North Carolina is home to some of the best golf courses in the United States, and GOLF’s expert panelists have identified the top golf courses in the state as part of their rigorous ratings process. Pinehurst No. 2, located in Pinehurst, tops the list as a masterpiece designed by Donald Ross. With its legendary inverted-saucer greens and spacious fairways lined with tall longleaf pines, this course offers a fun yet challenging test for golfers of all skill levels.
Another standout course in North Carolina is Old Town Club in Winston Salem. Designed by Perry Maxwell on a former horse farm, this course features sweeping vistas, artistic bunkering, and a challenging routing that twists around creek beds and side-slopes. Lanny Wadkins, a former Demon Deacon, has called it the best course for training serious young players, making it a popular choice for collegiate golf teams to practice on.
Wade Hampton, located in Cashiers, is a Tom Fazio-designed course that showcases the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With picturesque views, creeks, ponds, and a stunning par-3 hole that plays through a valley, this exclusive course is a must-play for golf enthusiasts. Pinehurst No. 10, also located in Pinehurst, is another top-ranked course in North Carolina designed by Tom Doak. Known for its sandy, rolling terrain and diverse layout, this course offers players a meandering tour with a variety of challenges.
Other notable golf courses in North Carolina include Pinehurst No. 4, Tobacco Road, Mid Pines, Southern Pines GC, and Pine Needles, all offering unique layouts and challenges for golfers. Each course has its own character and charm, making North Carolina a premier destination for golfers seeking top-quality courses. With a mix of public and resort courses, there is something for every golfer to enjoy in the state.
In addition to the top courses mentioned, North Carolina also boasts Charlotte CC, Diamond Creek, Woodlake – Maples, Grandfather, Eagle Point, CC of NC – Dogwood, Biltmore Forest, Linville, Carolina GC, Forest Creek – North, Pinehurst No. 8, and Sedgefield CC. Each of these courses offers a different experience for golfers, from challenging layouts to scenic views and unique design features.
The ranking process for these top courses involved 100-plus expert panelists who evaluated each course based on its design, layout, and playability. Points were assigned to each course based on the panelists’ rankings, and the courses were then ranked accordingly. The panelists’ expertise in golf course architecture and design helped to ensure a fair and accurate ranking of the best golf courses in North Carolina.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, North Carolina offers a variety of top-ranked courses to suit every player’s skill level and preferences. From classic designs to modern layouts, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this golfing paradise. So, if you’re planning a golf trip in the future, be sure to include some of North Carolina’s best courses on your itinerary for an unforgettable golfing experience.
