Sep 274 min read

Most popular courses in the USA

Updated: Nov 16

What are 12 of the most popular courses in the US?

The United States is home to some of the most prestigious and iconic golf courses in the world. Many of these courses have hosted major championships and are celebrated for their challenging layouts, stunning scenery, and historical significance. We complied a (subjective) list of the most popular golf courses in the USA:

1. Augusta National Golf Club – Augusta, Georgia

Augusta National is perhaps the most famous golf course in the world, home to The Masters Tournament, the only non course-rotating major. Known for its pristine condition, dramatic elevation changes, and the beautiful blooming azaleas in the spring, Augusta is a true golf icon.
Signature holes: The Amen Corner trio (holes 11, 12, and 13), particularly the par-3 12th, is one of the most famous stretches in golf.
Access: Private, members and guests only. The Masters is the only time the public gets a glimpse. Don't Miss the Pimento cheese Sandwiches!

2. Pebble Beach Golf Links – Pebble Beach, California

Pebble Beach is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on nearly every hole. It has hosted multiple U.S. Open championships and is a bucket-list course for golfers globally.
Signature holes: The iconic par-3 7th hole, with its dramatic drop-off to the ocean, and the par-5 18th, hugging the coastline, are must-see and must-play holes.
Access: Public, tee times may require a stay on property and can be expensive. Often need to be booked well in advance.

3. TPC Sawgrass – Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

Home of The Players Championship and THE island green, TPC Sawgrass is known for its challenging design by Pete Dye, with features like deep bunkers and water hazards. The course is most famous for its island green at the par-3 17th hole.
Signature holes: The par-3 17th, with its island green, is one of the most famous and nerve-wracking holes in golf.
Access: Public, with the Stadium Course open to visitors year-round.

4. Pinehurst No. 2 – Pinehurst, North Carolina

Pinehurst No. 2 is known for its challenging greens and strategic layout, designed by Donald Ross. It has hosted numerous major tournaments, including multiple U.S. Opens, and is part of a larger resort that includes several other fantastic courses.
Signature holes: The green complexes on Pinehurst No. 2 are some of the most difficult and revered in golf, with the 5th and 16th holes standing out for their strategic challenges.
Access: Public, and part of the Pinehurst Resort, offering stay-and-play packages.

5. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club – Southampton, New York

Shinnecock Hills is one of the oldest golf courses in the U.S., dating back to 1891, and is a frequent host of the U.S. Open. Its links-style layout and challenging wind conditions make it a demanding test of golf.
Signature holes: The par-4 6th hole, which plays downhill and is affected heavily by the wind, is one of the most memorable holes on the course.
Access: Private, members and guests only.

6. Whistling Straits (Straits Course) – Kohler, Wisconsin

Whistling Straits, designed by Pete Dye, is known for its rugged, windswept terrain along the shores of Lake Michigan. The course has hosted several PGA Championships and the Ryder Cup, making it one of the most significant courses in the U.S.
Signature holes: The par-3 17th, "Pinched Nerve," and the closing par-4 18th, "Dyeabolical," are two of the most visually stunning and difficult holes.
Access: Public, part of The American Club Resort.

7. Bethpage Black – Farmingdale, New York

Known for its difficulty and being a true test of skill, Bethpage Black is a favorite of both professionals and amateurs. It has hosted several U.S. Opens and PGA Championships, with its iconic "Warning" sign at the first tee serving as a reminder of its challenge.
Signature holes: The par-4 4th and par-4 15th are among the toughest holes on this notoriously difficult course.
Access: Public, although tee times can be competitive, especially for non-New York residents.

8. Oakmont Country Club – Oakmont, Pennsylvania

Oakmont is considered one of the toughest golf courses in the world, with lightning-fast greens, deep bunkers, and penal rough. It has hosted more U.S. Open championships than any other course.
Signature holes: The par-3 8th and par-4 3rd holes are some of the toughest at Oakmont, where the undulating greens can make or break a round.
Access: Private, members and guests only.

9. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort – Bandon, Oregon

Bandon Dunes is a golf paradise on the Oregon coast, offering a true links-style experience in the U.S. The resort features multiple courses, all ranked among the best in the country, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and challenging wind conditions.
Signature holes: The par-4 16th at Bandon Dunes offers a dramatic view of the Pacific and is considered one of the best par-4s in the world.
Access: Public, part of a resort that offers stay-and-play packages.

10. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island – Kiawah Island, South Carolina

The Ocean Course, designed by Pete Dye, is known for its stunning ocean views and challenging conditions, especially when the wind picks up. It has hosted the Ryder Cup, PGA Championships, and other major events.
Signature holes: The par-3 17th and par-4 18th, which play along the ocean, are two of the most iconic and challenging finishing holes in golf.
Access: Public, part of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

11. Harbour Town Golf Links – Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Harbour Town, designed by Pete Dye with consultation from Jack Nicklaus, is known for its tight fairways, small greens, and stunning waterfront scenery. It hosts the annual RBC Heritage on the PGA Tour.
Signature holes: The par-4 18th hole, with its iconic lighthouse backdrop, is one of the most photographed holes in golf.
Access: Public, part of the Sea Pines Resort.

12. Torrey Pines Golf Course – La Jolla, California

Torrey Pines, perched atop the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, is a favorite among both tour professionals and everyday golfers. The South Course has hosted several major championships, including the U.S. Open.
Signature holes: The par-4 4th and par-3 3rd on the South Course offer stunning ocean views and significant challenges.
Access: Public, though it can be difficult to secure tee times for non-residents.
Golf Trip Guys tip - Torrey is located near some other exceptional courses, check out our SoCal destination and reach out if you want to learn more!!