{"id":481132,"date":"2026-02-15T07:05:05","date_gmt":"2026-02-15T07:05:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/481132\/"},"modified":"2026-02-15T07:05:05","modified_gmt":"2026-02-15T07:05:05","slug":"the-50-greatest-courses-built-since-2000-australian-golf-digest","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/481132\/","title":{"rendered":"The 50 greatest courses built since 2000 \u2013 Australian Golf Digest"},"content":{"rendered":"

When the century began, golf course design and development were in a very different place.<\/p>\n

Hundreds of new courses were opening annually, including dozens of stand-alone, upscale daily-fee facilities (sometimes termed \u201ccountry clubs for a day\u201d), a segment of new construction that\u2019s all but extinct today.<\/p>\n

The industry was coming off a blockbuster decade in which the top private courses, resorts and real estate developments were distinguished by the size of their budgets and up-market aspirations exemplified by everything from marquee clubhouses to ornate landscaping to fleets of state-of-the-art golf carts.<\/p>\n

The architectural field in 2000 was broad, with the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Tom Weiskopf, Rees Jones, Robert Trent Jones II, Arnold Palmer, Arthur Hills, Greg Norman, Pete Dye, Bobby Weed, Steve Smyers, Bob Cupp, Keith Foster, Mike Strantz, Jim Engh and others all competing for the most prestigious national jobs. Even regional architects in Y2K could count on a steady stream of new course work.<\/p>\n

And in the background, a counterculture of hands-in-the-dirt, old world designers like Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Tom Doak, Gil Hanse, David McLay Kidd and Mike DeVries were beginning to make noise.<\/p>\n

The story of the 25 years since is one of inversion.<\/p>\n

New course construction cratered during the recession of 2010, and even 15 years later it\u2019s remarkable if 10 entirely new courses open in a year. Architectural focus has shifted to quality over quantity, with developers emphasizing great land over great budgets and pure golfing experiences over pure extravagance.<\/p>\n

RELATED:\u00a0Best New Courses of 2025: Thousands of ratings from our experts determined the latest winners<\/p>\n

Real estate development courses, the backbone of the industry in the 1990s and early 2000s, also died, though there are signs of revival in Texas and Florida. Most of the vital work remains in remodels and renovations, the vast majority for private clubs, and the big-name firms of the aughts all downsized and remain smaller businesses, if they\u2019re active at all.<\/p>\n

And now the most sought-after names in architecture are those former outsider auteurs: Coore, Doak, Hanse, Kidd.<\/p>\n

All of these trends are revealed as we look back over the last quarter century of the Golf Digest America\u2019s 100 Greatest Courses rankings. We roared into the century in one architectural paradigm and find ourselves now in another. The residual power of traditional upscale clubs and resorts\u2014specifically those from the aughts\u2014continue to hold sway in our rankings, but no one then could have predicted how people would travel enthusiastically and at supreme cost to strange, desolate, sandy landscapes where it would have been laughable to build golf on 25 years ago.<\/p>\n

MORE: The 13 most fun golf courses in the U.S., according to our expert<\/p>\n

To determine the 50 Greatest Courses of the 21st Century, we analyzed the 105 new courses that appeared on our America\u2019s 100 Greatest and America\u2019s Second 100 Greatest Courses ranking since 2001 (the rankings are published in odd years, and we expanded our list to 200 courses for the first time in 2013).<\/p>\n

Next, we determined the average ranking of each of them over its tenure, so if a course appeared twice, once at No. 170 and once at No. 190, its ranking average would be 180. The lower the average ranking, the closer to the top of the list it appears.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also important for relevancy to consider each course\u2019s ranking trajectory. Some designs came into the 100 Greatest hot and then witnessed a tempering of excitement, and others have become appreciated only more recently. We\u2019ve applied a Heat Index value to each design to reflect how courses are being scored in 2026 compared to how they were scored initially, tracking who is trending upward and who is not.<\/p>\n

To make that calculation, we measured the overall movement from the course\u2019s initial ranking to its current ranking. Points were added to courses that have fallen in the rankings (resulting in a higher total score, and thus a lower ranking), and points were subtracted for courses that have risen.<\/p>\n

The more a course has risen, the more it benefits. Designs that have gained 5 to 10 places overall in the America\u2019s 100\/200 Greatest ranking since their inclusion received a reduction of 10 points from their average ranking (remember, the lower the score the better). We cut 15 points for courses that jumped 11 to 20 positions, and so on.<\/p>\n

RISING HEAT INDEX <\/p>\n

Ranking increase 0-4: 0 points5-10: -10 points11-20: -1520-30: -20+31: -25<\/p>\n

We applied a similar scale in the reverse for courses that have fallen in the ranking, though have been more lenient to those that have lost ground since competition increases over time.<\/p>\n

FALLING HEAT INDEX<\/p>\n

Ranking decrease 0-4: 0 points5-10: +511-20: +1021-30: +1531+: +20Courses that have fallen out of the top 200: +30<\/p>\n

The final tabulation factors each course\u2019s average ranking over its tenure on the 100 Greatest list together with its positive or negative momentum.<\/p>\n

RELATED:\u00a06 new courses on our bucket list for 2026<\/p>\n

The results reflect how our course ranking panelists have viewed each course generally over the course of the last 25 years as well as where they see things now\u2014a historical record of the 21st century alongside a more concentrated estimation of the architecture that\u2019s most relevant today.<\/p>\n

50. SHELTER HARBOR G.C. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Shelter-Harbor-Golf-Club-1st-frwy-22327.png\"\/ <\/p>\n

Shelter Harbor<\/p>\n

Charlestown, R.I. Michael Hurdzan & Dana Fry (2005) Rankings: 4, 2019 to current Initial Ranking: 177 Current: 153 Average: 164 Heat Index: -20 Total Score: 144<\/p>\n

1 \/ 3 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Shelter-Harbor-Golf-Club-4th-green-22327.png\"\/ 2 \/ 3 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Shelter-Harbor-Golf-Club-Clubhouse-22327.png\"\/ 3 \/ 3 \"Private <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Shelter Harbor Golf Club Charlestown, RI 4.5 13 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Shelter Harbor, a lovely course built over difficult terrain, has been trending continually upward, and there\u2019s no reason to think the engaging design old New England vibe won\u2019t continue to push it inside the top 150.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 49. THE CONCESSION \"the-concession-golf-club-first-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

The Concession<\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

Bradenton, Fla. Jack Nicklaus & Tony Jacklin (2006) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 105 Current: 127 Average: 128.3 Heat Index: +15 Total Score: 143.3<\/p>\n

1 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

2 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-tenth-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

3 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-twelfth-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

4 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-first-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

5 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-second-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

6 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-second-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Jeremiah Khokhar<\/p>\n

7 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-fourth-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

8 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-fifth-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

9 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-seventh-hole-23043\"\/ <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

10 \/ 13 \"the-concession-golf-club-fourteenth-hole-23043\"\/ 11 \/ 13 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/The-Concession-Clubhouse-23043.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Jeremiah Y.Khokhar<\/p>\n

12 \/ 13 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/The-Concession-Hole8-23043.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Daniel Wagner<\/p>\n

13 \/ 13 \"The <\/p>\n

Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private The Concession Golf Club Bradenton, FL 4.4 17 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Though Concession has fallen overall since its debut, dipping to No. 141 in 2021, it\u2019s actually climbed 14 spots since then and is experiencing momentum. It\u2019s reasonable to believe there is more room to advance.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 48. THE DYE COURSE AT WHITE OAK \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/dye <\/p>\n

The Dye Course at White Oak<\/p>\n

Yulee, Fla. Pete Dye & Allan MacCurrach (2020) Rankings: 2, 2023 to current Initial Ranking: 142 Current: 143 Average: 142.5 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 142.5<\/p>\n

1 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/white-oak-florida-aerial.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

2 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/white-oak-hole-13-oar.jpg\"\/ 3 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/white-oak-hole-6-oar.jpg\"\/ 4 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whiteoak-plantation-florida-pete-dye-22132.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

