Top 10 Must-Play Golf Courses Around the World

Golf is not just a sport; it's a journey that takes you to some of the most beautiful and challenging locations on Earth. From windswept Scottish links to pristine American parkland courses, these legendary venues offer experiences that transcend the game itself.

1. St. Andrews Old Course - Scotland

The "Home of Golf" needs no introduction. This ancient links course has been testing golfers for over 600 years and remains the most revered venue in the sport.

What Makes It Special

• History: Dating back to the 1400s, it's where golf began
• The Road Hole: The famous 17th hole is one of golf's greatest challenges
• Accessibility: Unlike many exclusive courses, St. Andrews accepts public play
• The R&A: Home to one of golf's governing bodies

Playing Tips

• Book well in advance through the ballot system
• Links golf requires different shot-making skills
• Weather can change quickly - dress in layers
• Respect the traditions and history of the course

Notable Features

The iconic Swilcan Bridge, Hell Bunker, and the massive double greens make this course instantly recognizable to golf fans worldwide.

2. Augusta National Golf Club - Georgia, USA

Home to The Masters Tournament, Augusta National is golf's most exclusive club and arguably its most beautiful course.

Course Highlights

• Amen Corner: Holes 11, 12, and 13 form golf's most famous stretch
• Azaleas and Dogwoods: The course is renowned for its stunning flora
• Conditions: Maintained to absolute perfection year-round
• Green Speed: Among the fastest greens in professional golf

The Masters Experience

• Only way to play is as a guest of a member
• The tournament transforms the course into golf's cathedral
• Patron (not spectator) experience is unmatched in sports
• Pimento cheese sandwiches are a tradition

3. Pebble Beach Golf Links - California, USA

Perched on the rugged Monterey Peninsula coastline, Pebble Beach offers stunning ocean views and challenging coastal conditions.

Signature Holes

• 7th Hole: Short par-3 with the Pacific as your backdrop
• 8th Hole: Dramatic par-4 along the coastline
• 18th Hole: Famous finishing hole where majors are won and lost

What to Expect

• Premium green fees reflecting its prestigious status
• Weather can be unpredictable with marine layers
• Spyglass Hill and Monterey Peninsula Country Club nearby
• The Lodge at Pebble Beach offers luxury accommodations

4. Pinehurst No. 2 - North Carolina, USA

Donald Ross's masterpiece in the North Carolina Sandhills is a pure test of golf that has hosted multiple U.S. Opens.

Course Characteristics

• Crowned Greens: Ross's signature inverted-bowl greens
• Strategic Design: Rewards precise shot placement
• No Rough: Native sandy areas frame the fairways
• Walking Preferred: Best experienced on foot

Historical Significance

• Hosted more combined men's and women's majors than any other course
• The cradle of American golf course architecture
• Home to the first golf course designed specifically for resort play

5. Royal County Down - Northern Ireland

Consistently ranked among the world's best, this links course offers stunning views of the Mountains of Mourne.

Course Features

• Blind Shots: Many approach shots require local knowledge
• Gorse and Heather: Natural hazards frame every hole
• Slieve Donard: The mountain backdrop is breathtaking
• Wind Factor: Conditions change constantly

Playing Strategy

• Local caddie knowledge is invaluable
• Course management is more important than distance
• The back nine is considered superior to the front
• Weather preparation is essential

6. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club - New York, USA

This exclusive Long Island course offers a links-style experience in America with firm, fast conditions and challenging winds.

Course Design

• William Flynn: Redesigned by the legendary architect
• Native Areas: Tall fescue grass creates natural hazards
• Elevated Greens: Most putting surfaces are raised
• Wind Patterns: Constant breeze affects every shot

Tournament History

• Multiple U.S. Open host
• One of the five founding clubs of the USGA
• Maintains traditional golf values and presentation

7. Royal Melbourne Golf Club - Australia

Considered the finest course in the Southern Hemisphere, Royal Melbourne's composite course combines the best holes from the East and West courses.

Unique Features

• Alister MacKenzie: Designed by the legendary architect
• Sand Belt: Part of Melbourne's famous sand belt region
• Fast Conditions: Firm fairways and greens year-round
• Strategic Bunkering: Precise placement required

Australian Golf Culture

• Members enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
• The clubhouse and traditions reflect golf's heritage
• Gateway to exploring other excellent sand belt courses

8. Muirfield - Scotland

Home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, Muirfield is considered the fairest test in championship golf.

Course Layout

• Two Loops: Unique routing of two returning nines
• Consistent Wind: Fair but challenging conditions
• Deep Bunkers: Over 150 strategically placed bunkers
• Precision Required: Rewards accurate shot-making

Championship Pedigree

• Regular Open Championship host
• Has produced some of golf's greatest moments
• Maintains traditional links golf values

9. Cypress Point Club - California, USA

The most exclusive course in America, Cypress Point offers an unmatched combination of forest and ocean holes.

Legendary Holes

• 16th Hole: Par-3 across the Pacific Ocean
• 15th, 16th, 17th: Three consecutive oceanside holes
• Dramatic Scenery: Unparalleled natural beauty
• Wildlife: Seals, deer, and birds are common sights

Playing Experience

• Invitation-only access makes it golf's ultimate prize
• Conditioning is always pristine
• Pace of play is relaxed and enjoyable
• Caddies provide invaluable local knowledge

10. Royal Birkdale - England

This Lancashire links course is known for its towering sand dunes and excellent championship conditions.

Course Characteristics

• Sand Dunes: Massive dunes frame every hole
• Par-3s: Four excellent short holes test every aspect
• Railway Land: Historic routing through former railway property
• Championship Standard: Regular major championship host

Weather Considerations

• Irish Sea winds create changing conditions
• Rain gear is always recommended
• Links golf strategies are essential
• Local knowledge helps with club selection

Planning Your Golf Pilgrimage

Booking Strategies

• Advance Planning: Top courses require significant lead time
• Travel Packages: Golf tour operators can secure access
• Member Connections: Networking within golf community
• Off-Season Play: Better availability and rates

What to Expect

• Premium Pricing: Bucket-list courses command premium fees
• Dress Codes: Most require traditional golf attire
• Caddie Services: Highly recommended at links courses
• Weather Preparation: Pack for all conditions

Making the Most of Your Visit

• Multiple Rounds: Play each course more than once if possible
• Local Culture: Explore the surrounding area and culture
• Photography: Capture memories while respecting course policies
• Course History: Learn about the venue's heritage and traditions

Conclusion

These legendary golf courses represent the pinnacle of the game's venue architecture and tradition. Each offers a unique experience that combines challenging golf with breathtaking scenery and rich history.

While gaining access to some of these courses requires significant planning, connections, or financial investment, the experience of playing where golf's greatest champions have competed is truly priceless.

Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime golf trip or dreaming of future adventures, these courses represent golf at its absolute finest. Each round played on these hallowed grounds becomes a cherished memory that will last a lifetime.

Start planning your golf pilgrimage today – these courses are waiting to test your skills and inspire your passion for the game.