Through decades of exploring premier golf courses worldwide, David Weiss shares his picks for the most remarkable and picturesque venues. From the rugged coasts of California to the serene landscapes of Arizona, these courses stand out for their natural beauty, challenging layouts, and historical significance. Weiss highlights how each course harmonizes with its environment, offering both a fair and thrilling experience for players of all levels.

The Pacific Coast's Hidden Gems

In California’s Pebble Beach, two iconic courses captivate golf enthusiasts with their stunning ocean views and meticulously crafted designs. Cypress Point Club, designed by Alister MacKenzie, is renowned for its exclusivity and breathtaking vistas. Meanwhile, Spyglass Hill offers a unique blend of forested terrain and coastal charm, making it a must-play destination despite its high fees. Both courses provide an unforgettable experience that blends natural beauty with architectural brilliance.

Cypress Point Club, nestled along the Pacific coastline, exemplifies the pinnacle of golf architecture. Its 16th hole, a par 3 over crashing waves, remains etched in the memory of many players. The club’s limited membership adds to its allure, creating an elite atmosphere. Nearby, Spyglass Hill, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., offers a diverse landscape that transitions from dense pine forests to sandy dunes. Its strategic placement near Carmel-by-the-Sea enhances its appeal, making it a favorite among discerning golfers. The course’s layout challenges players while rewarding them with panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Scenic Wonders Beyond the West Coast

From Michigan’s aromatic pine forests to Oregon’s unspoiled coastline, these courses offer unique experiences that go beyond traditional golfing. Forest Dunes Golf Club and its companion course, The Loop, provide an innovative reversible design, allowing players to enjoy two distinct layouts on the same land. Meanwhile, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon boasts seven courses spread across 2,500 acres, offering a variety of challenges and breathtaking ocean views.

In northern Michigan, Forest Dunes Golf Club stands as a hidden gem, routing through fragrant pine-studded sand dunes. The adjacent The Loop, designed by Tom Doak, features a reversible layout that changes daily, providing a fresh experience each time. This innovative design ensures that no two rounds are ever the same, adding an element of surprise and excitement. Moving west to Oregon, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort presents an expansive playground for golf enthusiasts. Perched above the Pacific Ocean, the resort’s courses, especially the original Bandon Dunes, pay homage to Scottish links with their wind-swept fairways and dramatic cliffs. Staying at the resort allows players to fully immerse themselves in this golfing paradise, with ample time to explore all seven courses and enjoy the serenity of the Oregon coast.