Luxury Golf Courses
No two golf courses are alike. And there's nothing like driving a ball down the creme de la creme of fairways and putting on luxury greens. There's no definitive list and everyone will have their own preferences. This list represents a mix of courses known for their historical significance, architectural brilliance, challenging layouts, and luxurious amenities. We also selected a list of courses that are available to the public.
Pebble Beach Golf Links, Monterey Peninsula, California: Known for its stunning ocean views and challenging layout, Pebble Beach has hosted numerous PGA Tour events. The course is part of a world-class resort offering luxurious accommodations and amenities. It is advisable to book several months in advance, especially for peak season and weekends, with resort guests possibly having priority.
Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland: The birthplace of golf, this course is rich in history and tradition. Known for its rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and strategic play, it offers breathtaking views of the Scottish coast. Booking up to a year in advance for guaranteed tee times is recommended, along with a daily ballot system for some tee times.
Bethpage Black Course, Long Island, New York: A public course known for its demanding conditions and beautiful, well-maintained layout. Bethpage Black has hosted several major championships and is revered for its challenge and beauty. Tee times can be reserved online 7 days in advance for New York residents and 5 days for non-residents.
Whistling Straits, Sheboygan, Wisconsin: Set on the banks of Lake Michigan, this course is known for its links-style layout and has hosted several PGA Championships. Advance booking several months ahead is recommended during peak, summer season.
TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida: Famous for its 17th hole island green, TPC Sawgrass is home to The Players Championship. It's known for its challenging layout and luxurious amenities. Booking a few months in advance, particularly during peak seasons, is recommended.
Cape Kidnappers, Te Awanga, New Zealand: Set in a dramatic landscape, Cape Kidnappers offers stunning ocean views and a layout that's both challenging and scenic. Advanced booking is advised, especially from October to April.
Kapalua Plantation Course, Maui, Hawaii: This course is renowned for its beautiful setting and has hosted the PGA Tour's Sentry Tournament of Champions. It's known for its panoramic ocean views and challenging layout. Reservations are recommended in advance, especially during the peak winter months.
The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia: A historic resort with several golf courses, including the Old White TPC, a public course that hosts the PGA Tour's Greenbrier Classic. It's advisable to book a few months in advance, particularly for summer visits.
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, South Carolina: Known for its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this public course has hosted several major championships, including the PGA Championship. As with other courses on this list, booking several months in advance is recommended for peak times.
Royal Birkdale Golf Club, Southport, England: This public links course is one of England's finest and has hosted multiple Open Championships and Ryder Cups. It's known for its challenging layout and coastal setting. Advanced booking is generally recommended, especially during summer months.
Playing these courses isn't cheap. Costs can vary significantly but, depending on the course, a round might cost $500 or more. In some cases, costs may also depend whether you're staying at the resort hotel. List updated November 2023.