The Dye Course at White Oak\u2019s par-3 17th.<\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

5 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whiteoak-fla-dye-22132.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

The par-5 12th.<\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

6 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whiteoak-fla-pete-dye-22132.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

White Oak\u2019s par-4 fifth.<\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private The Dye Course at White Oak Yulee, FL <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

It\u2019s difficult to see how White Oak, one of the most exclusive courses in the U.S. built for Los Angeles Dodgers owner and conservationist Mark Walter, can climb higher since so few people, including our panelists, play it. It takes data to change data.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review T-46. CLEAR CREEK TAHOE \"clear-creek-tahoe-eighteenth-hole-21998\"\/ <\/p>\n

Clear Creek Tahoe<\/p>\n

Carson City, Nev. Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (2009) Rankings: 2, 2023 to current Initial Ranking: 131 Current: 137 Average: 134 Heat Index: +5 Total Score: 139<\/p>\n

1 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-fourteenth-hole-21998\"\/ 2 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-second-hole-21998\"\/ 3 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-second-hole-21998\"\/ 4 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-seventh-hole-21998\"\/ 5 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-seventh-hole-21998\"\/ 6 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-eighth-hole-21998\"\/ 7 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-ninth-hole-21998\"\/ 8 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-ninth-hole-21998\"\/ 9 \/ 9 \"clear-creek-tahoe-eighteenth-hole-21998\"\/ Previous Next Pause Play false Private Clear Creek Tahoe Carson City, NV 4.5 20 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Though the numbers were always strong, Coore & Crenshaw\u2019s \u201cmountain\u201d course was late to the rankings, primarily because the club was slow to garner the 50 ballots needed to qualify.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review T-46. KIAWAH ISLAND CLUB (CASSIQUE) \"cassique-kiawah-sixteenth\"\/ <\/p>\n

The Cassique Course<\/p>\n

USGA\/Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

Kiawah Island, S.C. Tom Watson & Bob Gibbons (2000) Rankings: 9, 2007-2010; 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 98 Current: 198 Average: 119 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 139<\/p>\n

1 \/ 2 \"cassique-kiawah-sixteenth\"\/ <\/p>\n

USGA\/Russell Kirk<\/p>\n

2 \/ 2 \"148 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Kiawah Island Club: Cassique Kiawah Island, SC 4.5 13 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Kiawah Island Club\u2019s Tom Fazio-designed River Course faded from the Second 100 Greatest in 2025 while Cassique clings to its position, the novelty of this lowcountry links full of humps and moguls eclipsed by 25 years\u2019 worth of newer architecture.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 45. CHAMBERS BAY \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/chambers-bay-washington-twelth-24044.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

University Place, Wash. Robert Trent Jones, Jr. & Bruce Charlton (2007) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 121 Current: 132 Average: 128.3 Heat Index: +10 Total Score: 138.3<\/p>\n

1 \/ 6 \"129 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

2 \/ 6 \"129 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

3 \/ 6 \"129 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

4 \/ 6 \"129 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

5 \/ 6 \"129 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

6 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/chambers-bay-washington-twelth-24044.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public Chambers Bay University Place, WA 4.4 45 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

I would make the case that Chambers Bay should be ranked considerably higher given its incredible setting, unique design and U.S. Open host status. It should score higher in Shot Options and Character. However, there\u2019s been enough scoring dispersion to prevent it from cracking the top 100 thus far, so this position feels about right.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 1 \/ 3 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Shelter-Harbor-Golf-Club-4th-green-22327.png\"\/ 2 \/ 3 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Shelter-Harbor-Golf-Club-Clubhouse-22327.png\"\/ 3 \/ 3 \"Private <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private 153. Shelter Harbor Golf Club Charlestown, RI 4.5 13 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Previous rank: 156 Though the late club founder and northeastern financier Finn Caspersen was not an avid golfer, he was intrigued by the idea of building a club near his summer home in Rhode Island. But the property he had was challenging and quite severe in places, strewn with wetlands and studded with huge boulders. He ultimately determined that Hurdzan\/Fry was the firm that had the environmental chops and creative juice to make the most of it. Though the holes were limited in where they could go, they achieve a desired \u201cold New England\u201d flavor that mixes well with the more historic courses in the neighborhood and possess a dynamic range of strategic lines, carry options and green sizes. The early 1900s bunkering, crafted by Coore & Crenshaw shaper Jeff Bradley, is icing on the cake. View Course 44. STREAMSONG (Fla.) (RED) \"Streansong <\/p>\n

Streamsong Red<\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (2012) Rankings: 6, 2015 to current Initial Ranking: 100 Current: 133 Average: 115.3 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 135.3<\/p>\n

1 \/ 9 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/streamsong-resort-blue-course-eighth-matt-hahn.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Matt Hahn<\/p>\n

2 \/ 9 \"streamsong-red-second-hole-27503\"\/ <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

3 \/ 9 \"Streansong <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

4 \/ 9 \"Streamsong <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

5 \/ 9 \"Streamsong <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

6 \/ 9 \"Streansong <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

7 \/ 9 \"Streansong <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

8 \/ 9 \"Streansong <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

9 \/ 9 \"streamsong-red-8-staff.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public Streamsong Resort: Red Streamsong, FL 4.5 47 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

The courses at Streamsong would have to qualify among the most popular in the U.S. built this century, but only the Red has had, briefly, the scores to touch the 100 Greatest, showing how difficult it is to garner the consensus opinion needed to remain in that rarified company.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 43. SAGE VALLEY G.C. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/sage-valley-golf-club-south-carolina-eighth-hole-20828.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

Graniteville, S.C.Tom Fazio (2001)Rankings: 8, 2005-2011; 2013-2017; 2023Initial Ranking: 78Current: OFFAverage: 105.1Heat Index: +30Total Score: 135.1<\/p>\n

1 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/sage-valley-drone-20828.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

2 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/sage-valley-golf-club-south-carolina-third-hole-20828.jpeg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

3 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/sage-valley-golf-club-south-carolina-fourth-hole-20828.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

4 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/sage-valley-golf-club-south-carolina-fifth-hole-20828.jpg\"\/ 5 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/sage-valley-golf-club-south-carolina-fifth-behind-green-20828.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

6 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/sage-valley-golf-club-south-carolina-eighth-hole-20828.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

7 \/ 7 \"sage-valley-south-carolina-sixteen-20828\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Hennessey<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Sage Valley Golf Club Graniteville, SC 4.3 8 Panelists <\/p>\n

The ranking trajectory of Sage Valley, a beautiful and highly exclusive private club in the model of nearby Augusta National, shows how architectural attitudes the past 25 years have shifted away from composed landscapes toward more rugged, natural designs.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 42. SAND VALLEY \"110 <\/p>\n

Sand Valley<\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jeffrey R. Bertch<\/p>\n

Nekoosa, Wis. Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (2017) Rankings: 4, 2019 to current Initial Ranking: 110 Current: 134 Average: 118 Heat Index: +15 Total Score: 133<\/p>\n

1 \/ 7 \"110 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jeffrey R. Bertch<\/p>\n

2 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/sand-valley-hero.jpg\"\/ 3 \/ 7 \"110 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jeffrey R. Bertch<\/p>\n

4 \/ 7 \"110 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jeffrey R. Bertch<\/p>\n

5 \/ 7 \"110 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jeffrey R. Bertch<\/p>\n

6 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2019\/01\/06\/5c324a27bb5e322cd04818cc_110 7 \/ 7 \"Best Previous Next Pause Play false Public Sand Valley Nekoosa, WI 4.5 52 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Coore and Crenshaw\u2019s original course at Sand Valley has followed a similar path as their design at Streamsong, built five years earlier. It\u2019s receded slightly as more courses have entered this space, but it remains arguably the best expression of the resort\u2019s riveting sand and pine landscape.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 41. OLD BARNWELL \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Old <\/p>\n

