Top 10 Public Golf Courses in the United States
1. Pebble Beach Golf Links – California
Arguably the most iconic public golf course in America, Pebble Beach offers jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean with dramatic cliffside holes. Known for its small, tricky greens and the famous par-3 7th hole overlooking the ocean, this course requires precision and patience.
Consider using a fairway wood on tight drives to control ball flight and stay below the coastal winds. Approach shots require careful club selection—short irons for precision on the smaller greens often beat trying to over-hit with a long iron.
2. Pacific Dunes (Bandon Dunes) – Oregon
Designed by Tom Doak, Pacific Dunes combines rugged dune terrain, natural fescue, and strategic bunkering. Signature holes include the 14th, which slopes toward a natural dune hazard, forcing creative shot-making.
The course rewards a driver or hybrid off the tee depending on wind direction. Play conservatively near the dunes to avoid losing balls; sometimes laying up with a 5-iron is better than risking trouble with a driver.
3. Whistling Straits (Straits Course) – Wisconsin
A Pete Dye masterpiece along Lake Michigan, Whistling Straits is famous for its fescue-covered ridges and punishing bunkers. The par-4 17th hole, running along the lake with a treacherous green, is one of the most photographed in golf.
Strong crosswinds require a lower trajectory ball flight. A fairway wood off the tee can help keep shots below the wind, while wedges with extra loft help hold the undulating greens.
4. The Ocean Course (Kiawah Island) – South Carolina
Wind-blown seaside holes and breathtaking coastal vistas define the Ocean Course. The 11th hole, a challenging par-4 with crosswinds off the Atlantic, is a standout.
Players should carefully consider club selection based on wind. On exposed holes, a 3-wood or long iron may give more control than a driver. Approach shots often require adding extra club to compensate for strong coastal winds.
5. Bethpage Black Course – New York
Bethpage Black is legendary. Known for its extreme difficulty, including narrow fairways and massive, undulating greens, it’s a must-play for serious golfers. Signature holes include the 9th and 18th, which demand accuracy and nerve.
Precision off the tee is critical; a driver or hybrid that you can confidently place in the fairway is preferable. On long approaches, stay conservative with mid-irons to avoid costly bogeys.
6. Torrey Pines (South Course) – California
Situated atop the coastal cliffs of La Jolla, Torrey Pines South offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and tournament-level difficulty. Home of the Farmers Insurance Open and the 2021 U.S. Open, the course is known for its long par-4s, deep bunkers, and elevated greens that demand precise approach shots.
The coastal wind makes club selection tricky—many golfers benefit from using a 3-wood or hybrid off tighter tee boxes to maintain control. On approaches, expect firm greens that reward high-trajectory irons and disciplined shot placement.
7. Pinehurst No. 2 – North Carolina
Designed by Donald Ross, Pinehurst No. 2 is famous for its turtle-back greens, which require precise approach shots. The 18th hole challenges golfers with a narrow, undulating green guarded by bunkers.
Focus on accuracy over distance. Short irons and wedges are critical for controlling spin and keeping the ball on the green. Avoid aggressive lines unless you are confident in your shot-making skills.
8. Erin Hills – Wisconsin
Erin Hills hosted the U.S. Open and measures over 7,800 yards at full length. Its wide-open layout allows for various shot shapes, while the par-5 7th and 14th holes test both strategy and patience.
A driver off the tee is often necessary for distance, but be mindful of the rolling fairways. Approach shots benefit from longer irons or hybrids to hold the expansive greens.
9. Chambers Bay – Washington
Known for its dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views over Puget Sound, Chambers Bay is a links-style experience with firm, fast greens. The 16th hole, with an elevated tee and downhill approach, exemplifies the challenge of wind and slope.
Club selection should factor in elevation changes. Consider using a fairway wood or hybrid for longer carries and low-spin irons for precision on the firm, rolling greens.
10. Shadow Creek – Nevada
Originally built for luxury clientele, Shadow Creek offers limited public access. Its signature holes, including the par-3 16th over water and the par-5 18th with a double dogleg, combine risk-reward strategy with visual spectacle.
Take advantage of course management; a driver or hybrid off the tee can navigate tight fairways safely. For approach shots, choose a club that allows you to play short of hazards and control spin on fast greens.
Look Your Best on the Best Courses with ParSkins
Playing on the top golf courses is a privilege, and keeping your equipment protected and stylish can elevate your game. With ParSkins, you can wrap your clubs with Driver Skins, Fairway Wood Skins, or fully Custom Golf Club Skins to personalize your set. ParSkins makes it easy for DIY enthusiasts or wrap shops to give your clubs a professional finish while keeping them protected from scratches and scuffs, so you can look and play your best on any US golf course.
FAQ
Q: What makes these courses the best public golf courses?
A: They combine challenging designs, scenic beauty, and accessibility, making them bucket-list destinations for golfers of all levels.
Q: Are these courses open to the public year-round?
A: Most are seasonal, with some courses closing during winter months or for maintenance. Check each course’s details before planning a visit.
Q: Can I play these courses without a membership?
A: Yes, all these courses are public, although some require advance tee time reservations.
Q: How do ParSkins golf wraps enhance my game?
A: While they don’t change your swing, ParSkins protect your clubs, reduce wear and tear, and let you express personal style on the course.
Q: Can I install ParSkins myself?
A: Yes! ParSkins are designed for DIY installation, with full instructions available for a professional-looking finish.
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