Golf enthusiasts often dream of playing on the world’s most prestigious and challenging courses. While many of these iconic clubs are private, several exceptional public golf courses in the United States offer an unforgettable experience for those willing to pay premium green fees. Here’s a closer look at the 15 most expensive public golf courses in the U.S., based on the fees mentioned on their official websites, booking sites, and golf journals.
Shadow Creek Golf Course (Nevada)
Shadow Creek Golf Course is an exclusive, luxurious destination designed by Tom Fazio. Unless in exceptional situations, golfers must stay at an MGM hotel and take a limousine to the course. The golf course offers a stunning topography view and a memorable golfing experience for a peak fee of $1,250.
Wynn Golf Club (Nevada)
Designed by Tom Fazio and his son Logan, this club features lush greens, elevation changes, and water elements. Wynn Golf Club is located on the Las Vegas Strip and offers a unique urban golfing adventure. At $650 peak fees, it combines challenging play with luxury on a meticulously maintained course.
TPC Sawgrass (Florida)
TPC Sawgrass in Florida is famous for its 17th hole, aptly named “The Island,” due to its distinct design. It requires you to hit the ball over the water to land on the small patch of green. With peak fees of $700, this course is a dream for amateurs and professionals, offering rich history and an iconic layout.
Pebble Beach Golf Links (California)
With $675 peak fees, it has hosted prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Open. It is available to the public several times during the year, but we recommend going off-season if you wish to have a less hectic time. Pebble Beach Golf Links is famous in California for its ocean views and challenging holes.
Whistling Straits (Wisconsin)
This Pete Dye-designed golf course is surrounded by spectacular views of Lake Michigan. The green rates top out at $630, probably due to hosting major championships, such as the Ryder Cup. The course’s strenuous layout and stunning views make it a must-visit destination for golfers.
The Old White TPC (West Virginia)
As a historic course, The Old White TPC is filled with incredible tradition and challenge. Depending on the season, you’ll pay around $350-$450 to use the facilities. Golfers love it for its scenic views and beautifully designed layout. If you’re strapped for cash, you could give the meadows a try since they start at $150.
Trump National Doral Golf Club (Miami)
Previously known as Doral Golf Resort & Spa, Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster course in Miami is revered for its critical design and luxurious amenities. After hosting tournaments like the WGC-Cadillac Championship, the grounds can command $495 peak rates.
The Ocean Course (South Carolina)
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, South Carolina, costs players around $463 max. This course is as intriguing as they come, and it has hosted the PGA Championship on several occasions. Its stunning scenery and rigid course design attract golfers looking for a thrilling challenge.
Torrey Pines Golf Course (California)
Commanding peak fees of $292, this public course is recognized for hosting the U.S. Open and daring golfers with its complex layout. It’s a must-play for championship course enthusiasts. Of course, let’s not overlook the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Bethpage Black (New York)
Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York, is a public course famed for its challenging design. Peak fees of $150 for out-of-state players offer an affordable way to experience a course that has hosted major championships, attracting serious golfers looking for an actual test of skill.
RTJ Golf Trail (Alabama)
With views of Lake Saugahatchee and a formidable pattern, this course attracts players of all levels, making it a must-visit for those in the area. The course hugs the water, so you should have some exciting moments during play. It costs about $62, but membership fees are pretty steep.
Pinehurst Resort (North Carolina)
Pinehurst Resort’s No. 2 course in North Carolina is iconic for its design and history. Golfers are drawn to its challenge and the chance to play a legendary course, as major championships like the U.S. Open have been held there. However, be prepared to fork out $595 for a chance at this green.
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club (Michigan)
This course is situated along Lake Michigan and offers engaging gameplay with a dash of mother nature’s beauty. You should be able to comfortably tee off amidst towering dunes, rolling fairways, and panoramic lake views in style. With peak fees of $250, it’s a golfer’s dream come true.
Streamsong Resort (Florida)
Streamsong Resort’s Black Course in Florida is a game changer. With its dramatic elevation drops, incredible scenery, and innovative design, it’s no wonder golfers are flocking to this modern masterpiece. At $369 peak fees, it’s an investment in a truly unique golfing experience.
The Country Club (Massachusetts)
One of the most exclusive clubs around, this club has a very hush-hush policy regarding its membership details. Interestingly, they invite you to become a member instead of applying. Peak fees are estimated at around $52, but we recommend contacting them just to be sure since there could be hidden fees.
