Golf Top 18 -- Favorite Courses
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I grew up essentially playing one golf course (Saticoy Country Club) for the first 15 years of my golfing life. Then, when I no longer qualified under my father's golf membership, I branched out into the world of other courses. This helped spur my desire to play golf when I went on vacations. After having played about 50 golf courses, my love of comparing rankings with friends created the idea of the Golf Top 18 and we maintained an informal list that we would update and discuss once a year or so.
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At its inception, the Top 18 was limited mostly to golf courses in Southern California, with a few others mixed in, and definitely wasn't a list that the general golfing public could relate to in any shape or form. Over two decades later, this ranking now means a little more and has been expanded to include a "third nine" (still representing the top 9% of golf courses I have played) and includes several golf courses that show up on official rankings in the golfing world, even if my take on them or ranking order is a bit different. Below is that list, which I update from time to time when it gets shaken up or a new golf course gets added.
I have ranked my favorite golf courses, pure and simple, based on nothing more quantitative than a deep personal belief. Of course factors like great golf holes, beauty and challenge play their role, but the overall ranking reflects my total experience, not the opinion of the masses or even the experts about that course. Each course within the ranking has a little information on that golf course, including my best score from a given tee box, just for an added personal touch. For more full detail, go to the golf course guide for each course, as linked below.
UPDATED APRIL 2023
I have ranked my favorite golf courses, pure and simple, based on nothing more quantitative than a deep personal belief. Of course factors like great golf holes, beauty and challenge play their role, but the overall ranking reflects my total experience, not the opinion of the masses or even the experts about that course. Each course within the ranking has a little information on that golf course, including my best score from a given tee box, just for an added personal touch. For more full detail, go to the golf course guide for each course, as linked below.
UPDATED APRIL 2023
"The Front Nine"
Number 1
Course: Pebble Beach Golf Links
Location: Pebble Beach, CA
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6719 yards; 73.8; 142 slope. Gold tees: 6348 yards; 72.3; 137 slope
Course Comments: This course is everything one would expect from its world-famous reputation. It is tough, impeccably kept, intimidating along the ocean, and awe-inspiring for the challenge and beauty it provides, and history it evokes. I hate seeming like a front-runner, but it is impossible for me to downplay the absolute greatness of the course, even though it is generally on everybody's top 10 list. It is not extremely long, but relies on small, sloping greens that require attention to detail and execution. The holes 4-10 & 16-18 are purely magical. I have heard others explain how the non-famous holes at Pebble make it weak, but that is like putting a Lexus next to a Ferrari. A Lexus is a nice car in most cases, but, in this case the "Lexus" holes at Pebble Beach get an unfair reputation after having played so many Ferrari holes on the same day. The only downside: the absolute fortune is costs to play (and usually stay) at Pebble Beach. All of that being said, I agree with Jack Nicklaus in that if there was only one round left to play...
Score Notes: 79 best from the Gold tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play
Course: Pebble Beach Golf Links
Location: Pebble Beach, CA
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6719 yards; 73.8; 142 slope. Gold tees: 6348 yards; 72.3; 137 slope
Course Comments: This course is everything one would expect from its world-famous reputation. It is tough, impeccably kept, intimidating along the ocean, and awe-inspiring for the challenge and beauty it provides, and history it evokes. I hate seeming like a front-runner, but it is impossible for me to downplay the absolute greatness of the course, even though it is generally on everybody's top 10 list. It is not extremely long, but relies on small, sloping greens that require attention to detail and execution. The holes 4-10 & 16-18 are purely magical. I have heard others explain how the non-famous holes at Pebble make it weak, but that is like putting a Lexus next to a Ferrari. A Lexus is a nice car in most cases, but, in this case the "Lexus" holes at Pebble Beach get an unfair reputation after having played so many Ferrari holes on the same day. The only downside: the absolute fortune is costs to play (and usually stay) at Pebble Beach. All of that being said, I agree with Jack Nicklaus in that if there was only one round left to play...
Score Notes: 79 best from the Gold tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play
Number 2
Course: Royal County Down Golf Club
Location: Newcastle, Northern Ireland
Stats: Par 71. Black tees: 7181 yards; 74.0 rating. Yellow tees: 6674 yards; 72.0 rating
Course Comments: This is the greatest links course I have played. While living in Europe for the better part of two years, I made two trips to Scotland and two to Ireland, playing about a dozen courses altogether, and this one takes the cake. The first 14 holes are perfectly strung together from a golf architecture point of view. They flow beautifully and offer nearly every type of hole / shot in the bag. Only the tee shot at 15, the approach at 16 and the 17th hole show any weakness on the golf course. Maybe I am biased because my experience on the links was exactly what the man behind the pro shop counter said when I checked in, "the absolute perfect day to play golf in the most perfect place to play it", but the course seemed fair and challenging at the same time, and nearly every hole was beautiful and designed in a pure links style.
Score Notes: 79 best from the Yellow tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 in the World
Course: Royal County Down Golf Club
Location: Newcastle, Northern Ireland
Stats: Par 71. Black tees: 7181 yards; 74.0 rating. Yellow tees: 6674 yards; 72.0 rating
Course Comments: This is the greatest links course I have played. While living in Europe for the better part of two years, I made two trips to Scotland and two to Ireland, playing about a dozen courses altogether, and this one takes the cake. The first 14 holes are perfectly strung together from a golf architecture point of view. They flow beautifully and offer nearly every type of hole / shot in the bag. Only the tee shot at 15, the approach at 16 and the 17th hole show any weakness on the golf course. Maybe I am biased because my experience on the links was exactly what the man behind the pro shop counter said when I checked in, "the absolute perfect day to play golf in the most perfect place to play it", but the course seemed fair and challenging at the same time, and nearly every hole was beautiful and designed in a pure links style.
