was initially designed to be a short par 4. Due to local complaints, there have been tees built to convert the to a par 3. The way the green is designed, it is not going to hold a mid to long iron shot. Fortunately, the original tees are still there. Play it as a 4. You will enjoy the hole much more.At Exit 68 on the LIE - it is a ride for most golfers - but the opportunity of playing a legitimate Scottish "links" golf course on Long Island - make the ride one definitely worth taking.
frankingeneral
Not a traveler, but a native LIer. Having played most every public course on LI, I can tell you that this course is my absolute favorite. I love great golf course design, and what the designer managed to do with an originally flat piece of land here is nothing short of amazing. The course is a beautiful links-style course, with some very interest elevation changes. There are definitely some very unique and interest holes, particularly on the back 9. In my experience the staff has always been great and the course in great condition. I'd have to say it's 2nd on my list of best LI courses behind Bethpage Black and tied with nearby Robert Trent Jones, Jr.'s LI National.
nrmbnt
I've played here from it's opening until now. The tall fescue grass is no longer a major hazard since the current administration has cut it down to quicken play (I assume) and ease up the course. It has taken it's beatings from a lack of investment, but it is still an enjoyable links course.
GreenEyelander
Stay out of the rough! There are, however, several layers of rough, so if you slice like me, just stay out of the tall stuff. Course is well-laid out, some big bunkers, decent greens. Worth the money if you are in the area.
susanw712
We hosted our daughters' sweet 16 party for a 100 people. The service was excellent!! The food was very good and our guests were very pleased! We are looking forward to hosting another great party there!
Interiors2
This is a very nice place on the North Shore of LI. Played in a golf outting. Our go to girl Jackie was pleasant and helpful with beverages. definately reccommend. People here were very nice! Coarse was good. Only complaint was no shade. But overall was good