Best Golf Courses in North Carolina

 

At Inland Grove, we remain committed to our mission to unravel the best golf courses in the United States. After a complete guide on the best golf courses in South Carolina, it is time to delve into the north of this impressive state. Thanks to its typography composed of sand flats, large levels, lakes, forests, rivers, and plains, North Carolina is an ideal golfing destination for both professionals and beginners. If you want to know and visit the best golf courses in North Carolina, keep reading. Let’s get started.

Can You Golf Year-Round in North Carolina?

 North Carolina's climate favors golf games almost year-round. In this article of the best golf courses in North Carolina, you will get the chance to acknowledge landscapes and settings that make North Carolina an attractive destination to play golf.

While you can enjoy the best golf courses in North Carolina during March, May is the perfect month for golfers who want to embark on a golf adventure. If you prefer cooler climates and fall foliage, October is also an ideal time to play golf in North Carolina. But, what is the ideal season to enjoy golf in NC? Summer, of course! You can enjoy teeing off under the North Carolina sun and make your golf experience truly delightful during summertime.

How Many Golf Courses Are in North Carolina?

North Carolina secures a solid place in Inland Grove’s list of the best golf courses in the United States. All thanks to one fact. North Carolina boasts over 600 golf courses. Moreover, for a considerable amount of time, North Carolina annually ranked among the best 100 golf courses in the USA.

Furthermore, it is not possible to overlook the fact that it has one of the most emblematic golf courses not only in the state but also in the country: the Pinehurst Golf Course. Also known as the cradle of American golf, this course has been the host to several American championships.

Is Pinehurst a Public Course?

 And, speaking of the Pinehurst course, it is essential to address a few common questions about this emblematic golf destination, which stands as a cornerstone among the best golf courses in North Carolina. You may be curious: is Pinehurst a public course? Well, this golf destination offers both public and private courses. If you want to enjoy the Pinehurst courses but you do not possess a membership, it is possible to play on courses 1, 3, and 5. However, advance reservation is a must.

Things are significantly different for those with memberships. If you are a member of the resort, courses 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, or 9 are all open to your delight. Either way, the courses at Pinehurst are among the most popular destinations for golfers from North Carolina and beyond.

How Much Does Pinehurst Cost to Play?

Pinehurst is on the visit-list for golfers of all skill levels who want to experience a truly unforgettable game in North Carolina. However, it is important to note that playing this course is not very affordable. Pinehurst is highly-prestigious, therefore holds a prominent position in the best golf courses in North Carolina, as well as the most expensive golf courses.

The cost varies depending on the time of year, ranging from $215 to $400 per player. And that's just for playing a single round of golf. But is it worth the high price? Actually, yes. Pinehurst offers stunning views combined with luxurious services. So, if you are looking to expand your golfing experience to new horizons, Pinehurst is an excellent golf destination for your next adventure.

8 Best Golf Courses In North Carolina

After discovering the important aspects of the best golf courses in North Carolina, it is time to dive into the best ones you can visit for a wonderful golf experience in North Carolina. Let’s get started.

 

Pinehurst #2

Beginning our list of the best golf courses in North Carolina with one of Pinehurst's standout courses. That's right, we are talking about Pinehurst course number 2. It is well-known as the “masterpiece” of Pinehurst Resort.

This course has earned its prestige by hosting significant events such as the US Open, the US Women's Open Championship in 2014, and the Ryder Cup in 1951.

In addition, this course is emblematic due to its mostly convex and undulating greens, acknowledged as the most complex in the world. So, if you are seeking a truly challenging golf experience, Pinehurst number 2 should be your final choice.

 

Wade Hampton Golf Club

If there is another best golf course in North Carolina that deserves a special mention, it is the Wade Hampton Golf Club.

Located in Cashiers, North Carolina, Wade Hampton's experience makes it one of the best settings to live and play golf. Founded in 1986, this golf club offers a luxurious experience with its memorable courses.

Furthermore, it ranks 25th among the best golf courses in the country today. But beyond offering a unique golf experience, Wade Hampton Golf Club also offers a natural environment that allows you to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by rustic elegance.

 

Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club

Next up on our list of the best golf courses in North Carolina, we have one of golfers' favorite: the Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club.

Built in 1928, this golf course is the result of the iconic designer Donald Ross. Notably, it has hosted the US Open Women 4 times. Furthermore, it boasts generous and challenging fairways to captivate golf players of all skill levels.

Old Town Club

Old Town Club is where elegance meets golf with kindness. Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, this golf course is among the finest in the country with its uneven terrain that challenges golfers, its artistic bunkers, and far and wide fairways with bold green contours.

What makes this golf club different? The majestic touch of its designer, Perry Maxwell’s trademark ‘’Maxwell rolls’’ that truly provide an edge to the Old Town Club. In addition to its fascinating golf courses, you can experience luxury with its swimming pools, restaurants, tennis courts, gyms and clubhouses.

Southern Pines Golf Club

The Southern Pines Golf Club is next up on our list of the best golf courses in North Carolina. This golf course boasts 18-holes for a complete golf experience.

With a total length of 6,354 yards from the backfield, Southern Pines is not a long course, but it is more difficult than the yardage indicates.

The ever-changing elevations and the intricacies of the greenery seamlessly merging with the surroundings can lead you to forget predictable fairways. Whether you are a professional or a beginner, this golf course is an excellent option for a challenging change.

 

Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club

Another golf course worth mentioning among the best golf courses in North Carolina is Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club.

This golf club is located in the birthplace of golf in the United States.

It is a golf course that challenges even the best players through a series of risk/reward opportunities. This makes Mid Pines Inn a golf course that will make you come back for more.

 

Tobacco Road Golf Club

The Tobacco Road Golf Club must be mentioned in Inland Grove’s list of the best golf courses in North Carolina. Something that stands out about this golf course is that it boasts a field unlike any other. Let us explain.

Tobacco Road Golf Club quickly became known for its undulations, blind shots, holes that turn 90 degrees, short holes, long holes, large greens, and different well-defined sectors. If you are seeking a true test of nerve, we advise you to visit their website to book a tee time as soon as possible!

Bryan Park (Champions Course)

Closing Inland Grove’s list of the best golf courses in North Carolina with another fan favorite: Bryan Park (Champions Courses). This golf course opened in 1990 and has proven to be a masterpiece both for its design and offers. It boasts 18 holes, 97 sand traps, grass holes, and numerous bunkers, which is why it is a go-to for golf professionals. Additionally, it is one of the most prestigious public courses in North Carolina.

The best golf courses in North Carolina are part of the most important attractions of the state with its mountainous and maritime landscapes. Discover on Inland Grove the best golf courses in the United States! And pick your favorite among the best-maintained golf courses in the country. As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to choose North Carolina as your next golf destination.

We hope this guide has helped you to find the best golf course for you in North Carolina. Subscribe to Inland Grove’s blog to keep in the loop for future updates!