Golf courses in the USA are famous for their great design, diversity and scenic beauty. They range from historic, world-famous venues like Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, home of The Masters, to public courses like Bethpage Black in New York, which is known for its challenging layout and accessibility. American golf courses depict the country’s diverse landscapes, with courses set in coastal areas, deserts, mountains and rolling countryside. The golf courses are available for different skill levels, whether you are a beginner or professional. They also host major championships. 

1. Pine Valley Golf Club (Pine Valley, New Jersey)

This golf course was established in 1913 and designed by George Crump and H.S. Colt. The Pine Valley is often referred to as the pinnacle of golf course design, offering a combination of both strategic play and natural beauty. The course is also known for its rugged terrain and the smooth integration of the landscape into the layout. The holes are designed in a way that require precision and strategy from players, with dangers that challenge even the most skilled players. The golf course is located in a more secluded setting and has an exclusive membership which adds to its mystique. This makes it a desired golf course to paly on for those lucky enough to do so.

Fun Fact: Pine Valley was founded in 1913 by a group of amateur golfers led by George Crump, who designed the course with the philosophy that “every hole should be a hard par but an easy bogey.”

2. Augusta National Golf Club (Augusta, Georgia)

Augusta National Golf Club, also known as the home of the Masters Tournament, is synonymous with golfing excellence. Known for the challenging Amen Corner and its gorgeous azaleas, Augusta is both a beautiful and formidable course. The club’s traditions, such as the Green Jacket and the Champions Dinner, add to its legendary status. The golf course was designed by Bobby Jones and Alister MacKenzie and is a bucket-list destination for golfers around the world.

Fun Fact: It is famous for its green jacket tradition which originated in 1937. Club members began wearing green jackets during the Masters Tournament so that they could easily be identified by guests seeking information. 

3. Cypress Point Club (Pebble Beach, California)

This golf club was designed by Alister MacKenzie in 1928. It is famous for its mesmerising coastal beauty, as well as challenging design. This masterpiece winds through sand dunes, coastal forests and rocky cliffs, culminating in a dramatic series of holes along the Pacific Ocean. The 15th, 16th, and 17th holes are especially famous for the gorgeous views they offer and the demanding precision needed. 

Fun Fact: The gold club’s 16th hole is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging par -3 holes int he world. This hole requires a dramatic 231-yard tee shot over the Pacific Ocean to a small, well protected green. 

4. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club (Southampton, New York)

This golf club is located in Southampton, New York, and was designed by Willie Davis in 1891, and redesigned by William Flynn. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is known for its historical significance as it is one of the oldest golf courses in the USA, with a classic links-style course that has hosted a number of U.S. Opens. It entails undulating fairways, fast greens, and strategic bunkering which creates a challenging yet fair test of golf. 

Fun Fact: Besides this being one of the oldest golf clubs in the U.S., it was one of the first golf clubs to admit women as members, which it did from its inception.  

5. Oakmont Country Club (Oakmont, Pennsylvania)

Oakmont Country Club was designed by Henry Fownes in 1903. This club is famous for its relentless difficulty, featuring some of the fastest greens and most challenging bunkers in golf. The course demands precise shot-making and strategic thinking. It has hosted more major championships than nay other course in the U.S., earning a reputation as one of the toughest tests in the game. Oakmont’s storied history and brutal challenge make it a revered site for both players and fans.

Fun Fact: This golf club is home to the “Church Pews” bunker, one of the most famous and distinctive hazards in golf. This massive bunker features twelve grass-covered ridges that resemble church pews, creating a unique and challenging obstacle for golfers.