The first brand-new course to open in Texas in a half-dozen years is Kissing Tree Golf Club, located between Austin and San Antonio in the growing college town of San Marcos, home to Texas State University and also well known for its outlet malls off I-35. The golf course is part of a new residential community geared towards "55 or better" living, but the golf course is public and open for all ages. Managed by Troon Golf, it delivers upscale amenities such as an excellent driving range and short game area (as well as an artificial turf putting course), as well as golf carts equipped with GPS and the Shark Experience.
With Quail Creek having closed earlier in 2018, it's the only course located in San Marcos (the university golf team plays just northin Buda at Plum Creek). Kissing Tree, designed by Gary Stephenson, plays just 6,572 yards and is light on bunkers and forced carries. Virtually every green is receptive in front and greens have nice movement to them. There are numerous elevated tees as well as 3-4 drivable par 4s, including the first and 18th holes.
Green fees are dynamic but range from about $49-75.
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![Kissing Tree - No. 14]()
The view from the fairway of the downhill, par-5 14th hole. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
![Kissing Tree - No. 9]()
The view from behind the par-4 9th hole at Kissing Tree. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
![Kissing Tree - No. 14 tee]()
There are many elevated tees at Kissing Tree, including the 14th hole. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
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Contemporary tee markers are used throughout Kissing Tree Golf Club. Mike Bailey/Golf Advisor -
![Kissing Tree - No. 6]()
The 6th hole is a dogleg left that plays downhill then back up to a gently elevated green. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
![Kissing Tree - No. 3 green]()
There aren't many bunkers at Kissing Tree but some are huge, like this horseshoe around the 3rd green. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
![Kissing Tree - No. 17]()
The 17th hole, a reachable par 5, is a good birdie opportunity down the stretch. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
![Food truck]()
There is no golf clubbouse yet at Kissing Tree but a food truck on standby. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
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Bocce Ball is one of the many off-course amenities for residents at Kissing Tree. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
![Putting Course]()
An artificial-turfed putting course wraps around the Independence Hall at Kissing Tree. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
![Independence Hall]()
Residents can hang out in the Independence Hall at Kissing Tree. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor -
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Kissing Tree certainly provides a grand entrance. Courtesy of Kissing Tree -
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For those who say close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades... Kissing Tree has plenty of horseshoe pits. Mike Bailey/Golf Advisor -
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After a round, golfers can enjoy a craft beer inside the welcome center, Mike Bailey/Golf Advisor