Score Notes: 79 best from the Yellow tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 in the World
Number 3
Course: Hokuala Ocean Course
Location: Lihue, Kauai, HI
Stats: Par 72. Gold tees: 7156 yards; 76.2; 142 slope. Blue tees: 6722 yards; 73.5; 134 slope
Course Comments: The best of what makes Hawaiian golf great is all captured on this fantastic Jack Nicklaus design. A great mix of jungle holes, lake holes with palm trees, and ocean holes along the Pacific with unbeatable views, make this one of the most exciting courses on earth, with the last 6 holes providing a real adrenaline-based treat for any golfer. Redesigned in 2012 from its former routing, and rebranded as well, most of the course stayed the same with one extra hole on the ocean.
Score Notes: 74 best from the Blue tees
Course: Hokuala Ocean Course
Location: Lihue, Kauai, HI
Stats: Par 72. Gold tees: 7156 yards; 76.2; 142 slope. Blue tees: 6722 yards; 73.5; 134 slope
Course Comments: The best of what makes Hawaiian golf great is all captured on this fantastic Jack Nicklaus design. A great mix of jungle holes, lake holes with palm trees, and ocean holes along the Pacific with unbeatable views, make this one of the most exciting courses on earth, with the last 6 holes providing a real adrenaline-based treat for any golfer. Redesigned in 2012 from its former routing, and rebranded as well, most of the course stayed the same with one extra hole on the ocean.
Score Notes: 74 best from the Blue tees
Number 4
Course: The Links at Spanish Bay
Location: Pebble Beach, CA
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6821 yards; 74.1; 146 slope. Gold tees: 6422 yards; 72.0; 137 slope
Course Comments: Dunes, marsh, trees, plentiful ocean views & the occasional deer make this an awesome golfing experience from first tee to last green (and if the round is completed near sunset, said ending includes a bagpipe player near the posh clubhouse / Inn). The course almost has a links-style feel to it, as the greens are close to the largest and toughest I've ever played, complete with tiers, putting a premium on the short game. Although no one hole stands out from the rest, the hole variance throughout the round requires the golfer to bring many different types of shots, and allows the golfer to experience those shots in a wide variety of scenery, all exquisite. This means it retains some links quality but adds a flavor all its own, unique to Spanish Bay, which I love. The course, while still expensive, is a far cry from the cost of Pebble Beach and is worth playing on any trip to Monterey.
Score Notes: 81 best from the Blue tees; 79 best from the Gold tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play
Course: The Links at Spanish Bay
Location: Pebble Beach, CA
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6821 yards; 74.1; 146 slope. Gold tees: 6422 yards; 72.0; 137 slope
Course Comments: Dunes, marsh, trees, plentiful ocean views & the occasional deer make this an awesome golfing experience from first tee to last green (and if the round is completed near sunset, said ending includes a bagpipe player near the posh clubhouse / Inn). The course almost has a links-style feel to it, as the greens are close to the largest and toughest I've ever played, complete with tiers, putting a premium on the short game. Although no one hole stands out from the rest, the hole variance throughout the round requires the golfer to bring many different types of shots, and allows the golfer to experience those shots in a wide variety of scenery, all exquisite. This means it retains some links quality but adds a flavor all its own, unique to Spanish Bay, which I love. The course, while still expensive, is a far cry from the cost of Pebble Beach and is worth playing on any trip to Monterey.
Score Notes: 81 best from the Blue tees; 79 best from the Gold tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play
Number 5
Course: Spyglass Hill Golf Course
Location: Pebble Beach, CA
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6862 yards; 75.3; 148 slope. Gold tees: 6480 yards; 73.6; 144 slope
Course Comments: It is no secret that of all the courses the pros play on the Monterey Peninsula during their official event, that Spyglass Hill is the most difficult, and this holds very true for the average golfer. After a fantastic long par 5 that starts in the woods and meanders its way down to a green near the dunes, the course continues to evoke links golf on holes 2-5, where the best views can be soaked in, and the best scores are to be had, unless the wind is blowing strong. It then turns into a tight, tree-lined affair, with strategic water hazards thrown in for sadistic "fun". This combination makes the course beautiful, dynamic and very difficult. If the bunkers, ice plant, trees or water don't get you, the greens with their small size and severe slopes will.
Score Notes: 76 best from the Gold tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play
Course: Spyglass Hill Golf Course
Location: Pebble Beach, CA
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6862 yards; 75.3; 148 slope. Gold tees: 6480 yards; 73.6; 144 slope
Course Comments: It is no secret that of all the courses the pros play on the Monterey Peninsula during their official event, that Spyglass Hill is the most difficult, and this holds very true for the average golfer. After a fantastic long par 5 that starts in the woods and meanders its way down to a green near the dunes, the course continues to evoke links golf on holes 2-5, where the best views can be soaked in, and the best scores are to be had, unless the wind is blowing strong. It then turns into a tight, tree-lined affair, with strategic water hazards thrown in for sadistic "fun". This combination makes the course beautiful, dynamic and very difficult. If the bunkers, ice plant, trees or water don't get you, the greens with their small size and severe slopes will.
Score Notes: 76 best from the Gold tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play
Number 6
Course: The Prince Course at Princeville
Location: Princeville, Kauai, HI
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 7378 yards; 76.2; 140 slope. Blue tees: 7040 yards; 75.0; 133 slope
Course Comments: The mad beast of Kauai golf features jungle and forced carries everywhere. The course is undeniably difficult, but unexplicably fun in being so, even if one's score rises quickly. There are only 3 holes on this course that don't make this golfer nervous on at least one shot, and that assumes the absence of the usual strong afternoon trade winds, which makes even those holes a little more frightening. It's also not often the golfer can see waterfalls both on and off the course, but the Prince can offer the fortunate golfer this luxury on the beautiful north shore of Kauai.
