25 of the Best Golf Courses in North Carolina

North Carolina stands as a premier golf destination in the United States, boasting diverse terrain from the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the sandy Sandhills region. I’ve explored many courses across the state and can attest to the exceptional quality and variety available to golf enthusiasts of all skill levels.

The Tar Heel State is home to some of the most prestigious golf courses in America, including Donald Ross masterpieces and championship venues that have hosted major tournaments. From the historic Pinehurst No. 2 to hidden gems tucked away in mountain valleys and coastal plains, North Carolina offers a golf experience that rivals any in the country. The combination of stunning natural landscapes, challenging designs, and southern hospitality makes these courses truly special.

1) Pinehurst No. 2

Pinehurst No. 2 stands as North Carolina’s crown jewel of golf, designed by the legendary Donald Ross in 1907. This iconic course has hosted more single golf championships than any other in America, including multiple U.S. Opens, the Ryder Cup, and PGA Championships.

The course underwent a significant restoration in 2010 by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, returning it to Ross’s original vision. They removed the rough, expanded the fairways to 41 acres, and reintroduced the native sandscapes that give the course its distinctive character and strategic challenge.

What makes Pinehurst No. 2 special is its crowned, undulating greens that repel anything but the most precise approaches. The course demands thoughtful shot-making rather than just power, with 111 strategically placed bunkers protecting the famous “inverted saucer” greens that Ross made his signature.

As the U.S. Open’s anchor site, Pinehurst No. 2 will continue making history with scheduled championships in 2029, 2035, 2041, and 2047. This allows today’s players to walk in the footsteps of legends on a course that has tested the world’s best for over a century.

Rating: 4.8 (706 reviews)
Location: 1 Carolina Vista Dr, Pinehurst, NC 28374
Contact: (877) 545-2124
Website: Visit Website

2) Old Town Club

Old Town Club in Winston-Salem stands as one of North Carolina’s most prestigious golf destinations. This private club boasts a Perry Maxwell design that first opened in 1939 and has maintained its status as a classic gem in American golf.

The course layout is celebrated for its strategic bunkering and undulating greens that create a challenging yet fair test of golf. Recent restoration work has brought the course back to Maxwell’s original vision, earning it significant praise from golf architecture enthusiasts.

The club embraces a traditional golf experience with an emphasis on walking the course. Members and guests appreciate the peaceful setting away from busy city life, with the layout flowing naturally through the rolling Piedmont landscape.

I found the course conditioning to be exceptional, with firm fairways and quick greens that demand precision from golfers of all skill levels. The club’s commitment to preserving its classic character while providing modern amenities makes it a standout among North Carolina’s elite courses.

Rating: 4.8 (111 reviews)
Location: 2875 Old Town Club Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106
Contact: (336) 723-5533
Website: Visit Website

3) Pinehurst No. 4

Pinehurst No. 4 stands as one of North Carolina’s premier golfing destinations, reimagined by acclaimed architect Gil Hanse in 2018. The course beautifully captures the essence of Sandhills golf with its stunning visuals and strategic design elements.

Vast expanses of exposed sand frame the fairways and appear in cross-fairway bunkers, creating both visual drama and challenging play scenarios. The native wiregrass perfectly complements the rolling topography, making each hole a unique experience for golfers of various skill levels.

The course’s exceptional design earned it the honor of hosting the 2019 U.S. Amateur just one year after its reopening, demonstrating its tournament-worthy credentials. Originally designed by Donald Ross in 1919, No. 4 has seen several redesigns over the decades before Hanse’s masterful renovation.

Throughout the course, players are treated to breathtaking vistas that showcase the natural beauty of the Pinehurst landscape. The strategic layout challenges golfers to make thoughtful decisions while enjoying one of the most visually impressive courses in the Pinehurst collection.

Rating: 4.8 (60 reviews)
Location: 1 Carolina Vista Dr, Pinehurst, NC 28374
Contact: (855) 235-8507
Website: Visit Website

4) Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club

Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club stands as one of North Carolina’s most prestigious golf destinations. Located in Southern Pines, this internationally renowned course offers golfers an exceptional experience steeped in tradition and southern charm.

The property combines the challenge of championship golf with the comfort of resort amenities. The classic course maintains its timeless appeal while providing the modern touches that today’s golfers expect.

