Top 27 Golf Courses in USA and Canada

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Top Golf Courses in USA and Canada

The dream of the perfect golf experience leads many fans to explore the best golf courses in the USA and Canada. Based on challenging layouts, and attractive landscapes, each course promises a memorable experience. Such an adventure combines the love of the sport with an appreciation for nature’s beauty. This guide aims to highlight the top golf courses that challenge the skills of golfers. Besides, they also offer outstanding scenic beauty and many facilities. Every venue has a unique story to tell and something very memorable to give.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is a world-renowned golf resort located on the rugged coastline of Oregon, USA. This spectacular resort offers attractive ocean views and challenging links-style courses. These courses have been ranked among the top 100 golf resorts in the world. Founded in 1999, Bandon Dunes has become a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts from around the globe.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort features five distinct courses, each with its unique layout and challenges. These courses have been designed by some of the most renowned golf course architects in the world, including David McLay Kidd, Tom Doak, Bill Coore, and Ben Crenshaw.

Big Cedar Lodge: A Golf Resort Paradise

This golf resort lies in the heart of the Ozark Mountains in Missouri. This premier destination has earned many awards and is ranked as one of the top golf resorts in the world. Big Cedar Lodge offers an unforgettable experience for golf enthusiasts, nature lovers, and luxury travelers alike.

At Big Cedar Lodge, you will find yourself surrounded by some of the most stunning and challenging golf courses in the world. The resort boasts five award-winning courses designed by top names in the industry such as Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, and Gary Player. Each course offers a unique and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Cabot Cape Breton: A Golfer’s Dream Destination

Located on the northern tip of Nova Scotia, Canada lies one of the most picturesque and luxurious golf resorts in the world – Cabot Cape Breton. With two award-winning courses, breathtaking ocean views, and top-notch amenities, this resort is a golfer’s dream destination.

Cabot Cape Breton boasts two world-renowned courses – the Links and the Cliffs. Designed by golf legends Rod Whitman and Bill Coore, these courses offer a unique blend of traditional links-style play and stunning ocean views.

Destination Kohler: A Golfer’s Paradise

Located in the charming town of Kohler, Wisconsin, Destination Kohler is a must-visit for any avid golfer. This luxurious resort boasts four world-class golf courses, including Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run. Besides golf, there are also spa services, fine dining options, and many outdoor activities available for guests to enjoy.

Destination Kohler offers four championship golf courses designed by legendary course designers Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus. Each course has its distinct features and challenges, making it suitable for all levels of golfers.

Whistling Straits: This course has hosted many PGA Championships and was the site of the 2021 Ryder Cup. It offers a links-style layout with stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Blackwolf Run: Consisting of two courses, The River and The Meadow Valleys, this course is known for its challenging terrain and beautiful landscaping.
The Irish: Designed by Pete Dye, this course is reminiscent of the Irish countryside with its rolling hills and lush greenery.
The Straits at Whistling Straits: Another Pete Dye creation, this course features a unique layout with rugged terrain and dramatic views of Lake Michigan.

Fairmont Banff Springs

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a luxurious resort. It offers not only breathtaking views but also world-class golf courses. This iconic hotel has been ranked among the top golf resorts in the world.

The golf course at the Fairmont Banff Springs is truly a golfer’s paradise. Designed by Canadian golf architect Stanley Thompson, this par 71 course offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With its challenging terrain and elevation changes, the course is a true test of skill for golfers of all levels.

After a round of golf, players can relax at the Banff Springs Golf Clubhouse. Located just steps away from the 18th hole, this clubhouse offers a cozy and elegant atmosphere for golfers to unwind. The clubhouse also features

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a luxurious five-star resort located in San Diego, California. It possesses its own elegant Mediterranean-inspired architecture and stunning landscaping. The resort is situated in a 400-acre enclave surrounded by the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. It provides guests with breathtaking views of nature.

