The Breaking Eighty Top 100 Courses in the World (2025)

I started this website over a decade ago.

Before it began in 2012, I’d never taken a dedicated golf trip outside my home state.

I’d never played a private golf course.

I’d never broken 80.

And then something happened. I started.

I played my first really good golf course. I started bringing golf clubs on my trips.

And since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to play a lot of really good golf courses all over the world.

I’ve taken tens of thousands of photos, played thousands of holes, and started to have a much better understanding of what makes a good golf course.

I’ve also been able to form opinions about which courses I enjoy the most.

There’s a very distinct (and at times, quite large) difference between what I enjoy and what constitutes a good course by traditional standards.

If you look at many of the “top 100” lists from major publications, you’ll in many cases, see a big slant towards difficult, championship golf courses with a lot of historic pedigree.

Usually, those courses are worthy of being as highly ranked as they are. However, does that mean that some of them were my favorite courses to play?

Not exactly.

The fun thing about this list, is that I get to decide what gets ranked where, and why. This is the Breaking Eighty Top 100 Golf Courses list for 2025.

What This List is Not

This is not a list of which courses I think are the best from an architectural standpoint. If I were rating them for say GolfWeek or Golf Digest I would rank them very differently based on their architectural merits.

With this list, I asked myself one simple question:

Which courses do I enjoy playing the most?

I went through and asked myself over and over and over again, “would you rather play course #1 or course #2” – this list is based on those answers.

As much as possible, I tried to throw out exclusivity and pedigree. For instance in all honesty, if you told me I could go play Tobacco Road or Winged Foot West– I’d most certainly go play Winged Foot – yet I have Tobacco Road ranked higher.

This leads to the question, “How on earth could you have Tobacco Road ranked higher than Winged Foot??”

My Primary Top 100 Ranking Factor

When creating this list, I took into account everything from course difficulty, strategic shot values, scenery, and personal affinity – but there’s one ranking factor that will always remain paramount for me.

Fun.

How much fun did I have playing the course? Was there a lot of variety? Was each hole distinct and did it keep me entertained throughout the round?

I mean, after all, that’s what golf is supposed to be about right? Having fun?

This is why in many cases you’ll find very highly ranked courses (by traditional measures) that are far superior from an architectural standpoint, not ranking as high as other courses.

That said, in some cases, much of the fun can be derived from the exclusivity, location, or history of a course.

Top 100 Golf Course Rankings: Each Year it Gets Harder

Hands down my 2025 top golf courses list has been by far the hardest to write over the 11 years that I’ve been doing it.

There are a few reasons for this.

One is that every year I’m playing more and more golf. 

At first, it was easy to push out a lot of the mediocre courses, but now, there are very (VERY) good courses not on this list. And in some cases, I pushed out a “better” course because I just didn’t enjoy it as much as some of the ones I left on the list.

I spent a lot of time this year reviewing old photos, videos, journal entries, and blog posts to refresh my memory on some of the courses where it’s been a few years since I’ve played them.

The second reason this continues to be challenging is that the hate I’ve received for this list in the past is still fresh in my mind.

Long story short, I was called a bunch of names, and hammered over some of the items on this list from people who know a lot more about golf courses than me.

Frankly, I find it amazing that for something as subjective as a list of favorite golf courses, so many people were bold enough to tell me just how wrong I was.

A couple things to keep in mind while you read this list:

1. When it comes to favorite golf courses (not the best), no one is wrong. Everyone likes different things, and that’s one of the things that makes this game so great.
2. It’s just golf. If you get worked up reading this list, then that means you’ve probably played a lot of these courses. In that case, you are an extremely privileged human being. Be thankful for that (I know I certainly am), and recognize that none of this is life or death, or even close to it. So smile, and be glad that you’ve been fortunate enough to travel to play cool golf courses.

And then you should read this.

Now that you understand a bit about my unconventional ranking strategy, let’s get on with it.

Keep in mind, this list is based on courses that I’ve played, so when you say “why isn’t Cypress Point or Pine Valley listed?”  It’s probably because I haven’t been there…yet.

And with that? Time to jump into our 2025 top 100 golf courses list!

#100: Atlanta Athletic Club (Highlands Course) – Atlanta, Georgia

After another play last year, the Highlands Course at Atlanta Athletic Club stays on the list. For a course that has been beefed up over the years by Rees Jones to challenge the pros, it’s still more fun than many courses of a similar style.

All of the par 3s are beautiful and exciting, and there are multiple ways to play most holes. The new Riverside Course is also fantastic and well worth playing.

Check out: Atlanta Athletic Club: The Best 36 Hole Club in the South?

#99: Plainfield Country Club – Edison, New Jersey

Home of 2016’s Barclays, Plainfield is a fantastic Donald Ross layout. It starts to border on the “long, championship-style” courses that aren’t always my favorite, but I really enjoyed my round out here – especially the back nine.

11 is one of my favorite par 3s in the country.

Recap: Photo Tour of NYC Road Trip

#98: Harbour Town – Hilton Head Island, SC

Fresh off a renovation that strived to keep the architectural identity of the course in tact, this is iconic for so many reasons. Whether it’s the small greens, narrow fairways, or PGA heritage – it’s a bucket list place every golfer should experience at least once.

#97: Tetherow Golf Club – Bend, Oregon

The exact opposite of Pronghorn, Tetherow is one of the most unique courses in the world. It’s in the high desert, but the fescue grass has it playing like a links course. It’s high on the fun factor, and the greens can leave you some truly terrifying putts. I enjoy it every time I head out, and with the work they’ve been doing there, it’s only getting better.

Full Recap: Tetherow: The Most Polarizing Course in Oregon

#96: Rolling Green Country Club – Springfield, Pennsylvania

During a trip to Philly a few years ago, Rolling Green was the course I didn’t know a whole lot about, and next to places like Merion, Aronimink, and Philly Cricket – I wasn’t totally giddy about playing it.