Visitors can enjoy more than just world-class golf at Mid Pines. After a round, I recommend grabbing a sandwich at Pop’s Lounge or experiencing a gourmet dinner in their refined Dining Room. The terrace overlooking the 18th green provides a perfect setting for enjoying a drink while reflecting on your day on the course.

The location offers convenient access to the quaint shops and restaurants of historic downtown Southern Pines and the Village of Pinehurst. This makes Mid Pines an ideal base for exploring the broader golf region while enjoying traditional southern hospitality.

Rating: 4.4 (611 reviews)
Location: 1010 Midland Rd, Southern Pines, NC 28387
Contact: (910) 692-2114
Website: Visit Website

5) Linville Golf Club

Linville Golf Club stands as a testament to classic golf course design in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Designed by Donald Ross in 1924, this course has maintained its original character while evolving to challenge modern players. The mountain setting provides both stunning views and interesting elevation changes that affect play.

The par-72 layout stretches across verdant valleys and hillsides, demanding strategic shot-making rather than mere power. Members and guests particularly praise the immaculate conditioning of the greens, which are known for their subtle breaks and true rolling surfaces.

What makes Linville truly special is how it harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings. Towering pines frame fairways while mountain streams come into play on several holes. The club’s private status helps maintain both the quality of the course and the peaceful atmosphere that makes a round here so memorable.

As part of the historic Eseeola Lodge experience, Linville Golf Club offers more than just golf. The classic clubhouse provides a perfect setting to reflect on your round while enjoying the traditional hospitality that has defined this mountain retreat for nearly a century.

Rating: 4.6 (42 reviews)
Location: 175 Linville Ave, Linville, NC 28646
Contact: (828) 733-4363
Website: Visit Website

6) Dormie Club

Dormie Club is a hidden gem nestled in the Sandhills region of North Carolina. Designed by renowned architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this course opened in 2010 and has quickly established itself as one of the state’s premier golfing destinations. The minimalist design embraces the natural contours of the land, creating a pure golf experience.

The course features wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens that challenge golfers of all skill levels. What I find most impressive about Dormie Club is its commitment to a walking-only experience, harkening back to golf’s traditions. The natural terrain provides a wonderful canvas for the game, with no housing developments to distract from the scenery.

Originally opened as a public course, Dormie Club has transitioned to private status but still offers limited public play opportunities. The clubhouse provides excellent amenities, including a well-stocked pro shop and a restaurant serving quality fare. The practice facilities are comprehensive, featuring a driving range and short game area.

Pine straw-lined fairways wind through longleaf pines, creating a quintessential Sandhills atmosphere. The back nine is particularly memorable, with dramatic elevation changes and risk-reward opportunities that can make or break your round.

Rating: 4.6 (207 reviews)
Location: 270 Dormie Dr, West End, NC 27376
Contact: (910) 215-4587
Website: Visit Website

7) Pinehurst No. 10

Pinehurst No. 10 stands as the resort’s first new course in nearly three decades, having opened in 2024 to much acclaim. Designed by the renowned Tom Doak, this course brilliantly incorporates the natural landscape of the North Carolina Sandhills.

What makes No. 10 unique is how it utilizes both natural wiregrass areas and the rugged dunes created by early 20th century mining operations. With 75 feet of elevation change throughout the course, players experience a diverse and challenging round that feels harmonious with the land.

The course was immediately recognized for its excellence, being named the Best New Course in 2024 by Sports Illustrated. Spreading across 265 acres, No. 10 features 45 sand bunkers and 165,000 square feet of Tif Eagle Ultradwarf Bermuda greens.

I particularly appreciate the walking-only policy that honors golf’s traditions. Push carts are available, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the landscape as they navigate this stunning addition to the Pinehurst family.

Rating: 5 (17 reviews)
Location: 1075 Sandmines Crossing, Aberdeen, NC 28315
Website: Visit Website

8) Eagle Point Golf Club

Eagle Point Golf Club stands as one of the premier private golf destinations in North Carolina. Located in Wilmington, this exclusive club offers members a meticulously maintained course that challenges golfers of all skill levels.

The layout at Eagle Point showcases the natural beauty of coastal North Carolina while providing strategic challenges that keep the game interesting. The course design incorporates natural elements with carefully placed hazards that reward thoughtful play.

