Discover some of the most spectacular public golf courses in the United States, offering golfers of all levels a truly unforgettable experience.
Each course on this list stands out for its design, natural beauty, and challenge, making them must-play destinations for golf enthusiasts.
Keep in mind that all prices are typically adjusted based on season and prices listed below are generally what you can expect to spend.
1. Pebble Beach Golf Links
Pebble Beach, California
Par: 72
Yardage: 6,828 yards
Cost: $700+ per round
Widely regarded as one of the most famous golf courses in the world, Pebble Beach Golf Links boasts stunning ocean views and a challenging layout.
This iconic course has been the site of numerous major championships and offers an unforgettable experience for golfers willing to splurge on the greens fee.
2. Bethpage Black Course
Farmingdale, New York
Par: 71
Yardage: 7,468 yards
Cost: $75-$150 per round
The challenging Bethpage Black Course is a favorite among avid golfers and has hosted the U.S. Open and PGA Championship.
Known for its long, difficult layout and well-maintained greens, the course offers a fantastic golfing experience at a reasonable price for a championship course.
This course is surprisingly cheap to play, particularly if you are a NY state resident.
3. TPC Sawgrass
Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
Par: 72
Yardage: 7,245 yards
Cost: $450-$600+ per round
Home to the famous 17th-hole island green, TPC Sawgrass offers players a challenging and picturesque golf experience.
As the host of the annual Players Championship, the course’s Stadium layout provides golfers with a taste of the PGA Tour at a PGA Tour price.
4. Whistling Straits
Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Par: 72
Yardage: 7,790 yards
Cost: $300-$500 per round
Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, Whistling Straits offers an unforgettable golf experience with its rugged, links-style layout.
Having hosted multiple major championships, including the Ryder Cup, this course offers a world-class golf experience at a premium price.
Related: 6 Of The Most Unique Golf Courses Around The World
5. Pacific Dunes
Bandon, Oregon
Par: 71
Yardage: 6,633 yards
Cost: $110-$350 per round depending on time of year
Part of the highly acclaimed Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Pacific Dunes is a beautiful course designed by Tom Doak.
With its stunning coastal views and unique, natural layout, the course provides golfers with a true links golf experience that’s worth the trip.
Pacific Dunes regularly outranks Bandon Dunes, but I prefer Bandon Dunes to Pacific Dunes.
6. Pinehurst No. 2
Pinehurst, North Carolina
Par: 72
Yardage: 7,588 yards
Cost: $375-$495 per round
Pinehurst No. 2 is one of the most historic and highly regarded golf courses in the United States.
Designed by Donald Ross, the course has hosted multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open.
With its signature crowned greens and challenging layout, Pinehurst No. 2 offers a fantastic golf experience steeped in history.
7. Torrey Pines Golf Course
La Jolla, California
Par: 72
Yardage: 7,258 yards
Cost: $110-$252 per round for South Course, $65-$152 per round for North Course
With its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and challenging layout, Torrey Pines Golf Course is a must-play for any golf enthusiast.
Host of the annual Farmers Insurance Open and several U.S. Opens, the South Course is the more challenging of the two, while the North Course offers a slightly more forgiving experience.
While some of these courses come with a premium price tag, the quality of the golfing experience and the chance to play on courses that have hosted prestigious golf events make them well worth the investment.
So, whether you’re planning a golf getaway or simply looking for an exceptional course to play during your next vacation, consider teeing off at one of these top public golf courses in the United States.