We all have our dream courses, those bucket list destinations that we hope to one day play. But what if we could create the ultimate 18-hole course, composed of the best public-access courses in the United States? GOLF’s Top 100 You Can Play for 2024-25 provided the inspiration for this fantasy layout, with each hole selected based on its individual merits and challenges. The result is a par 72 course that takes players on a virtual tour of some of the most iconic and memorable holes in American golf.
The first hole on our dream course is a par-5 at Sheep Ranch in Bandon, Oregon. This exhilarating opening hole offers a strategic challenge with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean in the background. Moving on to Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina, players encounter a doglegged par-4 that tests their precision and shot-making skills. The course continues to impress with a variety of hole styles, including a formidable par-3 at Karoo Course in Brooksville, Florida, where size is deceptive and birdies are well-earned.
Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York, adds a risk-reward par-5 to the mix, challenging players to navigate bunkers and elevation changes to score well. Gamble Sands in Brewster, Washington, presents a brawny par-4 that rewards strategic play and shot placement. Pacific Dunes in Bandon, Oregon, offers a devilish par-4 with a narrow green and treacherous bunkers, testing players’ nerves and skills.
Lawsonia Links in Green Lake, Wisconsin, introduces a picturesque par-3 with an intriguing history and a challenging green complex. Pinehurst No. 10 in North Carolina features a unique double-blind par-4 that demands precision and accuracy off the tee. Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head, South Carolina, offers a sly par-4 that challenges players with its subtle design and tricky green complexes.
Pasatiempo in Santa Cruz, California, showcases the influence of architect Alister Mackenzie with a grand par-4 that echoes the style of Augusta National. Karsten Creek in Stillwater, Oklahoma, presents a pretty yet punishing par-3 with water hazards and tight landing areas. Prairie Club in Valentine, Nebraska, features a scenic par-5 with vast prairie views and strategic challenges on the approach shots.
Ocean Course at Kiawah Island in South Carolina provides a stunning par-4 with water hazards and sandy waste areas that test players’ decision-making and commitment to their shots. Chambers Bay Golf Course in University Place, Washington, offers a dramatic par-4 with panoramic views of Puget Sound and strategic bunkering. The Lido in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, challenges players with angled cross bunkers and strategic decisions off the tee.
Old Macdonald in Bandon, Oregon, pays homage to C.B. Macdonald with a classic par-4 that rewards bold drives and clear approaches to the green. TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, introduces a polarizing island-green par-3 that tests players’ nerves and accuracy under pressure. Finally, Pebble Beach in California offers a picturesque par-5 with iconic views and a memorable finishing hole that captures the essence of the game.
In conclusion, the ultimate 18-hole course composed of GOLF’s Top 100 You Can Play for 2024-25 offers a tantalizing blend of challenges, scenery, and strategic opportunities for golfers of all skill levels. Each hole on this dream course represents the best of public-access golf in the United States, showcasing the diversity and beauty of the country’s top courses. Whether playing for score or simply enjoying the experience, this fantasy layout promises an unforgettable round for anyone lucky enough to tee it up.
