Top US Golf Courses You Can Play
Grab your clubs and lace up those golf shoes, because we're about to take a tour of some of the top golf courses you can actually play in the US. No need to be a private club member or have a secret handshake for these gems. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, these courses offer something special for every player. From breathtaking landscapes to challenging layouts, here's your guide to some of the best public-access courses you can swing a club at.
Pebble Beach Golf Links: The Crown Jewel
When you think of iconic golf courses, Pebble Beach Golf Links probably tops the list. Nestled along the dramatic cliffs of Monterey, California, this course is as scenic as they come. But don’t let the picturesque views distract you—the layout is a test for golfers of all skill levels, thanks to cleverly placed bunkers and the ever-present coastal winds.
What makes Pebble Beach a standout? For one, the 7th hole is a short par-3 that has made even the pros tremble. Imagine trying to land a perfect shot onto a tiny green, with waves crashing just beyond. It’s the kind of challenge that keeps golfers coming back for more.
If you find yourself struggling to keep your clubs clean amidst the sand and sea spray, fear not. We’ve found that The Club Washer can make quick work of any dirt or debris, keeping your clubs in pristine condition for that perfect swing.
Pinehurst No. 2: A Southern Classic
Heading to North Carolina, Pinehurst No. 2 is a masterpiece designed by the legendary Donald Ross. Known for its crowned greens and strategic layout, this course has hosted more championships than you can count on both hands. Pinehurst No. 2 is all about precision—try to overpower it, and you might find yourself in a bit of trouble.
One of the most talked-about features of Pinehurst No. 2 is its greens. They’re not just any greens—they’re turtleback greens. Picture a turtle's shell, rounded and resistant to anything but pinpoint accuracy. If your approach shot isn't spot-on, you might be chipping back onto the green more often than you'd like.
And here's a tip: after plotting your way around those slick greens, give your clubs a quick scrub with The Club Washer to keep them ready for your next precise shot.
Whistling Straits: The Links of Lake Michigan
Up in Wisconsin, Whistling Straits offers an Irish links-style experience without needing a passport. Set along the shores of Lake Michigan, this course is as dramatic as it gets. With its undulating fairways and over 1,000 bunkers, Whistling Straits can be as punishing as it is beautiful.
Here's a fun fact: the course was actually built on an abandoned airfield. Today, it’s a sprawling piece of art that has hosted multiple PGA Championships and a Ryder Cup. The wind can be your biggest opponent here, so be prepared to adjust your game on the fly.
After tackling the wind and sand, keeping your golf clubs clean is essential. That’s where a handy tool like The Club Washer comes in, ensuring your clubs stay in top shape for every round.
Torrey Pines: A Golfer's Paradise
Down in sunny San Diego lies Torrey Pines, a municipal course with views that could double as a postcard. Known for hosting the Farmers Insurance Open and the 2008 U.S. Open, this course is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
Torrey Pines offers two distinct courses: the North and the South. The South Course is the more famous sibling, thanks to its U.S. Open pedigree. With towering cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it’s hard to keep your eyes on the ball. But focus you must, as the course is as challenging as it is beautiful.
Whether you're battling the rough or the ocean breeze, maintaining clean clubs is a must. A quick rinse with The Club Washer after each hole keeps them performing at their best.
Bandon Dunes: A Golfer's Dream
Oregon might not be the first place you think of for world-class golf, but Bandon Dunes is here to change that. Perched along the rugged coastline, this resort offers multiple courses, each with its own unique flair.
The original Bandon Dunes course is a links-style layout that feels like a trip to Scotland. With firm fairways, rolling dunes, and ocean views, it's a purist's dream. The wind is a constant companion, challenging you to shape your shots just right.
After a day battling the elements, your clubs might look worse for wear. But a quick clean with The Club Washer can have them looking and performing like new.
TPC Sawgrass: The Stadium Experience
If you’ve ever watched The Players Championship on TV, you’ve seen TPC Sawgrass in action. Located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, this course is home to the infamous island green on the 17th hole. It’s the stuff of legend—and nightmares for some golfers.
The course is designed to make spectators feel like they’re part of the action, hence the “Stadium Course” moniker. But it's not just about the 17th hole. TPC Sawgrass is a strategic test from start to finish. You’ll need to think your way around every shot, and a little luck never hurts.
As you're strategizing your way around the course, keep your clubs in top form with a quick rinse from The Club Washer, ensuring every shot is as clean as your game plan.
Kiawah Island (Ocean Course): A Coastal Beauty
South Carolina brings us Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course, a Pete Dye masterpiece famously known for its role in the 1991 Ryder Cup—dubbed “The War by the Shore.” The course is a test of skill, patience, and mental fortitude, with ocean winds that can turn an easy shot into a Herculean task.
The Ocean Course features more seaside holes than any other course in the Northern Hemisphere, making it as picturesque as it is challenging. The ever-changing winds off the Atlantic require adaptability and smart club selection.
After facing those coastal breezes, you'll want to ensure your clubs are ready for the next challenge. That’s where The Club Washer comes in, keeping your equipment in pristine condition.
Chambers Bay: A Modern Marvel
In the Pacific Northwest, Chambers Bay in Washington state offers a modern links experience with breathtaking views of Puget Sound. It's a course that seems like it was plucked from Scotland and dropped into the American landscape. With its wide fairways and massive sand dunes, Chambers Bay is as beautiful as it is challenging.
Built on a former gravel mine, Chambers Bay is a testament to sustainable design. The course's rugged beauty is matched by the difficulty of its greens, which require creativity and precision.
To maintain that precision, keeping your clubs clean is essential. A quick scrub with The Club Washer can help keep your gear in top shape, ensuring every swing counts.
Erin Hills: A Midwest Masterpiece
Finally, we head back to Wisconsin for Erin Hills, a course that played host to the 2017 U.S. Open. It’s a sprawling layout that weaves through natural terrain, offering a true test of golf that feels like it’s been around forever, despite being relatively young.
Erin Hills is a walking-only course, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the landscape. The fescue rough can be unforgiving, so accuracy off the tee is crucial. And with massive greens, you'll need a deft touch with the putter.
After navigating Erin Hills' challenges, your clubs might need some TLC. That’s where The Club Washer comes in, ensuring your clubs are ready for whatever the course throws your way.
Final Thoughts
From the cliffs of Pebble Beach to the windswept dunes of Bandon Dunes, these top US golf courses offer unforgettable experiences for any golfer. While each course has its own unique challenges, maintaining clean, well-performing clubs is a must. We've found that The Club Washer is an ideal tool to keep your clubs in top condition, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the game and playing your best. Happy golfing!