The Best 5 Golf Destinations in the US

For golfers looking to experience some of the best courses in the world, look no further than across the United States. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious resort escape or a challenging backcountry course, there are plenty of options for every kind of golfer. From stunning mountain views and lush green fairways to coastal masterpieces with ocean breezes, here is our list of the top five golf destinations in America.

5 Best Golf Destinations in the US You Should Visit 

Kiawah Island Golf Resort – Kiawah Island, SC

With its stunning Atlantic Ocean views, Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a golfer's paradise, an hour south of Charleston. There are plenty of options for accommodation, from the five-star Sanctuary Hotel to villas and private homes, each offering access to leisure activities such as bike rentals, spa facilities, and miles upon miles of white sandy beaches. So whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, this idyllic golf resort has it all. 

Kiawah Island is a golfer's dream come true, boasting five courses that are sure to please. Pete Dye’s Ocean Course, in particular, stands out from the rest and should be at the top of every golf enthusiast's list—it hosted some of history's most iconic tournaments, such as Phil Mickelson's PGA Championship victory in 2021 or Rory McIlroy's 8-shot triumph back in 2012. 

The championship atmosphere here is undeniable. Complemented by Osprey Point, Oak Point, Turtle Point, and Cougar Point courses, Kiawah Island boasts an unbeatable setting for all your golfing adventures. But if you can’t make it out soon enough, improve your short game at home on a premium indoor putting green. 

Sand Valley – Nekoosa, WI

Nestled in the remarkable dunes of Central Wisconsin, Sand Valley opened its doors to golf enthusiasts in 2017. It is a wonderful addition to the list of world-class golf resorts and goes well with Heathland courses all over Europe. The resort features three exclusive golf experiences designed by renowned Coore & Crenshaw; it even earned Golf Digest's "Best New Course Award" in 2017. 

Sand Valley will give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience like no other thanks to its beautiful natural scenery and high-quality amenities. The world-renowned golf course, Mammoth Dunes, was designed by David McLay Kid and opened a year after the launch of Sand Valley. It gained immediate recognition after being honored as the "Best New Course" by Golf Magazine.

La Quinta Resort & Spa – Palm Springs, CA

Make your next golf escape to the five-star La Quinta Resort & Spa, where you can take in breathtaking views of the Santa Rosa Mountains just 20 miles southeast of Palm Springs. With 796 Spanish-style casitas, suites, and villas to choose from, many with private hot tubs, there is something for everyone. Unwind after a long day at one of their 18 complimentary tennis courts or swimming pools before savoring delicious cuisine from any number of restaurants onsite. Or, if relaxation is what you seek, book an appointment at their luxurious spa and choose from an array of pampering treatments.

Step up your game with a premier putting mat before your golf trip

La Quinta Resort is a beautiful place to stay, but the real draw is PGA West, which has five championship golf courses made by Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, and Greg Norman, three of the biggest names in golf. The Pete Dye Stadium Course hosts an annual PGA Tour event, which is not surprising given its ranking as one of Golf Digest's four most difficult courses in the country. Plus, each course offers sweeping views traversing through desert terrain and Coachella Valley's mountain landscape. Make your way over for what promises to be a feast of memorable rounds here at PGA West.

Pinehurst – Pinehurst, NC

Pinehurst, along with its neighboring towns, Southern Pines and Aberdeen, is a premier golf destination renowned for having some of the most remarkable golf courses in the country. What makes it such an attractive place to visit in 2023? Well, there are numerous reasons: 30 stunningly designed golf courses by Earl Stone, Gil Hanse, Kyle Franz, and Mike Strantz are all within reach.

With so many courses available, it's impossible to play them all. That being said, here is a list of must-play golf courses when visiting the area: Pinehurst Resort with its nine iconic courses, including Nos. 2, 4, and The Cradle; Mid Pines; Pine Needles; and Tobacco Road. These locations are highly recommended regardless of your skill set or experience level on the green.

Pinehurst Resort has a wide range of places to stay, from the Carolina Hotel to the Manor, villas, and condos. In the evenings, unwind at the spa or explore historic Pinehurst village, followed by local craft beers from the nearby Pinehurst Brewery. With so much to do onsite, you won't have any trouble finding something enjoyable during your stay.

Pebble Beach Golf Resorts – Monterey, CA

Pebble Beach Resort is on the beautiful south coast of the Monterey Peninsula. It has views and amenities that can't be found anywhere else. Whether you stay at The Inn at Spanish Bay, The Lodge at Pebble Beach, or Casa Palmero, you will be surrounded by breathtaking beauty and first-rate amenities. Enjoy a remarkable stay at Pebble Beach with wonderful activities, from beach strolls to exploring the beautiful 17-Mile Drive. The award-winning spa directly overlooks the magnificent Pacific Ocean, and for those seeking an even more exhilarating experience, don't miss out on their tennis and fitness centers, which are guaranteed to get your heart rate up. Plus, there is no shortage of delicious dining options, including Stillwater Bar & Grill, where you can savor breathtaking views of Pebble Beach's iconic 18th hole.

With four first-class golf courses to choose from, Pebble Beach Golf Links is undoubtedly the star of the show. Since 2003, Golf Digest has called it America's Best Public Golf Course. It has already hosted six US Opens and is still a favorite place for golfers all over the world. The other three courses – Spyglass Hill, Del Monte, and The Links at Spanish Bay - also offer an incredible experience. Still, none of them can beat Spyglass Hill, which many people think is one of the best major tournament courses that has never hosted a major. 

Final Thoughts

Whether you want a classic links-style course or something more modern and unique, there’s sure to be a destination that suits your needs. With so many courses available nationwide, deciding where to go on your next golf vacation can often be challenging. But with these top choices, you can rest assured knowing you will get an unforgettable experience no matter your choice.

The benefits of hitting the course are numerous, yet the key to improving your golf game lies as much in preparation as in practice. To truly enhance your short game, consider investing in the best indoor putting green. These state-of-the-art training aids mimic the feel of real greens, allowing you to practice your putts and strokes in the comfort of your own home. Thus, before embarking on your next golfing vacation to one of these illustrious destinations, ensure you’re prepared by perfecting your putt with a top-tier indoor putting green.

Step up your game with a premier putting mat before your golf trip