Old Barnwell<\/p>\n

Jeff Marsh<\/p>\n

Aiken, S.C. Brian Schneider & Blake Conant (2023) Rankings: 1, 2025-2026 Initial Ranking: 131 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 131<\/p>\n

\"Old Jeff Marsh false Private Old Barnwell Golf Club Aiken, SC 4.4 36 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

New courses generally come in hot and then cool off, but the continued and growing admiration among architecture purists for this new design that entered the ranking in 2025 makes us think this number will improve.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 40. THE TREE FARM \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Tree <\/p>\n

The Tree Farm<\/p>\n

Jeff Marsh<\/p>\n

Aiken, S.C. Kye Goalby, Zac Blair & Tom Doak (2023) Rankings: 1, 2025-2026 Initial Ranking: 130 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 130<\/p>\n

1 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Tree <\/p>\n

Jeff Marsh<\/p>\n

2 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Tree <\/p>\n

Jeff Marsh<\/p>\n

3 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Tree <\/p>\n

Jeff Marsh<\/p>\n

4 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Tree <\/p>\n

Jeff Marsh<\/p>\n

5 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Tree <\/p>\n

Jeff Marsh<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private The Tree Farm Aiken, SC 4.5 25 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Because of their proximity and overlapping construction and opening timelines, Tree Farm and Old Barnwell will always be linked together even as several new courses are set to debut around Aiken. Their ranking status is also likely to follow a similar trajectory.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

The Dye Course at French Lick<\/p>\n

Pete Dye (2009) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 93 Current: 129 Average: 109.1 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 129.1<\/p>\n

1 \/ 7 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/French-Lick-Resort-Pete-Dye-Hills-27061.jpeg\"\/ <\/p>\n

courtesy of French Lick Resort<\/p>\n

2 \/ 7 \"french-lick-resort-pete-dye-27061\"\/ 3 \/ 7 \"french-lick-resort-pete-dye-27061\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Walers Photography<\/p>\n

4 \/ 7 \"french-lick-resort-pete-dye-27061\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Walers Photography<\/p>\n

5 \/ 7 \"french-lick-resort-pete-dye-27061\"\/ 6 \/ 7 \"french-lick-resort-pete-dye-27061\"\/ 7 \/ 7 \"107 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public French Lick Resort: Pete Dye Course French Lick, IN <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

At French Lick, Pete Dye did what Pete Dye did best, giving resort players thrills in the extreme, and our panelists have rewarded that. I\u2019m curious to know if the modest slide is a trend or if it\u2019s settling into a more appropriate tier. Will Dye\u2019s style become more, or less, appreciated the farther we get from his career?<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 38. MOUNTAINTOP G. & LAKE C. \"108 <\/p>\n

Mountaintop<\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

Cashiers, N.C. Tom Fazio (2006) Rankings: 8, 2011 to current Initial Ranking: 74 Current: 116 Average: 99.5 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 119.5<\/p>\n

1 \/ 10 \"108 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

2 \/ 10 \"108 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

3 \/ 10 \"108 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

4 \/ 10 \"108 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

5 \/ 10 \"108 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

6 \/ 10 \"108 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

7 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Mountaintop-Golf-Waterfall-24201.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Braedon Fox<\/p>\n

8 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Mountaintop-Golf-Views-24201.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Braedon Fox<\/p>\n

9 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Mountaintop-Golf-Teebox-24201.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Braedon Fox<\/p>\n

10 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/Mountaintop-Golf-Whitesand-24201.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Braedon Fox<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club Cashiers, NC 4.5 14 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Sometimes clubs are upset or confused to see their ranking fall, even through no fault of their own. Mountaintop is still the exciting, scenic joyride it\u2019s always been even though other courses that play to a different architectural imperative have nudged it.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 37. MAYACAMA G.C. \"2017-99-Mayacama-GC-hole-4-and-tee-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Mayacama<\/p>\n

Courtesy of Mayacama GC<\/p>\n

Santa Rosa, Calif. Jack Nicklaus (2001) Rankings: 11, 2005 to current Initial Ranking: 67 Current: 147 Average: 98 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 118<\/p>\n

1 \/ 5 \"mayacama-golf-club-20235\"\/ 2 \/ 5 \"mayacama-golf-club-20235\"\/ 3 \/ 5 \"2017-99-Mayacama-GC-hole-4-and-tee-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Mayacama GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 5 \"2017-99-Mayacama-GC-hole-14.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Mayacama GC<\/p>\n

5 \/ 5 \"2017-99-Mayacama-GC-hole-18.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Mayacama GC<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Mayacama Golf Club Santa Rosa, CA 4.4 9 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Mayacama has been a staple in our rankings since its debut in 2005, and though it\u2019s dropped from its high early positions it remains one of Nicklaus\u2019 best accomplishments\u2014a stellar example of his move toward more playable, aesthetically complete designs. Our prediction is that it stabilizes in its current range.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 36. EAGLE POINT G.C. \"2017-100-Eagle-Point-GC-hole-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Eagle Point GC<\/p>\n

Wilmington, N.C. Tom Fazio (2000) Rankings: 9, 2009 to current Initial Ranking: 83 Current: 119 Average: 91.7 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 111.7<\/p>\n

1 \/ 4 \"2017-100-Eagle-Point-GC-hole-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Eagle Point GC<\/p>\n

2 \/ 4 \"2017-100-Eagle-Point-hole-9.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Eagle Point GC<\/p>\n

3 \/ 4 \"2017-100-Eagle-Point-hole-18.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Eagle Point GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 4 \"eagle-point-gc-13.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Photo by Eagle Point G.C.<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Eagle Point Golf Club Wilmington, NC 4.4 13 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

This course, beloved by good players for its intense challenge on a windy site, rose as high as No. 48 in 2011 and is an example of how early rankings can skew how courses are perceived. No. 48 was always too generous for Eagle Point, and its fall of over 70 places also paints a false picture. The truth is somewhere in the middle.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 35. BIG EASY RANCH (THE COVEY) \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/the-covey-bigeasyranch-texas-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

The Covey at Big Easy Ranch<\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

Columbus, Texas Chet Williams (2023) Rankings: 1, 2025-2026 Initial Ranking: 111 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 111<\/p>\n

1 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/the-covey-bigeasyranch-houston-texas-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

2 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/thecovey-bigeasy-ranch-houston-texas-brianoar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

3 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/the-covey-bigeasyranch-houston-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

4 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/thecovey-bigeasyranch-houston-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

5 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/thecovey-bigeasyranch-houston-tx-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

6 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/the-covey-bigeasyranch-houston-texas-brianoar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

7 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/thecovey-bigeasyranch-houston-tx-brianoar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

8 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/thecovey-big-easy-ranch-houston-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

9 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/thecovey-big-easy-ranch-houston-texas-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

10 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/the-covey-big-easy-ranch-houston-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

11 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/the-covey-big-easy-ranch-houstontexas-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

12 \/ 16 \"Big <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

13 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/the-covey-big-easy-ranch-houston-texas-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

14 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/thecovey-bigeasyranch-texas-brianoar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

15 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/thecovey-bigeasyranch-texas-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

16 \/ 16 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/best-new\/the-covey-bigeasyranch-texas-brian-oar.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Big Easy Ranch: The Covey Columbus, TX 4.6 18 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

A surprise winner for 2024 Best New Private Course, The Covey is also a surprisingly interesting and cohesive design that debuted just outside the top 100. It will be interesting to see if panelists from around the country continue to be surprised by it and judge it at this high level as time goes by.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

The Preserve<\/p>\n

Joann Dost\/Courtesy of The Preserve GC<\/p>\n

Carmel, Calif. Tom Fazio, Michael Poellet & Sandy Tatum (2000) Rankings: 11, 2005 to current Initial Ranking: 83 Current: 115 Average: 90.9 Heat Index: +10 Total Score: 110.9<\/p>\n

1 \/ 6 \"2017-93-The-Preserve-GC-hole-18-from-the-tee.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Allen Kennedy\/Courtesy of The Preserve GC<\/p>\n