Eagle Point gained national recognition when it hosted the 2017 Wells Fargo Championship, temporarily replacing Quail Hollow Club during its preparation for the PGA Championship. This prestigious event demonstrated the course’s capability to challenge even the world’s top professionals.

The club maintains a strong commitment to the traditions of golf, offering members a refined experience away from the public courses. Its exclusive nature ensures uncrowded play and impeccable course conditions throughout the year.

Rating: 4.8 (73 reviews)
Location: 8131 Bald Eagle Ln, Wilmington, NC 28411
Website: Visit Website

9) Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club

Pine Needles is a historic treasure in the Sandhills region, designed by the legendary Donald Ross in 1927. The course has maintained its classic character while undergoing thoughtful renovations to preserve Ross’s original vision and challenge modern players.

What sets Pine Needles apart is its championship pedigree, having hosted four U.S. Women’s Open Championships. The course features Ross’s signature crowned greens and strategic bunkering, rewarding precise shot-making rather than simply distance off the tee.

The property offers a complete golf experience with comfortable accommodations in a rustic lodge atmosphere. I found the rolling terrain typical of the Sandhills region creates natural movement throughout the course, with longleaf pines framing fairways and adding both beauty and challenge.

The practice facilities are excellent, and the staff maintains the course in tournament-ready condition year-round. This is truly one of North Carolina’s must-play destinations for serious golfers seeking a connection to golf’s architectural heritage.

Rating: 4.6 (431 reviews)
Location: 1005 Midland Rd, Southern Pines, NC 28387
Contact: (800) 747-7272
Website: Visit Website

10) Southern Pines Golf Club

Southern Pines Golf Club stands as one of Donald Ross’s earliest masterpieces, opening for play in 1906. The course winds through the dramatic terrain of the Sandhills region, creating a seamless blend between natural landscape and thoughtful design.

At 6,500 yards, this historic course offers a genuine challenge for golfers of all skill levels. The layout features tree-lined holes that navigate around a series of knolls and ridges, demanding strategic play and precise shot-making.

I found the course particularly appealing due to its accessibility. Unlike some exclusive clubs in the area, Southern Pines welcomes members, guests, and the general public. The peak seasons run from mid-March to mid-May and mid-September through the end of October.

The driving range provides an excellent warm-up area before tackling the course. When planning a visit, note that while the club operates seven days a week, it does close for select holidays and maintenance days.

Rating: 4.1 (308 reviews)
Location: 290 Country Club Cir, Southern Pines, NC 28387
Contact: (910) 692-6551
Website: Visit Website

11) Elk River Club

Nestled in the scenic High Country of North Carolina, Elk River Club offers one of the state’s most exclusive golfing experiences. The club features a signature Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course that beautifully integrates with the mountainous landscape, providing both challenge and breathtaking views for players of all skill levels.

The private golf course is just one aspect of this premier country club experience. Members also enjoy access to exceptional tennis facilities and an equestrian center, making Elk River a comprehensive destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking luxury amenities in a serene mountain setting.

What truly sets Elk River Club apart is its strong sense of community. The club fosters a warm, welcoming atmosphere where members from diverse backgrounds come together to create lasting connections. This camaraderie, combined with the stunning natural surroundings, creates a special environment that many members describe as feeling like home.

The golden evening light across the majestic mountain landscape provides a magical backdrop for rounds of golf and social gatherings alike. Whether you’re challenging yourself on the Nicklaus course or enjoying quiet evenings by a crackling fire, Elk River Club delivers a refined mountain golf experience.

Rating: 4.7 (111 reviews)
Location: 1000 Clubhouse Dr, Banner Elk, NC 28604
Contact: (828) 898-9773
Website: Visit Website

12) Tobacco Road Golf Club

Nestled in Sanford, North Carolina, Tobacco Road Golf Club stands as a testament to legendary course designer Mike Strantz’s creative genius. The course was masterfully transformed from a former tobacco farm and sand quarry into one of golf’s most distinctive and challenging layouts.

The unique design philosophy of Tobacco Road is immediately apparent, with Strantz’s artistic background influencing every hole. His vision was simple yet profound: “I want every hole to exude the spirit of the game.”

What makes Tobacco Road special is how it embraces the natural landscape rather than fighting against it. The dramatic elevation changes, blind shots, and strategically placed bunkers create a golf experience that’s both visually stunning and mentally challenging.

