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Eight of the best golf courses in the USA

Sport | 30 July 2024

Nine irons at the ready. Discover Winged Boots' favourite golf courses in America, handpicked by our managing director and avid golfer, David Ox. We deep dive into what makes these courses the best places for golf trips in the US, as well as answering your questions about the renowned Ryder Cup 2025. 

Want to know which are the best golf courses in the USA and how Winged Boots can help you plan your next luxury golf break? Our sports travel management experts are on hand waiting for your enquiry today.

nicest golf courses in US
Golfer putting

Talking to David, he sheds light on what to expect when golfing in the US.

"Some of the best places for golf trips are in the US, along with some of the most prestigious country clubs. From California's coastal bluffs to Las Vegas' famous desert, the sport provides a gateway to America's varied scenery. Scottsdale is becoming more and more popular for golfing getaways which is hardly surprising. The city has more than 200 courses! Plus, the warm and dry climate provides the perfect conditions for a round of 18. 

Of course, no USA golf listing could be complete without at least a mention of Masters' host Augusta National in Georgia. It's top-shelf, out-of-reach status only elevates its authority in the golfing world. However there are also plenty of fantastic public courses in the states which I detail in my curated round-up."
 

Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach Golf Links™

Pebble Beach, California 

Enjoy the round of a lifetime under the Californian sun. Pebble Beach Golf Links™ is unanimously rated the number one public course in the USA. Hosting every major tournament within the sport, it has committed to a further seven dates for the Women’s Open and U.S Opens with the latter locked in until 2044. The 18-holes are complemented by the rugged coastline but don’t let the picturesque ocean views distract you. The elevated greens and challenging bunkers make for a stimulating game, and the 18th hole is considered one of the best finishing holes in the country on one of the nicest golf courses in the USA.

how many golf courses are there in the US
Image credit: Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines

San Diego, California 

Towering above the Pacific Ocean, Torrey Pines is the emerald of San Diego’s coast. Encompassing two championship courses designed by legendary architect William P. Bell (and completed by his son William F. Bell), each course tests a player’s skill with tight fairways, lush rough, ample bunkering and exceptional length. The South Course undertook an extensive remodelling back in 2001 by celebrated golf designer Rees Jones which was met with universal acclaim. Other facilities available include a driving range, putting greens and a restaurant serving delicious cuisine.

Shadow Creek
Image credit: Shadow Creek

Shadow Creek

Las Vegas, Nevada 

Sculpted from the Nevada desert by renowned architect Tom Fazio, this course proclaims to be a masterpiece… and we’d have to agree. It was born via complete environment manipulation, carving rolling hills and canyons from flat desert floor and pumping in plenty of water: The $47 million price tag was money well spent. Every hole has distinct characteristics which make a score of par an achievement. The manicured fairways are located 30 minutes from the strip, however you can only arrive via MGM limousine and if you're a guest at one of MGM's Vegas hotels.

how many golf courses are there in the US
Image credit: TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course

TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course

Scottsdale, Arizona 

The Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale is most famous for its par-3, 16th hole that has earnt the nickname ‘The Colosseum’ as 20,000 spectators encircle the hole in a stadium-style setting. But it's so much more than the television theatrics. The glorious greens were purpose built to host the PGA Tour’s Phoenix Open – which it has since 1987. The course plays to over 7,200 yards from the tournament tees, but the fairways are a little more forgiving than its US counterparts. After a round of 18, head to the grand clubhouse to celebrate at Toro Restaurant and Rum Bar.

Cypress Point Club
Image credit: Cypress Point Club

Cypress Point Club

Pebble Beach, California

Nestled within the stunning landscapes of Pebble Beach, California, Cypress Point Club golf course stands as a testament to natural beauty and refined elegance. Its privileged setting offers more than just a game; it's an immersive experience amid rocky coastlines, windswept sand dunes, and majestic pine forests. But it's the iconic cypress trees that lend the course its name and unforgettable charm, casting their silhouettes against the azure skies. Renowned for its exclusivity, Cypress Point Club beckons discerning golfers seeking both challenge and serenity, promising an unforgettable journey through one of the world's most picturesque and revered golfing destinations.