2 \/ 6 \"2017-93-The-Preserve-GC-hole-18-green.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Allen Kennedy\/Courtesy of The Preserve GC<\/p>\n

3 \/ 6 \"the-preserve-golf-club-6-carmel.jpg\"\/ 4 \/ 6 \"2017-93-The-Preserve-GC-hole-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Joann Dost\/Courtesy of The Preserve GC<\/p>\n

5 \/ 6 \"2017-93-The-Preserve-GC-hole-1.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Joann Dost\/Courtesy of The Preserve GC<\/p>\n

6 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2024\/6\/santa-lucia-preserve-entrance.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private The Preserve Golf Club Carmel, CA 4.2 22 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

It might not be in our 100 Greatest any longer, but we don\u2019t expect The Preserve to drift much farther than it has\u2014its setting is too entirely enchanting. The holes play through a landscape so attractive and majestic that one architect approached to build the course declined. He thought it should be left to nature.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 33. KINGSLEY (MICH.) CLUB \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/kingsley-club-first-hole-lc-lambrecht.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

The Kingsley Club<\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Mike DeVries (2001) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 114 Current: 109 Average: 119.1 Heat Index: -10 Total Score: 109.1<\/p>\n

1 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/kingsley-club-first-hole-lc-lambrecht.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

2 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/kingsley <\/p>\n

Andy Johnson\/The Fried Egg<\/p>\n

3 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/kingsley <\/p>\n

Andy Johnson\/The Fried Egg<\/p>\n

4 \/ 8 \"121 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

5 \/ 8 \"121 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

6 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/kingsley <\/p>\n

Andy Johnson\/The Fried Egg<\/p>\n

7 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/kingsley <\/p>\n

Andy Johnson\/The Fried Egg<\/p>\n

8 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/kingsley <\/p>\n

Andy Johnson\/The Fried Egg<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Kingsley Club Kingsley, MI 4.6 22 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

It took Kingsley Club a decade to crack the rankings, and it slid back to No. 133 before achieving its highest position in 2025-2026. This is one of the most unique courses in the U.S., striking an unlikely balance between intense fun and intense challenge, and we wouldn\u2019t be surprised to see it ascend higher\u2014it deserves it.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 32. THE MADISON CLUB \"120 <\/p>\n

The Madison Club<\/p>\n

Courtesy of Randy O\u2019Rourke<\/p>\n

La Quinta, Calif. Tom Fazio (2006) Rankings: 6, 2015 to current Initial Ranking: 131 Current: 123 Average: 117.1 Heat Index: -10 Total Score: 107.1<\/p>\n

1 \/ 5 \"120 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Henebry<\/p>\n

2 \/ 5 \"120 <\/p>\n

Channing Benjamin<\/p>\n

3 \/ 5 \"120 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Henebry<\/p>\n

4 \/ 5 \"120 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Mark Davidson<\/p>\n

5 \/ 5 \"120 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Randy O\u2019Rourke<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private The Madison Club La Quinta, CA 4.7 12 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Madison Club is one of only a handful of Fazio designs that have earned bonus points for moving up in the ranking since it opened. It achieved a high position of No. 108 in 2017, a sign of respect for the way the design team carved the course into uninteresting desert, blending it artistically within the surrounding real estate.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 31. STONE EAGLE (CA.) G.C. \"111 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

Tom Doak (2005) Rankings: 6, 2013-2015; 2019 to current Initial Ranking: 166 Current: 117 Average: 131.7 Heat Index: -25 Total Score: 106.7<\/p>\n

1 \/ 5 \"111 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

2 \/ 5 \"111 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

3 \/ 5 \"111 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

4 \/ 5 \"111 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

5 \/ 5 \"6th <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Stone Eagle Golf Club Palm Desert, CA 4.4 30 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

The designs of Tom Doak from the early 2000s often received the anti-Fazio treatment: They were dramatically underrated by our panelists out of the gate. But the scores for courses like Stone Eagle, sitting in the rocky foothills south of Palm Springs, have been rapidly catching up to their architectural merits.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

The Club at Black Rock<\/p>\n

Rob Perry\/Courtesy of The Golf Club at Blackrock<\/p>\n

Coeur d\u2019Alene, Idaho Jim Engh (2003) Rankings: 9, 2009 to current Initial Ranking: 27 Current: 160 Average: 85.7 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 105.7<\/p>\n

1 \/ 5 \"the-club-at-black-rock-13.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

2 \/ 5 \"2017-84-The-Golf-Club-at-Black-Rock-hole-13-aerial.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Black Rock<\/p>\n

3 \/ 5 \"2017-84-The-Golf-Club-at-Black-Rock-hole-13.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Rob Perry\/Courtesy of The Golf Club at Blackrock<\/p>\n

4 \/ 5 \"2017-84-The-Golf-Club-at-Black-Rock-hole-10.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Black Rock<\/p>\n

5 \/ 5 \"2017-84-The-Golf-Club-at-Black-Rock-hole-11.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Black Rock<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private The Golf Club At Black Rock Coeur D Alene, ID 4.3 16 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Jim Engh had an Icarus-like career, flying into the sun with nationally ranked courses before plummeting toward the back end of the rankings. Black Rock, his only remaining course on our Second 100 Greatest list, debuted inside the top 30 but symbolizes a highly deliberate vision for design that\u2019s been penalized in the era of naturalism.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 29. SHOOTING STAR G.C. \"126 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

Teton Village, Wyo. Tom Fazio (2009) Rankings: 5, 2017 to current Initial Ranking: 123 Current: 104 Average: 114.6 Heat Index: -15 Total Score: 99.8<\/p>\n

1 \/ 4 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/Shooting_Star10_5802-Evan-Schiller-2x1-full-bleed-crop.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

evan schiller<\/p>\n

2 \/ 4 \"126 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

3 \/ 4 \"126 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

4 \/ 4 \"126 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Shooting Star Golf Club Teton Village, WY 4.5 14 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Shooting Star is a relatively lowkey Fazio design where the alpine vibe and valley views of the Tetons are the center of attention. Like its name, it streaked 25 places into the top 100 in 2023 before leaving orbit in 2025. Whether or not that was the bright spot, time will tell.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 28. COLORADO G.C. \"124 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

Parker, Colo. Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (2006) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 131 Current: 105 Average: 118.3 Heat Index: -20 Total Score: 98.3<\/p>\n

1 \/ 6 \"124 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

2 \/ 6 \"124 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

3 \/ 6 \"124 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

4 \/ 6 \"124 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

5 \/ 6 \"124 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

6 \/ 6 \"124 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Colorado Golf Club Parker, CO 4.4 19 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

The holes at this Coore & Crenshaw design on Colorado\u2019s Front Range southeast of Denver chug up and down foothill slopes, crossing through meadows and upland pine forests. It\u2019s also been chugging up the ranking\u2014does it have the power to crack the top 100?<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 27. THE OLDE FARM \"The <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Laurence Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Bristol, Va. Bobby Weed (2000) Rankings: 6, 2015 to current Initial Ranking: 128 Current: 103 Average: 110.8 Heat Index: -15 Total Score: 95.8<\/p>\n

1 \/ 6 \"The <\/p>\n

Laurence Lambrecht<\/p>\n

2 \/ 6 \"The <\/p>\n

Laurence Lambrecht<\/p>\n

3 \/ 6 \"The <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Laurence Lambrecht<\/p>\n

4 \/ 6 \"The <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Laurence Lambrecht<\/p>\n

5 \/ 6 \"The <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Laurence Lambrecht<\/p>\n

6 \/ 6 \"The <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Laurence Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private The Olde Farm Bristol, VA 4.6 25 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Given its rural location in south Virginia, Olde Farm might be one of the least-known courses in our ranking, but it consistently earns high marks across each of our scoring categories. The design rewards panelists for the effort it takes to get here, and we don\u2019t anticipate that changing.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 26. DIAMOND CREEK G.C. \"2017-90-Diamond-Creek-GC-hole-16.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Diamond Creek<\/p>\n

