Golf is one of the most popular sports in the world, with millions of people playing and watching it. The United States is home to some of the best golf courses in the world, with stunning views, challenging courses, and world-class amenities. In this review, we will take a closer look at the top 5 golf courses in the USA and examine their history, pros and cons, cost of a round of golf, and suitability for different levels of golfers and families.

Pebble Beach Golf Links (Pebble Beach, CA):

Pebble Beach is one of the most famous golf courses in the world, located on the Monterey Peninsula in California. The course was designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant and opened in 1919. Pebble Beach has hosted numerous major golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open, and is consistently ranked as one of the best courses in the world. The course features stunning coastal views, challenging holes, and immaculate greens.

Pros: The breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, challenging course, and world-renowned reputation make for an unforgettable golfing experience.

Cons: With green fees starting at $550 per round, Pebble Beach is one of the most expensive courses in the world. Additionally, the course can be quite crowded and slow, which may detract from the overall experience.

Cost: Green fees start at $550 per round.

Suitability: Pebble Beach is best suited for experienced golfers looking for a challenging round of golf.

Augusta National Golf Club (Augusta, GA):

Augusta National is one of the most iconic golf courses in the world, located in Augusta, Georgia. The course was designed by Bobby Jones and Alister MacKenzie and opened in 1933. Augusta National is best known as the host of the Master’s Tournament, one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. The course is meticulously maintained and features rolling hills, challenging holes, and stunning foliage.

Pros: The immaculate course, natural beauty, and exclusive access make for a once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience.

Cons: Augusta National is one of the most exclusive courses in the world, with limited access to the public. Additionally, green fees are not publicly available but are rumoured to be in the range of $10,000-$20,000 per round.

Cost: Green fees are not publicly available.

Suitability: Augusta National is best suited for experienced golfers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience.

Pinehurst Resort (Pinehurst, NC):

Pinehurst is one of the most historic and prestigious golf resorts in the USA, located in Pinehurst, North Carolina. The resort was founded in 1895 and has hosted numerous major golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open. Pinehurst is home to nine world-class courses, each with its own unique challenges and stunning scenery. The resort also offers a range of amenities, including spa services and fine dining.

Pros: The variety of courses, historic charm, and range of amenities make for a memorable golfing experience.

Cons: The resort can be quite expensive, and green fees vary depending on the course. Additionally, the resort can be quite busy during peak season, which may detract from the overall experience.

Cost: Green fees vary depending on the course but start at around $100 per round.

Suitability: Pinehurst is best suited for golfers of all skill levels looking for a variety of courses and amenities.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort (Bandon, OR):

Bandon Dunes is a relatively new golf resort located on the rugged coastline of Oregon. The resort was founded in 1999 and features four world-class courses, each with its own unique challenges and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The courses were designed by some of the most respected golf course architects in the world, including Tom Doak and David McLay Kidd. Bandon Dunes has been praised for its commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area, and the courses are designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape.

Pros: The stunning views, commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area, and challenging courses make for a truly unforgettable golfing experience.

Cons: Bandon Dunes is located in a remote area, which can make travel difficult. Additionally, the resort can be quite expensive, and green fees vary depending on the course.

Cost: Green fees vary depending on the course but start at around $100 per round.

Suitability: Bandon Dunes is best suited for experienced golfers looking for a unique and challenging golfing experience.

Bethpage State Park (Farmingdale, NY):

Bethpage State Park is one of the most popular public golf courses in the USA, located on Long Island in New York. The park features five courses, including the world-renowned Black Course, which has hosted numerous major golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open. The courses were designed by A.W. Tillinghast, one of the most respected golf course architects in history. Bethpage State Park is known for its challenging courses and affordability.

Pros: The affordability, challenging courses, and public access make Bethpage State Park a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels.

Cons: The courses can be quite crowded, which may detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the courses are not as meticulously maintained as some of the more exclusive courses on this list.

Cost: Green fees start at around $43 per round for New York State residents and $130 per round for out-of-state visitors.

Suitability: Bethpage State Park is best suited for golfers of all skill levels looking for an affordable and challenging round of golf.

Conclusion:

Choosing the best golf course in the USA ultimately depends on individual preferences and skill levels. Pebble Beach and Augusta National offer exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for experienced golfers, while Pinehurst and Bandon Dunes offer a variety of courses and amenities for golfers of all skill levels. Bethpage State Park offers an affordable and challenging public course. Overall, each of these courses offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience and is deserving of its place on this list.

What about having a look at other courses from around the world? Have a look at our other sections.