How to Book a Tee Time at Bethpage Black

Photo by Keith Tanner on Unsplash

Bethpage Black is one of the most coveted public tee times in American golf — a state-owned course on Long Island that has hosted two US Opens, a PGA Championship, and a Ryder Cup, where New York residents can play for under $80 on a weekday. The challenge isn't the price — it's getting a tee time. Here's the complete guide to securing your spot at Bethpage Black.

The Booking System

Bethpage State Park tee times are booked through the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation online booking system. NY State residents can book tee times up to seven days in advance online. Non-residents can book up to five days in advance. This differential is the first advantage New York State residents have — use it.

Weekend tee times (Saturday and Sunday, plus holidays) at Bethpage Black are the most sought-after. They typically fill within minutes of opening at midnight, eight days ahead for residents. Set an alarm and be ready at your computer at 12:01 AM for the best chance at prime weekend slots.

The Overnight Line

Bethpage Black maintains a long-standing tradition of golfers camping overnight in the parking lot to secure early morning walk-on tee times. Players begin arriving late the night before, establish an informal queue, and the earliest arrivals get first access to morning walk-on spots when the pro shop opens. This tradition is part of the Bethpage mythology — a democratic, passionate community of golfers willing to sleep in their cars to play a world-class track for $50.

If you're local and want a spontaneous Bethpage Black round, the overnight line is your best option on weekdays when it's shorter. Arrive by 8–9 PM for a reasonable position for the following morning's first tee times.

The Resident vs. Non-Resident Price Difference

New York State residents pay dramatically less than non-residents — approximately $50–$80 for weekday rounds versus $100–$135+ for non-residents, depending on season and cart/walking choice. Proof of residence (valid NY State driver's license) is required at check-in. Annual Empire Passport holders ($80/year) get free park entry which covers the parking fee; a separate tee time fee still applies.

The Warning Sign (And What It Actually Means)

The famous warning sign at the first tee of Bethpage Black reads: "WARNING: The Black Course Is An Extremely Difficult Course Which We Recommend Only For Highly Skilled Golfers." This is genuine advice, not decoration. The course stretches to nearly 7,500 yards from the back tees, with tight fairways, thick rough, and severely contoured greens. Play the member tees (gold or blue tees) at 6,500–6,900 yards unless your handicap is under 10. The experience is still spectacular and the course is unmistakably world-class from any set of tees.

Making the Most of Your Round

Budget 4.5–5 hours for a round — Bethpage Black plays slowly due to demand and difficulty. Walk if you can; the course is designed for walking and cart paths take you away from the best viewing angles. Hire a caddie from the Bethpage caddie program if available — they know every break on every green and provide genuine value.

Bethpage Black is the best deal in American golf for what you get. Plan ahead, be patient with the booking process, and arrive ready to play a course that belongs in the conversation with the finest tracks in the world.