It is difficult to definitively say which are the 10 nicest golf courses in America as opinions on what makes a golf course "best" can vary greatly. However, some of the most highly-regarded golf courses in the United States include:
1. Augusta National Golf Club (Georgia)
Augusta National Golf Club is a private golf club located in Augusta, Georgia, United States. It was founded in 1933 by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts. The club is most famous for hosting the Masters Tournament, one of the four major championships in professional golf, which is played annually in April. The course was designed by Jones and Alister MacKenzie and is widely considered one of the most challenging and beautiful courses in the world.
2. Pine Valley Golf Club (New Jersey)
Pine Valley Golf Club, located in New Jersey, is considered one of the finest golf courses in the world. The course was designed by George Crump and opened in 1913, and features 18 holes of challenging and picturesque golf. The course is known for its natural beauty, with towering sand dunes, pine trees, and creeks coming into play. Pine Valley is a private club and is only open to members and invited guests, making it an exclusive and highly sought-after destination for golfers.
3. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club (New York)
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is a historic golf course located in Southampton, New York. It is the oldest incorporated golf club in the United States, founded in 1891. The course is known for its challenging layout and beautiful coastal setting. It has hosted multiple US Open Championships, including the 2018 tournament.
4. Oakmont Country Club (Pennsylvania)
Oakmont Country Club is a prestigious golf club located in Oakmont, Pennsylvania. It has hosted numerous major golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open a record nine times. The club's course is known for its challenging layout, featuring fast greens and deep bunkers. Oakmont Country Club also offers a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, dining options, and tennis courts.
5. Cypress Point Club (California)
Cypress Point Club is a prestigious private golf club located in Pebble Beach, California. The club's 18-hole golf course is known for its challenging layout and spectacular ocean views. Cypress Point Club also offers a variety of amenities including a clubhouse, tennis courts, and a swimming pool. The club has a long history of hosting major golf tournaments, including the US Open and the PGA Championship.
6. Merion Golf Club (Pennsylvania)
Merion Golf Club is a historic and prestigious golf club located in Ardmore, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1896, it is home to two 18-hole golf courses, the East Course and the West Course. The club has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open, and is considered one of the finest golf clubs in the world. Its picturesque setting and challenging course design make it a favorite among golf enthusiasts and professionals alike.
7. National Golf Links of America (New York)
National Golf Links of America is a prestigious golf course located in Southampton, New York. It was designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, considered to be the "father of American golf architecture." The course features 18 holes of challenging golf and was ranked as the #1 golf course in New York by Golf Digest in 2020. It is a private course, with membership by invitation only, and has hosted many major tournaments throughout its history.
8. Sand Hills Golf Club (Nebraska)
Sand Hills Golf Club is a premier golf destination located in Mullen, Nebraska. The club features an 18-hole championship course designed by renowned architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. The course is known for its natural beauty, with rolling sand hills, native grasses, and challenging greens. Sand Hills Golf Club is consistently ranked as one of the top courses in the country, attracting golfers from all over the world.
9. Chicago Golf Club (Illinois)
Chicago Golf Club, located in Wheaton, Illinois, is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf clubs in the United States. Founded in 1892, the club features a challenging 18-hole course designed by Charles B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor. The course is known for its strategic bunkering and fast greens, making it a test for even the most skilled golfer. Chicago Golf Club has a rich history, having hosted numerous major golf tournaments and being a founding member of the United States Golf Association.
10. Fishers Island Club (New York)
The Fishers Island Club is a private, members-only club located on Fishers Island, New York. Established in 1887, it offers a variety of amenities including an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and a beach club. The club also features a variety of dining options and a full-service marina. With its picturesque setting and top-notch facilities, the Fishers Island Club is the ultimate destination for those looking for a luxurious and exclusive getaway.
These are all very exclusive and private clubs, but some of them are open to the public for a limited time.