When people ask what the best golf courses in the United States are, you can be sure to have your head spin as it’s mostly a matter of personal preference. Despite the difficulty in rating golf courses, here are the top 5 public courses you should try that will leave you with a memorable experience:
1. Pacific Dunes- In the great state of Oregon lies perhaps the nicest looking golf course in the United States, not to mention one of the cheapest among the best public access courses! Designed by Tom Doak in 2001, it provides over 6,600 yards of some of the most challenging holes which are sure to test your abilities as a golfer. That’s why it’s better left to those who’ve had some experience with golf, as most people playing there know what they’re doing, and they do it well by any standards. And if you aren’t scoring your usual, you can always blame the weather!
2. Pebble Beach- One of the oldest golf courses around, Pebble Beach in California is sure to give you a challenge, not to mention one for your wallet as well! Playing a round can sometimes cost upwards of $500, but that comes with the prestige of having played one of the most famous golf courses around. Designed in 1919 by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, it has consistently ranked in the top 10 courses, and is by no means an easy course. Be sure to hit your drives as straight as you can!
3. Whistling Straits- Straits- An unlikely area for one of the greatest courses lies in Haven, Wisconsin. This rugged course designed in 1997 by Pete Dye is just of the shoreline of Lake Michigan and is described by some as a “traditional” golf course. While it looks unassuming, be sure to bring your A game, as the dunes could put you in a lot of trouble.
4. Kiawah Island- Ocean Course- Yet another course designed by Pete Dye, this time in 1991. South Carolina is known for its well maintained and fun courses to play, not to mention the proximity of each. The Ocean Course lies on a world-class resort and is considered Pete Dye’s most outstanding achievement with regards to course design. The beautiful views of the ocean may be somewhat distracting when you’re going for par, especially since the course is over 7,300 yards!
5. Pinehurst- No.2- Designed by Donald Ross in 1907, this course lies in the state known for golf courses, North Carolina. Even with large fairways, the course is a challenge, and has been touted as one of the most difficult in the world. At a price of around $275, you’d better make sure to hit the range beforehand, as this championship course attracts some of the best players from all over the world.
There you have it! Some of the greatest courses that don’t require memberships to play!
