Some of the most famous and well-known golf courses in the U.S. are private, requiring membership fees or special invitations. But while these courses are truly extraordinary and worth their price, some golf courses are open with earned reputations. Here are 10 golf courses that feel like they’re a part of a private resort.
Streamsong Resort (Florida)
Gazing at this architectural wonder, it’s no wonder that the Streamsong Resort feels like a private resort. The resort’s minimalist design and natural materials, such as stone, wood, and glass, reflect Central Florida’s landscape with its dramatic sand dunes and striking elevation changes. Its luxurious amenities—spa, shooting, and dining options—further drive the point home. Be prepared to be wowed and pampered after playing one of its three world-class golf courses.
Pebble Beach Golf Links (California)
Likely the most famous course on our list, Pebble Beach Golf Links is a public course that feels like a private club. Its exclusivity is felt with its high green fee and priority given to the resort’s guests. If you can book a tee time you’ll see the course’s amazing coastal landscape. Pacific Ocean waves crash against the jagged rock formations—you’ll feel like you’re playing in a professional golf tournament.
Arcadia Bluffs (Michigan)
Perched on the bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan, Arcadia Bluffs offers spectacular panoramic views. The dramatic elevation is reminiscent of other famous seaside courses. The golf resort’s three courses offer enough to satiate any golf fiend. Hit the Arcadia Bluffs links for world-class golfing. With views so breathtaking you’ll feel like you’re at a private resort.
Whistling Straits (Wisconsin)
More private resort-style golfing can be had at Whistling Straits, located along Lake Michigan. Its Straits course features windswept terrain, elevation changes, and over 1,000 sand traps that can add strokes to your game. Stay the night in one of The American Club’s upscale rooms, dine on British-influenced cuisine at the Whistling Straits Restaurant, and visit the award-winning golf shop when you visit Whistling Straits.
Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course (Nevada)
You step up to tee off. As you push your tee into the ground and steady your ball you look out to the water and see boaters watching you. It feels like you’re playing in the PGA Tournament. At Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course in Nevada, a couple of holes are on the beach of Lake Tahoe. The meticulously cared-for course—pristine greens, freshly cut fairways, and lush rough areas—makes this destination feel exclusive. This is a world-class golf course open to all.
Pinehurst Resort (North Carolina)
Nestled in the North Carolina sand hills, Pinehurst Resort boasts public and private golf courses. The remoteness of the courses provides golfers with an immersive experience, far removed from the city’s bustle. By the back 9 on one of its public courses you’re going to want to become a member and gain access to the exclusive courses, like Course No. 2.
Shadow Creek (Nevada)
Although this is technically a public course, its strict restrictions and limitations give it a private feel. To play a round of golf you’ll have to try to find an open tee time. Residents staying at the MGM Resorts International in Las Vegas get first dibs, and they have the course exclusively for the weekends. Another reason it feels like a private course is its exceptionally high green fee, which exceeds $600 per round.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort (South Carolina)
At the Kiawah Island Golf Resort you’ll have access to five public golf courses, including Ocean Course, Osprey Point, and Turtle Point. The resort manages nearly 500 villa and home properties, making it a better option than a regular hotel. If you want access to the resort’s two private courses, consider becoming a member. After you play one of them you’ll find it hard to resist.
Manele Golf Course (Hawaii)
When people think about Hawaii they don’t immediately think about good golfing. Maybe they think about ukuleles, volcanoes, and surfing. But Manele Golf Course is a gem that feels like it should be private. But it kind of is. The course is open to guests staying at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. Built on lava, the course features ocean views at every hole. The grass is immaculate, expertly manicured, giving the course its exclusive feel.
Brandon Dunes Golf Resort (Oregon)
Our last public golf course that feels like you should have a membership to use is Brandon Dunes Golf Resort. The courses are renowned for their difficulty, and the Oregon coast offers some incredible scenery. When you’re teeing off you’ll wonder “how do I get access to all this?” It feels like you should be paying a premium membership fee.
