North Carolina is one of those states where you can play golf almost any time of year. From the mountain views near Asheville to the sandy layouts around Pinehurst, the state has something for every golfer.
You’ll find world-famous courses that have hosted major championships and smaller public tracks that locals swear by. Whether you’re looking for a weekend golf trip or just a casual round, North Carolina offers a wide mix of courses that are open to everyone.
In this guide, we’ll look at some of the best public golf courses in North Carolina, from top-rated layouts to hidden gems worth adding to your list.
What Makes North Carolina a Great Golf Destination?
Golfers from all over the country come to North Carolina for one main reason: variety. The state offers everything from mountain golf with rolling fairways and cool summer air to coastal courses with ocean breezes and sandy soil.
Another reason is the weather. You can play almost year-round, especially in the central and southern parts of the state. Spring and fall are the best seasons, with mild temperatures and firm course conditions.
Then there’s the history. Pinehurst is known as the “Home of American Golf,” and for good reason. It’s hosted countless championships and continues to draw players from around the world. But even beyond Pinehurst, you’ll find courses designed by legends like Donald Ross, Tom Fazio, and Mike Strantz.
North Carolina’s mix of scenery, course quality, and affordability make it one of the best golf destinations in the U.S.
Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in North Carolina
North Carolina has no shortage of great public golf courses. From world-famous championship layouts to scenic resort tracks, you can find a course for every budget and skill level.
Let’s start with one of the most iconic.
Pinehurst No. 2
- Location: Pinehurst, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,588 yards
- Par: 72
Pinehurst No. 2 is the crown jewel of North Carolina golf. Designed by Donald Ross in 1907, it’s known for its challenging greens and natural sandy terrain. The course has hosted several U.S. Opens and remains one of the most respected public courses in the country.
What makes Pinehurst No. 2 special isn’t just its history, it’s how fair it feels. There are no tricks, just straightforward golf that rewards smart play. The greens are quick, the bunkers are deep, and every shot demands attention. It’s a course that tests both skill and patience but leaves every golfer wanting another round.
Pinehurst No. 4
- Location: Pinehurst, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,227 yards
- Par: 72
Pinehurst No. 4 sits right beside its famous neighbor but offers a completely different experience. Redesigned by Gil Hanse in 2018, it blends wide fairways with rugged waste areas that give it a natural Carolina Sandhills look.
The layout is both fun and challenging. You’ll find risk-reward par 5s, dramatic elevation changes, and greens that test your short game. It’s a perfect companion to No. 2, more forgiving off the tee but still demanding where it counts.
Many golfers say No. 4 is the most enjoyable round at Pinehurst because it mixes beauty, playability, and strategy. If you’re planning a golf trip to Pinehurst, playing both courses is a must.
Tobacco Road Golf Club
- Location: Sanford, North Carolina
- Yardage: 6,557 yards
- Par: 71
Tobacco Road Golf Club is one of the most talked-about courses in the state, and for good reason. Designed by Mike Strantz, it’s bold, quirky, and unforgettable. Every hole feels different, with wide fairways framed by massive sand dunes and tall native grass.
At first glance, the layout can seem intimidating, but once you’ve played it, you’ll see the genius behind the design. It rewards creativity and smart course management more than raw power.
Many golfers describe Tobacco Road as a course you either love or hate, but one thing’s certain: you’ll never forget it. It’s one of the most unique public golf experiences in North Carolina, if not the entire country.
Linville Golf Club
- Location: Linville, North Carolina
- Yardage: 6,946 yards
- Par: 72
Set in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Linville Golf Club is pure mountain golf at its best. Designed by Donald Ross in the 1920s, the course winds through pine trees and alongside the Linville River, offering views that make it hard to keep your focus on the ball.
While the layout isn’t long by modern standards, the greens are small and quick, demanding accuracy on every approach shot. Elevation changes add to the challenge, with several holes playing uphill or downhill more than they appear.
Linville Golf Club is part of the historic Eseeola Lodge, but the course welcomes public play through stay-and-play packages. It’s the kind of place that feels peaceful and old-school, where golf is played the way it was meant to be.