After the round though? Wow. Great variety, lots of elevation, and some really fun and unique holes. Totally underrated in not only the Philly area, but in the US as a whole. There’s been some significant renovation work, so I imagine this will only climb in my rankings after I see it next.

Full Recap: Rolling Green Golf Club

#95: Huntingdon Valley Country Club – Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania

Huntingdon Valley was the first stop during our first Eighty Club event in Philly, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. We played the Toomey/Flynn nines, which have fantastic elevation changes, a handful of excellent short pars 4s, and one of the best clubhouse views you’ll find.

It’s a sleeper in the stacked world of Philadelphia golf, and one I’d love to play again.

#94: Kohanaiki Club – Kona, Hawaii

This is the first of many new entries on our 2023 Top 100 list. Kohanaiki Club might be the coolest club I’ve ever been to. From wonderful food and beverage offerings, immaculate coastal views, or the insane clubhouse – this place has it all.

And the centerpiece of it is the Rees Jones-designed golf course. It’s got great variety, is fun, and works in natural elements of the land better than most courses I’ve seen. The 3 comfort stations don’t hurt either 🙂

Full Review: Kohanaiki Golf Course

#93: Prairie Dunes Country Club – Hutchinson, Kansas

Before heading to Prairie Dunes, I was telling some friends about my upcoming trip to Kansas.

And the response I got?

“Why??”

Clearly, these friends aren’t golfers. Prairie Dunes is Perry Maxwell’s Golden Age masterpiece that is one of the most challenging courses I’ve ever played. It was the perfect setting for our final Eighty Club event of 2019.

#92: Chambers Bay – Tacoma, Washington

Chambers is another course that many people love to hate after the debacle that was the 2015 US Open. However, the variety, the fun holes, and the views make this a course that would be hard not to enjoy.

Full Recap: Salish Cliffs and Chambers Bay: The Perfect Golf Getaway

#91: Sheep Ranch – Bandon, Oregon

There are very few courses that have been as highly anticipated over the last 4 years than the Sheep Ranch at Bandon Dunes.

What do you get when you combine the most scenic piece of property at the best golf resort in the world, with one of the best architects in the game?

Sheep Ranch.

The views rival any course in the world, and there are a handful of shots on the course you’ll simply never hit anywhere else.

Check out: Sheep Ranch at Bandon Dunes: The Most Stunning of All

#90: Spyglass Hill – Monterey, California

Anything on the Monterey Peninsula is going to have some cache, and Spyglass Hill is no exception. The bigger, more brutal brother to Pebble Beach has one of the best opening 5 hole stretches I’ve played.

While I’m not as much of a fan of Spyglass as a lot of people are, I’ve enjoyed it more and more after each of my three rounds there. The par 3s are strong, the opening hole is one of the best openers in the world, and 4 is one of the coolest greens you’ll ever see.

I was last there for the 2019 Lexus Champions of Charity, and we had a pretty fun challenge on the epic 4th hole:

#89: Eugene Country Club – Eugene, Oregon

For years, Eugene Country Club had been ranked among the top 100 courses in the US. Many people consider itthe best “non-Bandon” course in Oregon.

And over the last few years? It’s gotten even better.

They recently did a full renovation of the course, which changed a lot of the bunker styling while staying true to its Pacific Northwest identity.

#88: Wykagyl Country Club – New Rochelle, NY

With famous neighbors like Winged Foot and Quaker Ridge, it’s not hard to see why Wykagyl might get overlooked. But here’s the thing, it’s every bit as good as either of those clubs.

It has way more land movement than you’d expect, and has just the right balance of fun and challenge to keep you coming back from more. My friend Jeff who I was traveling with on my trip back East this year, has Wykagyl as one of his top 5 courses of all time.

#87: Camargo Club – Cincinnati, Ohio

One of the very best collections of template par 3s I’ve ever played. Camargo Club is truly special in the world of golf. It’s understated, quiet, and it doesn’t need to be loud or flashy to let the world know just how good it is. It was one of my first Raynor’s and is the type of course that I can only imagine enjoying more and more with more plays.

Full Recap: Camargo Club – The Best Par 3 Templates in the World?

#86: The Golf Club – New Albany, Ohio

Teeing it up at The Golf Club was one of the most pure experiences I’ve had on a golf course. You pull through the gates and you’re transported to another secluded world. A world where no one will bother you, where you nearly always have the course to yourself, and where Pete Dye displayed some of his very best (and earliest) work.

Full Recap: The Golf Club – An Uber-Exclusive Golfing Haven

#85: Erin Hills – Hartford, Wisconsin

Host of the 2017 US Open, Erin Hills is another very difficult walk, and the course, which can be stretched out to over 8,000 yards is no slouch either. There are some excellent stay-and-play deals, and if you live in the Midwest, this is a must-play.

Worth Reading: Erin Hills: Home of the 2017 US Open and Best Golf Courses in Wisconsin.

#84: Oakland Hills (South Course) – Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

There aren’t many major tournaments Oakland Hills hasn’t hosted. This struck a better balance of difficulty and hole variety, than say Medinah or Olympic – and the greens are some of the slickest I’ve ever putted on.

I haven’t played it since Gil Hanse’s recent remodel, so I imagine it’s even better now than it was when I had the chance to visit.

Full Recap: Oakland Hills (South Course)

#83: Lost Farm at Barnbougle Dunes – Tasmania, Australia

Along with the other courses at Barnbougle Dunes, this represents the farthest I’ve ever traveled for a round of golf. And boy was it worth it.

It was a whirlwind fitting in all 50 holes of golf on the property into one day, but I’m so glad I did it. Lost Farm provides plays like a modern links course similar to those at Bandon Dunes, and would fit right in at that property. Coore and Crenshaw did a great job blending strategy and fun, and it’s clear why so many people make the journey to play there.

