Why Public Golf Courses Need To Rethink Their Marketing in 2025

For public golf courses, word of mouth has always been king. A good value, a well-kept course, and friendly service were enough to keep the tee sheet full. But in 2025, that’s not always the case.

Golfers are finding their next round online — not through the clubhouse grapevine.

They’re scrolling Instagram for course photos, searching Google for “best public golf near me,” and making split-second decisions based on what they see.

The problem? Too many public courses are still relying on outdated websites, inconsistent branding, or social media pages that haven’t posted since last season. In a competitive market where every golfer has options, that silence speaks volumes.

It’s time for public golf to catch up to the modern player.

Here are some tips when considering how to put your best foot forward when it comes to public golf course marketing.

Your Website Is Your First New Impression

If your course’s website looks like it hasn’t been updated since the Tiger vs. Phil days, it’s probably costing you tee times.

Golfers expect an easy booking experience, fast load times, and visuals that make them want to play. They want to know rates, layout, photos, and the vibe — without digging through clunky menus or broken links.

A clean, mobile-friendly website can turn casual browsers into booked players. And when optimized for search, it helps local golfers find you first.

Social Media Is The Modern Word of Mouth for Public Golf Course Marketing

Social media isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s free advertising to your most important audience.

The players who love your course are already online talking about their rounds. Why not be part of that conversation?

Post photos of your signature holes, highlight your staff, share league updates, or celebrate your regulars. Show off those Friday night scrambles or the sunrise over your 18th green.

When you post consistently, golfers don’t just remember your course — they build a connection with it.

Visuals Make The Difference

If a golfer can see your course at its best, they’re far more likely to book a round.

Drone footage, high-quality photos, and short videos can capture what makes your course special — from the par-3 over water to your friendly starter on the first tee.

Visual storytelling isn’t just for private clubs anymore. It’s how public courses compete for attention and show pride in what they offer.

Keep Your Brand Consistent

The best public courses feel familiar — online and in person. That comes from consistent branding.

Your logo, color palette, tone, and messaging should all work together — across your website, signage, and social channels. Consistency builds trust, and trust brings players back season after season.

The Opportunity Ahead

Golf has never been more popular — or more competitive. Courses that adapt to modern marketing aren’t just filling more tee times; they’re building loyal communities of repeat players.

That’s where Clubhouse Communications comes in. We help golf courses modernize their presence — through website design, social media management, email marketing, and partnerships with top golf photographers and drone videographers.

Our goal is simple: to make your course look as good online as it does in person.

Because your best marketing asset isn’t a billboard — it’s your story.

Ready to grow your reach and revenue? Contact us to get started.