Golf is a sport that offers a unique combination of skill, strategy, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the rolling hills of Scotland to the stunning coastlines of Hawaii, golf courses around the world boast some truly remarkable holes. Let’s not only explore The Best 18 Holes in Golf throughout the world, but create our own DREAM 18! Each hole celebrated for its design, challenges, and unforgettable views. Here are the first nine holes of my DREAM 18...
1. Augusta National Golf Club (Augusta, Georgia) - Hole 12, Par 3
Known as "Golden Bell," this iconic par 3 is known for its treacherous Rae's Creek guarding the green. The picturesque setting during the Masters Tournament makes it one of the most famous holes in golf.
2. St. Andrews Links (St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland) - Hole 17, Par 4
The "Road Hole" at the Old Course in St. Andrews is legendary for its difficulty. Not only do you hit your tee shot beside (or over) the St. Andrews Hotel, but golfers must avoid the "Hell Bunker" and the famous road that runs along the right side of the green.
3. Pebble Beach Golf Links (Pebble Beach, California) - Hole 7, Par 3
Perched along the rugged California coast, the 7th hole at Pebble Beach provides golfers with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Though it may be a simple par 3 at about 100 yards, when the coastal winds blow, you could be hitting anything from a wedge to a driver!
4. Royal Melbourne Golf Club (Melbourne, Australia) - Hole 12, Par 4
Known as "The Hole in the Wall," this short par 4 requires precision to navigate a narrow gap in the sand dunes. It's a testament to the strategic design of Alister MacKenzie.
5. Old Head Golf Links (Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland) - Hole 12, Par 5
This par 5 hole offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of the most scenic golf holes in the world.
6. Cabot Cliffs Golf Course (Inverness, Nova Scotia) - Hole 16, Par 3
One of the most photographed holes in Canada, this par 3 sits out on a peninsula for golfers to take their best shot at. At around 170 yards from the back tees, your heart will race when you hit this shot!
7. Pinehurst No. 2 (Pinehurst, North Carolina) - Hole 2, Par 4
This Donald Ross gem is famous for its turtleback green, making precision and strategy crucial for success. In the 2005 U.S. Open, this hole played the most difficult in relation to par.
8. Carnoustie Golf Links (Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland) - Hole 18, Par 4
Known as "Hogan's Alley," this iconic finishing hole is a long par 4 with treacherous bunkers and a narrow fairway. With the Barry Burn starting on the left side and snaking over to the right, you'll be questioning your shot as you prepare to tackle the burn. Have you ever heard of John Van De Velde?
9. Cypress Point Club (Pebble Beach, California) - Hole 15, Par 3
This par 3 at Cypress Point Club is a true masterpiece, featuring the Pacific Ocean on the left and rocks and sand on the right. Wind will most definitely play a factor when you tee it up here!
With that, we finish with a par 35 on the front 9! What do you think of the course so far? Scenic, and difficult, but amazing! Stay tuned for my next blog post where we lay out our back 9 in the DREAM 18!
Let me know in the comments below if you think I missed any that need to be on this list!
Happy Golfing!