Around the World in 18 Holes: Golf's Most Iconic Courses

Published On: 07-15-2025


Golf is a game known for its rich history, challenging designs, and beautiful courses. For avid golfers, traveling the world to experience some of the most iconic courses is the ultimate adventure. Whether you're teeing off along the coast of California or taking in the views of the Scottish Highlands, these golf courses are known for their natural beauty, legendary status, and difficulty. In this article, we'll take you on a journey around the world in 18 holes, exploring the most iconic golf courses that every golfer should experience at least once

.

Pebble Beach Golf Links – California, USA


Nestled along the stunning California coastline, Pebble Beach Golf Links is one of the most famous golf courses in the world. Known for its dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, the course presents both natural beauty and a challenging layout. The 17th hole, a par-3 played over the ocean, is one of the most photographed holes in golf.

This iconic course has hosted numerous major tournaments, including the U.S. Open. The layout is challenging, with tricky greens and coastal winds adding an extra layer of difficulty. For golfers, a round at Pebble Beach is an unforgettable experience that blends skill and scenery.


St. Andrews Old Course – Fife, Scotland


As the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews holds a special place in the hearts of golf enthusiasts. The Old Course, located in Fife, Scotland, is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the world. It has a unique design, featuring double greens, deep bunkers, and wide fairways.

The Swilcan Bridge and the Hell Bunker are among the iconic features that make this course so memorable. The layout demands strategic thinking, with unpredictable weather conditions often playing a significant role in the game. Playing St. Andrews is like stepping into golf history, offering a one-of-a-kind golfing experience.


Augusta National Golf Club – Georgia, USA


Home to the Masters Tournament, Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia is one of the most exclusive and iconic courses in the world. The course is renowned for its immaculate condition, vibrant azaleas, and challenging greens. Though it’s tough to get an invitation to play, those lucky enough to tee off here enjoy a world-class experience.

The fairways at Augusta are challenging, and the greens are known for their speed. The course’s difficulty, combined with its beauty, makes Augusta a bucket-list destination for every golfer. The Masters Tournament, held annually at Augusta, further cements its legendary status in the golfing world.


Royal Melbourne Golf Club – Melbourne, Australia


Royal Melbourne Golf Club is a top-tier destination for golfers visiting Australia. Located in Melbourne, this course is consistently ranked among the world's best. It combines traditional and modern design, creating a layout that is both beautiful and challenging. The fairways are vast, but the greens are fast, requiring precision and skill to navigate.

Royal Melbourne is known for its strategic layout and has hosted many prestigious events, including the Presidents Cup. Golfers who visit will find a well-maintained course that provides a genuine test of golf, while offering stunning views and a fantastic golfing experience.


Cape Kidnappers Golf Course – Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand


Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, located in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, offers a dramatic golfing experience. The course is perched on a cliffside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering golfers breathtaking views throughout the round. The layout takes full advantage of the natural terrain, with tight fairways and challenging bunkers.

The winds can be particularly tricky, making it essential for golfers to plan each shot carefully. The beauty and difficulty of Cape Kidnappers make it one of the most unforgettable golfing destinations in the world.


Ballybunion Golf Club – County Kerry, Ireland


Ballybunion Golf Club, located in County Kerry, Ireland, is one of the world's top links courses. The course is set along the rugged Atlantic coastline and is known for its stunning views, deep bunkers, and challenging winds. The landscape is dotted with dunes that require golfers to be precise with their shots.

The beauty of the course, combined with its natural hazards, makes it a must-play for anyone who loves links golf. Ballybunion has been a favorite of both professional and amateur golfers and remains one of Ireland’s most iconic courses.


Pinehurst No. 2 – North Carolina, USA


Pinehurst No. 2, located in North Carolina, is a historic course designed by Donald Ross. It is known for its turtleback greens and wide fairways, making it a challenging course that rewards skill and precision. Pinehurst has hosted multiple U.S. Open tournaments, cementing its status as one of America’s best golf courses.

The course’s design encourages strategic play, with little rough and challenging greens that demand accuracy. Playing Pinehurst No. 2 is an actual test of golfing ability, and it remains a top destination for golfers around the world.


Royal County Down Golf Club – Newcastle, Northern Ireland


Royal County Down Golf Club, set between the Mourne Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, is one of the most scenic golf courses in the world. The layout features narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and unpredictable winds, making it a challenge for golfers of all skill levels.

The course is well-known for its natural beauty and challenging design, and it has hosted several prestigious events, including the Walker Cup. Royal County Down provides a golfing experience that is both picturesque and difficult, making it a must-play course for avid golfers.


From the iconic fairways of St. Andrews to the rugged beauty of Whistling Straits, the world’s most famous golf courses offer unforgettable experiences. Each course brings its unique challenges, breathtaking views, and historical significance, making them a must-visit for avid golfers. Whether you’re playing in the coastal winds of Ireland or the rolling hills of North Carolina, these legendary courses will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Grab your clubs and start planning your next golfing adventure around the world!