#82: Panther National – West Palm Beach, Florida

I won’t lie, part of the fun of playing this course is just how exclusive it is. But I was surprised at how much I actually enjoyed the golf course, straight from the opening hole. Lots of hole and design variety, and it can go from relatively friendly to “tour-ready” simply by switching tees.

#81: Creek Club – Lake Oconee, Georgia

Whereas some purists will be mad I have certain courses so low, this is one where I imagine I’ll catch some heat for having it so high.

Creek Club is….wild. 

But you know what else it is? Fun. You hit shots on that course you’ll never see anywhere else. The greens are imaginative. And the whole place is a visual delight. It’s not a course I’d want to play every day, but when I do play it? I love it.

Full Recap: The Creek Club at Reynolds Lake Oconee: A Visual Masterpiece

#80: Bally’s Golf Links at Ferry Point – New York, New York

I had a feeling Ferry Point was going to be good, but it ended up being even better than I’d expected it to be. The course is truly a links-style course in the middle of the city, and it was also one of the most enjoyable photography days I’ve had. Every hole is scenic in its own way, and the routing was both memorable and enjoyable with a wide variety of holes.

If you can put aside the polarizing politics of Ferry Point, you’ll be treated to one of the most enjoyable public courses on the East Coast.

#79: Baltusrol Golf Club (Lower) – Springfield, New Jersey

Few courses have the history and tournament pedigree of Baltusrol. And after a recent restoration to the Lower Course? It’s as good as it’s ever been. Just bring your A game, or plan for it to be a long day.

Full Recap: Baltusrol Golf Club: Unparalleled Championship History

#78: Cabot Links – Inverness, Nova Scotia

Cabot Links was the first true Links Course in Canada and it put Nova Scotia on the map as a world class golf destination. Many people conisder this the better course over it’s younger brother, the Cliffs course.

With a few more plays and understanding of it’s nuances, I might be inclinded to agree.

Full Recap: Why Nova Scotia is the Ultimate Golf Road Trip

#77: Old Sandwich – Plymouth, Massachusetts 

Old Sandwich was the part of our tandem of courses for our “Breaking Boston” Eighty Club event last year, and it lived up to all the hype. The course is fun and interesting, and the lodging on property is easily some of the best I’ve ever seen.

The Cape hole #5, is one of the most unique I’ve seen, and rivaled by only a few others in my book (Mid Ocean and Machrihanish).

#76: Bethpage Black – Farmingdale, NY

What many consider Tillinghast’s best work, barely cracks my top 3 of his. Bethpage is another course everyone should play at least once, due to its accessibility and increasing lore in the golf history books. Expect lots of sand, extremely difficult rough, and a brutal walk that will leave you begging for more.

Full Recap: Bethpage Black

#75: Glens Falls Country Club – Queensbury, New York

Most people had never heard of Glens Falls until Tom Doak raved about it a few years back in his updated Confidential Guide.

Even with the high praise? Most people still haven’t heard of it.

The place is like stepping into a time portal. And when you’re done with the round? You’re left wondering two things: 

1. How a course this good could fly under the radar for so long
2. How on earth they built and played this roller coaster of a course way back in the 1920s

#74: Windsong Farm (North) – Minneapolis, MN

I could give you 20 guesses on who designed the North Course at Windsong, and I bet you’d never guess John Fought. It looks like a Raynor straight out of the 20s. It has wonderful template holes, unique originals, and it makes the most of its very small footprint. One of the most fun courses I’ve ever played.

Full Recap: The North Course at Windsong Farm is Wildly Fun

#73: Mid Ocean Club – Bermuda

Living on the west coast of the US, Bermuda wasn’t exactly on the top of my list of places to visit. However, after visiting twice for our annual Eighty Club Ryder Cup event, it’s now one of my favorite spots in the word.

The CB Macdonald Mid Ocean Club is phenomenal. It has the templates, it has the views, and everyone I met there is so laid back and chill – it’s exactly the type of place you’d like to be a member at and play over and over again.

#72: Kiawah Island (Ocean Course) – Kiawah Island, SC

One of the most iconic, and challenging courses in the country. But I thought, despite the challenge, the course had a lot of character and variety. It beat me up, but it did so in a way that I never felt it was unfair, and that I thoroughly enjoyed.

#71: Victoria Golf Club – Melbourne, Australia

Victoria Golf Club often gets overshadowed by its more famous neighbors Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath. But don’t be fooled. It’s every bit as good as those courses. 

Opening up with a fantastic drivable par 4 is something I love, and it has the best collection of par 3s of any course I played while in Australia.

If you find yourself close by, this is a must-play.

#70: Pumpkin Ridge (Witch Hollow) – North Plains, Oregon

I may be slightly biased on this one, considering it’s my home course – but the setting and variety here is fantastic.

The par 5 14th is one of the best short par 5s in the world, and while it may not have the length to host a modern-day US Open, it’s a course that can still challenge some of the best players in the world, which it did for years, hosting the Korn Ferry season finale and the first US LIV event in 2022.

#69: Trump International Golf Club – Aberdeenshire, Scotland

This might have been the longest, toughest, most difficult walk of my life. – partially due to the torrential wind and rain, I’m sure. But I found this to be a more difficult walk than both brutes like Yale and Bethpage Black.

I was surprised by just how good Trump’s course here really was. It has a modern take on links golf that kept things interesting and fun, even if I thought my lungs were going to give out at times.

Full Recap: Trump International Scotland

#68: St. Andrews (Old Course) – St. Andrews, Scotland

From an architectural standpoint, the Old Course is one of the greatest (if not the greatest) courses in the world. From a historical standpoint? It’s unparalleled.

Any golfer will get goosebumps when you stand on the first tee. But I think this is a course that takes many plays and/or lots of study to truly understand its greatness (outside of its obvious importance in the history of golf).

The course itself isn’t overly scenic, and it’s quite flat. If you were to take an average golfer and have them play The Old Course, and say, Tobacco Road (without knowing anything about either), I’d be willing to bet at least half of them would choose the latter as their favorite.