Courtesy of Diamond Creek GC<\/p>\n

Banner Elk, N.C. Tom Fazio (2003) Rankings: 8, 2011 to current Initial Ranking: 87 Current: 95 Average: 88.5 Heat Index: +5 Total Score: 93.5<\/p>\n

1 \/ 4 \"2017-90-Diamond-Creek-GC-Clubhouse-and-hole-9-fairway.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Diamond Creek GC<\/p>\n

2 \/ 4 \"2017-90-Diamond-Creek-GC-hole-7-green-and-Hanging-Rock-Mountain-in-background.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Diamond Creek GC<\/p>\n

3 \/ 4 \"2017-90-Diamond-Creek-GC-hole-16.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Diamond Creek GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 4 \"2017-90-Diamond-Creek-GC-hole-17.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Diamond Creek GC<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Diamond Creek Banner Elk, NC 4.6 21 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Tom Fazio courses have a history of debuting high in the rankings, often inside the 100 Greatest, and then slowly sliding backward as the newness wears off and other courses come on the scene. Diamond Creek, part of his magnificent Western Carolina triptych along with Mountaintop and Wade Hampton, looked like one of his steadier designs until 2025 when it dropped to No. 95.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 25. DALLAS NATIONAL G.C. \"2017-59-Dallas-National-GC-hole-10.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dallas National<\/p>\n

Courtesy of Dallas National GC<\/p>\n

Tom Fazio (2002) Rankings: 11, 2005 to current Initial Ranking: 65 Current: 96 Average: 67 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 87<\/p>\n

1 \/ 4 \"2017-59-Dallas-National-GC-hole-10.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Dallas National GC<\/p>\n

2 \/ 4 \"2017-59-Dallas-National-GC-hole-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Dallas National GC<\/p>\n

3 \/ 4 \"2017-59-Dallas-National-GC-hole-9.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Dallas National GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 4 \"2017-59-Dallas-National-GC-hole-13.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Dallas National GC<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Dallas National Golf Club Dallas, TX 4.4 16 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Until two cycles ago, Dallas National was consistently ranked between No. 59 and No. 71. It dropped the last two periods but is coming off a major rehaul by Fazio\u2019s team, with the hope it can move the 20+ places back its former tier. We\u2019re guessing it comes close.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

Arcadia Bluffs<\/p>\n

Nile Young Photography\/Courtesy of Arcadia Bluffs GC<\/p>\n

Rick Smith & Warren Henderson (2000) Rankings: 10, 2010 to current Initial Ranking: 56 Current: 102 Average: 66.8 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 86.8<\/p>\n

1 \/ 7 \"Arcadia-Bluffs-Clubhouse-Aerial-Staff.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Photographed by Dom Furore at Arcadia Bluffs in Michigan.<\/p>\n

2 \/ 7 \"Arcadia <\/p>\n

Dom Furore<\/p>\n

3 \/ 7 \"2017-68-Arcadia-Bluffs-GC-hole-18.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Nile Young Photography\/Courtesy of Arcadia Bluffs GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 7 \"2017-68-Arcadia-Bluffs-GC-hole-11.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Nile Young Photography\/Courtesy of Arcadia Bluffs GC<\/p>\n

5 \/ 7 \"Michigan-Instagram-Courses-Arcadia-Bluffs-17.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Photo courtesy of Arcadia Bluffs<\/p>\n

6 \/ 7 \"2017-68-Arcadia-Bluffs-GC-hole-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Nile Young Photography\/Courtesy of Arcadia Bluffs GC<\/p>\n

7 \/ 7 \"2017-68-Arcadia-Bluffs-GC-hole-17.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Nile Young Photography\/Courtesy of Arcadia Bluffs GC<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club (Bluffs) Arcadia, MI 4.5 47 Panelists <\/p>\n

Second 100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

It\u2019s difficult to explain why the Bluffs\u2019 position has declined in recent years (it\u2019s slipped from No. 68 in 2019-2020 to No. 102 in 2025-2026), other than a general tightening of panelist scoring and the introduction into the market of similarly brilliant aesthetic displays that synchronize more naturally with their settings.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 23. BOSTON G.C. \"Boston-Golf-Club.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Boston G.C.<\/p>\n

Hingham, Mass. Gil Hanse & Jim Wagner (2004) Rankings: 8, 2011 to current Initial Ranking: T-89 Current: 91 Average: 84 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 84<\/p>\n

1 \/ 4 \"2017-82-Boston-GC-hole-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Boston GC<\/p>\n

2 \/ 4 \"2017-82-Boston-GC-hole-1.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Boston GC<\/p>\n

3 \/ 4 \"2017-82-Boston-GC-hole-15.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Boston GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 4 \"2017-82-Boston-GC-hole-17.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Boston GC<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Boston Golf Club Hingham, MA 4.5 15 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

You won\u2019t find a more stable course in the 100 Greatest than Boston G.C., the first prominent new design Hanse and Wagner built. That said, it\u2019s likely to remain fixed in this range, while the next Hanse & Wagner design listed, Ladera, has much greater upward potential.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 22. LADERA G.C. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/ladera-golf-club-california-channing-benjamin.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Ladera<\/p>\n

Channing Benjamin<\/p>\n

Thermal, Calif. Gil Hanse & Jim Wagner (2023) Rankings: 1, 2025-2026 Initial Ranking: 83 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 83<\/p>\n

1 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/ladera-golf-club-california-channing-benjamin.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Channing Benjamin<\/p>\n

2 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/ladera-gc-california-channing-benjamin.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Channing Benjamin<\/p>\n

3 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/ladera-golf-club-palm-springs-california-channing-benjamin.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Channing Benjamin<\/p>\n

4 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/ladera-california-channing-benjamin.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Channing Benjamin<\/p>\n

5 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/GD0224_FEAT_BESTNEWCOURSES_02.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

GIVE AND TAKE Ladera holes like the par-4 14th contrast wide fairways with exacting greens.<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Ladera Golf Club Thermal, CA 4.8 20 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

I\u2019m confident this course would have debuted inside the top 50 in the U.S. had it been built 20 years ago. Since then, architectural vision and execution have risen significantly, and dozens of historic courses have also made improvements. The barrier for entry inside the 100 Greatest is as high as it\u2019s ever been, to say nothing of top 50, so this placement for a debut course is notable.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 21. CANYATA G.C. \"2017-63-Canyata-GC-hole-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Canyata<\/p>\n

Courtesy of Canyata GC<\/p>\n

Marshall, Ill. Bob Lohman & Mike Benkusky (2004) Rankings: 9, 2009 to current Initial Ranking: 42 Current: 86 Average: 61.8 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 81.8<\/p>\n

1 \/ 5 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Canyata_Holes <\/p>\n

Patrick Koenig<\/p>\n

2 \/ 5 \"canyata-gc-2.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Canyata<\/p>\n

3 \/ 5 \"2017-63-Canyata-GC-hole-4.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Canyata GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 5 \"2017-63-Canyata-GC-hole-5.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Canyata GC<\/p>\n

5 \/ 5 \"2017-63-Canyata-GC-hole-16.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Canyata GC<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Canyata Golf Club Marshall, IL 4.3 14 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Canyata\u2019s challenging, sculpted parkland\/meadow design bucks the current fashion of Neoclassical naturalism, making its tenacious cling to a position inside the top 90 impressive. The Escalante group purchased the property last year and is transitioning the once ultra-private club to a national membership, and how the increased play will impact the rankings will be fascinating to see.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

Calusa Pines<\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht\/Courtesy of Calusa Pines GC<\/p>\n

Naples, Fla. Michael Hurdzan & Dana Fry (2001) Rankings: 10, 2007 to current Initial Ranking: 71 Current: 68 Average: 80.1 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 80.1<\/p>\n

1 \/ 10 \"2017-96-Calusa-Pines-GC-8-fairway.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht\/Courtesy of Calusa Pines GC<\/p>\n