The resort features an 18-hole golf course designed by renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio. The par-72 layout is set on a rolling terrain, with challenging bunkers and water features. It also has a full-service clubhouse, pro shop, driving range, and practice facilities. Golf enthusiasts can take advantage of the resort’s golf packages. These packages include accommodations, rounds of golf, and dining options.

Four Seasons Resort Lana’i

The Four Seasons Resort Lana’i is a luxurious paradise located on the secluded island of Lana’i in Hawaii. The resort boasts magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. It offers guests top-rated golf courses, dining options, and world-class spa facilities.
One of the highlights of this resort is its two challenging and scenic golf courses – The Challenge at Manele and The Experience at Koele. With breathtaking ocean views, lush green fairways, and challenging holes, these courses are one of the best in Hawaii.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

The golf course at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea boasts a stunning 36 holes. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. It is considered one of the premier golf courses in Hawaii. It has won many awards for its spectacular views and challenging layout.

Golfers can choose to play on either the Wailea Gold or Emerald course, both offering unique challenges and breathtaking scenery. The Gold course has hosted several PGA and LPGA tournaments. These tournaments include the Wendy’s Champions Skins Game, while the Emerald course is known for its stunning ocean views.

French Lick Resort

French Lick Resort is a beautiful resort located in the rolling hills of Southern Indiana. It is home to two championship golf courses, The Donald Ross Course and The Pete Dye Course.

The Donald Ross Course was originally built in 1917 and has a long history of hosting some of the top golfers in the world. It recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation, enhancing its beauty and playability. The course boasts of an 18-hole layout that challenges golfers with rolling hills, narrow fairways, bunkers, water hazards, and natural rock outcroppings.

The Greenbrier

The Greenbrier is a world-renowned golf course and resort located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Known for its stunning natural beauty and top-tier facilities, it has been named one of the “Top 100 Golf Resorts” by Golf Magazine.

The golf course at The Greenbrier was designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus and opened in 1978. With 54 holes spread out over three courses, it offers a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels. The Old White TPC course hosts the annual Greenbrier Classic on the PGA Tour. It has been played by Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Jordan Spieth, and others.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a well-known golf resort located on Kiawah Island, South Carolina. The resort boasts five championship courses. These include the Ocean Course which has hosted major golf championships such as the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup. The resort also offers luxurious accommodations, top-notch amenities, and a variety of dining options.

The five golf courses at Kiawah Island Golf Resort are designed by some of the biggest names in the sport, including Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Gary Player, and Clyde Johnston. Each course has its unique layout and challenges for golfers of all skill levels.

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

The Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is luxurious and stunning in Austin, Texas. It has been recognized as one of America’s top 100 golf resorts.

This AAA Four Diamond-rated resort features four championship golf courses. The courses are crafted through the rolling hills and natural surroundings of Texas Hill Country. They offer breathtaking views and an elevated golf experience.

Besides, the resort also offers top-notch amenities such as a full-service spa, many dining options, and luxurious accommodations. Guests can choose from a variety of room styles including suites, villas, and casitas that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Omni Homestead Resort

The Omni Homestead Resort is a historic resort located in Hot Springs, Virginia. It was first established in 1766 and has been operating since then, making it one of the oldest resorts in America. The resort boasts a variety of activities and amenities, including a world-renowned golf course.

The golf course at Omni Homestead Resort is a championship-level course. It has been ranked among the top 100 golf courses in America by Golf Magazine. It was designed by renowned golf course architect Donald Ross. It possesses features like stunning views of the surrounding Allegheny Mountains.

Also to its prestigious ranking, the Omni Homestead golf course has also hosted many professional tournaments, including the US Women’s Open and PGA Tour events.

Omni PGA Frisco Resort

The Omni PGA Frisco Resort is a golfer’s paradise, located in the heart of Texas. This luxurious resort offers an unforgettable golfing experience, with two championship courses i.e. The East Course and The West Course.