But this is a place I long to play a few more times, as I know that spending more time on this course will lead to a better understanding and appreciation of it.

#67: Galloway National – Absecon, New Jersey

On the outskirts of Atlantic City, Galloway is a course that’s largely flown under the radar. It’s always been in perfect shape when I’ve been, and while it’s one of the more difficult courses I’ve played, I still found it very enjoyable and full of memorable holes.

The short par 4 12th, and par 3 17th are two in particular that really stand out, and it’s one of the most underrated courses in the country in my opinion.

#66: Pronghorn (Nicklaus Course) – Bend, Oregon

This was the course that started it all for me. My very first top 100 public course I played. I love Bend and Pronghorn. The course has a few of my favorite holes in Oregon (12-15) and is a treat to play every time I have the opportunity.

Not to be missed on a trip to Central Oregon.

Full Recap: Pronghorn (Nicklaus Course)

#65: Hualalai Golf Course – Kona, Hawaii

This is one some purists may not agree with. But I enjoyed this golf course so much more than I expected to. Straight up, it’s just a fun resort course, with stunning vistas of black lava and blue ocean.

After one round, I found myself wanting to run right back out and play it again. Which is good news considering they’re pricing is as a “day rate” so for one fee you can play as much as you want.

The resort itself isn’t half bad either.

Full Recap: Hualalai Golf Course: This is Resort Golf at it’s Finest

#64: Winged Foot (West Course) – Mamaroneck, New York

After having the good fortune of playing the East Course in 2017, to be invited back to play the West in 2018 was a real treat (thanks Chris!).

We had an absolute Chamber of Commerce day, and the West might have been the most well-manicured course I’ve ever played. It was exactly as I expected, long and challenging, but frankly, I think I preferred the quirkier East Course.

Full Recap: Winged Foot Golf Club: The Finest 36 Hole Club in the Country?

#63: Kananaskis (Kidd) – Canmore, Alberta

Banff Springs is the one everyone has heard of. But about 45 minutes away from the famous Stanley Thompson design is one of the most underrated 36 hole properties in the world.

No, not just in Canada. In the world.

Kananaskis had views that were just as dramatic as Banff, and both the Kidd and Lorette courses were incredibly fun to play.

I didn’t have overly high expectations for Kananaskis, but the club blew me away. It’s a must visit if you’re in the area.

#62: The Valley Club of Montecito – Montecito, California

Playing at The Valley Club is a really special experience. The club itself has one of the best vibes I’ve ever seen. The membership is more laid back than you’d expect, and the clubhouse is one of the all-time greats.

Things get even better once you hit the course. A nearly original Mackenzie design shows off a unique routing, excellent bunkering, and a course that won’t overwhelm you with difficulty – in the best way possible.

#61: Crosswater Golf Club – Sunriver, Oregon

I play Crosswater in Sunriver, Oregon at least once a year, and I love it every time.

It has a solid variety of holes, forcing you to be very strategic at times (4th hole with extremely shallow green), and to flat out bomb it at others (687 yard par 5, 12th). While I do wish there were a bit more elevation, it’s underrated in PNW golf – especially if you catch one of their $99/night stay-and-play deals.

Full Recap: Crosswater Golf Club

#60: Banff Springs Golf Course – Banff, Alberta

I’ve played golf in some pretty spectacular places. Pebble, Punta Espada, the Maldives – but Banff Springs may have the most dramatic backdrop for golf I’ve ever seen. Towering peaks around every corner, and unlike many courses in amazing settings – the course is every bit as good as the scenery.

Full Recap: Playing Banff Springs Golf Club: As Spectacular as Golf Gets

#59: Blackwolf Run (River Course) – Kohler, Wisconsin

When I think of the River Course, the first word that comes to mind is fun. Dye uses bunkers and water, to weave you through a tapestry of different landscapes, and he gives you multiple options on every hole – with the best example of this being the three distinct fairway options on the par 4, 9th.

Full Recap: Blackwolf Run (River Course)

#58: California Golf Club of San Francisco – San Francisco, California

Cal Club as most people affectionately call it, has some of the most brutal (and beautiful) bunkering I’ve ever seen – no surprise, considering Alistair Mackenzie helped with them. This course has flown under the radar until more recently, but it’s among the best courses in a state full of phenomenal golf.

Full Recap: Best Golf Courses in California

#57: Pronghorn (Fazio Course) – Bend, Oregon

The Fazio course at Pronghorn gets very little play, and as such is in immaculate condition. Its views of the Three Sisters mountains are unparalleled, and the par 3 8th over an ancient lava tube is one of the best and most unique par 3s you’ll ever play.

Full Recap: Pronghorn (Fazio Course)

#56: The Creek Club – Locust Valley, New York

No, the other “Creek Club”

Before my round at The Creek, I admittedly didn’t know a whole lot about it – and I’m glad I didn’t. The surprises kept coming around every turn, leading to a very memorable experience.

The view going over the crest on 5 is one of golf’s all-time great reveals.

Some might knock it for a weak opener (which has improved with a recent Hanse reno), but I actually found the first 5 holes (save for a pretty weak Eden hole) to be very good – and things only got better from there. I can only imagine how good it is now post-renovation.

#55: Philly Cricket Club (Wissahickon Course) – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Possibly with the exception of Pinehurst #2 or Sleepy Hollow, I’m not sure there has been a more celebrated restoration in America than the Tillinghast designed Wissahickon course. It’s just so good.  You’re engaged all the way through the round, and there isn’t a weak hole on the property.

Check out: Philly Cricket Club: A Classic Reborn

#54: The Preserve Golf Club – Carmel, California

I’m not sure I’ve ever experienced a more peaceful setting for a round of golf. Set amongst a 20,000 acre private nature reserve, The Preserve Golf Club is a beautiful Fazio routing with fun holes and immaculate maintenance. 

The 8,5 mile long driveway is likely the most enjoyable entrance to a club you’ll ever find, and truly transports you to a completely different place once you pass through the gates.

