The Top 10 Golf Courses in America You Have to Play

You can’t be a true golf maniac without having golfed at least one of the courses on this page, and we hope to help you cross them all off your bucket list shortly. America is a haven to some of the most exalted golf courses of distinction, and these are 10 of the finest. (Which means, if you have played all ten, you have had one heck of a glorious golfing life!) So buckle up your golf pants and bucket hats and get ready to tee off with these matchless courses that have considerably stood the test of time.

Explore the top 10 golf courses in America, featuring the best of the best in terms of scenic beauty, challenging layouts, and prestigious history. From iconic classics like Pebble Beach Golf Links to hidden gems like Pinehurst No. 2, these courses offer unforgettable experiences for golf enthusiasts of all levels. Discover the ultimate destinations for your next golfing adventure.

 

1) Pebble Beach Golf Links

Pebble Beach is widely upheld as one of the revered golf destinations. The course hugs the coastline, giving golfers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean as they play. Pebble Beach has hosted five U.S. Opens, and it will play host again in 2019. If you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience sure to knock your argyle golf socks right off, Pebble Beach should be at the tip top of your list.

 

2) Pinehurst No. 2

Everyone knows Pinehurst No. 2 is a mighty difficult and prodigious golf course. Designed by Donald Ross in the Piedmont region of beautiful North Carolina, Pinehurst No. 2 has hosted a bevy of prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Open, and is dear in many circles of golfers. Pinehurst No. 2 is in the Sandhills of N.C., and its unique sandy soil makes for an unmatched playing experience. If you’re looking for a challenge, Pinehurst No. 2 is worth a try. The course’s par-72 layout features six tough holes that are considered some of the most difficult on any American golf course. There are also plenty of easier holes where beginners can get their bearings before facing more arduous provocations.

 

3) Bandon Dunes Resort

Set along the dramatic Oregon Coast, Bandon Dunes features four golf courses that are nothing short of splendid. The property’s original track, Bandon Dunes, is a true links course that will challenge even the most habituated golfer. For those looking for a more slackened round of golf, the resort also boasts the Pacific Dunes course which is a bit more forgiving. Regardless of which course you choose to play, you’re sure to have an arresting time at Bandon Dunes Resort.

 

4) Whistling Straits

A treasured track among golfers of all ages, races, and handicaps is Whistling Straits, and it’s easy to spot why. The course is set on over 2k acres of dunes edging the sand of Lake Michigan, providing mind-boggling beauty in every direction. The layout is both challenging and fair, with plenty of options for different types of players. If you’re looking for a truly world-class golfing experience, Whistling Straits is the place to be.

 

5) Trump International Links

Trump International Links Bedminster, New Jersey: This course was designed by the one and only Donald Trump. It’s a private club, so you have to be a member or know someone who is to play here. But it’s worth it, as the course is beautiful and well-maintained.

6) Kiawah Island Golf Resort (non-Ocean)

Kiawah Island is home to five championship golf courses. In addition to the Ocean Course, Kiawah Island Golf Resort also holds the River Course, Osprey Point Course, Cougar Point Course, and Turtle Point Course. All of these courses are highly rated by golfers and provide a unique challenge for players of all skill levels.

 

7) Ocean Course at Kiawah Island

The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island is widely considered one of the best golf courses in America, so we call it out specifically. Located just outside of Charleston, South Carolina, the course offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from every hole. The course is also known for its difficult layout, with long, narrow fairways and deep bunkers. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is the course for you.

 

8) Kapalua Resort – Championship Course

Kapalua Resort’s Championship Course is one of the most beautiful and challenging 10 golf courses in America. Situated on the island of Maui, the course offers stunning ocean views and a tough layout. The front nine is relatively open, while the back nine features tight fairways and small greens. There are also four par-5s, which provide a great opportunity for birdies or eagles.

Overall, this is a must-play course for any serious golfer.

 

9) Hazeltine National Golf Club

Hazeltine National Golf Club is a private golf club located in Chaska, Minnesota, a suburb southwest of Minneapolis. The club opened in 1962 and was designed by Robert Trent Jones. It has hosted numerous high-profile events, including the U.S. Open four times and the PGA Championship three times. The course is characterized by long, narrow fairways and deep bunkers.

Winged Foot Golf Club (six sentences): Winged Foot Golf Club is a private club located in Mamaroneck, New York, about 30 minutes outside of New York City. The club was founded in 1921 and the West Course, designed by A.W. Tillinghast, opened in 1923. Winged Foot has hosted five U.S.

 

10) Chambers Bay

Chambers Bay is a public golf course located in University Place, Washington. The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II and opened in 2007. It is known for its stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, as well as its challenging layout. The course has hosted the U.S. Amateur Championship and the U.S. Open, and it is currently ranked #1 in Washington state and #10 in the country by Golf Digest.

So there you have it, the top 10 golf courses in America that you have to play. All of these courses offer a unique challenge and are sure to provide an enjoyable experience. So get out there and tee off at one of these amazing locations!