Explore the best public golf courses in the United States and Europe, from iconic destinations like Pebble Beach and St Andrews to affordable options and beginner-friendly courses with stunning views.
Top Public Golf Courses in the United States
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Considered one of the most iconic golf courses in the world, Pebble Beach Golf Links offers a breathtaking coastal setting on the Monterey Peninsula in California. With its stunning ocean views and challenging layout, this course has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open. Golf enthusiasts can experience playing on the same fairways that legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods have walked. The course is known for its small greens, deep bunkers, and strategic shot-making requirements, making it a true test of skill.
Augusta National Golf Club
Home to the prestigious Masters Tournament, Augusta National Golf Club is synonymous with golf excellence. Located in Augusta, Georgia, this course is known for its pristine condition, beautiful azaleas, and undulating fairways. The layout presents a variety of challenges, including fast greens and strategically placed bunkers. Walking in the footsteps of golf legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, players can experience the rich history and tradition of the Masters. Augusta National is a bucket-list destination for any golfer.
Pinehurst Resort
Situated in the heart of North Carolina, Pinehurst Resort is a golf lover’s paradise. With nine world-class courses, including the famed Pinehurst No. 2, this resort offers a diverse range of playing experiences. Pinehurst No. 2, designed by Donald Ross, has hosted numerous U.S. Opens and is known for its unique “natural” design. The sandy wasteland areas and challenging greens require strategic shot placement and precise putting. Beyond the golf, Pinehurst Resort offers luxurious accommodations, spa facilities, and dining options to complete the ultimate golf getaway.
Bethpage Black Course
Located on Long Island, New York, the Bethpage Black Course is a true golfer’s gem. Known for its demanding layout, this course has hosted multiple U.S. Opens, including the famous 2002 championship won by Tiger Woods. The course features long, narrow fairways, thick rough, and elevated greens, providing a stern test for even the most skilled golfers. The Bethpage Black Course offers a challenging and rewarding experience that will push players to their limits.
Torrey Pines Golf Course
Perched atop the stunning cliffs of La Jolla in San Diego, California, Torrey Pines Golf Course offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This public course has hosted multiple PGA Tour events, including the U.S. Open. With its two 18-hole layouts, the North Course and the South Course, players can enjoy a variety of challenges. The South Course, in particular, is known for its dramatic cliffside holes and strategic bunker placements. Torrey Pines is a must-play destination for golfers seeking a memorable experience in a picturesque setting.
Best Public Golf Courses in Europe
St Andrews Links
St Andrews Links, located in Scotland, is widely regarded as the birthplace of golf and is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. This historic course offers a challenging and picturesque experience, with its iconic Old Course being one of the most famous golfing venues in the world. The course is known for its unique layout, featuring double greens and challenging bunkers that require precision and strategy. Golfers have the opportunity to play on the same fairways that legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods have walked on. With stunning views of the North Sea and the charming town of St Andrews, a round at St Andrews Links is a truly unforgettable experience.
Royal County Down Golf Club
Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Mountains of Mourne in Northern Ireland, Royal County Down Golf Club is often ranked as one of the best golf courses in the world. This championship course offers a challenging and scenic golfing experience, with its undulating fairways, steep bunkers, and stunning views of the Irish Sea. Each hole is meticulously designed to test a golfer’s skills and strategy. The course’s natural beauty, with its heather-covered dunes and rugged coastline, adds to the overall charm and appeal of playing at Royal County Down Golf Club.
Valderrama Golf Club
Located in Sotogrande, Spain, Valderrama Golf Club is a renowned golfing destination that has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Ryder Cup. This championship course offers a blend of natural beauty and strategic challenges, with its tight fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and tree-lined surroundings. The course demands accuracy and precision from golfers, making it a thrilling and rewarding experience. With its immaculately maintained greens and stunning Mediterranean views, Valderrama Golf Club provides a truly memorable golfing experience.
Ballybunion Golf Club
Situated on the rugged west coast of Ireland, Ballybunion Golf Club is a true gem that offers an authentic links golf experience. The course is known for its dramatic coastal setting, with towering dunes and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Ballybunion’s challenging layout requires golfers to navigate undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and tricky greens. Each hole presents a unique challenge, offering a mix of strategic shot-making and breathtaking scenery. Playing at Ballybunion Golf Club is like stepping back in time and experiencing the rich tradition of Irish links golf.
Le Golf National
Located just outside of Paris, France, Le Golf National is a world-class golfing destination that has hosted the prestigious Ryder Cup. The course is designed to test a golfer’s skills and strategy, with its strategically placed water hazards, challenging bunkers, and undulating fairways. Le Golf National offers a unique blend of parkland and links-style holes, providing a diverse and exciting golfing experience. With its modern clubhouse, stunning views of the French countryside, and the allure of Paris nearby, Le Golf National is a must-visit destination for golfers of all levels.
Affordable Public Golf Courses
Are you a golf enthusiast looking for an amazing golfing experience that won’t break the bank? Look no further! We have curated a list of the top affordable public golf courses that offer exceptional value for your money. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, these courses provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy the game without straining your budget.
TPC Myrtle Beach
TPC Myrtle Beach is a golfer’s paradise located in the heart of the Grand Strand in South Carolina. This stunning course, designed by Tom Fazio, offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. With its beautiful fairways, well-manicured greens, and breathtaking views, TPC Myrtle Beach is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts on a budget.
