The 10 Best Golf Resorts in USA: Your Ultimate Guide to Top Public Courses & Unforgettable Golf Trips

By / August 25, 2025
The 10 Best Golf Resorts in the USA: Your Ultimate Guide to Top Public Courses & Unforgettable Golf Trips

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • The USA offers an exceptional variety of golf resorts, catering to every type of golfer with experiences from rugged coastal links to desert oases and historic Southern retreats.
  • The “best” golf resorts blend*world-class courses with luxurious amenities, diverse dining, engaging off-course activities, and attentive service, ensuring a comprehensive and unforgettable experience.
  • This guide highlights 10 premier golf resorts across the USA, focusing on their top public courses and unique offerings for diverse golf trip ideas.
  • Effective golf trip planning involves considering climate, budget, group size, skill level, and desired experience type to select the ideal destination.
  • Essential planning tips include booking tee times and accommodations 6-12 months in advance for popular resorts, and packing appropriately for regional conditions.

Table of contents

Your dream golf getaway starts here. The allure of a perfect golf vacation in the USA is strong, highlighting the exceptional variety of golf resorts available across the country. Golf vacations in America vary from rugged coastal links to desert oases and historic Southern retreats, each offering a unique experience for every type of golfer. This guide will explore the best golf resorts in USA, emphasizing top public golf courses America and providing comprehensive golf trip ideas USA that highlight unforgettable settings and premier amenities.

What Makes a Golf Resort One of the Best Golf Resorts in USA?

When searching for the best golf resorts in USA, it’s important to understand what truly makes a destination stand out. The “best” golf resort encompasses much more than just the quality of its course. It’s about the full experience, blending world-class golf with luxurious amenities and seamless service.

Here are the key criteria that define an exceptional golf resort:

  • Course Quality & Accessibility: This is fundamental. Resorts must offer immersive, well-designed golf layouts that appeal to varied skill levels. For those looking for top public golf courses America, accessibility to all golfers is crucial. Resorts featuring multiple highly ranked courses, like those in GolfWeek’s USA Top 100 Resort Courses list, often score higher in this category.
  • Lodging & Amenities: Beyond the greens, a top resort provides comfortable, luxury accommodations. This includes a range of options, from spacious hotel suites to private villas and charming cottages, ensuring every guest finds their ideal stay.
  • Dining Experiences: High-quality on-site restaurants are a must. They should offer diverse culinary options that perfectly complement the resort’s style and location, from casual bites to fine dining.
  • Off-Course Activities: A truly great golf resort offers more than just golf. Think spa services for relaxation, outdoor adventures like hiking or fishing, cultural excursions, and entertainment options for companions and non-golfing guests. This ensures everyone in your group has an unforgettable time.
  • Service & Atmosphere: Attentive hospitality and personalized service elevate a resort from good to great. An ambiance that enhances relaxation and enjoyment, making guests feel pampered and welcomed, is essential.
  • Overall Experience: The ultimate measure of a resort’s excellence is the blend of scenic beauty, a welcoming resort atmosphere, and the challenge of its golf courses. This combination defines outstanding resort experiences.

The Ultimate List: Our Top Picks for Best Golf Resorts in USA

We’ve scoured the country to bring you the top 10 best golf resorts in USA, focusing on their premier public courses and unique offerings. Whether you’re planning a Pebble Beach golf vacation or considering Bandon Dunes golf trip planning, this list has something for every golf enthusiast.

These resorts offer a blend of historic prestige, unparalleled luxury, and some of the most famous links courses in the world.

