As we enter the new year, golf enthusiasts can look forward to an array of new and newly renovated golf courses that are set to open in the coming months. While many of these projects may be exclusive or private, we have compiled a list of nine public-access courses that are sure to excite golfers of all levels. From California to Florida to Scotland, these courses cover a wide range of styles and settings, promising challenging gameplay and breathtaking views.
One of the most anticipated openings is the Poppy Ridge Golf Course in Livermore, California. Designed by architect Jay Blasi, this course offers a championship 18-hole routing through stunning vineyard-fringed terrain. The course promises to provide a walker-friendly experience and is expected to be a great value for those looking for quality golf near San Francisco.
Another exciting project is the Scarecrow course at Gamble Sands in Brewster, Washington. Designed by renowned architect David McLay Kidd, this course offers wide landing areas and dramatic river-valley views. With its challenging tee to green layout, Scarecrow is sure to be a hit among golfers looking for a memorable round of golf in the Pacific Northwest.
In California, Pasatiempo in Santa Cruz has recently undergone a restoration led by architect Jim Urbina. With its iconic paw-print bunkers and thrilling greens, Pasatiempo now offers a modernized golfing experience while still maintaining the historic charm that has made it a favorite among golfers for decades. The restoration has brought new life to this Golden Age gem, making it a must-play destination for golfers in the Bay Area.
In Scotland, the Cabot Highlands will soon welcome the Old Petty course, designed by Tom Doak. Set against the backdrop of the Moray Firth and the historic Old Petty church, this course promises to be a scenic tour through the Scottish countryside. With a scheduled preview play in the summer of 2025, golfers can get a taste of this new addition to one of the world’s top golf destinations.
Off the coast of Australia, the 7 Mile Beach Golf Club is set to open its doors in the spring or summer of 2024. Designed by Mike Clayton, Mike DeVries, and Frank Pont, this course promises a picturesque setting beside a sandy stretch of beach in Tasmania. After years of delays, this course is finally ready to offer golfers a unique and challenging experience in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.
Closer to home, the Karoo Course at Cabot Citrus Farms in Florida is set to open on January 21. Designed by Kyle Franz, this rugged course promises an exciting round of golf in the sand barrens of the Sunshine State. With its challenging layout and stunning natural surroundings, the Karoo Course is sure to become a favorite among golfers visiting the resort.
In addition to these new courses, several existing courses are undergoing renovations and improvements. One notable project is the Karsten Creek Golf Club in Stillwater, Oklahoma, which is receiving a slate of improvements led by architect Andrew Green. With new geothermal greens and a host of refinements, this course is set to provide a stouter challenge to elite college players and public golfers alike.
Overseas, the Teeth of the Dog course in the Dominican Republic is undergoing upgrades including re-grassing, sand-capping, and bunker and green restoration. Designed by Pete Dye, this seaside gem is set to offer an even more stunning and challenging golfing experience for players of all levels. Another notable project is the PGA West Stadium Course in Palm Springs, California, where Pete Dye’s famed desert design has received upgrades to its greens and other features as part of a multi-million-dollar project.
Overall, golf enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting lineup of new and renovated courses in the coming months. From California to Scotland to Australia, these courses promise challenging gameplay and stunning natural surroundings that are sure to make for memorable rounds of golf. Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this diverse and exciting array of golf destinations.