2 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/Calusa-Pines-GC-hole-16 3 \/ 10 \"2017-96-Calusa-Pines-GC-8-behind-green.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

LC Lambrecht\/Courtesy of Calusa Pines GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 10 \"Calusa-Pines-GC-4.jpg\"\/ 5 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/calusa-pines-naples-florida-seven-21833.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Laurence Casey Lambrecht<\/p>\n

6 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/calusa-pines-naples-florida-fourteen-21833.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Laurence Casey Lambrecht<\/p>\n

7 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/calusa-pines-naples-florida-eighth-fairway-21833.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Laurence Casey Lambrecht<\/p>\n

8 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/calusa-pines-naples-florida-eighth-21833.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Laurence Casey Lambrecht<\/p>\n

9 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/calusa-pines-naples-florida-eighteen-21833.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Laurence Casey Lambrecht<\/p>\n

10 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/calusa-pines-naples-florida-clubhouse-21833.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Laurence Casey Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Calusa Pines Golf Club Naples, FL 4.6 51 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Admittedly, our system of tracking overall trajectory does Calusa Pines no favors: it\u2019s climbed 28 places over the last five rankings from a high of 96 in 2017, though only gets credit for climbing three spots. Regardless, it\u2019s one of the most creative and consistent courses built in the last 25 years.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 19. OLD MACDONALD \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/old-macdonald-sixteenth-25313.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Old MacDonald<\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

Bandon, Ore. Tom Doak & Jim Urbina (2010) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 49 Current: 81 Average: 58.6 Heat Index: +30 Total Score: 78.6<\/p>\n

1 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/old-macdonald-sixteenthcloser-25313.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

2 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/old-macdonald-seventh-25313.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

3 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/old-macdonald-fifteenth-25313.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

4 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/old <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

5 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/old-macdonald-sixteenthgreen-25313.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

6 \/ 6 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/old-macdonald-sixteenth-25313.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public Old Macdonald Bandon, OR 4.6 53 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

It\u2019s unclear if Old Macdonald\u2019s plunge from No. 56 to No. 81 the last two cycles is a trend or an aberration. Did the opening of Sheep Ranch, which did not make this ranking, dilute the point pool? Did the opening of The Lido at Sand Valley, the literal recreation of the course Old Mac was based on, suck enthusiasm? The next ranking will provide answers.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 18. KINLOCH G.C. \"Kinloch-Golf-Club-9-Manakin-Sabot-Virginia.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Kinloch<\/p>\n

\u00a92009 LC Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Manakin-Sabot, Va. Lester George & Vinnie Giles (2001) Rankings: 11, 2005 to current Initial Ranking: 33 Current: 79 Average: 54.6 Heat Index: +20 Total Score: 74.6<\/p>\n

\"Kinloch false Private Kinloch Golf Club Manakin Sabot, VA 4.6 25 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

The evolution of architectural tastes since Kinloch and the No. 1 course in this ranking opened the same year can be tracked through their 100 Greatest tenures. Kinloch, intensely private, is polished, clean, orchestrated and entered the ranking higher. The other, a resort course, captured attention for its minimalism and a devotion to finding holes in the raw land. Both are remarkable examples of their genre, but one became ascendant and the other, while still elite, regressed.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 17. CAPROCK RANCH G.C. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/caprock-ranch-nebraska-sixteenth-brian-oar.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brian Oar<\/p>\n

Valentine, Neb. Gil Hanse & Jim Wagner (2021) Rankings: 1, 2025-2026 Initial Ranking: 72 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 72<\/p>\n

As was the case with their Ohoopee Match Club, it was never a matter of if Hanse and Wagner\u2019s CapRock would crash the 100 Greatest ranking, only when and where. It nudged their Ladera design in the mutual debuts of both courses by nine spots, but that\u2019s just for now. The competition between this layout on a stunning, natural canyon-side site and the other on a completely created flat desert property will be one to watch for the next decade.<\/p>\n

\"CapRock false Private CapRock Ranch Valentine, NE 4.8 18 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

As was the case with their Ohoopee Match Club, it was never a matter of\u00a0if\u00a0Hanse and Wagner\u2019s CapRock would crash the 100 Greatest ranking, only when and where. It nudged their Ladera design in the mutual debuts of both courses by nine spots, but that\u2019s just for now. The competition between this layout on a stunning, natural canyon-side site and the other on a completely created flat desert property will be one to watch for the next decade.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 16. THE LIDO AT SAND VALLEY \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/The <\/p>\n

The Lido<\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

Nekoosa, Wisc. Tom Doak, based on an original design by C.B. Macdonald (2023) Rankings: 1, 2025-2026 Initial Ranking: 69 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 69<\/p>\n

1 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-lido-sand-valley-54421.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

2 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-lido-sand-valley-wisconsin-54421.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

3 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-lido-sandvalley-54421.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

4 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-lido-sandvalley-wisconsin-54421.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

5 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/thelido-sandvalley-wisconsin-54421.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

6 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/thelido-sand-valley-wisconsin-54421.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

7 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-lido-sand-valley-wisco-54421.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

8 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/thelido-sandvalley-54421.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Brandon Carter<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public Sand Valley: The Lido Nekoosa, WI 4.6 49 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Since 2001, 34 courses have debuted inside the top 100 on the America\u2019s 100 Greatest Courses list, but only six have done it since 2015. Three of those, however, came in 2025 with The Lido leading the way. The feeling here is that there\u2019s potential for this course, one of the most unique in the world, to elevate into the top 50 despite occasional detractors who don\u2019t understand it.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 15. ROCK CREEK CATTLE CO. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/4\/rock <\/p>\n

Rock Creek Cattle Co.<\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

Deer Lodge, Mont. Tom Doak (2008) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 119 Current: 65 Average: 92.9 Heat Index: -25 Total Score: 67.9<\/p>\n

1 \/ 5 \"103 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

2 \/ 5 \"103 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

3 \/ 5 \"103 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

4 \/ 5 \"103 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

5 \/ 5 \"103 <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Jon Cavalier<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Rock Creek Cattle Company Deer Lodge, MT 4.7 20 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Rock Creek is an example of the merits of the heat index score\u2014few courses have streaked hotter than this off-the-beaten path design in the Rocky Mountain foothills of Montana. It took time for panelists to get there, and a little longer for Rock Creek\u2019s architectural merits to sink in, but it\u2019s a course that has the potential to orbit around the top 50 range indefinitely.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 14. NANEA G.C. \"nanea-hawaii-first-19012\"\/ <\/p>\n

Nanea<\/p>\n

Laurence C Lambrecht<\/p>\n

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii David McLay Kidd (2003) Rankings: 2, 2023 to current Initial Ranking: 49 Current: 59 Average: 54 Heat Index: +5 Total Score: 59<\/p>\n

\"Nanea Laurence C Lambrecht false Private Nanea Golf Club Kailua Kona, HI 4.7 15 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

It took 20 years for enough Golf Digest panelists to find their way to Nanea for it to qualify for the ranking, and the wait resulted in a debut inside the top 50. The extreme low number of panelist rounds it receives means this position should be relatively stable.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 13. BANDON TRAILS \"bandon-trails-fourth-approach-23777\"\/ <\/p>\n

Bandon Trails<\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

Bandon, Ore. Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (2005) Rankings: 9, 2009 to current Initial Ranking: 80 Current: 61 Average: 68.8 Heat Index: -15 Total Score: 53.8<\/p>\n

1 \/ 8 \"bandon-trails-behindeighteen-23777\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

2 \/ 8 \"bandon-trails-fourth-23777\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

3 \/ 8 \"bandon-trails-sixteen-23777\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

4 \/ 8 \"bandon-trails-eleventh-23777\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

5 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/Bandon-Dunes-Golf-Resort-Bandon-Trails-hole-1 <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

6 \/ 8 \"bandon-trails-tenth-23777\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

7 \/ 8 \"bandon-trails-sixteenaerial-23777\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

