North Carolina is gearing up for a special year with the U.S. Open returning to Pinehurst Resort’s famed No. 2 Course. Designed by Donald Ross and restored in 2011 by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Pinehurst No. 2 has always been a bucket-list destination for golfers around the world, known for its challenging turtle-back greens. However, North Carolina offers much more than just Pinehurst, with great golf courses scattered from the mountains to the coast. Golfweek’s Best rating program highlights numerous layouts in the state on various course-ranking lists, making it an ideal destination for golfers of all levels.
The top public-access courses in North Carolina feature a mix of classic and modern layouts, with Pinehurst Resort’s No. 2 and No. 4 courses making the list along with popular courses like Mid Pines, Pine Needles, and Tobacco Road. For those seeking private courses, the list includes elite clubs like Wade Hampton Club, Old Town Club, and Diamond Creek, showcasing the diverse golfing options available in the state. Golfweek’s ranking process includes input from over 800 raters who evaluate courses based on 10 criteria, culminating in an overall rating that determines the annual score for each layout.
With no course being perfect, ratings above 8 indicate exceptional quality, while anything above 7 is worth traveling for. Courses like Wade Hampton Club and Pebble Beach Golf Links in California are among the few with ratings above 9, signifying their unparalleled golfing experience. Golfweek’s Best course rankings cover top public-access layouts in every U.S. state, ensuring that golfers can find quality courses regardless of where they live or travel. Additionally, the list of top private golf courses in each state offers exclusive options for those seeking a more private and luxurious golfing experience.
As golf enthusiasts plan their trips to North Carolina or any other state, Golfweek’s Best course rankings serve as a comprehensive guide to the top courses around the world. Whether you prefer classic designs like Pinehurst No. 2 or modern layouts like Tobacco Road, there are options to suit every golfer’s preferences. The variety of courses in North Carolina, from coastal resorts to mountain clubs, showcases the state’s rich golfing heritage and appeal to players of all skill levels. Whether embarking on a short golf getaway or looking for a retirement packed with great golf, North Carolina offers something for everyone on its greens.