The East Course, designed by Gil Hanse, is a par-71 course that features rolling hills and natural water elements. This challenging course plays through the Texas Hill Country landscape, making it both beautiful and demanding.

On the other hand, The West Course, designed by Beau Welling, is a par-72 course that showcases the native grasses and rugged terrain of Texas. With strategic bunkering and wide fairways, this course offers a more forgiving but still challenging round of golf.

Pebble Beach Resorts

Pebble Beach Resorts is a world-renowned golf destination located on the Monterey Peninsula in California. It offers attractive views of the Pacific Ocean, luxurious accommodations, and championship-caliber courses.

At Pebble Beach Resorts, golfers can choose from three world-class courses: Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and The Links at Spanish Bay. Each course offers a unique and challenging experience for players of all skill levels.

Pebble Beach Golf Links: This iconic course is known for its breathtaking views of the ocean and challenging layout. It has played host to many major championships, including the U.S. Open many times.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course: Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course is known for its scenic views and demanding holes that need strategic shot-making.
The Links at Spanish Bay: Inspired by traditional Scottish links courses, this course offers a more relaxed and natural setting with oceanfront views.

Pinehurst Resort

Pinehurst Resort is located in the beautiful state of North Carolina. Its world-renowned golf courses have hosted many major championships, including the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open, and PGA Championship. But Pinehurst offers much more than just world-class golf. It also boasts top-notch accommodations, dining experiences, and recreational activities.

Pinehurst Resort is a luxurious destination that offers something for everyone. The resort features nine golf courses, including the iconic Pinehurst No. 2 course designed by Donald Ross.

Primland (Auberge Resorts Collection)

Primland is a luxurious eco-resort located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, USA.

One of the many highlights of Primland is its award-winning golf course. Designed by renowned architect Donald Steel, this 18-hole masterpiece offers players a challenging yet enjoyable experience. The course is installed within the rolling hills and valleys of the mountainous terrain. Hence, it provides stunning views at every turn.

Pronghorn Resort:

The Pronghorn Resort is a prestigious golf and outdoor recreational destination located in Bend, Oregon. It was established in 2004 and has since become one of the top resorts in the country.

The resort boasts two championship golf courses designed by renowned architects Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, named “Pronghorn”, is a challenging 18-hole course with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. The Tom Fazio Championship Course, named “Fazio”, offers a more relaxed and scenic experience with its links-style layout.

The Resort at Pelican Hill

Pelican Hill is a luxury golf resort located in Newport Coast, California. It features two world-renowned golf courses, the Ocean North and Ocean South course, both designed by Tom Fazio. The resort has been consistently ranked as one of the top 100 golf resorts in the world. It was also named “America’s Best Resort” by Condé Nast Traveler.

The Retreat, Links & Spa at Silvies Valley Ranch

The Retreat, Links & Spa at Silvies Valley Ranch is a must-visit destination for avid golfers and those looking for a luxurious getaway. Located in eastern Oregon, this resort offers pretty views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The resort boasts two award-winning courses – The Hankins Course and The Craddock Course. Both courses feature challenging layouts, undulating greens, and beautiful water features.

In addition to the two 18-hole courses, The Retreat also offers a unique par-3 course, McVeigh’s Gauntlet. This 7-hole course is designed as a tribute to traditional Scottish links-style golf and provides a fun and challenging experience for golfers.

The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain

The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain is a luxury resort located in Marana, Arizona. The resort is known for its stunning golf course and luxurious accommodations at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

The golf course at The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain was designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. It features 27 holes, each with unique challenges and stunning views of the Sonoran Desert. The course has been ranked as one of the top golf courses in Arizona and is a must-play for any golfer visiting the area

The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is a luxurious golf course located in Half Moon Bay, California. The resort features two championship golf courses, the Ocean Course and the Old Course. These are both courses designed by renowned golf course architect Arthur Hills.

The Ocean Course offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and challenging holes that wind along the coastal cliffs. The 18th hole on this course is considered one of the most scenic finishing holes in all of golf.