Full Recap: The Preserve Golf Club

#53: Colorado Golf Club – Parker, Colorado

I knew I was going to like Colorado Golf Club before I even set foot on the property. It’s Coore Crenshaw on a beautiful piece of land, and some super unique holes.

CGC is also one of the best match-play courses I’ve ever played, and it has some excellent risk-reward short par 4s and par 5s.

Full Recap: Best Golf Courses in Colorado

#52: Myopia Hunt Club – Hamilton, Massachusetts 

Walking off the highly unique short par 4, first hole, I knew I was going to like this course. It goes up, it goes down, it goes short, it goes long. Its tradition and history is deep and the course itself is extremely special.

With that said, it seemed on nearly every hole drives I thought were pretty good ended up in bunkers I didn’t know were there 🙂

#51: Quivira Golf Club – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

When you hear about Quivira, usually it’s all about the crazy cliff-side holes.

What people don’t tell you? 

The rest of the course is VERY good as well.

I expected 2 or 3 really fun holes, and for the rest of the course to be mediocre. 

With the exception of a slightly anti-climactic finish, I don’t think there was a single hole I didn’t enjoy.

Check out: Quivira Golf Club: A Seaside Rollercoaster

#50: Tobacco Road – Sanford, North Carolina

Tobacco Road is one of the most polarizing courses in the US.

Personally? I love it. It’s unique, rebellious, and has hole designs I’ve never seen anywhere else.

In fact, it’s so good, I’m still trying to convince some of my golfing buddies to fly across the country to play it with me for a repeat visit.

Full Recap: Tobacco Road and Best Golf Courses in North Carolina

#49: Waverley Country Club – Portland, Oregon

Waverley is set on one of the most beautiful pieces of land for golf in the state of Oregon. Very few places I’ve played compare with the finish on 16-18.

There’s truly something special about this club that you don’t see often in Oregon. It feels like it’d be more at home with the Golden Age clubs of the Northeast. The more I’ve played it, the more I’ve enjoyed it.

If there’s one place I hope to be a member at one day, this is it.

#48: Kingsbarns – Fife, Scotland

When I played Kingsbarns the Scottish fog was out in full force (as were the flashing red guidance lights) – but didn’t get in the way of a wonderful experience.

Kyle Phillips did a tremendous job of blending old and new, and making a course that’s one of the most fun and enjoyable in Scotland.

#47: Hoiana Shores Golf Club – Hoi An, Vietnam

Simply put this is one of the best golf courses in Asia, and one of my favorite places I played in 2025. It’s a hike to get there, but if you’re looking for fun, modern links golf and a unique adventure of a trip? There are few better places than Vietnam.

Full Recap: Hoiana Shores is Links Golf In…Vietnam?

#46: Sleepy Hollow Country Club – Scarborough, New York

Sleepy Hollow has recently been completely transformed back to its former glory by Gil Hanse – and it’s a sight to behold. Most people have seen the phenomenal par 3 16th, but unless you’ve played it you don’t realize just how good the land, views, and interest of the holes are.

It’s 100% deserving of all the praise it’s been getting over the last couple of years, and is truly one of the best golf courses in New York, if not the country.

#45: Ballyneal Golf Club – Holyoke, Colorado

Ballyneal is close to the most remote golf course I’ve ever played. I mean, it’s out there.

It’s the ultimate destination club, and fortunately, its golf course makes every second of the journey worth it. It feels like a links course in the middle of nowhere, and that’s because, well, that’s essentially what it is.

There are no tee boxes at Ballyneal, so each round feels very much like a game of “choose your own adventure.”

Full Recap: Why Ballyneal is One of the Best Destination Clubs in the World

#44: Pacific Dunes – Bandon, Oregon

There have been countless debates about the best courses at Bandon. The fact you can justify saying any one of their 5 courses is the best is a testament to how good the golf is there.

But for me? While I really enjoy Pacific, there are a couple others at the resort I like even more.

Check out: How I Broke 80 at Bandon in the Coolest Way Possible

#43: Riviera Country Club – Los Angeles, California

There are certain clubs who have a greatness that you can’t quite quantify or identify without experiencing them. I found Riviera to be one of those clubs. If you’re a diehard about golf course architecture, this is one of those “must study” courses. As everything from concept to execution is a masterclass in golf course design.

It’s difficult yet playable, tough yet fair, and the Redan 4th is one of the most challenging par 3s I’ve played. Simply put, while I was unsure going into it, Riviera is every bit as good as it is made out to be.

#42: Gleneagles (Kings Course) – Gleneagles, Scotland

There were a handful of big surprises on my last Scotland trip, but none were as big as the Kings Course. This was literally a matter of “we have some time, where in Scotland can we drive and go play a round?”

We randomly decided on Gleneagles, and almost played the Centenary course instead. What a mistake that would have been. The Kings course was very diverse, with fantastic long holes, short holes, wide fairways, narrow fairways – it made you think throughout the whole round.

We barely got the whole thing in before dark, and I’m amazed this course doesn’t get more attention than it does –  it was that good.

#41: Atlanta Country Club – Marietta, Georgia

Hands down, the number one best surprise of 2017. I arranged a tee time at Atlanta Country Club on short notice while down for the Masters after a couple other scheduled rounds fell through.

I didn’t know a whole lot about it, but had heard nothing but good things. The way the course weaves through a canyon makes for a unique setting, and I felt like I had strategic decisions to make on nearly every hole. Highly underrated and worth playing when in the area.

#40: Cruden Bay – Aberdeenshire, Scotland

You want to talk about adventure golf? It doesn’t get much more adventurous than this. It’s amazing this course was built so long ago, because it has so many features that I love in the more modern courses I play – you know except for the (many) blind shots.

There are few things as rewarding in golf as the view from the 9th tee box after the hike to get up there.

#39: The Course at Yale – New Haven, Connecticut

I think Yale may be the most underrated course in the world.

Literally. 