The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course
- Location: Asheville, North Carolina
- Yardage: 6,400 yards
- Par: 70
The Grove Park Inn Golf Course offers classic mountain golf just minutes from downtown Asheville. Designed by Donald Ross in 1926, the course has rolling fairways, tight lies, and small, sloping greens that require a steady short game.
While not overly long, the course makes you think on every shot. The elevation changes and mountain backdrop add to both the challenge and beauty of the round. On clear days, you can see sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from several holes.
It’s also one of the most historic courses in the state, having hosted legends like Bobby Jones and Ben Hogan. For those looking to pair golf with a relaxing stay, the Omni Grove Park Inn resort is one of the best weekend golf getaways in North Carolina.
Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club
- Location: Southern Pines, North Carolina
- Yardage: 6,732 yards
- Par: 72
Mid Pines is classic Donald Ross golf through and through. Built in 1921, it sits just a few miles from Pinehurst but offers a quieter, more relaxed experience. The course has been beautifully restored to its original design, with wide fairways, natural sand edges, and firm, fast greens.
The layout rewards accuracy and course management more than distance. Miss the wrong side of a green, and you’ll be scrambling to save par. Still, it’s fair and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.
What makes Mid Pines special is its charm. The course has an old-fashioned feel, and the attached inn adds a touch of Southern hospitality that makes you want to stay for more than one round.
Trump National Golf Club Charlotte
- Location: Mooresville, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,495 yards
- Par: 72
Sitting along the shores of Lake Norman, Trump National Golf Club Charlotte is one of the most scenic courses in the state. The layout, redesigned by Greg Norman, takes full advantage of the lake views, with several holes playing right up to the water’s edge.
Although it’s technically a private club, the course allows limited public access through special events and resort packages. The conditions are always pristine with smooth greens, well-kept fairways, and challenging bunkers that test your precision.
It’s a long course, but the wide fairways make it playable for most golfers. Between the views, design, and attention to detail, it’s easily one of the top golf experiences in North Carolina.
Bryan Park Golf Course
- Location: Greensboro, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,376 yards (Champions Course)
- Par: 72
Bryan Park Golf Course is one of the best values in the state. The facility features two 18-hole layouts, the Champions Course and the Players Course, both open to the public and always in great shape. The Champions Course, designed by Rees Jones, is the star attraction and regularly ranks among the top municipal courses in the Southeast.
The front nine plays through tree-lined fairways, while the back nine opens up with holes that run alongside Lake Townsend. The par-3 14th, with water running down the entire left side, is one of the most scenic shots in the region.
Bryan Park offers a championship-level golf experience without the resort-level price tag, making it a favorite among locals and traveling golfers alike.
Eagle Point Golf Club
- Location: Wilmington, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,259 yards
- Par: 72
Eagle Point Golf Club sits along the coast near Wilmington and is one of the most impressive courses in North Carolina. Designed by Tom Fazio, it’s known for its wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and smooth, fast greens. The course hosted the 2017 Wells Fargo Championship, which showcased just how good public golf in North Carolina can be.
The layout flows naturally through coastal pines and wetlands, offering both challenge and beauty. Wind often comes into play, especially near the water, so smart shot selection is key.
Although technically a semi-private club, Eagle Point allows limited public play, usually through select packages or events. For golfers who can get a tee time, it’s one of the finest rounds in the state, a mix of championship pedigree and coastal scenery that’s hard to beat.
Hidden Gem Golf Courses in North Carolina
North Carolina’s best-known courses often grab the spotlight, but there are plenty of lesser-known tracks that deserve attention. These hidden gems may not host major championships, but they offer great layouts, fair prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Here are a few public courses that fly under the radar but are well worth your time.
Finley Golf Course
- Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,220 yards
- Par: 72
Finley Golf Course is the home course of the University of North Carolina and recently got a full redesign by Tom Fazio. The renovation brought new greens, fairways, and bunkers, all built to modern standards while keeping the original charm of the layout.
The course is fun but challenging, with wide fairways that tighten near the greens. It’s kept in excellent condition year-round, and the facilities are among the best for a public course in the state.
Finley offers a great mix of playability and value, making it a must-play for anyone in the Chapel Hill area.
