Top Public-Access Golf Courses in Pinehurst, North Carolina
Welcome to Pinehurst, North Carolina – one of the top golf regions in the world! Here, you can find a collection of remarkable golf courses that offer a truly memorable golfing experience. In this article, we will explore the top public-access courses around Pinehurst according to Golfweek’s Best 2023 rankings. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking for a great place to play, Pinehurst has something for everyone.
To help you navigate through the golfing paradise of Pinehurst, we have created a comprehensive map highlighting the locations of the top public-access courses. Each course is marked with a number corresponding to its ranking on the Golfweek’s Best list. Let’s dive into the details of these incredible courses.
Pinehurst No. 6

Where: Pinehurst, North Carolina
State Ranking 2023: No. 20 among public-access courses in North Carolina
Designer: George Fazio, Tom Fazio
Distance: Approximately a 9-minute drive northeast of Pinehurst
Pinehurst No. 6 is a renowned golf course that offers a picturesque setting and a challenging layout. Designed by the legendary Fazio brothers, George and Tom Fazio, this course provides golfers with a unique blend of beauty and strategic play. With its stunning views and superb course conditions, Pinehurst No. 6 is a must-play for any golf enthusiast visiting the area.
Pinewild Country Club

Where: Pinehurst, North Carolina
State Ranking 2023: No. 19 among public-access courses in North Carolina
Designer: Gene Hamm
Distance: Approximately an 8-minute drive west of Pinehurst
Pinewild Country Club is predominantly a private club, but it does offer golf packages for the public. Contact the club for more information. Nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Pinehurst, Pinewild Country Club combines a challenging golf course with a welcoming atmosphere. Designed by Gene Hamm, this course presents golfers with a variety of strategic challenges, including well-placed bunkers and undulating greens. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just starting your golfing journey, Pinewild Country Club promises an unforgettable round of golf.
Pinehurst No. 7

Where: Pinehurst, North Carolina
State Ranking 2023: No. 14 among public-access courses in North Carolina
Designer: Rees Jones
Distance: Approximately a 5-minute drive southeast of Pinehurst
Pinehurst No. 7, designed by the esteemed golf course architect Rees Jones, boasts a stunning layout that harmoniously blends with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its challenging fairways and meticulously manicured greens, Pinehurst No. 7 offers golfers an exceptional golfing experience. This course is a must-visit for those seeking a combination of beauty and playability.
Talamore’s Mid South

Where: Southern Pines, North Carolina
State Ranking 2023: No. 13 among public-access courses in North Carolina
Designer: Arnold Palmer
Distance: Approximately a 9-minute drive east of Pinehurst
Talamore’s Mid South, designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, is a golfing gem nestled in the charming town of Southern Pines. This course showcases Palmer’s signature design elements, providing golfers with a challenging yet enjoyable experience. With its stunning vistas and impeccable course conditions, Mid South is a true golfer’s paradise.
Pinehurst No. 9

Where: Pinehurst, North Carolina
State Ranking 2023: No. 12 among public-access courses in North Carolina
Designer: Jack Nicklaus
Distance: Approximately a 7-minute drive east of Pinehurst
Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, Pinehurst No. 9 offers a superb golfing experience that combines strategic challenges with breathtaking beauty. Nicklaus’s design philosophy shines through in this remarkable course, which features undulating fairways, well-placed hazards, and immaculate greens. Pinehurst No. 9 is a must-play course for golfers looking to test their skills in a stunning setting.
Southern Pines Golf Club

Where: Southern Pines, North Carolina
State Ranking 2023: No. 9 among public-access courses in North Carolina
Designer: Donald Ross (Kyle Franz restoration)
Distance: Approximately a 12-minute drive southeast of Pinehurst
Southern Pines Golf Club combines a rich history with a top-notch golfing experience. Originally designed by the legendary golf course architect Donald Ross, this course underwent a restoration by Kyle Franz, ensuring that its classic design features are preserved. With its strategic layout and scenic views, Southern Pines Golf Club is a must-visit for golfers seeking an authentic Donald Ross experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Golfweek’s Best rankings?
Golfweek’s Best rankings are a comprehensive evaluation of golf courses conducted by a panel of experts. These rankings consider various criteria to determine the overall quality and appeal of each course.
Can the public access these courses?
Yes, all the courses mentioned in this article allow public access in some form. Whether it’s through standard daily green fees, resort packages, or affiliated hotels, these courses ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a memorable round of golf.
Are there accommodation options near these courses?
Absolutely! Pinehurst and Southern Pines offer a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to charming bed and breakfasts. You can easily find convenient and comfortable lodging options to complement your golfing experience.
Conclusion
Pinehurst, North Carolina, is truly a golfer’s paradise. With its collection of top-ranked public-access courses, this remarkable region offers a golfing experience like no other. From the classic designs of Donald Ross to the modern masterpieces of famous architects, each course mentioned in this article promises an unforgettable round of golf. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, make sure to explore these exceptional courses and create lasting memories on the greens of Pinehurst.


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