So many of the traditional raters will knock it for being rough around the edges and for having poor conditioning. But the course itself? Is phenomenal.

With Gil Hanse doing a course renovation soon, you can bet Yale is finally going to get the recognition it’s due.

Playing Yale? Check out more of the best golf courses in Connecticut.

#38: TPC Sawgrass – Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

I liked TPC Sawgrass much more than I expected to. While it’s always on Top 100 lists and among the Top 10 of the best public courses in the US, I haven’t met many people who truly raved about it.

But I think it’s a fantastic test of golf that while challenging, is also really enjoyable. The water wasn’t as penal as I expected it to be and the greens were the fastest I’ve ever putted on. Regardless of what anyone says, the 17th is truly a bucket list hole.

Check out: TPC Sawgrass Review

#37: Winged Foot (East) – Mamaroneck, New York

To be totally honest, I really didn’t think I was going to like Winged Foot East. I thought it was going to be a long, hard championship course that while great for the pros, but would be too tough and tedious for someone like me.

Boy was I wrong. Winged Foot had memorable par 3s, great risk-reward short par 4s and was a real treat to experience the history of the Club.

Check out: Winged Foot Golf Club: The Greatest 36 Hole Golf Club in America?

#36: Whistling Straits – Kohler, Wisconsin

One of the most well-known, and highly ranked public courses in the country, Whistling Straits is grand in every sense of the word. Each of the 4 par 3s rests on the banks of Lake Michigan, and if the views don’t distract you and kill your round, the nearly 1,000 bunkers on the course most likely will.

Full Recap: Whistling Straits

#35: Arcadia Bluffs – Arcadia, Michigan

Is Arcadia Bluffs the most strategic course? Nope. Is it a holy grail to quality golf architecture? Ha, not a chance. But this is one of those courses, where the overall experience and fun factor make you forget about all of that. I can remember every hole on the course, the views are second to none, and there aren’t many rounds where I’ve had more fun than here.

And yes, personally, I enjoy it more than that other course across the lake 🙂

Full Review: Arcadia Bluffs

#34: The Golf Club at Black Rock – Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

This was the first top 100 US course I ever played. It’s another one where I could see purists cringe – but there’s no denying the course is both fun and scenic at the same time. I haven’t played anything else like it.

The par 4, 11th hole with an approach in between two waterfalls is one of the most unique holes you’ll ever play, and there are at least 3 or 4 other holes that would be in contention for a top 100 holes list.

After another play recently, I was reminded why I enjoy this golf course so much.

Full Recap: The Golf Club at Black Rock

#33: Barnbougle Dunes – Tasmania, Australia

I pulled up to Barnbougle Dunes just as the sun was starting to come up over the horizon. I had the first tee time of the day, and was joined by about 30 wallabies on the front nine. As with many of the top Australian courses you’ll find a pair of excellent drivable par 4s, along with some stunning par 3s. The dramatic dunes are a wonderful setting for golf.

Barnbougle Dunes paved the way for remote golf in the region, as destinations like King Island may not have come to fruition were it not for the success of this golf course and resort.

Full Recap: Why Barnbougle Dunes is Worth Flying Across the World For

#32: Boston Golf Club – Hingham, Massachusetts

My Boston whirlwind a while back was fun because we got to play 4 of the best courses in the city (make that country): Essex County, Myopia Hunt, Boston, and The Country Club. Everyone we talked to had a different opinion on how these ranked. I knew I would love Boston. I like modern course designs, and Hanse did an incredible job crafting memorable and strategic holes.

#5, “Shipwrecked,” is among the best short par 4s in golf – and if you know me, you know I love short par 4s!

I got back there a couple years ago for our Eighty Club “Breaking Boston” event, and I enjoyed the course as much as ever.

#31: Estancia Club – Scottsdale, Arizona

If you ask anyone these days to name their favorite architect, I’d be surprised if 1 in 10 were to say Tom Fazio.

Yet, as I’ve played more and more of his top-tier courses, I continually find myself counting them among my favorites. It’d be interesting to add up how many of each architect are on my list, but it wouldn’t surprise me if he tops the list.

Estancia is beautiful, fun, and the whole experience is a memorable one. It’s not hard to see why it’s consistently ranked among the best in Arizona.

#30: Loch Lomond – Alexandria, Scotland

There’s no denying that part of the allure of Loch Lomond is that it is so hard to get an invitation to play.

The setting right on Loch Lomond and within the national park is spectacular, and I found the course to be engaging all the way through. I wasn’t expecting to like the inland holes as much as I did, either.

It’s becoming pretty clear that I’m a big fan of modern parkland courses – and this is among the best examples I’ve played.

Full Recap: Loch Lomond: The Most Private Club in Europe

#29: Pasatiempo – Santa Cruz, California

Pasatiempo was my first Mackenzie course, and is another one Golf Digest doesn’t have ranked highly. While there may be a few pedestrian holes, more often than not the course is world-class with some of the best bunkering I’ve ever seen.

16 is among the top green complexes I’ve seen. This is one of the most underrated courses by traditional measures that’s on my list.

With renovation work having just been completed, I have no doubt Pasatiempo is looking as good as it ever has.

#28: Hudson National – Croton-on-Hudson, New York

Hudson was the first top private I played in the NYC area, and it exceeded very lofty expectations. Fazio created a unique, and fun course that uses elevation change to create a true adventure of a golf course.

I haven’t played it since it finished it’s recent renovation, but I imagine it may only be going up in my rankings once I do.

Full Review: Hudson National

#27: San Francisco Golf Club – San Francisco, California

This proves I don’t just like modern designs. SFGC was one of the most special experiences I’ve ever had on a golf course. It’s one of Tillinghast’s earliest designs, and similar to Somerset Hills, stands out as being quite a bit different than his other work.

This is one of the hardest tee times to get in the country, and when you get there? It feels like it too. When I arrived there was only one other two-some on the course.