1. Pebble Beach Resorts, California: The Quintessential Pebble Beach Golf Vacation

  • Location: Pebble Beach, California, on the rugged Pacific coastline. This iconic location is known for its dramatic ocean views and stunning natural beauty.
  • Key Courses:
    • Pebble Beach Golf Links: Consistently ranked among the world’s best, it was named the #1 USA Top 100 Resort Course by GolfWeek in 2025. Its cliffside holes are legendary.
    • Spyglass Hill: A challenging course that blends forest and ocean holes.
    • The Links at Spanish Bay: A Scottish-style links course featuring rolling fairways and ocean breezes.
  • Resort Highlights: Pebble Beach offers a truly luxurious experience. You’ll find iconic oceanfront courses steeped in history, a selection of luxury lodging options ranging from charming inns to grand hotels, exquisite fine dining establishments, and comprehensive spa facilities. The breathtaking coastal views are a constant companion.
  • Why it’s a top pick: A Pebble Beach golf vacation is the ultimate golf pilgrimage. It offers legendary course design with an unparalleled setting and world-class amenities. Having hosted multiple major championships, its reputation is unmatched.
  • Location: Bandon, Oregon’s remote coastline. This isolated location enhances the feeling of a pure golf escape, away from urban distractions.
  • Key Courses:
    • Bandon Dunes: The resort’s namesake, offering a classic links experience.
    • Pacific Dunes: Ranked #2 by GolfWeek in 2025, known for its dramatic clifftop holes.
    • Old MacDonald: A tribute to C.B. Macdonald, featuring wide fairways and massive greens.
    • Bandon Trails: Winding through dunes, meadows, and forests, a departure from pure links.
    • Sheep Ranch: Overlooking the Pacific with nine green sites directly on the ocean.
  • Resort Highlights: Bandon Dunes is famous for its walking-only links golf, catering to purists. The rugged natural beauty, constant ocean vistas, and cozy, stylish lodges provide a unique charm. Limited cart use is strictly enforced to preserve the integrity of the courses and the walking golf experience.
  • Why it’s a top pick: For serious golf travelers undertaking Bandon Dunes golf trip planning, this resort offers an authentic links experience reminiscent of Scotland. Its deep focus on the game itself, rather than superfluous frills, makes it a truly special destination.

Southern Charms & Championship Courses

Experience gracious Southern hospitality combined with some of America’s most celebrated championship golf courses.

3. Pinehurst Resort, North Carolina: The Cradle of American Golf

  • Location: Pinehurst, NC, a historic golf village that feels like a step back in time.
  • Key Courses:
    • Pinehurst No. 2: A Donald Ross masterpiece, ranked #3 USA Top Resort Course in 2025. Known for its iconic turtleback greens.
    • No. 4: Reimagined by Gil Hanse, offering dramatic bunkering.
    • No. 8: A Tom Fazio design celebrating the resort’s centennial.
    • The Cradle: A popular par-3 short course perfect for all skill levels.
  • Resort Highlights: Pinehurst is defined by its renowned Donald Ross designs and recent luxury expansions in accommodations and dining. It proudly hosted the 2024 U.S. Open, adding to its rich championship history. Guests will experience genuine Southern hospitality throughout their stay.
  • Why it’s a top pick: Known as “The Cradle of American Golf,” Pinehurst blends tradition and championship pedigree with modern amenities. It solidifies its place among the best golf resorts in USA by offering a timeless golf experience combined with top-tier resort comfort.

4. Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina: Coastal Elegance & Championship Play

  • Location: Kiawah Island, coastal South Carolina near Charleston. A secluded barrier island known for its natural beauty.
  • Key Courses:
    • The Ocean Course: A Pete Dye masterpiece, famous as a Ryder Cup site and host of multiple PGA Championships. It boasts more oceanfront holes than any other course in the Northern Hemisphere.
    • Osprey Point: A Tom Fazio design winding through maritime forests and lagoons.
    • Turtle Point: A Jack Nicklaus design featuring challenging holes along the ocean.
  • Resort Highlights: Guests can choose from the luxurious Sanctuary Hotel, various villas, or private homes. The resort features miles of pristine beaches, rich wildlife, and access to some of the most challenging championship courses available. The natural landscape is a major draw.
  • Why it’s a top pick: Kiawah Island combines championship golf history with spectacular coastal scenery and a secluded island ambiance. It offers a true highlight of top public golf courses America, providing both a demanding golf experience and a relaxing beach getaway.

Desert Oases & Mountain Majesty

These resorts provide unique golfing landscapes, from lush desert fairways to scenic mountain vistas.

