Top 10 Best Golf Courses in South Holland

Golf in South Holland: From Coastal Dunes to Polder Landscapes

South Holland offers a surprisingly diverse golfing landscape. Along the North Sea coast, golfers can play authentic links-style courses set among rolling dunes. Inland, parkland courses weave through woodlands, polders and river landscapes. The province is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious golf clubs in the Netherlands, as well as welcoming public courses where beginners can learn the game.

Golf has grown steadily in popularity in the Netherlands, attracting younger players and families. Many clubs now offer flexible memberships, pay-and-play options and training programmes. Here are ten of the best golf courses in South Holland, each offering a distinct character and experience.

Top 10 Best Golf Courses in South Holland

1. Koninklijke Haagsche Golf and Country Club, Wassenaar

Regularly ranked among the finest courses in continental Europe, the Royal Hague Golf and Country Club is set in dramatic dune terrain near Wassenaar. Designed by the celebrated architect Harry Colt, the course features undulating fairways, deep bunkers and challenging coastal winds. It has hosted the Dutch Open multiple times and remains a bucket-list destination for serious golfers.

2. Noordwijkse Golf Club, Noordwijk

Noordwijkse Golf Club is another outstanding dune course, offering a true links experience close to the North Sea. Narrow fairways framed by dune vegetation demand accuracy, while ever-changing winds test even experienced players. The club has hosted professional tournaments and is highly regarded for its natural beauty and course conditioning.

3. Rijswijkse Golf Club, Rijswijk

Rijswijkse Golf Club offers an attractive parkland course with water features and mature trees, conveniently located between The Hague and Delft. It is known for its well-maintained greens, friendly atmosphere and strong junior programme, making it a favourite among local professionals.

4. Golfclub Kralingen, Rotterdam

Located near the Kralingse Plas lake, Golfclub Kralingen is one of the oldest golf clubs in Rotterdam. Its compact, tree-lined course offers a peaceful escape within the city, and its central location makes it easy to fit a round into a busy schedule.

5. Golfclub Broekpolder, Vlaardingen

Golfclub Broekpolder is a championship-level parkland course with wide fairways, strategic water hazards and excellent practice facilities. It has hosted national championships and appeals to competitive golfers who enjoy a demanding yet fair layout.

6. Golfclub Oude Maas, Rhoon

Set along the Oude Maas river south of Rotterdam, this course combines scenic water views with thoughtfully designed holes. Its open landscape exposes players to the wind, adding strategic depth, while the clubhouse terrace is a popular spot to relax after a round.

7. Golfclub De Hooge Bergsche, Bergschenhoek

De Hooge Bergsche lies in the green zone north of Rotterdam and offers a well-balanced parkland course. It is appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere, solid course maintenance and accessible location for golfers from Rotterdam, Lansingerland and Zoetermeer.

8. Golfbaan Cromstrijen, Numansdorp

Located in the Hoeksche Waard, Golfbaan Cromstrijen features a spacious layout surrounded by open polder landscapes. With multiple loops and good practice facilities, it caters to both experienced players and newcomers seeking a relaxed round away from the city.

9. Golfbaan Kleiburg, Brielle

Near the historic fortified town of Brielle, Golfbaan Kleiburg offers a tranquil setting with water features and natural surroundings. Its welcoming approach to visitors and beginners makes it an appealing option for day trips combined with exploring Voorne aan Zee.

10. Golfclub Leeuwenbergh, Leidschendam

Golfclub Leeuwenbergh provides an accessible parkland course close to The Hague. It is particularly popular with golfers who want a quality course without the exclusivity of historic private clubs, and it offers strong facilities for lessons and practice.

Golf Industry Trends in South Holland

Golf in the Netherlands is becoming more inclusive. Clubs are introducing flexible membership models, short-format courses and beginner-friendly programmes to attract new players. Technology is also enhancing the experience, with launch monitors and indoor simulators allowing golfers to train year-round despite the Dutch weather.

Sustainability is a major focus for course managers. Many South Holland courses participate in ecological certification programmes, reducing water consumption, limiting chemical use and creating habitats for birds and insects. Coastal dune courses in particular work closely with nature conservation organisations to protect rare flora and fauna.

Corporate golf is also popular, with Rotterdam's business community and The Hague's international organisations using golf days for networking and client relations.

Tips for Playing Golf in South Holland

Most private clubs require a valid golf proficiency certificate and handicap registration, so check requirements before booking. Many clubs welcome visitors on weekdays, while weekends may be reserved for members. Pack waterproof clothing and be prepared for wind, especially on coastal courses. Booking tee times in advance is strongly recommended during spring and summer.

Conclusion

From the legendary dunes of the Royal Hague and Noordwijk to the welcoming parkland courses around Rotterdam and The Hague, South Holland offers golf for every level and preference. Its mix of historic prestige, natural beauty and modern facilities makes the province one of the most rewarding golfing destinations in the Netherlands. Whether you are chasing a lower handicap or simply enjoying fresh air with friends, these ten courses deliver memorable rounds.