Bethpage State Park is the favorite to continue its dominance in the "Best of Long Island" survey, conducted each year by the Long Island Press and now open for voting. Every October through December, the Press opens up the online polls in dozens of categories that cover recreation, dining, shopping and more across Nassau and Suffolk. Bethpage has reigned supreme in the "Best Golf Course" category for nearly a decade. The survey also includes "Best Driving Range" and "Best Golf Store" categories.
The 2018 nominees for "Best Golf Course" — as determined by Press readers — include 12 public courses and four private clubs. Voting is open at the Long Island Press website until December 15.
This year's public-course nominees are:
- Bethpage State Park
- Brentwood Country Club
- Eisenhower Park
- Harbor Links
- Holbrook Country Club
- Lido GC
- Middle Bay
- Rock Hill
- Smithtown Landing
- Stonebridge Golf Links
- Swan Lake
- Timber Point
In the "Best Golf Store" category, Babylon's Unique Golf Shop looks to defend its long-held crown against 14 contenders ranging from course pro shops to national retailers. The "Best Driving Range" category includes last year's winner — Heartland Golf Park in Edgewood — along with, strangely, four ranges that are out of business.
Winners will be announced in January.