North Carolina is one of the best golf destinations in the U.S., thanks to its mix of historic courses, modern designs, and coastal layouts. Whether you’re a beginner, casual player, or a serious golfer chasing a championship-style course, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 public golf courses you can play in 2026 — plus tips on fees, layout, amenities, and travel.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Designer: Donald Ross
Length: 7,563 yards
Par: 70
Website: pinehurst.com
Pinehurst No. 2 is often called the “crown jewel” of public golf in NC. It’s hosted 5 U.S. Opens and countless professional events. Its crowned greens, natural sandhill terrain, and strategic bunkering make every hole a test of accuracy and patience.
Golf Academy and private instruction
Resort-style accommodations with multiple dining options
On-site pro shop with top brands
Access to 9 other courses within the Pinehurst resort
Fees & Booking:
Green fees: Approx. $175–$325 depending on season
Tee times can book months in advance, especially in spring and fall
Tips:
Practice on the 18-hole Pinehurst No. 8 first if you’re a beginner — it’s more forgiving.
Walk the course if possible; riding hides many nuances of the terrain.
2. Lonnie Poole Golf Course — Raleigh, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Designer: Arnold Palmer
Length: 7,025 yards
Par: 72
Website: lonniepoolegolfcourse.com
This is the only college golf course designed by Arnold Palmer. It blends modern design with sustainability — earning an Audubon International Silver Sanctuary certification. Its layout encourages strategic thinking rather than brute strength.
Full-service clubhouse with restaurant and bar
Teaching academy with PGA instructors
Practice facility: driving range, short game area, putting greens
Fees & Booking:
Weekday green fees: $55–$75
Weekend green fees: $65–$85
Discounted rates for NC State students and locals
Tips:
The back nine is tougher — it has more elevation changes and water hazards.
Try the restaurant after your round; it’s highly rated by visitors.
3. UNC Finley Golf Club — Chapel Hill, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Designer: Ellis Maples
Length: 7,050 yards
Par: 71
Website: finleygolfclub.com
A classic Carolina course with a rich history, UNC Finley is a mix of natural forested holes and wide-open fairways. The course has been updated several times to improve playability while keeping its traditional charm.
Practice facilities including short game area and driving range
Clubhouse with restaurant and pro shop
Golf tournaments for local and regional events
Fees & Booking:
Weekday: $55–$75
Weekend: $65–$85
Memberships available for frequent players
Tips:
Tee off early to avoid crowds; afternoons can get busy on weekends.
The par 5s on the back nine are challenging; plan shots carefully.
4. Crow Creek Golf Club — Calabash, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Designer: Rick Robbins
Length: 6,900 yards
Par: 72
Website: crowcreekgolf.com
Crow Creek is perfect for coastal North Carolina golf. Its well-maintained fairways and gentle elevation changes make it playable for all levels, while still offering strategic bunkers and water hazards to challenge mid-level and advanced golfers.
Full-service clubhouse with food and beverage options
Golf lessons and clinics
On-site pro shop
Fees & Booking:
Weekday green fees: $50–$70
Weekend green fees: $60–$80
Tips:
Visit in spring or fall for ideal weather; summers can be hot and humid.
Combine your round with a nearby beach visit for a full NC experience.
5. Bryan Park – Champions Course — Browns Summit, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Designer: Tom Jackson
Length: 6,950 yards
Par: 71
Website: ncgolfpanel.com
Bryan Park offers a championship-level course at a municipal price. It’s accessible, challenging, and consistently ranked among the top public courses in North Carolina.
Driving range, putting greens, and short game practice
Clubhouse and restaurant
Affordable rates with excellent course conditions
Fees & Booking:
Weekday: $40–$60
Weekend: $50–$70
Ideal for families and groups
Tips:
Play early morning to avoid crowds; parking is limited on weekends.
Great value for golfers looking to play two rounds in one day.
6. The Golf Club at Ballantyne — Charlotte, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Designer: Tom Fazio
Length: 7,200 yards
Par: 72
This course is known for its lush, parkland-style fairways and immaculate conditions. Fazio’s design emphasizes strategy over power, rewarding golfers who think their shots carefully.