8 \/ 8 \"bandon-trails-fourth-approach-23777\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public Bandon Trails Bandon, OR 4.6 53 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Golf\u2019s greatest parlor game is which course at Bandon Dunes is the best, because everyone has their own top 5 (or top 7 if you count the short courses). Trails has long been a solid \u201c3\u201d in our rankings (note that the original Bandon Dunes course, opened in 1999, predates this ranking), though there seems to be a creeping inevitability toward \u201c2\u201d as it\u2019s inched higher in every poll since 2015.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

Old Sandwich<\/p>\n

Plymouth, Mass. Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (2005) Rankings: 8, 2011 to current Initial Ranking: T-89 Current: 73 Average: 68.1 Heat Index: -15 Total Score: 53.1<\/p>\n

1 \/ 4 \"2017-56-Old-Sandwich-GC-hole-15.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

The Henebrys\/Courtesy of Old Sandwich GC<\/p>\n

2 \/ 4 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/Old-Sandwich-GC-hole-17 3 \/ 4 \"2017-56-Old-Sandwich-GC-hole-3.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Old Sandwich GC<\/p>\n

4 \/ 4 \"2017-56-Old-Sandwich-GC-hole-7.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of Old Sandwich GC<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Old Sandwich Golf Club Plymouth, MA 4.6 16 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Old Sandwich peaked as high as No. 56 in 2017, and had it stayed there it would have charted inside the top 10. This is one of Bill Coore\u2019s best routings through sublime New England woods and is part of a particularly remarkable stretch of golf architecture he and his team produced between 2002 and 2006 (including Bandon Trails, Friar\u2019s Head and Colorado Golf Club.).<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 11. SEBONACK G.C. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/sebonack-new-york-stephen-szurlej.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

Southampton, N.Y. Tom Doak & Jack Nicklaus (2005) Rankings: 8, 2011 to current Initial Ranking: 39 Current: 51 Average: 41.8 Heat Index: +10 Total Score: 51.8<\/p>\n

\"Sebonack Stephen Szurlej false Private Sebonack Golf Club Southampton, NY 4.4 16 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Some profess Sebonack\u2019s location adjacent to Shinnecock Hills and National Golf Links hurts its standing, but it\u2019s worth considering whether it would have entered the 100 Greatest ranking at No. 39 if it didn\u2019t benefit from sharing land with those neighbors, including 2\/3 of a mile atop Great Peconic Bay. Regardless, we get the feeling that the design might be clinging to this position having slipped outside the top 50 for the first time.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

Explore Golf Digest\u2019s new Course Reviews section where you can submit a star rating and evaluation on all the courses you\u2019ve played. We\u2019ve collected tens of thousands of reviews from our course-ranking panelists to deliver a premium experience, which includes course rankings, experts\u2019 opinions, bonus course photography, videos and much more. Check it out here!<\/p>\n

10. WHISPERING PINES G.C. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-eleven-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Whispering Pines<\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

Trinity, Texas Chet Williams (2000) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 75 Current: 66 Average: 60.6 Heat Index: -10 Total Score: 50.6<\/p>\n

1 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-twelve-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

2 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-eight-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

3 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-tenth-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

4 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-eighth-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

5 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-seven-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

6 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-sixth-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

7 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-fourth-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

8 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-second-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

9 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-first-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

10 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-seventeen-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

11 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-fifteen-sixteen-20925.jpg\"\/ 12 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-thirteen-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

13 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-thirteen-aerial-20925.jpg\"\/ 14 \/ 14 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/whispering-pines-texas-eleven-20925.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Whispering Pines Golf Club Trinity, TX 4.7 19 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

It took Whispering Pines over a decade to make it into the ranking, but it came in like a boss and proceeded to rise 24 places to No. 51. It took a step back in 2025, to No. 66, and we wonder if Chet Williams\u2019 other major new design, The Covey at Big Easy Ranch, has provoked some reassessment of this one.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 9. ERIN HILLS G.C. \"erin-hills-fullaerial-22467\"\/ <\/p>\n

Erin Hills<\/p>\n

Dom Furore <\/p>\n

Erin, Wis. Michael Hurdzan, Dana Fry & Ron Whitten (2006) Rankings: 6, 2015 to current Initial Ranking: 42 Current: 49 Average: 45.1 Heat Index: +5 Total Score: 50.1<\/p>\n

1 \/ 10 \"E101--0971-08 <\/p>\n

Paul Hundley<\/p>\n

2 \/ 10 \"erin-hills-aerial-22467\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore <\/p>\n

3 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/5\/erin <\/p>\n

Dom Furore <\/p>\n

4 \/ 10 \"Erin-Hills-GC-hole-2.jpg\"\/ 5 \/ 10 \"Erin-Hills-GC-hole-3.jpg\"\/ 6 \/ 10 \"erin-hills-fullaerial-22467\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore <\/p>\n

7 \/ 10 \"erin-hills-gc.jpg\"\/ 8 \/ 10 \"Erin-Hills-GC-hole-6.jpg\"\/ 9 \/ 10 \"Erin-Hills-GC-hole-15-Hartford-Wisconsin.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore<\/p>\n

10 \/ 10 \"erin-hills-fairwayline-22467\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore <\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public Erin Hills Golf Course Erin, WI 4.6 44 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Erin Hills seems like it\u2019s been with us forever, but the course has only been in the 100 Greatest ranking since 2015, two years before it hosted the U.S. Open. That\u2019s a testament to a routing and landscape that feels timeless. It\u2019s backsliding slightly, but we\u2019ll see if the success of the 2025 U.S. Women\u2019s Open gives the course a boost of energy.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 8. THE ALOTIAN \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-alotian-club-tenth-22700.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Alotian<\/p>\n

Evan Schiller\/Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

Roland, Ark. Tom Fazio (2004) Rankings: 8, 2011 to current Initial Ranking: 14 Current: 37 Average: 28 Heat Index: +15 Total Score: 43<\/p>\n

1 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-alotian-club-third-22700.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Evan Schiller\/Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

2 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-alotian-club-fourth-22700.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Evan Schiller\/Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

3 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-alotian-club-tenth-22700.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Evan Schiller\/Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

4 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/the-alotian-club-sixteen-22700.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Evan Schiller\/Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

5 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/4\/The-Alotian-Club-hole-16 6 \/ 10 \"2017-27-The-Alotian-Club-hole-1.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of The Alotian Club<\/p>\n

7 \/ 10 \"2017-27-The-Alotian-Club-hole-6.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of The Alotian Club<\/p>\n

8 \/ 10 \"2017-27-The-Alotian-Club-hole-14.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of The Alotian Club<\/p>\n

9 \/ 10 \"alotian-club.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of The Alotian Club<\/p>\n

10 \/ 10 \"6. <\/p>\n

Courtesy of The Alotian Club<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private The Alotian Club Roland, AR 4.5 11 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

No new course since Harbour Town in 1971 has debuted as high at The Alotian, cannonballing in at No. 14. Clearly this is an impressive course with dramatic terrain, lovely panoramas and pristine conditions, but architecturally it\u2019s probably more at home in its current position than ahead of historic venues like The Country Club, Chicago G.C., Riviera and Oakland Hills South, which it bested in 2011.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 7. GOZZER RANCH G. & LAKE C. \"2017-28-Gozzer-Ranch-Golf-and-CC-hole-17.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Gozzer Ranch<\/p>\n

Harrison, Idaho Tom Fazio (2007) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 27 Current: 43 Average: 32.6 Heat Index: +10 Total Score: 42.6<\/p>\n

1 \/ 4 \"gozzer-ranch-g-lake-15.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Photo by Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

2 \/ 4 \"2017-28-Gozzer-Ranch-Golf-and-CC-hole-17.jpg\"\/ 3 \/ 4 \"2017-28-Gozzer-Ranch-Golf-and-CC-hole-12.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

