There are some golf courses that transcend the status of mere venues. Some boast centuries-old fairways that will endure long after we’re gone, while others, though only decades old, have already secured their place among the best golf courses in the world. And we’re exploring ten of these today.
From the hallowed grounds of Augusta National to the windswept links of St. Andrews, each course on our list tells a story – a story of golf’s rich history, its evolution, and the timeless challenge these courses present to the best in the game. And where better to start our journey than the breathtaking California coast?
Explore the Best Golf Courses in the World
1. Cypress Point Club
Del Monte Forest, California, USA
The battle between Cypress Point and Pine Valley for the top spot is a tough one, often decided by the slimmest of margins. But when it comes to sheer setting, Cypress Point stands unrivaled.This mythic course is etched into the coastline of the Monterey Peninsula, nestled among sprawling cypress trees and soaring cliffs. The fairways seem to float above the crashing Pacific waves, creating an experience that borders on the spiritual. For those fortunate enough to play here, it’s more than just a round of golf – it’s a masterclass in design by Alister MacKenzie, where every hole is in perfect harmony with its surroundings.Among its many notable holes, the par-3 16th stands out as one of the most famous in the world, extending into the ocean itself and capturing the imagination of golfers everywhere. It’s no wonder it’s one of the game’s most photographed holes.
2. Pine Valley Golf Club
Pine Hill, New Jersey, USA
While Cypress Point dazzles with its breathtaking ocean views, Pine Valley Golf Club takes a different approach; one that has earned it a reputation as one of the best golf courses in the world. Tucked away in the pine barrens of New Jersey, Pine Valley is a triumph in golf course architecture, known for its relentless challenge and incomparable design.
Pine Valley doesn’t just test your skill; it demands your full attention. Crafted by George Crump and Harry S. Colt, the course embodies a unique vision of what makes a golf course truly exceptional.
Every hole is isolated, surrounded by towering pines and sand dunes that foster a profound sense of solitude. But perhaps the most striking feature of Pine Valley is its brutal but beautiful bunkering – deep, rugged, and unforgiving, they are as much a part of the course’s identity as the fairways and greens themselves.
3. The Old Course at St. Andrews
St. Andrews, Scotland
As we cross the Atlantic and leave the fairways of Pine Valley behind, we arrive at arguably the most iconic golf course in the world: The Old Course at St. Andrews. This legendary venue, located on the east coast of Fife, Scotland, is where golf was born and where the game’s rich history is palpably felt with every step and every swing.With its boundless, windswept fairways and landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge and the Road Hole, The Old Course offers an experience that is both emotional and exhilarating. The course’s flat terrain may seem deceptively simple, but the ever-present wind and subtle undulations test even the most seasoned players.St. Andrews’ remarkable blend of historical significance, having been established in 1552, and accessibility as a public course provides a rare opportunity for golfers to walk in the footsteps of legends.
4. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Southampton, New York, USA
If St. Andrews is the birthplace of golf, then Shinnecock Hills is where the spirit of the game truly flourished on American soil. While not set on traditional linksland, Shinnecock evokes a similar essence with its sandy, rolling topography, prevalent ocean winds, and thick grasses framing the fairways.Opened in 1931 and crafted by the renowned William Flynn, Shinnecock Hills delivers an unforgettable experience. From the moment you drive up to the clubhouse, radiating classic Hamptons charm, to your final putt on the 18th green, every aspect of the course speaks to its storied heritage.Shinnecock has hosted several U.S. Opens, but watching it on television from your living room only scratches the surface of its true allure. Unfortunately, this might be the closest many can get. Its exclusivity means that, for most, experiencing its full grandeur remains a rare privilege.
5. National Golf Links of America
Southampton, New York, USA
From the back porch of Shinnecock Hills, you can catch a glimpse of our next destination: National Golf Links of America, or simply “National” to those in the know. Set along the shores of Peconic Bay in Southampton, this course was brought to life by the collaboration between C.B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor in 1911. What they created together over a century ago remains a marvel of strategic design, revered as one of the best golf courses in the world.Macdonald, often referred to as the father of American golf course architecture, had a vision to create the finest course in the United States. After years of studying the great links courses of the UK, he returned with a treasure trove of ideas that would become the foundation of National. Each hole here is inspired by a classic design from across the pond, but this isn’t a replica course. And, in many cases, Macdonald’s versions surpass the originals.What sets National apart isn’t just its strategic brilliance, but also its stunning setting. Spread across 250