And when we crossed paths on the first and tenth tees, he simply introduced himself as “Chuck.”

#26: Royal Melbourne (East/West)

I’m going to be totally honest. I realized the other day, that I forgot to include Royal Melbourne East. Which on its own would undoubtedly be in the top half of this list.

So I’m slotting it in here right along with Royal Melbourne West. We’ll call it the composite course 🙂

But the crown jewel of Australian golf lives up to every bit of the hype. The West is a stunning routing full of bold golf holes that weave strategy and challenge as well as any golf course I’ve ever played.

The East might get overshadowed, but be clear, it’s on the same level. And I could certainly see others preferring it to the West. If you find yourself in Melbourne, do everything you can to play. It took some doing, but I’m so glad I made the effort.

#25: Quaker Ridge Golf Club – Scarsdale, New York

I’ve played Quaker Ridge 3 times now, and each time I enjoy it and appreciate it more and more.

It’s a tough, but fair test of golf. Its neighbor across the street gets most of the fanfare, but frankly, I think Quaker Ridge has more interesting and more memorable holes.

And if you ever visit, make sure your host gives you a tour of the club’s simulator setup….

#24: Peachtree Golf Club – Atlanta, Georgia

There are very few places I’ve been more excited to play than Peachtree. 

The course is truly one of the more special experiences in golf, and I’m not sure I could name a bad hole on the property. 

It’s a tough invite to get, but if you get the chance to play, you’ll have a lot to look forward to.

#23: Somerset Hils – Bernardsville, New Jersey

When you think of Tillinghast you think of ball-busting courses like Bethpage Black. Somerset is much more subdued and friendly – and I loved it. From the beautiful and severe #2 redan hole, I was hooked.

Integrating features of the land, like the old horse race track on the property make it all the more special.

A couple of years ago, someone commented on my top 100 list “I lost all respect for your list and your credibility when I saw how highly you had Somerset Hills ranked.”

Clearly, that person must not have ever actually played the course.

Full Recap: Photo Tour of 2015 NYC Trip

#22: Kingston Heath – Melbourne, Australia

I’ve heard more than one person say that they prefer Kingston Heath to Royal Melbourne West down the street. Depending on the day, I might be inclined to agree with them, too.

Kingston Heath has so much variety. It’s the kind of golf course you could play every day. We had a late afternoon tee time and felt like we had the place to ourselves. It was one of my best golf days of the year, and one I won’t soon forget.

#21: Diamante Dunes – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Diamante is the top-ranked course in Mexico, and for good reason. It’s essentially a links experience in the desert, and was unlike anything I’d experienced before. The views were amazing, and the “all-inclusive” atmosphere makes for a gluttonous, but incredibly rewarding experience.

The course has changed a lot over the years, so I look forward to getting back and seeing it sometime soon.

Full Recap: Diamante Dunes

#20: New South Wales – Sydney, Australia

And the award for highest ranked Australia course goes to…New South Wales. 

For whatever reason, this is the course I keep coming back to and thinking about. The views of the water are great, the land is awesome, and the holes are unique. 

A hallmark of a good course for me is, memorability. How easy is it for me to remember every hole on the course? Nearly a year later, I can picture every single one.

Full Recap: New South Wales Golf Club – Sydney Golf at It’s Very Best

#19: Bandon Dunes – Bandon, Oregon

I used to have Pacific Dunes ranked ahead of Bandon, but having played them both a few times since, I just keep finding myself enjoying Bandon Dunes more. The ebb and flow of the course from inland to water constantly keeps you entertained and excited for the next leg of the journey.

Full Recap: Bandon Dunes

#18: Maidstone Club – East Hampton, New York

I’ve heard complaints that Maidstone has a weak opening and a weak finish – but I didn’t think so. I thought the course eased you into the round beautifully, and then smacked you in the face with some world-class holes.

It’s not overly long or difficult by today’s standards, but it had just the right amount of personality and quirk to make me fall in love with it.

Full Recap: Maidstone Club: An Unforgettable Experience

#17: Jasper Park Lodge – Jasper, Alberta

Of the 8 people I went to Alberta with, 7 out of 8 said they preferred Banff Springs to Jasper Park Lodge.

I was the odd man out. Jasper Park Lodge is one of the most enjoyable golf courses I’ve ever played. Not only does being in the remote wilderness add to the mystique, but it’s one of those rounds where I just kept saying “oh this is cool, this is cool, I’ve never seen this before..”

It’s 5.5 hours from the Calgary airport, so it’s a hike. But boy, is it a hike that’s worth it.

Recap: Jasper Park Lodge (This was from a previous trip where I didn’t get to golf.)

#16: Muirfield Village – Dublin, Ohio

“Jack’s Place” was so much more than I thought it would be. It felt like “Augusta Jr.” in regards to everything from infrastructure to conditioning, and while a brutal challenge I found the course to be more fun and varied in its routing than I’d anticipated.

Each hole led to a new surprise, which had me saying “oh, now this is cool.” And that’s a sign of a good course in my book.

Check out: Muirfield Village Golf Club: It’s Basically Baby-Augusta

#15: Gozzer Ranch Golf & Lake Club – Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Gozzer Ranch not only met, but exceeded my expectations. Everything about Coeur D’Alene is laid back and has a truly relaxing vibe. Gozzer felt the same way, and it just happened to do it with world-class infinity greens and views for days.

Full Recap: Gozzer Ranch Golf and Lake Club

#14: Fishers Island Club – Fishers Island, New York

Fishers Island wins the award for one of the more difficult courses to get to, as after you take a drive or train ride to New London, you board a 45-minute ferry to the island – and another 10-minute drive to the Club.

You’re rewarded for your expedition however with the crown jewel of architect Seth Raynor’s repertoire. It’s one of the most scenic courses on the planet, and has some excellent template holes – including a Double Plateau that is one of my favorite greens in the world.