5. Streamsong Resort, Florida: A Modern Golfing Oasis

  • Location: Streamsong, central Florida. A surprisingly remote and rugged area of Florida.
  • Key Courses:
    • Streamsong Red: Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, known for its strategic bunkering and unique landforms.
    • Streamsong Blue: A Tom Doak design featuring vast fairways and expansive sandy areas.
    • Streamsong Black: Designed by Gil Hanse, offering a bold, large-scale links experience with dramatic bunkers and wide-open spaces.
  • Resort Highlights: What sets Streamsong apart are its courses carved from reclaimed phosphate mining land, resulting in a dramatic, minimalistic design that emphasizes natural features like towering sand dunes. The lodging is equally modern and minimalist, designed to complement the unique environment.
  • Why it’s a top pick: Streamsong’s unique landscape and the purity of its golf experience attract players seeking striking terrain and uncomplicated luxury. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a different kind of Florida golf experience.

6. Scottsdale Golf Resorts, Arizona: Vibrant Desert Golf

  • Location: Scottsdale, Arizona desert region. Known for its sunny climate and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Key Courses:
    • TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course): Home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, famous for its electric atmosphere.
    • Troon North (Monument and Pinnacle courses): Renowned for immaculate conditions and stunning desert backdrops.
    • We-Ko-Pa Golf Club (Saguaro and Cholla courses): Offering pure desert golf without homes lining the fairways.
  • Resort Highlights: Scottsdale offers a high-energy desert golf environment, with numerous luxurious resorts featuring vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and stunning desert vistas. Many resorts offer stay-and-play packages with access to multiple championship courses.
  • Why it’s a top pick: Scottsdale combines great golf with a luxury lifestyle and a distinct desert atmosphere, perfect for year-round play. Its collection of courses and resorts makes it one of the best golf resorts in USA for those who enjoy the sun and an active social scene.

Mid-Atlantic & Great Lakes Gems

Discover hidden treasures and challenging courses nestled in the heartland and along the Great Lakes.

7. Destination Kohler, Wisconsin: Rugged Championship Courses

  • Location: Kohler, Wisconsin, on Lake Michigan’s shore. A unique setting that offers a surprising links-style experience.
  • Key Courses:
    • Whistling Straits (Straits Course, Irish Course): The Straits Course is famous for hosting the Ryder Cup and PGA Championships, featuring dramatic lakefront holes and rugged terrain. The Irish Course is an inland links-style challenge.
    • Blackwolf Run (River and Meadow Valleys): Two Pete Dye-designed courses that wind through river valleys and unspoiled meadows.
  • Resort Highlights: Destination Kohler boasts dramatic lakefront golf with rugged terrain that evokes the feeling of Ireland. Beyond golf, it’s known for its top-tier spa facilities, fine dining experiences, and multiple championship courses that provide a stern test for any golfer.
  • Why it’s a top pick: This resort offers world-class courses with a unique Great Lakes backdrop, combined with all the comforts of a luxury resort. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a challenging golf experience in an unexpected, beautiful setting.

8. Nemacolin, Pennsylvania: Luxurious Mountain Retreat

  • Location: Farmington, PA, nestled in the scenic Laurel Highlands of southwestern Pennsylvania.
  • Key Courses:
    • Mystic Rock: A Pete Dye championship course, known for its dramatic elevation changes and stunning views. It has hosted PGA Tour events.
    • Shepherd’s Rock: Also designed by Pete Dye, offering a different character with open meadows and deep ravines.
  • Resort Highlights: Nemacolin is an elegant mountain retreat offering far more than just golf. Its luxurious lodging options are complemented by an extensive array of recreational activities, including a world-class spa, adventure sports like zip-lining and off-road driving, and a renowned art collection. It’s an ideal destination for a multi-faceted vacation.
  • Why it’s a top pick: This resort combines challenging courses with opulent mountain resort amenities, making it ideal for relaxation and active fun. It’s perfect for golfers who also want a high-end, diverse leisure experience alongside their rounds.