Score Notes: 81 best from the Black tees; 78 best from the Blue tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play USA
Best Courses You Can Play in Hawaii
Course: The Prince Course at Princeville
Location: Princeville, Kauai, HI
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 7378 yards; 76.2; 140 slope. Blue tees: 7040 yards; 75.0; 133 slope
Course Comments: The mad beast of Kauai golf features jungle and forced carries everywhere. The course is undeniably difficult, but unexplicably fun in being so, even if one's score rises quickly. There are only 3 holes on this course that don't make this golfer nervous on at least one shot, and that assumes the absence of the usual strong afternoon trade winds, which makes even those holes a little more frightening. It's also not often the golfer can see waterfalls both on and off the course, but the Prince can offer the fortunate golfer this luxury on the beautiful north shore of Kauai.
Score Notes: 81 best from the Black tees; 78 best from the Blue tees
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play USA
Best Courses You Can Play in Hawaii
Number 7
Course: The Plantation Course at Kapalua
Location: Kapalua, Maui, HI
Stats: Par 73. Back tees: 7263 yards; 75.2; 142 slope. White tees: 6547 yards; 71.9; 135 slope
Course Comments: A huge, sweeping course with mammoth elevation changes and superb views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring island Molokai defines the character of the Plantation course. Home to the first true event of every PGA tour calendar year, even the pros have trouble from time to time when the winds blow, especially trying to negotiate a slew of shots over the junk to greens way above or below them. The plantation grasses make the course very tough, but it stays fair and fun with wide fairways and large greens; those greens just happen to be tough to putt, and golfer must pay attention to the grain. Overall, there are plenty of fantastic holes to enjoy on this unique golf course.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play USA
Score Notes: 75 best from the Back tees
Course: The Plantation Course at Kapalua
Location: Kapalua, Maui, HI
Stats: Par 73. Back tees: 7263 yards; 75.2; 142 slope. White tees: 6547 yards; 71.9; 135 slope
Course Comments: A huge, sweeping course with mammoth elevation changes and superb views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring island Molokai defines the character of the Plantation course. Home to the first true event of every PGA tour calendar year, even the pros have trouble from time to time when the winds blow, especially trying to negotiate a slew of shots over the junk to greens way above or below them. The plantation grasses make the course very tough, but it stays fair and fun with wide fairways and large greens; those greens just happen to be tough to putt, and golfer must pay attention to the grain. Overall, there are plenty of fantastic holes to enjoy on this unique golf course.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play USA
Score Notes: 75 best from the Back tees
Number 8
Course: Pacific Dunes
Location: Bandon, OR
Stats: Par 71. Black tees: 6633 yards; 72.6; 138 slope. Green tees: 6142 yards; 70.3; 134 slope
Course Comments: The top 10 mainstay of many official magazine "best of" lists deserves the hype it is given. Having played plenty of ocean-side courses in Scotland and Ireland, the claim that Pacific Dunes (and its other Bandon brothers) is British Isles golf brought to America is fairly accurate. Adding to the allure is the overall Bandon experience, which I contend is the perfect guy (I can't speak for girls) golf getaway in America. Being in a town far from everywhere with nothing to do but golf, eat good food, drink a lot, gamble or otherwise just hang out, is really embodied at Bandon. The Pacific Dunes course itself is the best offering in the complex and has a wonderful array of memorable holes ranging from those along the cliffs near huge sand dunes, to some flirting with forest patches, and a ton surrounded by gorse. The golfer can't let the shortness of the course fool them, as between the clever design, quick greens and the usual punishing Oregon coastal wind, this course is plenty tough and very memorable fro start to finish.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play in the World
Score Notes: 79 best from Black tees; 76 best from Green tees
Course: Pacific Dunes
Location: Bandon, OR
Stats: Par 71. Black tees: 6633 yards; 72.6; 138 slope. Green tees: 6142 yards; 70.3; 134 slope
Course Comments: The top 10 mainstay of many official magazine "best of" lists deserves the hype it is given. Having played plenty of ocean-side courses in Scotland and Ireland, the claim that Pacific Dunes (and its other Bandon brothers) is British Isles golf brought to America is fairly accurate. Adding to the allure is the overall Bandon experience, which I contend is the perfect guy (I can't speak for girls) golf getaway in America. Being in a town far from everywhere with nothing to do but golf, eat good food, drink a lot, gamble or otherwise just hang out, is really embodied at Bandon. The Pacific Dunes course itself is the best offering in the complex and has a wonderful array of memorable holes ranging from those along the cliffs near huge sand dunes, to some flirting with forest patches, and a ton surrounded by gorse. The golfer can't let the shortness of the course fool them, as between the clever design, quick greens and the usual punishing Oregon coastal wind, this course is plenty tough and very memorable fro start to finish.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play in the World
Score Notes: 79 best from Black tees; 76 best from Green tees
Number 9
Course: Cabo del Sol - Ocean Course
Location: Los Cabos, Mexico
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 7091 yards; 74.5; 147 slope. Gold tees: 6815 yards; 72.8; 142 slope
