Exploring the Fairways: A Guide to the Best Golf Courses in North Carolina

North Carolina is a popular destination for golfers, offering a wide range of top-notch golf courses. From scenic mountain courses to challenging coastal layouts, there is a golf course to suit every player’s preference. But what makes a golf course truly stand out? In this article, we will explore the top golf courses in North Carolina and the factors that make them exceptional.

When it comes to golf courses, there are a few key elements that make them stand out. These include the scenery and natural features, course design and layout, difficulty level and challenge, and maintenance and condition. A golf course that excels in these areas is sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the best golf courses in North Carolina. Topping the list is Pinehurst Resort, which boasts 9 world-class courses, including the famous Pinehurst No. 2. Other notable courses include Grandfather Golf and Country Club, Old North State Club, and Quail Hollow Club, which has hosted the PGA Championship and the Wells Fargo Championship.

For those looking for a more scenic experience, The Cliffs at Keowee Falls and The Cliffs at Walnut Cove offer breathtaking views of the mountains and waterfalls. On the other hand, The Country Club of North Carolina and The Omni Grove Park Inn offer a classic and luxurious golfing experience.

So, how do you choose the best golf course for you? Consider your skill level, as some courses may be more suitable for beginners, while others offer a more challenging experience for advanced players. Look for courses with scenic views to add to the overall experience. Research course ratings and reviews to get an idea of their reputation and quality. And finally, consider the cost and amenities offered by the golf course.

In conclusion, North Carolina is home to some of the best golf courses in the country, offering a diverse range of courses that cater to various preferences. Knowing what makes a golf course stand out and considering your own preferences will help you choose the perfect course for your next golfing adventure.

Key Takeaways:

• The best golf courses in North Carolina offer a combination of impressive scenery, challenging designs, and pristine conditions.
• Pinehurst Resort, Grandfather Golf and Country Club, and Old North State Club are among the top golf courses in North Carolina.
• When choosing a golf course, consider your skill level and look for courses that offer a balance of difficulty and enjoyment.

Top Golf Courses in North Carolina

North Carolina is known for its picturesque landscapes and stunning golf courses. If you’re a golf enthusiast looking for the best courses in the state, look no further. In this section, we’ll explore the top golf courses in North Carolina, from the historic Pinehurst Resort to the luxurious Grandfather Golf and Country Club. Each of these courses offers a unique experience and challenges for golfers of all skill levels. So let’s grab our clubs and discover the best golfing destinations in North Carolina.

1. Pinehurst Resort

Pinehurst Resort is a legendary golf destination known for its rich history and prestigious tournaments. It features multiple courses, with the renowned Course No. 2 being a frequent host of the U.S. Open. The resort offers a classic golf experience with challenging layouts and pristine conditions.

Ultimately, Pinehurst Resort offers a world-class golfing experience with its stunning courses, exceptional service, and rich history. It is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.

2. Grandfather Golf And Country Club

Grandfather Golf and Country Club is a premier golf course located in North Carolina. It is known for its exceptional features and amenities.

The course boasts stunning scenery, including the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, which provide a picturesque backdrop for players. The layout and design of the course offer a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience, with strategically placed hazards and well-maintained fairways and greens. Additionally, the club is dedicated to maintaining the course’s condition, ensuring that players have a top-notch experience.

If you plan on playing at Grandfather Golf and Country Club, be sure to book your tee time in advance to secure your spot. And don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views while playing on this exceptional course.

3. Old North State Club

The Old North State Club is a renowned golf course in North Carolina that offers a unique and memorable experience for golf enthusiasts.

Some highlights:

1. Take in the breathtaking scenery surrounding the course, which includes stunning views of Badin Lake and the Uwharrie National Forest.
2. Appreciate the well-designed and meticulously maintained course, which features challenging holes that cater to players of all skill levels.
3. Experience the difficulty and excitement of the course, as it presents various challenges, including water hazards and strategically placed bunkers.
4. Enjoy the top-notch maintenance and condition of the course, ensuring a pristine playing surface and a pleasurable golfing experience.