Southern Pines Golf Club
- Location: Southern Pines, North Carolina
- Yardage: 6,695 yards
- Par: 70
Southern Pines Golf Club is one of Donald Ross’s early designs and has recently been restored by Kyle Franz to bring back its original look and feel. The course keeps that classic Sandhills style, wide fairways bordered by sandy waste areas, rolling greens, and natural pine surroundings.
It’s not a long course, but it’s tricky. The greens have subtle breaks, and good course management is rewarded more than power. The layout gives off the charm of Pinehurst without the big resort price tag.
For many golfers, Southern Pines feels like stepping back in time, simple, pure golf that’s just plain fun to play.
Tot Hill Farm Golf Club
- Location: Asheboro, North Carolina
- Yardage: 6,514 yards
- Par: 72
Tot Hill Farm Golf Club is another creative design from the late Mike Strantz, the same architect behind Tobacco Road. It’s bold, rugged, and unlike anything else you’ll find in the region. The course winds through rock formations, streams, and wooded hills, creating some of the most scenic and memorable holes in the state.
Every round at Tot Hill Farm feels like an adventure. The fairways can be tight, and the greens are full of slopes and tiers that keep you guessing. It’s the kind of course that demands both strategy and imagination.
Even with all its challenges, Tot Hill Farm is fair, and at its current price point, it’s one of the best values in North Carolina golf.
Rock Barn Golf & Spa
- Location: Conover, North Carolina
- Yardage: 6,940 yards (Jones Course)
- Par: 72
Rock Barn Golf & Spa offers two 18-hole layouts, but the Jones Course is the one that stands out. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., it’s open to the public and has hosted several professional events, including tournaments on the PGA Tour Champions.
The course features tree-lined fairways, rolling terrain, and water hazards that come into play on several holes. It’s well-maintained, and the greens are consistently among the best in the region.
What makes Rock Barn appealing is the overall experience. After your round, you can enjoy the resort’s spa, restaurant, and clubhouse, all without the high-end resort pricing you might expect. It’s a great place for a weekend golf trip that combines quality golf and relaxation.
Leopard’s Chase Golf Club
- Location: Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,155 yards
- Par: 72
Leopard’s Chase is part of the Big Cats Golf complex along the coast, and it’s often considered the best of the group. Designed by Tim Cate, the course is known for its dramatic bunkering, smooth greens, and striking use of water features, including a waterfall behind the 18th green that makes for a memorable finish.
The fairways are generous, but the approach shots can be demanding thanks to well-guarded greens and subtle elevation changes. It’s challenging but fair, offering great risk-and-reward opportunities throughout the round.
Located just minutes from the South Carolina border, Leopard’s Chase is a strong choice for anyone planning a coastal golf trip. It’s scenic, well-kept, and priced far below what you’d pay for similar courses elsewhere.
Best Value Public Golf Courses in North Carolina
Not every great golf experience needs to come with a big price tag. North Carolina has plenty of public courses that offer excellent conditions, smart layouts, and friendly service, all for less than $100 a round.
Here are a few courses that deliver top-notch golf without breaking the bank.
Lonnie Poole Golf Course
- Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,358 yards
- Par: 71
Located on the campus of NC State University, Lonnie Poole Golf Course is one of the best values in the Triangle area. Designed by Arnold Palmer, the course blends open holes with tree-lined fairways and features views of downtown Raleigh in the distance.
It’s a challenging layout that rewards smart play, especially on the rolling par 4s and tricky par 3s. The course also serves as a teaching facility for NC State’s turfgrass and golf management programs, so it’s always in excellent shape.
At under $80 on most days, Lonnie Poole offers championship-level golf at a public course price.
The Neuse Golf Club
- Location: Clayton, North Carolina
- Yardage: 6,751 yards
- Par: 71
The Neuse Golf Club is one of the best-kept secrets in the Raleigh area. Designed by John LaFoy, the course sits along the Neuse River and makes great use of the rolling terrain. You’ll find a mix of wide fairways, elevated tees, and tricky greens that keep every hole interesting.
The front nine is open and forgiving, while the back nine tightens up with tree-lined fairways and more elevation change. Conditions are consistently solid, and green fees are some of the most affordable around for the quality you get.
For golfers who want a challenging round that doesn’t drain the wallet, The Neuse is one of the top value picks in North Carolina.
