WILLIAM F. LARKIN GOLF COURSE OCEAN, NJ

The rolling terrain of central New Jersey's coastal plain creates natural elevation changes that architect William Gordon exploited brilliantly in this 1960s municipal gem, where doglegs bend around mature oaks and strategic bunkering punishes wayward drives. Water hazards thread through seven holes without feeling contrived, particularly the creek that bisects the par-4 14th and demands a precise approach over cattails to a elevated green. At under $60 for weekend play, this represents exceptional value for a championship-length layout that rewards course management over raw power.