Practice facility with driving range and putting greens
Clubhouse with fine dining and event spaces
Golf instruction and clinics
Fees & Booking:
Weekday: $75–$95
Weekend: $85–$115
Tips:
Try a twilight round for lower rates and gorgeous sunset views.
Ideal for intermediate to advanced golfers seeking a challenging round without traveling to Pinehurst.
7. River Landing Golf Club — Wallace, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Designer: Tom Jackson
Length: 7,100 yards
Par: 72
Located along the Cape Fear River, River Landing offers scenic water views on several holes. Its well-maintained greens and strategic bunkers make it a rewarding experience for all skill levels.
Pro shop and driving range
On-site restaurant
Event and tournament hosting
Fees & Booking:
Weekday: $50–$70
Weekend: $60–$85
Tips:
The front nine is slightly easier; the back nine tests your accuracy.
Pair your visit with a riverfront dinner for a full experience.
8. Forest Oaks Country Club — Greensboro, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Designer: Gene Hamm
Length: 6,950 yards
Par: 72
Forest Oaks is famous for hosting the PGA Tour’s Wyndham Championship in the past. It combines challenging holes with tree-lined fairways and smooth greens.
Practice areas including short game and chipping greens
Clubhouse dining
Event hosting for tournaments
Fees & Booking:
Weekday: $45–$65
Weekend: $55–$75
Tips:
Visit early spring or fall for the best course conditions.
Look out for doglegs that can be tricky if you’re not strategic.
9. Old North State Club — New London, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Designer: Tom Fazio
Length: 7,300 yards
Par: 72
This is one of NC’s most scenic courses, with rolling hills, lakes, and pine forests. Fazio’s design challenges all levels while still being playable for recreational golfers.
Full-service clubhouse
Practice facility and golf lessons
Restaurant and bar overlooking the course
Fees & Booking:
Weekday: $80–$100
Weekend: $95–$125
Tips:
Early morning tee times are ideal for peaceful play.
Enjoy the clubhouse terrace after your round for spectacular views.
10. Tobacco Road Golf Club — Sanford, NC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Designer: Mike Strantz
Length: 7,400 yards
Par: 72
Website: tobaccoroadgolf.com
Known as the most visually dramatic course in NC, Tobacco Road is a masterpiece with bizarre, rolling bunkers and creative green complexes. It’s challenging, unique, and unforgettable.
Golf Academy with personalized instruction
Clubhouse dining with southern cuisine
On-site pro shop with high-end equipment
Fees & Booking:
Weekday: $150–$220
Weekend: $200–$250
Tips:
Not for beginners — it’s highly challenging but extremely rewarding for advanced players.
Wear sturdy shoes — some bunkers and slopes are intense.
Final Thoughts
North Carolina is truly a golfer’s paradise. From historic championship courses like Pinehurst No. 2 to visually striking gems like Tobacco Road, the state offers something for every skill level and budget.
Here’s why NC stands out for public golf:
Variety of Courses: Coastal, forest, parkland, and championship layouts.
Accessibility: Many courses are open to the public, not just private members.
Golfing Community & Amenities: Practice facilities, pro shops, restaurants, and scenic resorts make a day on the course enjoyable for everyone.
Challenge for All Levels: Beginners can enjoy forgiving tracks like Bryan Park, while advanced players can test themselves on Tobacco Road or Pinehurst No. 2.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are all these courses open to the public?
Yes! All 10 courses listed allow non-members to play, though some may require advanced tee time reservations, especially Pinehurst No. 2 and Tobacco Road.
2. Which course is best for beginners?
Courses like Crow Creek, Bryan Park, and UNC Finley are beginner-friendly. They have wider fairways, forgiving greens, and less penal hazards.
3. Are there any courses that are good for a full golf vacation?
Absolutely! Pinehurst Resort alone has 9 courses, including No. 2 and No. 8, making it perfect for multi-day trips. Pair it with nearby attractions for a complete golf getaway.
4. What is the average cost to play these courses?
Budget-friendly public courses (Bryan Park, Crow Creek): $40–$85
Mid-range (Lonnie Poole, UNC Finley): $55–$95
Premium courses (Pinehurst No. 2, Tobacco Road): $150–$325
5. Can I play year-round in North Carolina?
Yes! North Carolina has mild winters and warm summers, making golf playable year-round. Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable temperatures and the best course conditions.