Course Comments: This course has been featured on the Top 100 courses in the world and was the first course in Mexico to receive such honors. A classic Jack Nicklaus design, there are many tee shots that seem wide, but the green complexes require tee shots to be on the correct side of the fairway. Of course, there are a couple of tight holes thrown in here as well, along with two separate trips (one on each nine) down to the sandy and rocky beaches of the Sea of Cortez with six greens sitting on or very close to the water. The combination of a desert and ocean course is unique and stunning. This review was performed before the 2019 redesign.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play in the World
Score Notes: 83 best from the Black tees; 78 best from the Gold tees
Course: Cabo del Sol - Ocean Course
Location: Los Cabos, Mexico
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 7091 yards; 74.5; 147 slope. Gold tees: 6815 yards; 72.8; 142 slope
Course Comments: This course has been featured on the Top 100 courses in the world and was the first course in Mexico to receive such honors. A classic Jack Nicklaus design, there are many tee shots that seem wide, but the green complexes require tee shots to be on the correct side of the fairway. Of course, there are a couple of tight holes thrown in here as well, along with two separate trips (one on each nine) down to the sandy and rocky beaches of the Sea of Cortez with six greens sitting on or very close to the water. The combination of a desert and ocean course is unique and stunning. This review was performed before the 2019 redesign.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play in the World
Score Notes: 83 best from the Black tees; 78 best from the Gold tees
"The Back Nine"
Number 10
Course: TPC Sawgrass (Stadium Course)
Location: Ponte Vedra, FL
Stats: Par 72. Tournament tees: 7215 yards; 76.8; 155 slope. Blue tees: 6661 yards; 73.9; 146 slope
Course Comments: The majority of serious golfers are familiar with, and would be happy to play, one of the most famous venues on the PGA tour, and I agree that they should. Everybody knows the terror that is the island green of the 17th (although I swear it is smaller in real life than it even seems on television). However, the truth is that TPC Sawgrass is the most brutal driving course in all the world from start to finish. Nearly every hole requires a decent drive to avoid some form of penal hazard, but also requires true perfection to find the correct half of the fairway to set up any hope to get close to the pin. This is because of the small and wonderfully crafted green complexes. Seemingly benign, a slightly misplaced approach will leave the golfer just enough trouble or difficulty to jeopardize the score they want. Thus, although tough, it is fair in it's demanding cruelty and retains a very real sense of having fun, even if the score isn't low.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play World
Score Notes: 86 best from the Blue tees
Number 10
Course: TPC Sawgrass (Stadium Course)
Location: Ponte Vedra, FL
Stats: Par 72. Tournament tees: 7215 yards; 76.8; 155 slope. Blue tees: 6661 yards; 73.9; 146 slope
Course Comments: The majority of serious golfers are familiar with, and would be happy to play, one of the most famous venues on the PGA tour, and I agree that they should. Everybody knows the terror that is the island green of the 17th (although I swear it is smaller in real life than it even seems on television). However, the truth is that TPC Sawgrass is the most brutal driving course in all the world from start to finish. Nearly every hole requires a decent drive to avoid some form of penal hazard, but also requires true perfection to find the correct half of the fairway to set up any hope to get close to the pin. This is because of the small and wonderfully crafted green complexes. Seemingly benign, a slightly misplaced approach will leave the golfer just enough trouble or difficulty to jeopardize the score they want. Thus, although tough, it is fair in it's demanding cruelty and retains a very real sense of having fun, even if the score isn't low.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play World
Score Notes: 86 best from the Blue tees
Number 11
Course: Whistling Straits Golf Course
Location: Kohler, WI
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 7142 yards; 74.2; 145 slope. Green tees: 6663 yards; 71.9; 141 slope
Course Comments: This multiple major tournament hosting venue oozes Pete Dye's design features throughout its manufactured dune-scape confines, with other 1,000 bunkers and almost continuous views of Lake Michigan's western shores. Definitely one of the finest public golf courses in America; the challenge of each shot is put right in the face of the golfer, whether it be deep bunkers, greens nestled next to the lake or strategic shot making choices and the lineup of great holes is unrelenting, with memorable shots at every turn. The greens are relatively negotiable, if the player can just get on the putting surface as quickly as possible.
Score Notes: 75 from the Green tees
Course: Whistling Straits Golf Course
Location: Kohler, WI
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 7142 yards; 74.2; 145 slope. Green tees: 6663 yards; 71.9; 141 slope
Course Comments: This multiple major tournament hosting venue oozes Pete Dye's design features throughout its manufactured dune-scape confines, with other 1,000 bunkers and almost continuous views of Lake Michigan's western shores. Definitely one of the finest public golf courses in America; the challenge of each shot is put right in the face of the golfer, whether it be deep bunkers, greens nestled next to the lake or strategic shot making choices and the lineup of great holes is unrelenting, with memorable shots at every turn. The greens are relatively negotiable, if the player can just get on the putting surface as quickly as possible.
