The Best Golf Courses in the United States
Photo: Courtesy of Pebble Beach
Tee off at the best places around the United States. (And don't miss our Los Angeles and New York City golf guides.)
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Course
Pebble Beach Golf
Pebble Beach, California
The Lowdown: What hasn't already been said about Pebble Beach? Impressive views, a legendary course, a stunning location. For those making a journey, it's the place to be.
Caddie Tip: With thick rough and fast greens, the course is meant for skilled players. And be ready to fork over big bucks: Rounds cost around $500.
Best Course to Bring Your Short Game
Pinehurst Resort
Pinehurst, North Carolina
The Lowdown: Pinehurst is constantly lauded as one of the best courses in the United States. Believe the hype: With a bevy of courses to choose from, any golfer would be hard-pressed to find fault with Pinehurst.
Caddie Tip: Practice your putting and bring your short game.
A Real 'Players' Course
TPC Sawgrass
Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
The Lowdown: A signature course with signature details and full stadium seating for spectators, Sawgrass is one of the best championship courses in the country and recently hosted the 2012 Players Championship.
Caddie Tip: The 17th hole gets a lot of attention, but the 18th — a 462-yard, par-4 guarded by water down the left side — is the more formidable one.
A Scottish Course in Oregon
Bandon Dunes
Bandon, Oregon
The Lowdown: One of the best golf resorts in the world. The land is perfectly suited to the game, and the design pays attention to the natural terrain, working with every curve and hill.
Caddie Tip: The seaside location means ocean breezes will challenge players, as will the sand-based turf. Keeping the ball low is key.
A Top Resort with a Top Course
Whistling Straits
Sheboygan, Wisconsin
The Lowdown: Located in the hilariously-named Sheboygan, the resort has four strong courses with distinct trademarks and personalities. It's quite the masterpiece.
Caddie Tip: Open, rugged, and windswept terrain defines the walking-only, links-style Straits Course sculpted along two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Best Seaside Course
Kiawah Island Resort
Johns Island, South Carolina
The Lowdown: An incredible resort with a variety of courses designed by big names like Nicklaus, Fazio, and Dye. Possibly the perfect golf getaway.
Caddie Tip: The Ocean Course has more seaside holes then any other in the northern hemisphere. The raised course exposes every hole to ocean winds.
BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE
Best Los Angeles Golf Courses
Best New York City Golf Courses