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!
North Dakota Search
Go Golfing Near You
Go Golfing Near You
3560 18th Avenue Northeast, Larimore, ND
The Larimore Golf Course was founded in 1959, and continues to be one of the best groomed 9-hole courses in North Dakota. Golfers will experience g... Read More
100 Sandwood Place, Park River, ND
Hillcrest Country Club has one of the finest 9-hole grass green courses around. It is lined with mature evergreens and oaks and is always immaculat... Read More
641 Alert Avenue, Grand Forks AFB, ND
Welcome golfers, and golfer wanna-bes! We are finally joining this social network they call Facebook! It will be a great way to keep you up on what... Read More
368 37th St NE, Northwood, ND
About Us: 9 holes Par 35 2,675 yards Slope 66.9/Rating 110 The Goose River meanders through the course and provides great wildlife habitat, ... Read More
804 1/2 North Main Street, Drayton, ND
Avid golfers can tee off at the Drayton Golf Club, a nine hole course, complete with plush grass greens and modern facilities, on the edge of town.... Read More
9355 135th Ave NE, Cavalier, ND
Cavalier Country Club is a 9 hole grass green golf course established in 1925, developed from a horse pasture. We were incorporated in 1945. We bui... Read More
2407 River Road Northwest, East Grand Forks, MN
Valley Golf Course is an eighteen-hole course with two distinct front and back nine layouts.  The front is lined with mature trees along the R... Read More
5301 South Columbia Road, Grand Forks, ND
About Us: King’s Walk recreates the same atmosphere that is found at the great links courses of Scotland and Ireland. Over 650,000 cubic yar... Read More
202 E Golf Ave, McVille, ND
The McVille Country Club is a beautiful 9-hole course that is open to the public. Read More
250 Elks Drive, Grand Forks, ND
Established in 1909, Lincoln Park Golf Course in Grand Forks is one of the oldest golf facilities in North Dakota. With its rich history and beauti... Read More
4252 Highway 1, Lakota, ND
The Lakota Rock Creek Golf Course is open for business!  This is a grass green golf course that was reconstructed and re-opened  for busi... Read More
34 Westwood Drive, Mayville, ND
Founded in 1968, the Mayville Golf Club is a picturesque and challenging 9 hole golf course. Flanked by the Goose River, tree-lined fairways demand... Read More
12114 County 55, Walhalla, ND
Tee off at the Walhalla Country Club, a scenic 9-hole grass green golf course located in the beautiful Pembina Hills. It is common to see a doe and... Read More
3 Miles West of Hope, Hope, ND
The Hope Golf Course contains 9 holes surrounded by beautiful landscaping and challenging obstacles. The Hope Golf Club Had its beginning in the su... Read More
305 Fairway Drive, Cooperstown, ND
Cooperstown Country Club is an excellent nine-hole grass greens golf course located on the northwest edge of Cooperstown. The course has evergreen ... Read More
900 East Johnson Avenue, Warren, MN
The Warren Riverside Golf Course is a beautiful 9-hole green grass public golf course.  Using the Snake River as a backdrop, this is a very co... Read More
700 6th Street NW, Hillsboro, ND
About Us: Located on the beautiful Goose River in Hillsboro, North Dakota, the Goose River Golf Club offers both the recreational and experienced ... Read More
10650 95th Street Northeast, Langdon, ND
Come out and play our challenging 9 hole course just 2 miles north of Langdon, ND. We have a driving range, putting green, proshop and offer a ful... Read More
901 Fisher Avenue, Crookston, MN
About Minakwa Country Club is a 9-Hole, Public golf course located at 901 Fisher Ave, Crookston, Minnesota. Get the Minakwa Country Club golf cour... Read More
515 Country Club Rd, Devils Lake, ND
Our panoramic Creel Bay Golf Course gives the golfer a feeling that is not found anywhere else near Devils Lake. Whether you are seeking to improve... Read More
500 12th Avevue Northeast, Valley City, ND
Valley City Town & Country Club is a 9-hole regulation length golf course in Valley City, North Dakota. This short layout will reward good shot... Read More
302 6th Avenue South, Casselton, ND
Cottonwood offers local golf enthusiasts a very playable nine-hole course that works well for golfers of all ages. Read More
3666 163rd Avenue Southeast, Mapleton, ND
Built in 1964, this course is sure to give you 18 of the most diverse, challenging golf holes the region has to offer. Read More
1949 County Highway 35, Ada, MN
 About Us : HOV is a public, par 36, 9-hole golf course. Our course boasts well-kept greens and lush fairways as well as trees, ponds, and st... Read More
13697 188th Street North East, Thief River Falls, MN
Thief River Falls along the winding banks of the Thief River;  this picturesque, par 72, 18-hole course features 6,336 yards of golf.  Th... Read More
44203 State Highway 32 South, Fertile, MN
The Sandhill River Golf Course is a unique par 36 course set on the banks of the Sandhill River near Fertile, MN. The 9-hole public course has beco... Read More
Show More