Score Notes: 75 from the Green tees
Number 12
Course: PGA West Stadium Course
Location: La Quinta, CA
Stats: Par 72. Tournament tees: 7266 yards; 75.9; 150 slope. Blue tees: 6739 yards; 73.0; 142 slope
Course Comments: Essentially Pete Dye's west coast counterpart to TPC Sawgrass, but on steriods, this course is nasty beyond belief, as evidenced by the name of many of its holes: Amen, Black Hole, San Andreas and Alcatraz, to name a few of the best. This course was long before courses were this long and it is a little more tricked out, with many of the famous Dye gimmicks all one one ridiculously hard course. The greens, however, if they can be reached, are generally quite tame, so putting is the one area that is not an issue. For the golfer that doesn't mind getting beat up by a course, but feeling excitement along the way and the satisfaction of mastering at least one or two of these devilish holes, this course is a blast. Recently, the pros came back here to test their skills and the course still held up pretty well.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play USA
Score Notes: 77 best from both the Tournament and the Blue tees
Course: PGA West Stadium Course
Location: La Quinta, CA
Stats: Par 72. Tournament tees: 7266 yards; 75.9; 150 slope. Blue tees: 6739 yards; 73.0; 142 slope
Course Comments: Essentially Pete Dye's west coast counterpart to TPC Sawgrass, but on steriods, this course is nasty beyond belief, as evidenced by the name of many of its holes: Amen, Black Hole, San Andreas and Alcatraz, to name a few of the best. This course was long before courses were this long and it is a little more tricked out, with many of the famous Dye gimmicks all one one ridiculously hard course. The greens, however, if they can be reached, are generally quite tame, so putting is the one area that is not an issue. For the golfer that doesn't mind getting beat up by a course, but feeling excitement along the way and the satisfaction of mastering at least one or two of these devilish holes, this course is a blast. Recently, the pros came back here to test their skills and the course still held up pretty well.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play USA
Score Notes: 77 best from both the Tournament and the Blue tees
Number 13
Course: Edgewood Lake Tahoe
Location: Stateline, NV
Stats: Par 72. Gold tees: 7445 yards; 75.5; 144 slope. Blue tees: 6878 yards; 72.0; 139 slope
Course Comments: This course plays host to a televised celebrity tournament every year that brings in the best athletes and actors who also golf. Why? Because it is a fantastic course on the shores of stunning Lake Tahoe, very close to the large south shore casinos. The course itself utilizes a great mix of tight wooded holes and more open feeling meadow holes, usually accompanied by water. This then culminates with the last few holes near the lake itself (it would take a Charles Barkley type shot to actually hit a ball in Lake Tahoe though). The views of the surrounding mountains and great Lake Tahoe nature are plentiful.
Score Notes: 77 best from the Blue tees
Course: Edgewood Lake Tahoe
Location: Stateline, NV
Stats: Par 72. Gold tees: 7445 yards; 75.5; 144 slope. Blue tees: 6878 yards; 72.0; 139 slope
Course Comments: This course plays host to a televised celebrity tournament every year that brings in the best athletes and actors who also golf. Why? Because it is a fantastic course on the shores of stunning Lake Tahoe, very close to the large south shore casinos. The course itself utilizes a great mix of tight wooded holes and more open feeling meadow holes, usually accompanied by water. This then culminates with the last few holes near the lake itself (it would take a Charles Barkley type shot to actually hit a ball in Lake Tahoe though). The views of the surrounding mountains and great Lake Tahoe nature are plentiful.
Score Notes: 77 best from the Blue tees
Number 14
Course: Waterville Golf Links
Location: Waterville, Ireland
Stats: Par 72. White tees: 6810 yards; 75.1; 134 slope. Green tees: 6330 yards; 72.7; 132 slope
Course Comments: This great links is set on a peninsula of dunes-laden glory ringed on three sides with water and on four sides with outstanding views Away from even the town bearing its name, it is a windswept and remote feeling masterpiece of links design at the south end of the Ring of Kerry. The challenge is stiff on most holes with only great shots being rewarded and mediocrity being punished.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play in the World
Score Notes: 83 from the Green tees
Course: Waterville Golf Links
Location: Waterville, Ireland
Stats: Par 72. White tees: 6810 yards; 75.1; 134 slope. Green tees: 6330 yards; 72.7; 132 slope
Course Comments: This great links is set on a peninsula of dunes-laden glory ringed on three sides with water and on four sides with outstanding views Away from even the town bearing its name, it is a windswept and remote feeling masterpiece of links design at the south end of the Ring of Kerry. The challenge is stiff on most holes with only great shots being rewarded and mediocrity being punished.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play in the World
Score Notes: 83 from the Green tees
Number 15
Course: Chambers Bay Golf Course
Location: University Place, WA (Seattle Area)
Stats: Par 72. Navy tees: 7165 yards; 75.6; 139 slope. Sand tees: 6513 yards; 72.4; 135 slope
Course Comments: Site of the 2015 U.S. Open (and a much better course than reflected by the tricked out set up that the USGA screwed up on), this golf course is very tough, but features ocean views on every hole to soften the pummeling the golfer is likely taking. Fairly hilly, there are a lot of undulations in the fairways and, more importantly, around the greens that the player needs to take heed and, if possible, advantage of. Getting the ball next to the pin doesn't always involve hitting it there and ingenuity is rewarded. Staying out of the numerous bunkers is also critical to scoring well.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play USA
Score Notes: 78 from the Sand tees
Course: Chambers Bay Golf Course
Location: University Place, WA (Seattle Area)
Stats: Par 72. Navy tees: 7165 yards; 75.6; 139 slope. Sand tees: 6513 yards; 72.4; 135 slope
Course Comments: Site of the 2015 U.S. Open (and a much better course than reflected by the tricked out set up that the USGA screwed up on), this golf course is very tough, but features ocean views on every hole to soften the pummeling the golfer is likely taking. Fairly hilly, there are a lot of undulations in the fairways and, more importantly, around the greens that the player needs to take heed and, if possible, advantage of. Getting the ball next to the pin doesn't always involve hitting it there and ingenuity is rewarded. Staying out of the numerous bunkers is also critical to scoring well.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play USA
Score Notes: 78 from the Sand tees
Number 16
Course: Blackwolf Run River Course
Location: Kohler, WI
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6865 yards; 73.7; 144 slope. Green tees: 6507 yards; 72.1; 139 slope
Course Comments: This Pete Dye design golf course is heralded as one of the better public golf courses in America; with the Sheboygan River a constant threat, along with thick trees, lakes or railroad tie lined hazards when needed, this golf course is as challenging as it is beautiful. I don't normally focus on clubhouses, but the lodge here is also quite stunning, with good food and views of the finishing holes on both this golf course and the Meadow Valley course as well.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play
Score Notes: 78 from the Green tees
Course: Blackwolf Run River Course
Location: Kohler, WI
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6865 yards; 73.7; 144 slope. Green tees: 6507 yards; 72.1; 139 slope
Course Comments: This Pete Dye design golf course is heralded as one of the better public golf courses in America; with the Sheboygan River a constant threat, along with thick trees, lakes or railroad tie lined hazards when needed, this golf course is as challenging as it is beautiful. I don't normally focus on clubhouses, but the lodge here is also quite stunning, with good food and views of the finishing holes on both this golf course and the Meadow Valley course as well.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play
Score Notes: 78 from the Green tees
Number 17
Course: Narin & Portnoo Links
Location: County Donegal, Ireland
Stats: Par 70. Back tees: 6904 yards; 72.9; 120 slope. Orange tees: 6100 yards; 69.1; 113 slope
Course Comments: Located along the Atlantic coast of Ireland, this golf course is not as well known as many others, but I believe should be. The most recent design was headed up by Gil Hanse and the Links boasts one of the strongest stretches of oceanside holes (6 through 10) on the planet. The rest of the golf course is a combination of either very long and difficult holes (2,3,12,13,14,16,18) or somewhat quirky golf holes that add to the variety (1,4,5,11,15). Only the 17th (a par three with a trailer park right behind it) feels like a let down. However, the overall feeling is one of a truly unique golf course in a stunning setting, that requires a lot of good shot making to score well.