Hidden Gems & Value Picks

These resorts offer exceptional golf and resort experiences that might be slightly off the beaten path but provide immense value and unique charm.

9. Big Cedar Lodge, Missouri: Scenic Ozarks Golf & Family Fun

  • Location: Ridgedale, Missouri, deep in the picturesque Ozarks.
  • Key Courses:
    • Payne’s Valley: Tiger Woods’ first public course design, featuring dramatic rock formations and a unique 19th “betting” hole.
    • Buffalo Ridge Springs: A Tom Fazio design that integrates natural Ozarks landscape and bison herds.
    • Ozarks National: A Coore & Crenshaw design with sweeping vistas and wide fairways.
    • Top of the Rock: A stunning par-3 course perched high above Table Rock Lake.
  • Resort Highlights: Big Cedar Lodge is known for being incredibly family-friendly, offering woodsy luxury lodges and cottages. Beyond golf, it provides extensive on-site adventure and nature experiences, including fishing, shooting, and a wilderness preserve. It offers multiple course styles, from championship layouts to a fun par-3 mountain course.
  • Why it’s a top pick: It offers a unique blend of rugged Ozarks landscape with upscale amenities. It is ideal for families and diverse golfers seeking golf trip ideas USA that cater to all interests, not just golf.

10. Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, Michigan: Northern Michigan’s Beauty

  • Location: Acme, Northern Michigan, near Traverse City. A beautiful seasonal destination known for its cherry orchards and lakes.
  • Key Courses:
    • The Bear: A Jack Nicklaus signature course, known for its demanding layout and championship caliber.
    • Spruce Run: A more forgiving course designed by Tom Weiskopf, winding through pine and spruce forests.
    • Wolverine: An Arnold Palmer design offering varied terrain and beautiful views.
  • Resort Highlights: The resort capitalizes on the scenic beauty of Northern Michigan, offering varied course designs. It’s a full-service resort with a comprehensive spa, diverse dining options, and is ideal for summer golf trips. The region itself offers many attractions beyond the resort.
  • Why it’s a top pick: Grand Traverse Resort offers a refreshing Midwest golf vacation with diverse courses and resort comfort. It’s a great option for golf trip ideas USA for those looking to combine quality golf with the charming, relaxed atmosphere of Northern Michigan.

Planning Your Dream Golf Trip to the USA: Essential Golf Trip Ideas USA

Planning a golf trip to one of the best golf resorts in USA can be an exciting adventure. Here are some essential golf trip ideas USA to help you make the most of your journey.

Choosing Your Ideal Golf Destination

Selecting the right resort involves more than just picking a great golf course. Consider these factors:

  • Climate: Decide whether you prefer warm southern states for year-round play (like Florida or Arizona) or seasonal northern courses (like Michigan or Wisconsin) that are best in spring through fall.
  • Budget: Costs can vary widely. Set a realistic budget for green fees, accommodations, dining, and activities. Resorts like Pebble Beach are at the higher end, while others might offer more value.
  • Group Size: Are you traveling solo, with a partner, or a large golf group? Some resorts are better suited for larger gatherings with diverse interests.
  • Skill Level: Ensure the courses match your group’s abilities. Many resorts offer multiple courses or different tee options to accommodate beginners to pros.
  • Desired Experience Type: Do you crave rugged coastal links (like Bandon Dunes), vibrant desert golf (Scottsdale), historic courses (Pinehurst), or family-friendly facilities (Big Cedar Lodge)? Define your ideal vacation.

Essential Booking Tips for Your Golf Getaway

Smart booking can save you stress and money, especially when planning a trip to the top public golf courses America.

  • Tee Times: For popular resorts like Pebble Beach and Bandon Dunes, tee times are in high demand. It is often necessary to book 6-12 months in advance to secure your desired slots. Plan early!
  • Accommodations: While on-site lodging often provides the most convenient and immersive experience, nearby hotels or vacation rentals can sometimes offer cost-effective alternatives if your budget is tighter.
  • Flights & Transportation: Don’t forget to reserve rental cars or shuttle services well in advance, especially if your chosen resort is in a remote location (like Bandon Dunes), which may require more planning for transport.

