Every golfer has a list of dream courses. For a lot of us, that list starts with the same places we’ve watched majors and Ryder Cups unfold. These are the venues that deliver history, atmosphere, and a test of golf you’ll never forget. Here are six that belong on any serious golfer’s bucket list.
Pebble Beach: Monterey Peninsula, California
Pebble Beach is the definition of a bucket list course. It has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and is set to host again in 2027. The stretch along holes 7 through 10 and the walk up 18 along the Pacific are moments every golfer should experience.
Why It’s Bucket List: Oceanfront golf, U.S. Open history, iconic setting.
Bethpage Black: Farmingdale, New York
Bethpage Black has a reputation as one of the toughest public courses in the country. It has hosted two U.S. Opens and will host the Ryder Cup in 2025. Ignoring the warning sign at the first tee is part of the experience.
Why It’s Bucket List: Championship pedigree, public access, pure test of golf.
Torrey Pines: La Jolla, California
Torrey Pines is best known for Tiger Woods winning the 2008 U.S. Open on one leg, and it also hosted again in 2021. The South Course runs along the cliffs in La Jolla and is open to everyone. Standing on those coastal holes can make it tough to focus on your game. But does it really matter?
Why It’s Bucket List: U.S. Open history, ocean views, public tee times.
Whistling Straits: Kohler, Wisconsin
Whistling Straits looks and feels like Ireland, even though it sits on Lake Michigan. It has hosted multiple PGA Championships and the Ryder Cup in 2021. The sheer scale of the place is incredible and it has as good a set of par 3s as you’ll find anywhere.
Why It’s Bucket List: Links-style design, Ryder Cup history, dramatic scenery.
Pinehurst No. 2: Pinehurst, North Carolina
Pinehurst No. 2 is Donald Ross’s masterpiece and one of the most strategic courses in the world. It has hosted U.S. Opens and will continue to be part of the rotation. The turtleback greens challenge every part of your game.
Why It’s Bucket List: Classic design, U.S. Open pedigree, centerpiece of Pinehurst.
Kiawah Island Ocean Course: Kiawah Island, South Carolina
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island is one of the toughest tests in golf. It has hosted the Ryder Cup and multiple PGA Championships. With the Atlantic winds and Pete Dye’s design, it’s both beautiful and punishing.
Why It’s Bucket List: Major championship history, stunning setting, ultimate challenge.
Final Thoughts
Playing these courses is about more than just golf. It’s about stepping onto the same tee boxes as the best players in the world and feeling the weight of history around you. From Pebble’s oceanfront stretch to the warning sign at Bethpage, these are rounds every golfer should try to make happen. If you’re ready to plan one, I help golfers build custom golf trips that make checking these courses off the list simple and unforgettable.