Score Notes: 77 from the Orange tees
Course: Narin & Portnoo Links
Location: County Donegal, Ireland
Stats: Par 70. Back tees: 6904 yards; 72.9; 120 slope. Orange tees: 6100 yards; 69.1; 113 slope
Course Comments: Located along the Atlantic coast of Ireland, this golf course is not as well known as many others, but I believe should be. The most recent design was headed up by Gil Hanse and the Links boasts one of the strongest stretches of oceanside holes (6 through 10) on the planet. The rest of the golf course is a combination of either very long and difficult holes (2,3,12,13,14,16,18) or somewhat quirky golf holes that add to the variety (1,4,5,11,15). Only the 17th (a par three with a trailer park right behind it) feels like a let down. However, the overall feeling is one of a truly unique golf course in a stunning setting, that requires a lot of good shot making to score well.
Score Notes: 77 from the Orange tees
Number 18
Course: Turnberry Ailsa Course
Location: Turnberry, Scotland
Stats: Back tees (par 70): 7211 yards; 75.0; 140 slope. White tees (par 69): 6493 yards; 73.0; 133 slope
Course Comments: Considered by many official golf rankings to be one of the best courses in the world, the Ailsa is a wonderful links course, with probably the most consistently strategic set of bunkers of any course I've played. Beyond the thoughtful overall design, the stretch of holes from 8-10, swinging around the famous Lighthouse is quite a unique and glorious golfing experience. The history of the Open Championships, including Tom Watson beating out Jack Nicklaus in the Duel in the Sun in 1977, and then losing to Stuart Cink in a playoff 32 years later adds to the emotion of the golfing experience. It also gets the award for having the best hotel / golf combination I've ever experienced, but it comes at a heavy financial cost for those wanting to try it.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play in the World
Score Notes: 74 from the White tees
Course: Turnberry Ailsa Course
Location: Turnberry, Scotland
Stats: Back tees (par 70): 7211 yards; 75.0; 140 slope. White tees (par 69): 6493 yards; 73.0; 133 slope
Course Comments: Considered by many official golf rankings to be one of the best courses in the world, the Ailsa is a wonderful links course, with probably the most consistently strategic set of bunkers of any course I've played. Beyond the thoughtful overall design, the stretch of holes from 8-10, swinging around the famous Lighthouse is quite a unique and glorious golfing experience. The history of the Open Championships, including Tom Watson beating out Jack Nicklaus in the Duel in the Sun in 1977, and then losing to Stuart Cink in a playoff 32 years later adds to the emotion of the golfing experience. It also gets the award for having the best hotel / golf combination I've ever experienced, but it comes at a heavy financial cost for those wanting to try it.
On Golf.com's Top 100 You Can Play in the World
Score Notes: 74 from the White tees
"The Third Nine"
Number 19
Course: Lahinch Golf Club
Location: Lahinch, Ireland
Stats: Par 72. Back tees: 6950 yards; 74.0; 133 slope. White tees: 6613 yards; 73.0; 131 slope
Course Comments: Designed primarily by a combination of Old Tom Morris and Dr. Alistair MacKenzie, this golf course has a real old, natural feel about it, with great use of the local links terrain. Characterized by shots played over and around massive dunes-land, this golf course provides the player with lots of blind and other unique shots, a lot of which also benefit from views of the nearby ocean, and a few that can find themselves in it. The stretch of holes from number 3 to number 8 is about as scenic and unique as a golfer will face anywhere.
Score Notes: 77 from the White tees
Number 19
Course: Lahinch Golf Club
Location: Lahinch, Ireland
Stats: Par 72. Back tees: 6950 yards; 74.0; 133 slope. White tees: 6613 yards; 73.0; 131 slope
Course Comments: Designed primarily by a combination of Old Tom Morris and Dr. Alistair MacKenzie, this golf course has a real old, natural feel about it, with great use of the local links terrain. Characterized by shots played over and around massive dunes-land, this golf course provides the player with lots of blind and other unique shots, a lot of which also benefit from views of the nearby ocean, and a few that can find themselves in it. The stretch of holes from number 3 to number 8 is about as scenic and unique as a golfer will face anywhere.
