Exciting New Golf Courses to Play in 2026

As we usher in a new year filled with promise and opportunities, 2026 will bring some exceptional golf courses that cater to a variety of preferences. From awe-inspiring cliffs across the globe to innovative municipal projects and luxurious resort layouts, the following nine courses highlight the diversity of public golf experiences that await future enthusiasts.

1. The Commons at Sand Valley, Nekoosa, Wisconsin

• Architect: Jim Craig
• Opens: Summer 2026

Inspired by the traditional "common land" layouts of the UK, Sand Valley’s 12-hole short course is all about accessibility. With wide, inviting fairways, it promotes ground play while intricately contoured greens provide engaging challenges suited for everyone from seasoned golfers to newcomers.

2. Old Petty, Inverness, Scotland

• Architect: Tom Doak
• Opens: Summer 2026

Old Petty shares a stunning landscape with its sibling Castle Stuart, but is set further inland over dynamic terrain. While glimpses of the sea can be spotted, it’s the course’s strategic angles and complex green areas that truly capture the golfer’s attention, further enhancing the reputation of Cabot Highlands as a key destination in the Scottish Highlands.

The par-4 13th green at Old Petty (Photo credit: Jacob Sjöman)

3. Ponta do Pargo, Madeira, Portugal

• Architect: Nick Faldo
• Opens: Late 2026

More than two decades in the making, Faldo’s design on the breathtaking cliffs of Madeira showcases an unparalleled aesthetic. With dramatic views akin to Ireland’s Old Head but set in a warmer climate, eight holes navigate perilous cliffs that drop 300 feet to the Atlantic, making this course an unforgettable experience.

4. Oleada, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

• Architect: Ernie Els (with Greg Letsche)
• Opens: Fall/Winter 2026

Els’ debut design in Mexico embraces the contrast of high desert charm against the tranquil Sea of Cortez. The course unfolds from a cactus-laden opening to coastal beauty, featuring ample width off the tees while emphasizing strategic play, resulting in a links-style challenge, despite not being a traditional links course.

5. The Patch at Augusta Municipal Golf Course, Augusta, Georgia

• Architects: Tom Fazio, Beau Welling; TGR Design
• Opens: Spring 2026

Bringing the Masters’ influence to a public venue, The Patch is undergoing a major transformation. Tom Fazio and Beau Welling are revitalizing this beloved city-owned course as part of a mission to enhance public golf access, foster junior participation, and create career pathways in the sport. Additionally, Tiger Woods is contributing with TGR Design by adding a new 9-hole course, The Loop, scheduled for later in 2026.

6. Rodeo Dunes, Roggen, Colorado

• Architect: Coore & Crenshaw
• Opens: Spring 2026

Rodeo Dunes marks the inception of an ambitious golf project less than an hour from Denver. While tee times will primarily be allocated to founding members and their guests initially, a public opening is planned for 2027. This community-centric initiative by Michael Keiser anticipates a focus on member experiences alongside a second course in development.

Rodeo Dunes nestled in sandy hills outside Denver (Photo credit: Courtesy)

7. Streamsong (New Course), Bowling Green, Florida

• Architect: David McLay Kidd
• Opens: Winter 2026

While still awaiting a name, the fourth 18-hole offering at Streamsong promises to be distinctive. Sitting alongside the Black Course, McLay Kidd’s layout will take advantage of the former mining site’s natural features. Anticipated elements include risky drivable par-4s and reachable par-5s, alongside subtle greens designed for creative recovery.

8. Wildcreek, First Tee of Northern Nevada, Reno, Nevada

• Architect: Brian Curley (Curley Wagner)
• Opens: Summer 2026

Breaking the mold of high-end private developments, Wildcreek serves as a community-first venue showcasing a reimagined 18-hole course, a new 9-hole layout, and a dedicated par-3 course. Enhanced by a three-tier practice facility made from repurposed shipping containers, this project aims to foster inclusivity in golf.

9. Wild Spring Dunes, East Texas

• Architect: Tom Doak
• Opens: Fall 2026

Set across 2,400 acres of picturesque East Texas dunes, meadows, and spring-fed creeks, Wild Spring Dunes showcases Tom Doak’s minimalist design philosophy. Conveniently located between Dallas and Houston, and near Shreveport, Louisiana, the site will feature a second 18-hole course—designed by Coore and Crenshaw—integrated into a resort and real estate development.

As golf enthusiasts look forward to 2026, these nine new courses promise to offer unique experiences, accessible to golfers of all skill levels. So, whether you seek breathtaking vistas or community-focused layouts, the coming year is shaping up to be an exciting chapter for the sport.

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