If there’s one thing I’ve learned after swinging my way across Ontario, it’s that the Greater Toronto Area is seriously underrated when it comes to golf. Whether you’re looking for a PGA-level challenge, jaw-dropping scenery, or a peaceful weekend round, the GTA delivers — big time. From Oakville to Caledon, here are the top golf courses to check out, one tee time at a time.

Glen Abbey Golf Club — Oakville

We have to start with Glen Abbey, the crown jewel of Canadian golf. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this course is a rite of passage for any serious player. With deep bunkers, perfectly manicured greens, and the iconic “Valley Holes” on the back nine, Glen Abbey’s legacy is well earned.

Copper Creek Golf Club — Kleinburg

Tucked away in Kleinburg, Copper Creek is pure elegance with a competitive edge. Rolling hills, dramatic elevation changes, and perfectly placed hazards make this one a mental game as much as a physical one. The views alone are worth the visit — especially at sunset.

TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley — Caledon

Why settle for one course when you can have three? TPC Toronto offers the Heathlands, Hoot, and North courses — each with its own personality. Heathlands brings classic Scottish links vibes, Hoot winds through dense woodlands, and North has that bold, modern layout that just dares you to go for it.

Eagles Nest Golf Club — Vaughan

Eagles Nest is what happens when golf meets drama. The links-style layout feels straight out of the UK, but with a bold, Canadian edge. Long fescue grasses, deep pot bunkers, and wind-swept terrain challenge even the most confident players. Plus, their clubhouse patio is one of the best post-round spots around.

Angus Glen Golf Club — Markham

Home to both the South and North Courses, Angus Glen is known for its championship-level setup and premium conditioning. This place has hosted the Canadian Open more than once, and it shows. Wide fairways give you room to play aggressive, but the greens? They'll humble you.

Lionhead Golf Club — Brampton

You’ve got two choices here: the Masters Course or the Legends Course at Lionhead. Both are solid, but the Legends is the real test — narrow fairways, tricky greens, and enough water hazards to make you rethink your driver. Come prepared, leave satisfied (or at least slightly bruised).

BraeBen Golf Course — Mississauga

Perched on one of the highest points in Mississauga, BraeBen delivers sweeping views and a challenging 18-hole championship course. It's a city-owned course, but you’d never know from the layout and quality. There’s also a great 9-hole par-3 course if you're short on time.

Don Valley Golf Course — Toronto

You don’t always need to leave the city to find a great round. Don Valley is a public course nestled in the ravines of North York, offering elevation changes, tight fairways, and the kind of peace you don’t expect so close to the 401. It's low-key a local legend.

Piper’s Heath Golf Club — Milton

Piper’s Heath combines old-world charm with modern course design. Expect large, undulating greens, tricky bunkers, and a layout that rewards careful planning over brute force. It’s walkable, beautifully maintained, and welcoming to all skill levels.

St. George’s Golf and Country Club — Etobicoke

St. George’s isn’t just one of the best courses in Ontario — it’s one of the best in North America. A Stanley Thompson classic, it’s exclusive, pristine, and steeped in tradition. If you ever get the invite (or score a ticket during a major event), don’t think twice.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking to challenge yourself or a casual player chasing fresh greens and good vibes, the GTA is stacked with exceptional options. Each course has its own story, its own style, and its own way of testing your game. Grab your clubs, book that tee time, and let the GTA surprise you — one fairway at a time.