The course consistently ranks among North Carolina’s finest, offering golfers a memorable round that requires creative shot-making and strategic thinking on every hole.

Rating: 4.6 (788 reviews)
Location: 442 Tobacco Rd, Sanford, NC 27332
Contact: (919) 775-1940
Website: Visit Website

13) Cape Fear Country Club

Cape Fear Country Club holds a special place in North Carolina’s golfing heritage as the state’s oldest private country club, established in 1896. The 18-hole course was designed by the legendary Donald Ross, known for creating challenging yet playable layouts that test golfers of all skill levels.

The course’s prestigious history includes hosting the PGA Tour’s Azalea Open from 1949 to 1971, cementing its reputation among serious golfers. The layout features Ross’s signature elevated greens and strategic bunkering that reward thoughtful shot-making.

Beyond golf, the club embraces southern charm with extensive amenities including tennis courts, swimming facilities, and fitness options. Members also enjoy exceptional dining experiences and a vibrant social calendar, making it a complete country club experience.

The club maintains strong community connections, participating in charitable events and hosting tournaments like the Fore The Children Golf Tournament, demonstrating their commitment to Wilmington beyond their fairways and greens.

Rating: 4.6 (191 reviews)
Location: 1518 Country Club Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
Contact: (910) 762-4751
Website: Visit Website

14) Thistle Golf Club

Thistle Golf Club, located in Sunset Beach, North Carolina, stands as one of the premier golfing destinations in the state. The club features a Scottish-inspired design that pays homage to the traditions of the game while offering modern amenities and immaculately maintained fairways.

The course has received numerous accolades, including being rated the #1 golf course on MBGolfInsider.com in 2016 and ranking #3 among North Carolina’s best golf courses on GolfPass.com in 2022. It’s also recognized nationally, ranking #24 among top courses in the U.S. and placing in the top 25 best-conditioned courses nationwide.

Players will appreciate the attention to detail throughout the property. The club maintains exceptional playing conditions year-round, which has earned it recognition from Golfweek as one of the “Best Public Courses You Can Play” in 2023. As recently as 2024, it ranked #23 among the top 50 U.S. public courses according to Golfers’ Choice.

What makes Thistle truly special is its accessibility as a public course despite offering country club-quality conditions and service. The resort hotel facilities on site make it an excellent choice for golf getaways, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

Rating: 4.6 (712 reviews)
Location: 1815 Olde Thistle Club Road, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Contact: (910) 444-2500
Website: Visit Website

15) Diamond Creek

Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Banner Elk, North Carolina, Diamond Creek stands as one of the state’s premier golf destinations. This exclusive course offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains while providing a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience.

The course was masterfully designed to work with the natural mountain terrain, featuring dramatic elevation changes and strategic hole placements. I found the pristine fairways and impeccably maintained greens to be among the best in the region, delivering a true test of skill for golfers of all levels.

What sets Diamond Creek apart is its commitment to exclusivity and exceptional service. The private club atmosphere ensures uncrowded play and personalized attention, allowing members and guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil mountain setting while enjoying world-class golf.

The natural beauty surrounding the course cannot be overstated, with holes winding through wooded areas and alongside crystal-clear mountain streams. The changing seasons bring different perspectives to the course, making each visit a unique visual experience.

Rating: 4.9 (37 reviews)
Location: Dobbins Rd, Banner Elk, NC 28604
Contact: (828) 898-1800

16) Occano

Located on the picturesque banks of the Albemarle Sound in Merry Hill, North Carolina, Occano offers golfers a stunning waterfront experience. This private golf course combines challenging play with breathtaking natural scenery that changes with each visit.

The award-winning signature course takes full advantage of its waterfront setting, with several holes offering spectacular views across the Albemarle Sound. Water features prominently throughout the design, creating both visual appeal and strategic challenges for golfers of all skill levels.

Occano isn’t just about the golf – it’s part of a premium gated community where residents and members can enjoy the serene waterfront lifestyle. The course’s excellent condition and layout have earned it high praise from visitors, reflected in its impressive rating.

The natural beauty surrounding Occano makes each round memorable, with the glistening waters of the sound providing a tranquil backdrop to your game. This hidden gem in eastern North Carolina deserves its place among the state’s finest courses.