What to Pack for Your US Golf Trip

Being prepared with the right gear ensures comfort and enjoyment on the course.

  • Gear Checklist:
    • Golf Clubs: Your own set or plan to rent high-quality clubs at the resort.
    • Golf Balls & Tees: Always bring more than you think you’ll need.
    • Golf Shoes: Comfortable, broken-in golf shoes are essential, especially for walking-only courses.
    • Gloves: Pack a spare.
    • Regionally Appropriate Attire: Consider desert heat, coastal winds, or mountain climate. Pack layers for varying temperatures.
    • Rain Gear: Always a good idea, especially for coastal or northern destinations.
    • Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun, regardless of location.
    • First-Aid Basics: Band-aids, pain relievers, etc.
    • Suitable Shoes for Walking-Only Courses: For resorts like Bandon Dunes, good walking shoes are vital.

Maximizing Your Golf Resort Experience

A golf trip is more than just playing rounds. Elevate your experience with these tips:

  • Explore Dining: Indulge in the fine dining options at on-site restaurants. Many resorts boast award-winning chefs and unique culinary experiences.
  • Indulge in Spas: Take advantage of spa services for post-round relaxation and rejuvenation. A massage can be the perfect end to a long day on the course.
  • Try Local Excursions: Don’t limit your trip to the golf course. Explore local attractions, cultural sites, or outdoor adventures in the surrounding area. This enriches your golf vacation experience, making it enjoyable for both players and non-golfing companions.
  • Connect with Fellow Golfers: Many resorts foster a friendly atmosphere. Strike up conversations, share tips, and make new golf buddies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Best Golf Resorts in USA

We’ve compiled answers to common questions about finding the best golf resorts in USA and planning your ultimate golf vacation.

Q1: What’s the best time of year to visit the best golf resorts in USA?

A: Spring through fall (April to October) is generally ideal for most golf resorts, especially those in northern states. However, desert locations like Scottsdale offer fantastic year-round play due to their warm, dry climate, making winter months particularly popular.

Q2: Are these top public golf courses America suitable for all skill levels?

A: Yes, many of these top public golf courses America are designed to be enjoyable for a wide range of skill levels. Most resorts offer multiple courses or have several tee boxes on each course, allowing beginners to pros to find a suitable challenge.

Q3: How much does a typical Pebble Beach golf vacation cost?

A: A Pebble Beach golf vacation can be quite expensive due to its prestige and world-class status. Costs can easily exceed several thousand dollars per person, including green fees, luxury accommodations, dining, and other extras. It’s an investment in a truly unforgettable experience.

Q4: What should I know about Bandon Dunes golf trip planning regarding caddies or carts?

A: For Bandon Dunes golf trip planning, it’s crucial to know that the resort’s main courses are walking-only. Carts are not permitted. The resort strongly encourages the use of caddies for the full, authentic links experience, and they are highly recommended.

Q5: Can I bring my own golf clubs or should I rent at these resorts?

A: Both options are generally possible at most major golf resorts. Bringing your own clubs is often preferred by serious golfers. However, renting is a convenient option, especially for travelers flying long distances, as most resorts offer high-quality rental equipment.

Q6: Are there family-friendly golf resorts in the USA?

A: Absolutely! While many resorts cater to adults, places like Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri stand out for their extensive family activities alongside excellent golf courses. They offer a wide range of non-golfing entertainment options to ensure everyone in the family has a great time.

Your American Golf Adventure Awaits: Explore the Best Golf Resorts in USA

From the luxurious oceanfront greens of California to the rugged links of Oregon and the charming retreats of the South, a world of golf experiences awaits across the best golf resorts in USA. Each destination offers a unique blend of championship golf, stunning scenery, and premium amenities.

Start planning your unforgettable journey to these top public golf courses America. Which golf resort is on your bucket list, or what are your favorite golf trip ideas USA? Share your thoughts in the comments below!