15 of the Best Public Golf Courses in America!

Golf was invented somewhere around 1457, making it one of the world's oldest sports. And for those who valiantly face the sand traps, water hazards and unforgiving fairways, it seems like it takes a lifetime (or more) to master the game.

No doubt, golf is addictive. President Woodrow Wilson played in the snow, using black golf balls. Astronaut Alan Shephard used a six-iron to hit a ball on the moon. Actor Samuel L. Jackson has a clause in his contract allowing him to play twice a week during a movie shoot.

Golf is so popular in the U.S. that almost half the courses in the entire world are set within these 50 states. About 12,000 of them are open to the public - which is a good thing: of the 26 million golfers in America, 9 out of 10 play public courses. Here are 15 that are worth checking out.

1. Wintonbury Hills, Bloomfield, CT

It's built on the site of an old farm, and offers two different, but challenging, experiences. The front nine holes are very open, so the wind can throw unexpected curve balls; the back nine winds tightly through trees. While you're deciding which club to use, take in some pretty gorgeous views.

2. Bethpage Black, Farmingdale, NY

As one of the top (and most difficult) public courses in the country, it attracts players all over who want to take it on. Those who've played it say they have a new respect for the game: it requires way more focus and thinking than almost anywhere else.

3. The Ocean Course, Kiawah Island, SC

True to its name, it hugs the Atlantic Ocean - thus, the coastal winds hug your game. It's considered one of the most beautiful courses in the country, but one with many challenges. Bunkers butt up against sand dunes, every green has a tricky slope….but the views of the surf might relieve some of the pressure.

4. Arrowhead Pointe, Elberton, GA

It's a little out of the way, but players rave over the many scenic holes on this course. Because ten of the eighteen holes run near the lake, you stand a good chance of losing any "zen" moments - along with your ball. The standard advice is to pack extra in the golf bag.

5. Crandon Park, Key Biscayne, FL

It offers amazing views of the Miami skyline and the tropical waters surrounding the Keys. So that may take some of the sting out of the challenging greens. No wonder the super-experienced players of the Senior PGA Tour keep returning to take them on.

6. The Old White at The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, WV

Built in 1913, this iconic course still ranks as a "must" to play -especially since getting a facelift in 2007. It still retains the park-like beauty that offers both challenges (tree-lined fairways) and serenity. It's the site of the annual Greenbrier Classic.

7. Harborside International (Starboard), Chicago, IL

It's a links-style course with no trees. But if you think you can play a nice relaxing few holes, take a look at all the sand and water features around you. Plus, that open design allows the unpredictable winds to take things up a notch. Hey, it's called the "Windy City" for a reason.

8. Whistling Straits, Haven, WI

It's built on the site of an abandoned army base, designed to look and feel like you're walking the links in Ireland. The winds coming off Lake Michigan add to that feel, as do the rugged fairways. This picturesque course will test your game, as it has with many PGA pros.

9. Karsten Creek, Stillwater, OK

It was developed for Oklahoma State University, and ranks among one of best collegiate courses in America. The greens are fast, the layout is challenging - but hey, if you want to compete against the youngsters, you better step up your game. Here's your chance.

10. Butterfield Trail, El Paso, TX

The course has an "Old West" flavor, making good use of the natural terrain. Expect plenty of natural sand dunes and tough desert plants - but the greens are always in top shape. It's challenging, but not soul-destroying, and players appreciate the chilled bottled water available at every third hole.

11. Shadow Creek, North Las Vegas, NV

It started out as a private course for high rollers, but is now open to Regular Joes. This oasis in the midst of the desert has impeccable greens and astonishing views of the mountains - which also means interesting elevation challenges.

12. Chambers Bay, University Place, WA

It was created to provide a taste of Scotland's St. Andrews - and because it's situated on Puget Sound, you get that whole "windswept moors" thing. As you battle the breezes, painting your face like "Braveheart" might give you an edge. Or not.

13. Pebble Beach, Carmel, CA

Since it opened in 1919, it's been something of a golf mecca, blending land and sea in breathtaking fashion. To start, nine holes sit right above the Pacific: the views, the noise of the surf and the winds can be supremely distracting. Yes, it's pricey to play (as in, "a few hundred") - but it's a true bucket-list item for the golf fan.