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Lemont, Illinois, Cog Hill Golf & Country Club is a renowned public golf facility that offers exceptional value for money. With four championship courses to choose from, including the famous Dubsdread course, designed by legendary architect Dick Wilson, Cog Hill provides golfers with a variety of playing options. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Cog Hill’s well-maintained fairways and challenging layouts are sure to impress.
Chambers Bay Golf Course
Located in University Place, Washington, Chambers Bay Golf Course is a true gem for golfers seeking affordability without compromising on quality. This links-style course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. With its undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging greens, Chambers Bay provides an unforgettable golfing experience at an affordable price.
Streamsong Resort
Situated amidst the tranquil beauty of Central Florida, Streamsong Resort boasts not one, but three world-class golf courses that won’t break the bank. Designed by renowned architects Tom Doak, Bill Coore, and Ben Crenshaw, these courses offer a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging play. Whether you choose to tee off at Streamsong Red, Streamsong Blue, or Streamsong Black, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable golfing adventure at a fraction of the cost of other top-tier resorts.
Whistling Straits
Located in Kohler, Wisconsin, Whistling Straits is a public golf course that offers a championship experience at an affordable price. Designed by Pete Dye, this stunning course is known for its rugged terrain, dramatic elevation changes, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. With its challenging layout and pristine conditions, Whistling Straits is a must-play destination for golfers looking for an affordable yet memorable golfing experience.
Public Golf Courses with Stunning Views
When it comes to playing golf, the experience goes beyond just the game itself. The surroundings and views can greatly enhance the enjoyment of the sport. If you’re looking for public golf courses with stunning views, look no further. Here are five courses that not only offer a challenging game but also provide breathtaking scenery.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Pebble Beach, California, Spyglass Hill Golf Course offers golfers an unforgettable experience. This challenging course winds through majestic Monterey pines and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. As you navigate through the undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas that will take your breath away.
Pacific Dunes
Located in Bandon, Oregon, Pacific Dunes is a true gem on the West Coast. This links-style course overlooks the rugged coastline, offering golfers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The rolling fairways and towering sand dunes create a dramatic backdrop that adds to the allure of this course. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of nature as you tee off on this unforgettable course.
Old Head Golf Links
Situated on a stunning peninsula in County Cork, Ireland, Old Head Golf Links is a golfer’s paradise. This course is perched on cliffs that overlook the Atlantic Ocean, providing golfers with breathtaking views of the crashing waves below. The combination of challenging holes and awe-inspiring scenery makes this course a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.
Banff Springs Golf Course
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff Springs Golf Course offers a truly unique golfing experience. Surrounded by towering mountains and pristine forests, this course showcases the beauty of Alberta, Canada. The awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes add a touch of magic to every round of golf played here.
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Renowned as one of the most iconic golf courses in the world, Pebble Beach Golf Links in California is a golfer’s dream. With its breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, this course offers an unforgettable golfing experience. As you play each hole, you’ll be reminded why Pebble Beach is considered a true masterpiece.
Public Golf Courses for Beginners
Are you new to the world of golf and looking for the perfect course to start your journey? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the top public golf courses that are beginner-friendly and offer a great experience for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a novice or just getting started, these courses will provide you with a memorable and enjoyable round of golf.
The Links at Terranea
Located in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, The Links at Terranea is a fantastic choice for beginners looking to improve their game. This stunning course offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean while providing a forgiving layout that allows for an enjoyable round. With wide fairways and manageable rough, golfers can focus on building their skills and confidence without feeling overwhelmed. The challenging yet approachable design of this course makes it a perfect choice for beginners.
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort
Nestled along the rugged Oregon coastline, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is a golfer’s paradise and an excellent option for beginners. This resort boasts four championship courses, each with its own unique challenges and stunning vistas. The resort prides itself on providing a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all levels, and their experienced staff is always ready to offer guidance and support. With a focus on traditional links golf, Bandon Dunes offers a true golfing experience that will both challenge and inspire beginners.
The Broadmoor Golf Club
Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, The Broadmoor Golf Club is a premier destination for golfers seeking a beginner-friendly course. This historic club offers two championship courses that are known for their scenic beauty and playability. The East Course, designed by Donald Ross, features wide fairways and large greens, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking to hone their skills. The West Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., offers a more challenging layout while still being accessible to golfers of all levels. With its stunning mountain views and exceptional service, The Broadmoor Golf Club is a must-visit for beginners.
The Homestead Resort
Situated in Hot Springs, Virginia, The Homestead Resort is a hidden gem for beginner golfers. This historic resort offers an 18-hole championship course designed by William S. Flynn. Known for its scenic beauty and gentle slopes, the course provides a relaxed and enjoyable golfing experience. The Homestead’s professional staff is always on hand to offer lessons and guidance, ensuring that beginners feel comfortable and supported as they learn the game. With its charming atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, The Homestead Resort is the perfect place for beginners to take their first swings.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly golf course with a touch of luxury, Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina is the place to be. This renowned resort offers five championship courses, including the famous Ocean Course, which has hosted major championships. While the Ocean Course may be challenging for beginners, the resort also offers other courses that are more forgiving and suitable for those just starting out. With its world-class facilities and stunning natural beauty, Kiawah Island Golf Resort provides an exceptional golfing experience for beginners.
So, whether you’re a complete novice or have a few rounds under your belt, these public golf courses are sure to provide you with a memorable and enjoyable experience. From stunning views to beginner-friendly layouts, these courses offer the perfect blend of challenge and accessibility. Don’t be afraid to grab your clubs and embark on your golfing journey at one of these fantastic destinations!