Crow Creek Golf Club
- Location: Calabash, North Carolina
- Yardage: 7,101 yards
- Par: 72
Crow Creek Golf Club sits just a few miles from the South Carolina border and is a favorite among golfers visiting the Myrtle Beach area. Designed by Rick Robbins, the course features wide fairways, smooth bentgrass greens, and a friendly layout that’s both scenic and fun to play.
The fairways roll gently through open fields and pine forests, giving players plenty of variety from hole to hole. While the course is playable for all skill levels, it still has enough water hazards and bunkers to keep you on your toes.
Green fees are often well under $100, and the course is known for its excellent maintenance and friendly staff. For golfers looking for quality golf at a fair price, Crow Creek is one of the best options along the Carolina coast.
Planning Your North Carolina Golf Trip
One of the best things about golfing in North Carolina is how easy it is to plan a great trip. The state’s diverse regions give you plenty of choices, whether you want to play in the mountains, the Sandhills, or along the coast.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for most of the state. You’ll get mild temperatures, dry conditions, and fairways that roll just right. Summer can be hot and humid in the central and eastern parts, but it’s perfect for a cool mountain getaway.
Top Golf Regions to Consider
- Pinehurst & Southern Pines: The heart of North Carolina golf. Dozens of world-class courses within a short drive.
- Western NC (Asheville & Boone): Mountain layouts with scenic views and cooler weather.
- Coastal NC (Wilmington & Calabash): Relaxed resort golf with ocean breezes and sandy soil that plays firm and fast.
Tips for Planning
- Book tee times early for popular courses like Pinehurst No. 2 and Tobacco Road.
- Look for stay-and-play packages, many include lodging, golf, and meals.
- Bring a golf rangefinder; elevation changes can make distance tough to judge in mountain areas.
With a little planning, you can build a golf trip that fits your budget and playing style while enjoying some of the best public courses in the country.
Map of the Best Public Golf Courses in North Carolina
To help plan your next round, here’s an interactive map showing the best public golf courses across North Carolina. You can zoom in to explore each region, check course details, and even get directions to the first tee.
Final Thoughts
North Carolina is one of the best states in the country for public golf. You can play courses designed by some of the game’s most famous architects, enjoy stunning scenery, and do it all without paying private club prices.
From the classic charm of Pinehurst and the creativity of Tobacco Road to the quiet beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the relaxed feel of the coast, every region offers something special. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a week-long tour, there’s no shortage of memorable rounds waiting here.
So grab your golf bag and clubs, pick a few from this list, and see why golfers keep coming back to North Carolina year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous public golf course in North Carolina?
Pinehurst No. 2 is easily the most famous public course in the state. Designed by Donald Ross, it’s hosted several U.S. Opens and is considered one of the best courses in the country that the public can play.
Can you play Pinehurst courses without staying at the resort?
Yes, but it depends on the course. Pinehurst No. 2 and most resort courses give priority to resort guests. However, public tee times are sometimes available if you book early or during slower periods.
What’s the best time of year to play golf in North Carolina?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are ideal. You’ll get mild weather, dry fairways, and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm in the Sandhills and coastal areas, but it’s perfect for playing in the mountains.
Do any North Carolina courses host PGA Tour events?
Eagle Point Golf Club in Wilmington hosted the Wells Fargo Championship in 2017. Quail Hollow in Charlotte, while private, is another notable course that regularly hosts PGA Tour events.
What are the best public golf courses near Asheville?
The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course is the most popular option near Asheville, offering mountain views and a classic Donald Ross design. Other great choices in the region include Linville Golf Club and Mount Mitchell Golf Club.
What are the most affordable public golf courses in North Carolina?
Courses like Lonnie Poole Golf Course in Raleigh, The Neuse Golf Club in Clayton, and Crow Creek Golf Club near Calabash offer excellent golf for under $100. These courses are known for great conditions and strong layouts at reasonable rates.
Are there any oceanfront golf courses in North Carolina?
Yes. Leopard’s Chase and several other courses near Ocean Isle Beach and Wilmington offer holes with water views and coastal breezes. While true oceanfront holes are rare, these courses come close.
Sean’s parents first put a golf club in his hands at the age of 8. He immediately fell in love with the game of golf. Today he’s passing on that love to his own kids.