Teeing Up: The Top 5 Famous Public Golf Courses in the World

We common folks can't play Augusta National or Riviera Country Club, but there are still some awesome and famous public courses! Here are some sweet public courses that are worth planning a golf trip around!

February 19 2023, 8:59 pm

By ScrollFiend Staff

Golf course on the ocean
PHOTO: MotionArray.com

As a golf enthusiast, there's nothing quite like the feeling of walking onto a world-famous golf course, with history and tradition at every turn. While some of the world's most famous golf courses are exclusive to members, plenty of famous public golf courses are open to anyone who wants to tee it up. Here are five of the world's most famous public golf courses, along with information about their greens fees and what makes them so unique.


Advertisement

1. Torrey Pines Golf Course

Golf ball near hole
PHOTO: MotionArray.com

Located in La Jolla, California, Torrey Pines is a public course that has hosted the U.S. Open and is a regular stop on the PGA Tour. The course offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding cliffs, and the challenging layout is a test for even the best golfers. Greens fees vary depending on whether you're a resident or non-resident of San Diego County. Non-resident rates range from $229 to $330 for a round on the South Course, while resident rates are lower.


Advertisement

2. Bethpage State Park - Black Course

Golf Course with trees
PHOTO: MotionArray.com

Located in Farmingdale, New York, the Black Course at Bethpage State Park is a public course that has hosted the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. The course is known for its difficulty, with narrow fairways and deep bunkers that challenge even the best golfers. Greens fees are incredibly affordable, with rates ranging from $65 to $130 for a round, depending on whether you're a resident or non-resident of New York State.


Advertisement

3. Kiawah Island Golf Resort - Ocean Course

Golfer at sunset
PHOTO: MotionArray.com

Located on Kiawah Island in South Carolina, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a public course that has hosted the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup. The course offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and the challenging layout is a true test of a golfer's skills. Greens fees can be pricey, ranging from $234 to $394 for a round, depending on the time of year. However, the stunning setting and championship-level course make it a must-visit destination for any serious golfer.


Advertisement

4. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort - Pacific Dunes

Golf course with a sand trap
PHOTO: MotionArray.com

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is a public resort home to multiple world-class golf courses located in Bandon, Oregon. Pacific Dunes, in particular, is known for its stunning seaside setting and challenging layout. Greens fees range from $95 to $290 for a round, depending on the time of year. The resort also offers accommodation packages, which can make it more affordable for golfers who want to spend a few days playing multiple courses.


Advertisement

The Old Course at Lahinch Golf Club

Golfer celebrating
PHOTO: MotionArray.com

Located in County Clare, Ireland, The Old Course at Lahinch Golf Club is a classic links course that is open to the public. The course has a rich history and has been played by golfing legends such as Old Tom Morris and Phil Mickelson. The layout offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding dunes, and the challenging course is a true test of a golfer's skills. Greens fees are affordable, with rates ranging from $75 to $205 for a round, depending on the time of year.


Advertisement

Golf course
PHOTO: MotionArray.com

Many famous public golf courses worldwide offer a challenging and rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels. From the stunning seaside setting of the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island to the classic links layout of The Old Course at Lahinch Golf Club, these courses offer a chance to play on some of the world's most iconic golfing destinations. Whether you're a serious golfer or just looking for a fun round with friends, these courses are definitely worth a visit.

The author generated this text in part with GPT-3, OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model. Upon generating draft language, the author reviewed, edited, and revised the language to their own liking and takes ultimate responsibility for the content of this publication.


Advertisement

Latest Stories