The 22 best places to golf in the United States

Located along the iconic 17-mile drive on California’s central coast, Pebble Beach offers jaw-dropping views at every hole. It’s hosted numerous PGA tournaments but is also open to the public and has accommodation packages right at the course. Alternatively, visitors can opt to stay in nearby Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea, if they’d prefer in-town locations or are traveling with non-golfers.

Oregon isn’t just all foggy forests and rugged coastline; it has maintained greens and sand that isn’t part of the dunes! One such place, Bandon Dunes, is an underrated spot in the Pacific Northwest. The resort is located right off scenic Highway 101 on the southern Oregon Coast. And don’t worry. If you desire to check out some sand dunes, there are some nearby.

Right across the stateline from Spokane, Washington, this little Idaho town packs a punch for activity offerings. However, it might be best known for the course’s most unique feature — a whole out on an island in the lake! If your travel group isn’t composed completely of golfers, don’t worry. The lake, Silverwood theme park, many hikes, and countless cafes, breweries, and shops provide plenty of alternative options.

South of Charleston, this island is a golfer’s dream. Home to five championship-level courses, situated on the Carolina coast, there’s no better place to tee up. The proximity to one of the state’s top cities makes it an easy getaway from much of the country, and the year-round sun means you can visit throughout all four seasons.

A Hawaiian vacation is a bucket-list item for many travelers. Most people envision the crashing Pacific, endless white sand beaches, and lush green hikes in the mountains. However, some of the country’s best fairways call the islands home, especially the Four Seasons on Lanai, a less popular island.

Tahoe isn’t all mountains (for skiing and hiking) or watersports on the lake. There are so many wonderful courses to play, most of which are located on the lake or offer spectacular views. 

When one envisions an amazing golf trip, the Midwest isn’t usually top of mind, but Giants Ridge challenges that narrative. A popular ski resort in winter, once the snow melts, spectacular greenways, bordered by verdant forests, provide a northern twist on a golf destination.

Palm Springs has long been a popular spot for many travelers from around the country. Sunning yourself by the pool or hiking the Coachella Valley while friends back home freeze is always enticing. If you’re a golfer, you’re spoilt for choice with a bunch of top-rate courses, including the famous Indian Wells and Eagle Falls.

Michigan is well-known for superb lakeside beaches, so naturally, some great golf courses have been built. In Benton Harbor, Jack Nicklaus had a hand in creating the Harbor Shores Golf Club, a top-notch course with unique views of Lake Michigan.

South Carolina, especially the vicinity of Charleston, really goes above and beyond with golf offerings. Hilton Head is a bit further from town; the drive takes 2.5 hours, but the destination is worth it. Numerous top public courses and dreamy Carolina island await travelers willing to make the journey.

Scottsdale might just be the OG golf trip destination. If you golf or know a golfer, you (or they) have likely taken a golf vacation in Arizona. Too hot to play (unless you like triple-digit temps under the glaring desert sun)? Southern Arizona is perfect for winter trips, especially if you call a snow-prone state home.

Located in Central North Carolina, Pinehurst is easily reachable from most airports. The swanky resort offers more than just 18 holes, fine dining, five-star accommodation, and a quaint village are all available to travelers.

The cheese state is located on the other side of Lake Michigan. However, that isn’t all Wisconsin has to offer; it’s also an underrated golf destination. The small lakeside village offers visitors numerous course options for all levels of play.

Vegas isn’t just for gambling and pool parties; it’s also a popular spot for golf trips. Nearby courses include Las Vegas Paiute Resort, Reflection Bay, and Wynn Golf Club (right on the strip). You can tee off in the morning (beating at least some of the desert heat) and then place a few bets for evening games over post-round drinks in town.

This corner of the country rose to fame with the popular television show, but the average traveler probably doesn’t realize it’s also a golf mecca. From Paynes Valley to Ozark National, the greens here have truly unique views.

Another win for the Midwest! Although inland rather than on Lake Michigan, Sand Valley resort provides a different type of experience for those who prioritize the greens over water views. The resort has five different courses to choose from, plenty of great dining spots, and various lodging options.

The Landmand Golf Club is a popular spot in a state most don’t associate with sports, let alone golf. However, serious golfers know this club in Homer is not to be missed!

The heart of one of Washington’s best wine regions is also a haven for golfers. The most famous course here is Gamble Sands, but Alta Lake and Okanagan Valley are also worth checking out.

Neighboring Arizona usually receives most southwestern golf visitors, but St. George is a wonderful contender for your next trip. The town is home to over a dozen courses and isn’t too far from Vegas, should you fancy a road trip.

An adventure destination for skiers, hikers, and mountain bikers, golfers can also include themselves in that list! Bend might not have the flash of Scottsdale or Tahoe, but it does have over 20 courses from which to select tee times. It also has a more relaxed vibe for those who are a bit more casual about their handicap.

Along with Scottsdale, Tucson has long been a favorite spot for golfers. Year-round sun and desert temperatures make it a great option, except perhaps in the middle of summer.

The home of The Masters had to make this list. Beyond hosting one of the world’s most prestigious tournaments, Augusta is also a fun place to hit the fairway yourself. There are 15 public courses near the town and an additional 13 private ones, should you know a member.