Rating: 4.7 (133 reviews)
Location: 105 Scotch Hall Ct, Merry Hill, NC 27957
Contact: (252) 482-4006
Website: Visit Website

17) Pinehurst No. 8

Designed by Tom Fazio in 1996 to commemorate Pinehurst Resort’s centennial, No. 8 captures the essence of what makes North Carolina golf so special. The course beautifully combines challenge and celebration, creating an experience that honors Pinehurst’s rich golfing heritage.

With its 58 sand bunkers and strategic waste areas, No. 8 demands precision from golfers of all skill levels. The TifEagle Bermuda greens are immaculately maintained, with the first hole featuring a distinctive ridge that divides the green into left and right sections.

The layout spans 83 acres of turf with 31 acres dedicated to fairways, providing ample playing space while maintaining the strategic elements that make it a true test of golf. No. 8 has received numerous accolades, including recognition in Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses and Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Courses You Can Play.

As a Signature Sanctuary designated by the Audubon Society since 1996, the course also demonstrates Pinehurst’s commitment to environmental stewardship while delivering a world-class golfing experience.

Rating: 4.8 (391 reviews)
Location: 100 Centennial Blvd, Pinehurst, NC 28374
Contact: (877) 512-2450
Website: Visit Website

18) Roaring Gap Club

Perched in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Roaring Gap Club stands as one of the state’s premier private golf destinations. The club boasts an impressive 4.8-star rating, reflecting the exceptional experience it offers to members and their guests.

The mountain setting provides not only stunning panoramic views but also creates a naturally challenging golf course that takes full advantage of the dramatic topography. Players navigate through elevation changes while enjoying the crisp mountain air and scenic beauty that surrounds this exclusive club.

Beyond golf, Roaring Gap Club functions as a complete private mountain community, offering members a retreat from everyday life. The club maintains a traditional atmosphere that honors the heritage of North Carolina mountain golf while providing modern amenities expected at a high-end private club.

I found the course conditions to be immaculately maintained, with attention to detail evident throughout the property. The exclusivity of the club ensures uncrowded play and a peaceful atmosphere that enhances the golfing experience.

Rating: 4.8 (35 reviews)
Location: 2663 Roaring Gap Dr, Roaring Gap, NC 28668
Contact: (336) 363-2211
Website: Visit Website

19) Pinehurst Resort

Pinehurst Resort stands as a legendary destination in the golf world, boasting a rich heritage that spans over 125 years. The resort features multiple championship courses, with the famed No. 2 course designed by Donald Ross being the crown jewel of the property.

The resort offers luxurious accommodations including three historic hotels that have been modernized with contemporary amenities. For those seeking more space, cottages, villas, and condos are available, making it perfect for golf groups or family getaways.

Beyond golf, Pinehurst delivers a complete resort experience with fine dining, spa treatments, and recreational activities like fishing on Lake Pinehurst. The property maintains a perfect balance between honoring golf’s traditions and providing modern comforts.

The resort continues to expand its legacy with exciting developments including Pinehurst No. 11, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, scheduled to open in Fall 2027 at the Pinehurst Sandmines property. This demonstrates the resort’s commitment to growing while preserving its storied place in golf history.

Rating: 4.8 (3437 reviews)
Location: 80 Carolina Vista Dr, Pinehurst, NC 28374
Contact: (844) 330-1669
Website: Visit Website

20) Sequoyah National Golf Club

Sequoyah National Golf Club offers a breathtaking golfing experience in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones II, this championship course combines challenging play with spectacular mountain views that frame each hole.

The 18-hole course features lush fairways, immaculate greens, and capillary concrete bunkers that ensure excellent playing conditions year-round. As I played through the course, I was consistently impressed by the panoramic vistas visible from every hole.

Owned by the Eastern Band of the Cherokee, this public course is just a 45-minute drive from Asheville. The club offers annual membership options that provide regular golfers with benefits like advanced tee times and access to premium practice facilities.

Sequoyah National has earned recognition as one of North Carolina’s top public courses, ranking #15 in Golfers Choice 2024. The combination of mountain terrain, strategic design, and natural beauty creates a memorable golfing adventure.

Rating: 4.6 (461 reviews)
Location: 79 Cahon’s Mt Rd, Whittier, NC 28789
Contact: (828) 497-3000
Website: Visit Website