During my time at the University of Michigan, I had the fortune of playing at a course designed by Alister MacKenzie. Little did I know that I would one day experience his masterpiece, the Cypress Point Club, nestled along the picturesque Pacific Ocean in Pebble Beach, California. This exclusive club boasts a membership limited to around 250 prominent individuals, including CEOs. The legendary 16th hole, a challenging par 3 with a tee shot over crashing waves and rugged rocks, remains etched in my memory. Nearby, Spyglass Hill, a classic Robert Trent Jones Sr. design, offers another exceptional golfing experience. Situated near Carmel-by-the-Sea, this course, with its rolling terrain through pine forests and sand dunes, is a favorite among golf enthusiasts despite the high greens fees. Forest Dunes Golf Club in northern Michigan is a hidden gem blending natural beauty with a layout crafted by golf pro Tom Weiskopf. The course meanders through pine-studded sand dunes, providing a unique golfing experience. A visit to Forest Dunes is incomplete without playing its innovative companion course, The Loop, designed by Tom Doak. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon, known for its breathtaking setting along the coastline, features seven distinct courses designed to offer an extraordinary golfing adventure. The resort’s first course, Bandon Dunes, pays tribute to ancient Scottish links courses, offering challenging play amid stunning views. Gamble Sands in Brewster, Washington, is a must-visit destination for golfers of all levels. With expansive fairways and scenic views overlooking the Columbia River, this course promises an unforgettable experience. Scottsdale, Arizona, with its abundance of golf courses, including the private Desert Mountain community, is a popular winter retreat for golf enthusiasts. Desert Mountain boasts six Jack Nicklaus courses, with Renegade being a standout for its innovative design and stunning desert vistas. Experience the best of Mexico’s golf scene at Cabo del Sol, recognized for its world-class courses and scenic beauty.
Mexico has become a hotspot for golf enthusiasts in recent years, with a surge in the development of new courses. Among the standout options is the Cabo del Sol layout in Los Cabos, designed by the legendary Tom Weiskopf. This course has captivated golfers for over two decades with its breathtaking views of the shimmering Sea of Cortez visible from each of its 18 holes. As players traverse through desert washes and sandy terrain, they are treated to a visual feast that adds to the overall golfing experience.
Currently undergoing an impressive $20 million renovation, the Cabo del Sol course is set to unveil exciting new holes and a luxurious clubhouse, further enhancing its appeal to golfers seeking a premium experience. Visitors are also encouraged to indulge in the local delicacy of sea-bass tacos, a culinary delight not to be missed during their stay.
Meanwhile, in the Carolinas, golf aficionados can find another gem in the form of Omni’s Grove Park Inn course situated in Asheville, North Carolina. Nestled amidst the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, this historic course boasts a rich heritage spanning over a century, having been originally crafted by the esteemed architect Donald Ross. The course’s classic design and picturesque surroundings make it a favorite among golfers seeking a timeless and challenging round.
Adding to the allure of the Omni Grove Park Inn is the grandeur of the resort itself, featuring a sprawling 43,000-square-foot subterranean spa for guests to unwind and rejuvenate after a day on the links. With a storied past that includes hosting notable figures such as Barack Obama and F. Scott Fitzgerald, as well as numerous golfing legends, the Grove Park Inn stands as a landmark destination that seamlessly blends history, luxury, and world-class golf.
Originally shared on October 30, 2024, and updated most recently on February 18, 2025, this article highlights the enduring appeal and sophistication of these premier golf destinations.