14. Torrey Pines, La Jolla, CA

This course, set atop ocean bluffs and with plenty of tangled rough, is an exhilarating challenge for (somewhat) experienced golfers. If you're just starting out, you're likely to toss your clubs in the ocean. And there are plenty of waterfront fairways to accommodate you.

15. Kapaluau's Plantation Course, Maui, HI

The course is built over a former pineapple farm. And because Hawaii is a series of islands, expect to battle tough ocean breezes. Expect a pretty amazing view, no matter what hole you're playing. The greens are in excellent shape, being irrigated by the same system that watered pineapples a century ago.

Share your favorites!
Kansas Search
Go Golfing Near You
Go Golfing Near You
840 N Yale Ave, Wichita, KS
This stately par 72 MacDonald Park Golf Course ranks among the most popular local courses. It has been voted as one of the best public courses in t... Read More
2020 West Murdock Street, Wichita, KS
About The scenic Arthur B. Sim Golf Course is located in the center of Wichita, in the heart of the Museum District. A favorite among generations ... Read More
13420 East Pawnee, Wichita, KS
It was established in 2003 and has a country club atmosphere. This unique course features four par 4's and fourteen par 3's that wind around six po... Read More
1931 South Tyler Road, Wichita, KS
About Tex Consolver Golf Course is located amidst the beautiful surroundings of Pawnee Prairie Park. The par 72 course, designed by Bob Dunning, i... Read More
2600 Triple Creek Drive, Derby, KS
Mission: Our mission is to provide a family friendly atmosphere, affordable championship golf, outstanding service and world class amentities.   Read More
6614 South Grove Street, Wichita, KS
6020 South Greenwich Road, Derby, KS
About Established in 1958, Hidden Lakes Golf Course is an immaculate course that will challenge any level of golfer. Subtle greens, tree- lined fa... Read More
920 Meadowbrook Drive, Newton, KS
About The course plays on the town’s railroad history, and many holes are, as they say in Scotland, “hard by the cinders,” conti... Read More
443 South 135th Street West, Wichita, KS
About The Auburn Hills project was approved by the Wichita City Council in December 1996. Construction on the course began in the fall of 1998, wi... Read More
1610 Fairway Drive, Augusta, KS
About Established in 1922, the course consists of nine holes, each with its own set of additional tees which allow it to be played as an 18-hole c... Read More
520 Yost Drive, Hesston, KS
About Us:Hesston Golf Course is far from your typical municipal daily-fee golf club. Offering a full service golf shop, intensive golf instructiona... Read More
1100 Country Club Lane, El Dorado, KS
About Us Prairie Trails began in the 1920’s as El Dorado Country Club 1920’s 18 hole sand greens course 1950 Club installed 9 hole B... Read More
1119 North Main Street, Cheney, KS
Cherry Oaks Golf Course became an 18-hole golf course when the back nine opened July 15th, 2005. The city took control of the municipal course on A... Read More
1500 West Harvey Avenue, Wellington, KS
About The Wellington Golf Club invites you to come play a round with us.  Our par 70, 18-hole golf course features some of the fastest and tr... Read More
3805 Quail Ridge Drive, Winfield, KS
About Designed by Tulsa architect Jerry Slack Quail Ridge opened in 1992. For the past 14 years under the care of course superintendent Kevin Kamp... Read More
9 Emerson Loop, Hutchinson, KS
About Us You’ll enjoy rates that are very reasonable and a relaxing atmosphere at the Carey Park Golf Course. This 18 hole golf course with ... Read More
3202 North Summit, Arkansas City, KS
Think Kansas is flat? Then come play Spring Hill Golf Course, one of the most challenging 9-hole public golf courses in the state. Our hilly terrai... Read More
One Power Drive, Pretty Prairie, KS
About The Links at Pretty Prairie Golf Course is a beautiful 9-hole course opened in 1996 and is open to the public. This family-friendly, fully ... Read More
1541 Svensk Road, Lindsborg, KS
Experience new and enhanced PLAY areas with lush pushed mowed greens and established rough. PLAY in a scenic setting and relaxing environment. Join... Read More
333 Country Club Lane, Blackwell, OK
Yearly Memberships -Single- $400 -Couple- $550 -Family(husband, wife, children at home)- $650 -Jr Golf (Any Day) 15 and under- $125 -Jr Golf (... Read More
Show More