The Old course is a more traditional inland course with rolling terrain and bunkers that offer a different kind of challenge.

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is a luxury resort located on the shores of Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Georgia. It is known for its stunning natural setting and world-class amenities, including an award-winning golf course.

The 27-hole championship golf course at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee was designed by renowned architect Rees Jones. It is divided into three nines – The Oconee, The Landing, and The National.

The Oconee course features dramatic elevation changes and tree-lined fairways. The Landing course offers wide-open vistas of Lake Oconee and challenging water hazards. Last, The National Course is known for its links-style design and strategic bunkering.

Sand Valley Golf Resort:

The Sand Valley Golf Resort is a must-visit destination for any avid golfer. Located in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, it offers views of the picturesque landscape and challenging golf courses.

One of the main attractions at Sand Valley is its two 18-hole golf courses – Sand Valley and Mammoth Dunes. These courses are designed by renowned architects Bill Coore Ben Crenshaw, and David McLay Kidd respectively. They offer a unique combination of strategic design elements and natural features. The courses are ranked among the top 100 golf courses in the United States by Golf Digest.

But Sand Valley is not just about golf. The resort also offers accommodations, spa services, and dining options that cater to various tastes.

Sea Island Resort

The Sea Island Resort is the perfect destination for any golf enthusiast or traveler looking for luxury and relaxation. Located on the Georgia coast, this world-class resort boasts three championship golf courses, top-notch accommodations, and various amenities.

One of the main attractions at Sea Island Resort is its three spectacular golf courses. The Seaside Course is known for its beautiful ocean views and challenging layout. these features make it a favorite among professional golfers.

The Plantation Course is a traditional layout with stunning marshland and oak trees lining the fairways.

Lastly, the Retreat Course offers a more casual experience with a shorter layout, perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed round of golf.

Sea Pines Resort

Sea Pines Resort is a world-renowned luxury resort located in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. The resort was founded in 1957 and has been a top destination for golfers and vacationers alike ever since.

The centerpiece of Sea Pines Resort is its three championship golf courses – Harbour Town Golf Links, Heron Point by Pete Dye, and Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III.

Harbour Town Golf Links is the most famous of the three and has been host to the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage tournament since 1969. It is known for its iconic 18th hole with views of Calibogue Sound and the Harbour Town Lighthouse.

Heron Point is a challenging course designed by Pete Dye’s son, P.B. Dye. The course features narrow fairways and many water hazards, making it a true test of skill for golfers of all levels.

Atlantic Dunes is the newest addition to Sea Pines Resor. It is designed by Davis Love III in collaboration with Mark Love and Scot Sherman. This course is named after the original Ocean Course that was built in 1967 and was the first course on Hilton Head Island.

Streamsong Resort

Streamsong Resort is a luxurious golf resort located in Bowling Green, Florida. It is renowned for its three award-winning golf courses, breathtaking scenery, and top-notch amenities.

The Red course at Streamsong Resort is designed by Bill Coore and professional golfer Ben Crenshaw. It is an 18-hole championship course with challenging holes.

The Blue course at Streamsong Resort was designed by Tom Doak, another respected architect. It is an 18-hole championship course that offers a different kind of challenge compared to the Red course. The Blue course features wide fairways and large, undulating greens that need precise shots to avoid tricky pin placements. This course is known for its unique bunkering style, which adds to the experience for players.

The Black Course at Streamsong Resort is the most recently opened course, designed by golfing legend Gil Hanse. It is an 18-hole championship course that has gained recognition as one of the best courses in the country. The Black course offers a variety of different holes, with some resembling traditional Scottish links-style courses and others featuring more modern designs. This diversity makes it a thrilling and unforgettable golfing experience.

Conclusion

In summary, every resort provides a distinct experience, ranging from breathtaking views to demanding courses crafted by renowned architects in the field. These resorts provide something for everyone, whether your preference is for luxury and leisure or a competitive round of golf.