4 \/ 4 \"2017-28-Gozzer-Ranch-Golf-and-CC-hole-14.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Gozzer Ranch Golf and Lake Club Harrison, ID 4.8 17 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Tom Fazio\u2019s best courses rank highly in the 100 Greatest because they tend to balance diverse landscapes, playability and beauty, factors that enable high scores in our Aesthetics, Layout & Variety and Shot Options categories. Gozzer Ranch displays these qualities as well as any of his designs, which is why it continues to thrive inside our top 50.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 6. CONGAREE G.C. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/4\/8th <\/p>\n

Congaree<\/p>\n

James Haefner Photography, Inc.<\/p>\n

Ridgeland, S.C. Tom Fazio (2018) Rankings: 3, 2021 to current Initial Ranking: 39 Current: 40 Average: 40.3 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 40.3<\/p>\n

\"Congaree James Haefner Photography, Inc false Private Congaree Golf Club Ridgeland, SC 4.8 21 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

This Fazio lowcountry design embraces many of the qualities that make the architecture of contemporaries like Doak, Coore and Hanse so popular\u2014width, links-like turf, greens that roll and run off and lots of sand. The crisp, Australian-like bunkers are also a nice point of distinction. The blend should keep Congaree inside the top 50 for the foreseeable future, though the math of moving higher poses a challenge.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

Ohoopee Match Club<\/p>\n

Cobbtown, Ga. Gil Hanse & Jim Wagner (2019) Rankings: 2, 2023 to current Initial Ranking: 34 Current: 36 Average: 35 Heat Index: 0 Total Score: 35<\/p>\n

1 \/ 8 \"ohoopee-match-club-seventeenth-56565\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore<\/p>\n

2 \/ 8 \"ohoopee-match-club-second-56565\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore<\/p>\n

3 \/ 8 \"ohoopee-match-club-sixteenth-56565\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore<\/p>\n

4 \/ 8 \"ohoopee-match-club-second-56565\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore<\/p>\n

5 \/ 8 \"ohoopee-match-club-first-56565\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore<\/p>\n

6 \/ 8 \"ohoopee-match-club-fifth-56565\"\/ <\/p>\n

Dom Furore<\/p>\n

7 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/ohoopee-match-club-georgia-56565.jpg\"\/ 8 \/ 8 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/ohoopee-match-club-565651.jpg\"\/ Previous Next Pause Play false Private Ohoopee Match Club Cobbtown, GA 4.8 16 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Ohoopee was the highest debuting course since 2013 when it charted two cycles ago. It embodies everything that\u2019s on trend: width, sand, playability, wild greens, a match play ethos, a sense of departure. It will be interesting to observe if the ascension of Hanse and Wagner\u2019s Ladera and CapRock Ranch takes any shine off Ohoopee\u2019s magic. We\u2019re guessing not.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 4. BALLYNEAL G.C. \"7th <\/p>\n

Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

Holyoke, Colo. Tom Doak (2006) Rankings: 8, 2011 to current Initial Ranking: 95 Current: 34 Average: 54.6 Heat Index: -25 Total Score: 29.6<\/p>\n

\"Ballyneal false Private Ballyneal Golf Club Holyoke, CO 4.7 36 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Along with No. 50 Shelter Harbor, Ballyneal is the only course built in the last 25 years that has risen in every ranking. We infamously awarded the course a 6th\u00a0place finish in the Best New Private course category in 2006, but its ultimate enshrinement among the greatest courses in the U.S. shows it\u2019s never too late to get right.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 3. PIKEWOOD NATIONAL G.C. \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Pikewood <\/p>\n

Pikewood National<\/p>\n

Jane Greer<\/p>\n

Morgantown, W. Va. Robert Gwynne & John Raese (2009) Rankings: 7, 2013 to current Initial Ranking: 45 Current: 31 Average: 37.6 Heat Index: -15 Total Score: 22.6<\/p>\n

1 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/pikewood-national-west-virginia-eighth-hole-20658.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Courtesy of the club<\/p>\n

2 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Pikewood <\/p>\n

Jane Greer<\/p>\n

3 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Pikewood <\/p>\n

Jane Greer<\/p>\n

4 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Pikewood <\/p>\n

Jane Greer<\/p>\n

5 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/pikewood-national-eighth-hero-20658.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

6 \/ 10 \"Pikewood <\/p>\n

Joann Dost<\/p>\n

7 \/ 10 \"Pikewood <\/p>\n

Joann Dost<\/p>\n

8 \/ 10 \"Pikewood <\/p>\n

Joann Dost<\/p>\n

9 \/ 10 \"Pikewood <\/p>\n

Joann Dost<\/p>\n

10 \/ 10 \"Pikewood <\/p>\n

Joann Dost<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Private Pikewood National Golf Club Morgantown, WV 4.6 17 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

Our panelists get the overall scoring correct at Pikewood with high marks in Challenge and Aesthetics, but undersell it in the category of Character that measures how unique the course is compared to others. Created by two first-time designers on a wild and primitive mining site in the Appalachian mountains, Pikewood is nearly without peers in originality.<\/p>\n

Explore our course review 2. FRIAR\u2019S HEAD G.C. \"10th <\/p>\n

Friar\u2019s Head<\/p>\n

Evan Schiller<\/p>\n

Baiting Hollow, N.Y. Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (2002) Rankings: 8, 2011 to current Initial Ranking: 34 Current: 14 Average: 20.5 Heat Index: -15 Total Score: 5.5<\/p>\n

\"Friar's Jon Cavalier false Private Friar\u2019s Head Golf Club Riverhead, NY 4.9 20 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

It\u2019s splitting hairs between the top two courses of the 21st\u00a0century, though both are well ahead of the pack. Every case could be made for Friar\u2019s Head being No. 1, and I\u2019m comfortable with that judgement. In our calculation Friar\u2019s Head loses the photo finish only because its overall leap into the top 20 is slightly less impressive, even as it\u2019s outranked the top course the last four cycles. <\/p>\n

View Course 1. PACIFIC DUNES \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2023\/1\/Pacific <\/p>\n

Pacific Dunes<\/p>\n

Bandon, Ore. Tom Doak (2001) Rankings: 12, 2003 to current Initial Ranking: 47 Current: 23 Average: 20.5 Heat Index: -20 Total Score: .5<\/p>\n

1 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/pacific-dunes-eleven-20186.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

2 \/ 10 \"Pacific-Dunes-hole-12.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

3 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/pacific-dunes-seventeen-20186.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

4 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/2021\/4\/pacific <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

5 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/pacific-dunes-thirteen-20186.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

6 \/ 10 \"https:\/\/www.golfdigest.com\/content\/dam\/images\/golfdigest\/fullset\/course-photos-for-places-to-play\/pacific-dunes-fourth-20186.JPG\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

7 \/ 10 \"8. <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

8 \/ 10 \"2017-18-Bandon-Dunes-Golf-Resort-Pacific-Dunes-course-hole-11.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

9 \/ 10 \"2017-18-Bandon-Dunes-Golf-Resort-Pacific-Dunes-course-hole-18.jpg\"\/ <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

10 \/ 10 \"19. <\/p>\n

Stephen Szurlej<\/p>\n

Previous Next Pause Play false Public Pacific Dunes Bandon, OR 4.9 60 Panelists <\/p>\n

100 Greatest
\n100 Greatest Public
\nBest In State<\/p>\n

No course built this century has charted in more rankings than Pacific Dunes, a testament to the impression and impact it made from the beginning. It leapt from No. 47 to No. 14 in three cycles and camped out in the top 20 until 2023. Because anyone can play it, Doak\u2019s ocean bluff design has done more than any course in American to evangelize walking links golf and lay-of-the-land architecture. <\/p>\n

Explore our course review <\/p>\n

This article was originally published on golfdigest.com<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"When the century began, golf course design and development were in a very different place. Hundreds of new…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":481133,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[566],"tags":[4225,64,63,38935,755,138747,85],"class_list":["post-481132","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-golf","tag-article","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-courses","tag-golf","tag-golf-digest","tag-sports"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/481132","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=481132"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/481132\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/481133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=481132"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=481132"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=481132"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}