Score Notes: 77 from the White tees
Number 20
Course: Diamante Dunes Course
Location: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Stats: Par 72. Tee I: 7160 yards; 74.7; 144 slope. Tee II: 6647 yards; 72.2; 136 slope
Course Comments: Davis Love III came to the newly created private resort community of Diamante and built what is considered Mexico's premier golf course, now firmly rooted in the Top 100 in the World. The design is not overly ambitious, but feels very natural as the course takes what the land gives and weaves its way through and around the large sand dunes on the property and down towards the wide and expansive beach. There is a good balance of hole types, but the greens are consistently challenging to read and tough to putt.
Score Notes: 77 best from Tee I; 74 best from Tee II; 74 best from Tee III
Course: Diamante Dunes Course
Location: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Stats: Par 72. Tee I: 7160 yards; 74.7; 144 slope. Tee II: 6647 yards; 72.2; 136 slope
Course Comments: Davis Love III came to the newly created private resort community of Diamante and built what is considered Mexico's premier golf course, now firmly rooted in the Top 100 in the World. The design is not overly ambitious, but feels very natural as the course takes what the land gives and weaves its way through and around the large sand dunes on the property and down towards the wide and expansive beach. There is a good balance of hole types, but the greens are consistently challenging to read and tough to putt.
Score Notes: 77 best from Tee I; 74 best from Tee II; 74 best from Tee III
Number 21
Course: Tralee Golf Links
Location: Tralee, Ireland
Stats: Par 72. Back tees: 6948 yards; 73.0; no slope. White tees: 6643 yards; 71.0; no slope
Course Comments: Designed by Arnold Palmer, this golf links feels different than many on Ireland. First, it is decidedly newer than other Links courses and, second, it is built on land that is a bit more hilly than other links courses. Because of this, there are ocean views on pretty much every hole, but some of them are more sweeping the further away from the coast one gets. The golfer need not fear though as there are at least 4 or 5 holes where they can still find the Atlantic or a nearby beach should they so desire.
Score Notes: 79 from the White tees
Course: Tralee Golf Links
Location: Tralee, Ireland
Stats: Par 72. Back tees: 6948 yards; 73.0; no slope. White tees: 6643 yards; 71.0; no slope
Course Comments: Designed by Arnold Palmer, this golf links feels different than many on Ireland. First, it is decidedly newer than other Links courses and, second, it is built on land that is a bit more hilly than other links courses. Because of this, there are ocean views on pretty much every hole, but some of them are more sweeping the further away from the coast one gets. The golfer need not fear though as there are at least 4 or 5 holes where they can still find the Atlantic or a nearby beach should they so desire.
Score Notes: 79 from the White tees
Number 22
Course: Bandon Dunes
Location: Bandon, OR
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 6732 yards; 74.6; 145 slope. Green tees: 6221 yards; 72.1; 141 slope
Course Comments: The flagship course of the Bandon resort, this course deserves the accolades it receives and is probably the all-around most well-balanced of the four layouts for the average golfer, even if a bit easier than the others. Similar to Pacific Dunes in style, but with wider fairways, the golfer can feel slightly more comfortable with an errant shot, while still enjoying the challenge and fantastic views of the Oregon Coastline that evoke the best links-style golf has to offer.
Score Notes: 81 from Black tees; 77 best from Green tees
Course: Bandon Dunes
Location: Bandon, OR
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 6732 yards; 74.6; 145 slope. Green tees: 6221 yards; 72.1; 141 slope
Course Comments: The flagship course of the Bandon resort, this course deserves the accolades it receives and is probably the all-around most well-balanced of the four layouts for the average golfer, even if a bit easier than the others. Similar to Pacific Dunes in style, but with wider fairways, the golfer can feel slightly more comfortable with an errant shot, while still enjoying the challenge and fantastic views of the Oregon Coastline that evoke the best links-style golf has to offer.
Score Notes: 81 from Black tees; 77 best from Green tees
Number 23
Course: Cape Kidnappers
Location: Napier, North Island, New Zealand
Stats: Par 72. Back tees: 7187 yards; 75.4; 145 slope. White tees: 6456 yards; 73.0; 139 slope
Course Comments: This golf course is heralded as one of the best golf courses in the world. Built on bluffs and cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, on a remote stretch of private coast land on the eastern stretches of the North Island of New Zealand, just getting to the golf course is a mission. Once there, the golfer knows this is something special as it feels very private and the individual attention one receives is top notch. The golf course starts away from the cliffs and has a rugged feel to it, even though the first few holes are relatively easy compared to the rest of the course. The back nine, however, gets right to the heart of the golf course's "fame" with most of it being spent running along ocean cliffs or hitting over them.
Score Notes: 78 best from White tees
Course: Cape Kidnappers
Location: Napier, North Island, New Zealand
Stats: Par 72. Back tees: 7187 yards; 75.4; 145 slope. White tees: 6456 yards; 73.0; 139 slope
Course Comments: This golf course is heralded as one of the best golf courses in the world. Built on bluffs and cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, on a remote stretch of private coast land on the eastern stretches of the North Island of New Zealand, just getting to the golf course is a mission. Once there, the golfer knows this is something special as it feels very private and the individual attention one receives is top notch. The golf course starts away from the cliffs and has a rugged feel to it, even though the first few holes are relatively easy compared to the rest of the course. The back nine, however, gets right to the heart of the golf course's "fame" with most of it being spent running along ocean cliffs or hitting over them.
Score Notes: 78 best from White tees
Number 24
Course: Incline Village Championship Course
Location: Incline Village, NV
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 7106 yards; 74.1; 144 slope. Blue tees: 6592 yards; 71.8; 138 slope
Course Comments: The Championship Course at Incline Village is an extremely tight golf course with trees and OB just about everywhere. The golfer must bring his "A" game off the tee to have any chance of scoring well, especially from the Black tees. Streams also come into play on 9 of the last 12 holes. Beautifully bunkered as well, this course is great and has a few lake views along the way, adding to the overall experience on the fantastic north shore of Lake Tahoe.