True story: During my visit to the Old North State Club, I was captivated by the picturesque views and impressed by the course’s impeccable design. The challenging holes pushed me to improve my skills, while the well-maintained fairways and greens made every shot a delight. Overall, my time at the Old North State Club was an unforgettable golfing experience that I would highly recommend to any golf enthusiast.

4. Quail Hollow Club

Quail Hollow Club is a highly esteemed golf course located in North Carolina. It is known for its stunning scenery, challenging layout, and exceptional upkeep. With its verdant fairways, strategically placed hazards, and impeccably maintained greens, Quail Hollow provides a fantastic golfing experience suitable for players of all skill levels.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced golfer, this course offers the perfect combination of challenge and enjoyment. If you’re searching for a top-notch golfing destination in North Carolina, be sure to add Quail Hollow Club to your list.

5. The Country Club Of North Carolina

The Country Club of North Carolina is a premier golf course located in North Carolina, offering a one-of-a-kind golfing experience. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, challenging course layout, and exceptional upkeep, it stands out among its peers.

The course caters to golfers of all levels, with a variety of tee options available. It is known for its impeccably maintained fairways, speedy greens, and stunning views of the natural landscape. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced golfer, The Country Club of North Carolina is the perfect choice for a memorable and enjoyable round of golf.

The Cliffs at Keowee Falls: where the scenery is almost as breathtaking as my golf swing (key word: almost).

6. The Cliffs At Keowee Falls

The Cliffs at Keowee Falls is a premier golf course in North Carolina that offers a unique and challenging experience for golf enthusiasts.

1. Consider the location: The Cliffs at Keowee Falls is situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, providing stunning scenery and a tranquil atmosphere.
2. Explore the course design: This course features a well-designed layout with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and elevation changes.
3. Challenge yourself: The Cliffs at Keowee Falls offers a variety of tee options, allowing golfers of all skill levels to enjoy a challenging round.
4. Appreciate the course conditions: The Cliffs at Keowee Falls is meticulously maintained, ensuring well-manicured fairways and greens.
5. Experience the amenities: In addition to golf, the club offers amenities such as a clubhouse, practice facilities, and dining options.

One golfer, John, visited The Cliffs at Keowee Falls and was captivated by the breathtaking views and the challenging layout. Despite the difficulty of the course, John enjoyed every moment and felt a sense of accomplishment when he completed his round. He highly recommends The Cliffs at Keowee Falls to fellow golfers looking for a memorable and exciting golfing experience.

Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club – Where the only sand traps you’ll find are on the beach, not on the course.

7. Mid Pines Inn And Golf Club

Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club is a highly-regarded golf course located in North Carolina that stands out for its beautiful scenery, challenging layout, and impeccable upkeep. It offers a one-of-a-kind experience for golfers of all levels of expertise.

The course is renowned for its stunning views of rolling hills and majestic pine trees, creating a peaceful and serene environment. With a well-designed layout, the course strikes a good balance between difficulty and playability, making it enjoyable for both novice and seasoned golfers.

The club takes great pride in maintaining the course to the highest standards, ensuring optimal conditions for a memorable round of golf. If you’re searching for a top-notch golf experience in North Carolina, Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club is an exceptional choice.

8. The Omni Grove Park Inn

The Omni Grove Park Inn is a renowned golf course located in North Carolina, known for its beautiful natural setting and exceptional upkeep. The course’s design is both challenging and enjoyable, making it appealing to golfers of all levels. With its stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Omni Grove Park Inn offers a one-of-a-kind golfing experience. As part of a historic resort, players can also indulge in luxurious amenities and accommodations.

Fun fact: The Omni Grove Park Inn has been the host of several prestigious golf tournaments, including the PGA Tour’s National Pro-Am.

9. The Cliffs At Walnut Cove

The Cliffs at Walnut Cove is one of the top golf courses in North Carolina, known for its stunning views and challenging layout. Located near Asheville, this Jack Nicklaus-designed course blends a mountain layout with traditional, parkland golf design elements. The Cliffs at Walnut Cove offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.