Check out: Fishers Island Club: A Very Remote and Memorable Round

#13: Punta Espada Golf Club – Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

And the award for biggest surprise of 2019? Hands down Punta Espada. The trip came together just a week or two before I left, but this course had it all for me. It weaved out to the ocean and back no less than 4 times. Had dramatic tee shots over the water, was strategic, but more than anything it was one of the most fun golf courses I’ve ever seen.

Casa de Campo gets most of the fame and has the history, but Punta Espada might be the true crown jewel of the Caribbean.

Check out: Punta Espada Golf Club: The Crown Jewel of Caribbean Golf

#12: Oak Hill Country Club (East Course) – Rochester, New York

I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect to love Oak Hill. I expected nothing but a super hard, parkland course, that just kind of lapped back and forth the property.

The reality? Yes, it’s a very hard course. But man, Oak Hill has such a good variety of holes. The new bunkers are beautiful. The elevation is more dramatic than you expect. This course is so good.

Full Recap: Oak Hill Country Club: Is it Donald Ross’ Best?

#11: Cabot Highlands – Inverness, Scotland

Cabot Highsland (previously Castle Stuart) is modern links at its finest. Infinity greens, risk-reward par 5s, and a handful of dramatic holes you simply won’t see anywhere else.

I’d be curious to play some of the links courses that I’ve ranked above it again, because it would not surprise me to see this rise even higher in the future – it’s that good. And with a new Doak course scheduled to open in 2025, there’s even more of a reason to go back.

#10 Cabot Cliffs – Inverness, Nova Scotia

My favorite course I played in 2025, was hands down Cabot Cliffs. While I don’t think it’s quite as strategic as the Links Course, I found it to be one of the most fun rounds of golf I’ve ever played. It felt like combining Bandon Trails with the Sheep Ranch – and if that isn’t a good combo, I don’t know what is.

Full Recap of Cabot Cape Breton

#9: Oakmont Country Club – Oakmont, Pennsylvania

Oakmont may represent the most perfect test of golf in the world. It’s wildly challenging, but to me at least, it never felt unfair.

The club oozes history, and you feel it every step of the way while you’re on property. The church pew bunkers get all the attention, but I was taken aback by just how interesting every single hole on the course was. It’s one of the rare places where it’s a true struggle to find a bad hole on the course.

This is about as good as it gets.

#8: North Berwick – East Lothian, Scotland

Often overlooked by many on Scotland trips in favor of Open Rota courses, North Berwick is one that should never be missed. It’s home to the original redan green, and at just over 6400 yards won’t scare anyone with its length.

However, the quirkiness of the course made me fall in love with it. The 16th pseudo-Biarritz green might be my favorite green in the world, and the 13th green tucked behind a stone wall is something you won’t find anywhere else.

Full Recap: North Berwick

#7: Los Angeles Country Club (North Course) – Los Angeles, California

While unfortunately, we were only able to experience LACC during one of the wettest LA days on record – it didn’t dampen the experience of one of the best golf courses I’ve ever played.

The routing is genius and always leaves you a little disoriented as to where you are on the property. The holes are memorable, and the devilish little tongue on the short par 3, 15th is one of the coolest pin locations I’ve seen on a golf course – making it only 78 yards long.

#6: Bandon Trails – Bandon, Oregon

After years of being overlooked at Bandon, Trails is finally starting to get its due.  

Previously, Golf Magazine had it as the lowest-ranked course at the resort, but on their most recent list, it’s moved all the way up to 2nd.

I’ve been saying it for years, it’s the most unique.

Hundreds of courses have ocean views.

Very few weave dunes, meadows, and forests together in a way that flows so well. And as for 14? I don’t hate it as much as everyone else. Just calls for a different strategy!

Full Recap: Why Bandon Trails is One of the Most Underrated Courses in the US

#5: Royal Dornoch – Dornoch, Scotland

What’s there to say about Dornoch? It’s one of the oldest courses in the world, and the more courses I play, the more I see course architects that have been heavily influenced by the course. Tom Watson once said it’s “the most fun he’s ever had on a golf course.” 

For me, it’s not hard to see why. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but totally worth it.

Full Recap: Royal Dornoch

#4: Merion Golf Club (East) – Ardmore, Pennsylvania

To put it simply, Merion has everything I look for in a golf course. Unique, fun holes. A bevy of short par 4s. And it does all of this while still being strategic and providing a true challenge and test of golf.

I knew before I played it that Merion would either shoot to the top of the list, or I’d find it wasn’t my style and would consider it overrated.

After another play recently, it just confirms it’s one of my favorite courses in the world.

Full Recap: Merion Golf Club: Weird Flagsticks, World Class Golf

#3: Friars Head – Baiting Hollow, NY

For years, Friars Head has been in my personal “top 5” bucket list courses I wanted to play most. It not only met my expectations, but it blew them out of the water.

14-18 is one of the best finishing stretches in golf. But from the first tee shot to a sharply elevated green, you know you’re in for something special the second you show up on property.

Full Recap: Friars Head

#2: National Golf Links of America – Southampton, New York

Deciding on #1 vs #2 was probably the most difficult decision I had to make with this list. NGLA is one of the most special places I’ve ever been. The course is one world-class hole after another, and the setting is about as good as it gets.

Depending on the day this could very well take the top spot, but on this day, it just barely gets edged out.

#1: Pebble Beach – Monterey Peninsula, California

I should preface this by saying, I had lowered my expectations for Pebble after hearing so many people say it’s overrated.

I’m sorry, Pebble Beach is an absolutely phenomenal golf course. Not only are the water holes unique and beautiful, but even the inland ones (with one or two exceptions) are still world-class.

Someone recently told me Pebble beach was boring. If you think Pebble Beach is boring, I can’t imagine what course you would say is fun.

For me, I’ve yet to see a better combo of fun and excellence in architecture and design. It’s that good.

Full Recap: Pebble Beach, a Camaro, and an MVP

Thanks for tuning in to this year’s Top 100! It’s been fun receiving so many messages with your thoughts and own preferences.