Score Notes: 76 best from the Black tees; 76 best from the Blue tees
Course: Incline Village Championship Course
Location: Incline Village, NV
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 7106 yards; 74.1; 144 slope. Blue tees: 6592 yards; 71.8; 138 slope
Course Comments: The Championship Course at Incline Village is an extremely tight golf course with trees and OB just about everywhere. The golfer must bring his "A" game off the tee to have any chance of scoring well, especially from the Black tees. Streams also come into play on 9 of the last 12 holes. Beautifully bunkered as well, this course is great and has a few lake views along the way, adding to the overall experience on the fantastic north shore of Lake Tahoe.
Score Notes: 76 best from the Black tees; 76 best from the Blue tees
Number 25
Course: Banff Springs
Location: Banff, Alberta, Canada
Stats: Par 71. Black tees: 6938 yards; 73.8; 140 slope. White tees: 6389 yards; 70.7; 130 slope
Course Comments: The real strength of this golf course lies in its extraordinary surroundings. Located in beautiful Banff, the views include thick pine forests, the historic Banff Springs Hotel, the glacial Bow River, hordes of large elk that live near the course and 9,672 foot Mount Rundle towering over the course, with many more scenic mountains and glaciers visible in the distance. The design of the golf course itself is heralded as one of Canada's greatest, and is at times ingenious, but does also offer a few average or holes (ignoring, of course, the clearly unforgettably great surroundings, which is tough to do).
Score Notes: 77 best from Black tees; 77 best from White tees
Course: Banff Springs
Location: Banff, Alberta, Canada
Stats: Par 71. Black tees: 6938 yards; 73.8; 140 slope. White tees: 6389 yards; 70.7; 130 slope
Course Comments: The real strength of this golf course lies in its extraordinary surroundings. Located in beautiful Banff, the views include thick pine forests, the historic Banff Springs Hotel, the glacial Bow River, hordes of large elk that live near the course and 9,672 foot Mount Rundle towering over the course, with many more scenic mountains and glaciers visible in the distance. The design of the golf course itself is heralded as one of Canada's greatest, and is at times ingenious, but does also offer a few average or holes (ignoring, of course, the clearly unforgettably great surroundings, which is tough to do).
Score Notes: 77 best from Black tees; 77 best from White tees
Number 26
Course: Reflection Bay
Location: Henderson, NV
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 7261 yards; 74.8; 138 slope. Blue tees: 6862 yards; 73.2; 135 slope
Course Comments: Reflection Bay brings with it a long story. It is a great desert golf course built around the man-made Lake Las Vegas, but unfortunately closed in 2009 due to the Great Recession that hit the area very hard. However, it was re-opened in late 2014 with only the original nines flipped. With half the holes bordering on the Lake or on other water hazards, it is a very visually challenging course. Most of the other holes still force the golfer to have to deal with desert on one or both sides of the fairway. However, designer Jack Nicklaus stayed true to form by leaving wide fairways to accept well-placed drives in order to hit the well-guarded greens.
Score Notes: 77 best from Black tees; 76 best from Blue tees
Course: Reflection Bay
Location: Henderson, NV
Stats: Par 72. Black tees: 7261 yards; 74.8; 138 slope. Blue tees: 6862 yards; 73.2; 135 slope
Course Comments: Reflection Bay brings with it a long story. It is a great desert golf course built around the man-made Lake Las Vegas, but unfortunately closed in 2009 due to the Great Recession that hit the area very hard. However, it was re-opened in late 2014 with only the original nines flipped. With half the holes bordering on the Lake or on other water hazards, it is a very visually challenging course. Most of the other holes still force the golfer to have to deal with desert on one or both sides of the fairway. However, designer Jack Nicklaus stayed true to form by leaving wide fairways to accept well-placed drives in order to hit the well-guarded greens.
Score Notes: 77 best from Black tees; 76 best from Blue tees
Number 27
Course: Sand Hollow Championship Course
Location: Hurricane, UT
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6893 yards; 71.8; 126 slope. White tees: 6462 yards; 69.7; 121 slope
Course Comments: Located up on a bluff with extensive views of the area, the front nine of this golf course is relatively flat, but long and challenging, with the intermittent red rock outcroppings coming into play here and there. The stunning back nine of the golf course then features elevation changes and a series of golf holes that play down to, and then along the red rock cliff faces of the southern Utah landscape that challenge the mental strength and pure target golf accuracy of the player.
Score Notes: 79 from the Blue tees; 78 from the White tees
Course: Sand Hollow Championship Course
Location: Hurricane, UT
Stats: Par 72. Blue tees: 6893 yards; 71.8; 126 slope. White tees: 6462 yards; 69.7; 121 slope
Course Comments: Located up on a bluff with extensive views of the area, the front nine of this golf course is relatively flat, but long and challenging, with the intermittent red rock outcroppings coming into play here and there. The stunning back nine of the golf course then features elevation changes and a series of golf holes that play down to, and then along the red rock cliff faces of the southern Utah landscape that challenge the mental strength and pure target golf accuracy of the player.
Score Notes: 79 from the Blue tees; 78 from the White tees
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Golf's World's 100 Greatest Courses | Golf's 100 Greatest US Courses
blog about playing the Top 100 Golf Courses in the world
Golf's World's 100 Greatest Courses | Golf's 100 Greatest US Courses
blog about playing the Top 100 Golf Courses in the world