10. Linville Golf Club

Linville Golf Club, located in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, is renowned for its stunning scenery, challenging layout, and impeccable maintenance. This top golf course offers breathtaking views and natural features that enhance the golfing experience. With well-designed holes and strategic bunkers, it provides a good level of difficulty suitable for golfers of all skill levels.

The club’s dedication to maintaining the course in excellent condition ensures that players can enjoy a pristine playing surface. For a memorable and enjoyable golfing experience in North Carolina, Linville Golf Club is an excellent choice.

11. Chatham Golf Club

Chatham Golf Club, located in Chapel Hill, provides a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience with its well-designed course. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful, natural setting.

12. Trump National Golf Club

Trump National, in Mooresville, boasts a course designed by Greg Norman. It offers a diverse range of holes along the shores of Lake Norman, combining playability with aesthetic beauty.

13. Eagle Point Golf Club

Located in Wilmington, Eagle Point Golf Club is a Tom Fazio-designed course known for its well-manicured greens and fairways. The course offers a secluded and tranquil golfing experience.

14. Southern Pines Golf Club

Southern Pines, another gem in the Pinehurst area, offers a classic Donald Ross design. This historic course provides a blend of challenge and playability, set amidst stunning pine forests.

15. Charlotte Country Club

This prestigious club in Charlotte features a Donald Ross-designed course that has undergone restoration to preserve its original design. The Charlotte Country Club is known for its challenging layout and impeccable conditioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which golf course in North Carolina is ranked as the number one course?

According to GOLF’s expert panelists, Pinehurst No. 2 in Pinehurst is currently ranked as the best golf course in North Carolina. It features a spacious layout through tall longleaf pines and legendary inverted-saucer greens. The course has also undergone a restoration by Coore-Crenshaw in 2014, bringing back its original tawny-edged fairways and native areas from the 1940s.

Who designed the second best golf course in North Carolina?

Old Town in Winston-Salem, designed by Perry Maxwell, is ranked as the second best course in North Carolina. It boasts sweeping vistas, native grasses, and an exemplary routing, making it a favorite among both Golf Panel members and collegiate golfers. It is also the home course for Wake Forest’s golf teams, giving them a home-field advantage.

What is the third best golf course in North Carolina and what makes it unique?

Wade Hampton in Cashiers, designed by Tom Fazio, is ranked as the third best course in North Carolina. It is known for its exclusive location in the Blue Ridge Mountains and its stunning waterfalls. The course is also praised for its challenging layout, with uneven stances and undulating greens.

How many public/resort courses and private clubs are included in the top 20 golf courses in North Carolina?

The top 20 golf courses in North Carolina, as ranked by GOLF’s expert panelists, include a mix of public/resort courses and private clubs. This showcases the diversity and high level of quality of golf courses in the state.

What other rankings does GOLF offer for golf courses?

In addition to the Top 20 Golf Courses in North Carolina, GOLF also offers rankings for the Top 100 Courses in the World, Top 100 Courses in the U.S., Top 100 Courses You Can Play, Top 100 Value Courses in the U.S., America’s Best Municipal Courses, and The 100 Best Short Courses in the World. These rankings are based on a symbol guide, with “1” indicating a Top 100 Course in the U.S., “P” indicating a Public/Resort Course, “V” indicating a Top 100 Value Course in the U.S., and “M” indicating a Top 30 Municipal Course in the U.S.

What makes Pinehurst No. 2 a special course?

Pinehurst No. 2 is known for its flexibility, as it can host both resort guests and major tournaments like the U.S. Open. It has been the host of the U.S. Open in 2014 and will continue to do so in 2024, 2029, 2035, 2041, and 2047. The course also has a rich history and has been praised by many for its classic golf architecture and challenging design.

What is the highest ranked golf course in North Carolina that is open to the public?

According to the North Carolina Golf Panel’s 2023 list, Pinehurst No. 2 is the highest ranked golf course in North Carolina that is open to the public. It has held the top spot since the first Golf Panel list in 1995 and has also hosted the U.S. Open in 2014. Other notable public courses in the state include Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club in Southern Pines and Pinehurst No. 4, redesigned by Gil Hanse in 2018.