Riviera Country Club
Image credit: Riviera Country Club

Riviera Country Club

Pacific Palisades, California 

As a beacon of excellence and prestige, the Riviera Country Club golf course stands as a hallowed ground for professionals and California's elite alike. Its lush fairways and meticulously manicured greens have witnessed the triumphs of golfing legends and the camaraderie of enthusiasts. Hosting numerous distinguished tournaments throughout its illustrious history, the course has become synonymous with sporting excellence and tradition. Now, poised to make history once again, the Riviera Country Club is set to welcome the world stage as it prepares to host the prestigious 2028 Olympic Games, further solidifying its status as a premier destination for golfers and spectators alike.

nicest golf courses in US
Augusta National Golf Club

Augusta National Golf Club

Augusta, Georgia

As the epitome of golfing grandeur, Augusta National Golf Club reigns supreme as the world's preeminent golfing destination. Its immaculate fairways and iconic landmarks have earned it the coveted title of number one golf course globally, a testament to its unparalleled beauty and challenge. Since its inception as the esteemed host of the Masters Tournament in 1934, Augusta National has played witness to the triumphs of golfing legends and the dreams of aspiring champions. Counting luminaries like Bill Gates and Warren Buffet among its esteemed members, Augusta National continues to capture the imagination of golf enthusiasts worldwide, embodying the pinnacle of sporting excellence and exclusivity.

most expensive golf courses in the USA
Image credit: Long Island State Park

Bethpage Black Course

Long Island, New York 

One of the five 18-hole regulation golf courses in NYC's Bethpage State Park Golf Course, The Black course has graced many top rankings… usually within the single digits. It boasts 100 years of tradition, making it one of the most popular and cherished courses in the whole of the United States. It has previously hosted the United States Open Championships as well as The PGA Championship, and in 2025 the Ryder Cup will be added to the course's list of prestigious events: marking the second time the cup has been hosted in New York. The course is tricky, and one of the most expensive golf courses in the USA. Every shot and skill is put to the test throughout the 18-holes, so complacency has no business here.

Bethpage State Park Golf Course
Image credit: Bethpage State Park Golf Course

Ryder Cup 2025

The Ryder Cup is returning stateside in September 2025. Heading to NYC, world-renowned Bethpage Black Course is its host. 

Can I play on Bethpage black course? 
Yes, you can! The club operates a slick reservation system that limits bookings to one every 28 days. It allows residents to book up to one week in advance and out-of-state or international players just five days ahead of tee-off. However, the club’s first hour of tee times are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis; so you may be lucky enough to snag a spot just by turning up. 

Is Black Course easy?
Please note the course is not for beginners. It infamously sports a warning sign at the first hole which reads: “The Black Course is an extremely difficult course which we only recommend for highly skilled golfers.” That explains why it regularly ranks in the top 10 lists for America’s toughest golfing greens. 

How can I watch the Ryder Cup 2025?
Winged Boots has flight and hotel packages available to book now. To discover more, contact us today by enquiring here

Talking to David, he sheds light on what to expect when golfing in the US.

"Some of the best places for golf trips are in the US along with some of the most prestigious country clubs. From California's coastal bluffs to Las Vegas' famous desert, the sport provides a gateway to America's varied scenery. Scottsdale is becoming more and more popular for golfing getaways which is hardly surprising. The city has more than 200 courses! Plus, the warm and dry climate provides the perfect conditions for a round of 18. 

Of course, no USA golf listing could be complete without at least a mention of Masters' host Augusta National in Georgia. It's top-shelf, out-of-reach status only elevates its authority in the golfing world. However, there are also plenty of fantastic public courses in the states, which I detail in my curated round-up."
 

The United States boasts an impressive array of golf courses, each offering its own unique blend of natural beauty, architectural brilliance, and challenging gameplay. Choose from this rundown of the best golf courses in the US, or speak to our team to find the right fit for you.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual enthusiast, embarking on a journey to experience these courses promises unforgettable moments on the green. For the ultimate golf, read our ultimate golfer’s guide or contact one of our dedicated personal travel managers on 0204 586 2622. 

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