Pinehurst wasn’t planned to become a golf mecca–it just happened. In 1895, businessman James Walker Tufts built a retreat focused on fresh air and relaxation, then added a golf course to keep guests entertained. When Donald Ross arrived to design and refine courses like the legendary No. 2, Pinehurst’s fate as the “Cradle of American Golf” was sealed. Over a century later, the village’s mix of championship courses, historic charm, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit for any golfer.
Needless to say, there’s a lot to pack into a Pinehurst golf trip, and figuring out where to start can feel a little daunting. That’s why Birdie, the AI-powered golf trip planner from OpenLinks, is so handy. It takes the guesswork out of planning, helping you choose courses, book lodging and flights, and build an itinerary that actually makes sense. First trip or tenth–this guide, brought to you by Birdie, will help you make the most of every moment in Pinehurst, North Carolina.
The Ultimate Pinehurst Golf Trip
Where to Play
While Pinehurst No. 2 is the headliner—having hosted 13 USGA events, including 4 U.S. Opens—the depth of great golf in the area is what truly sets Pinehurst apart. Within a 30-minute drive of the village, you’ll find:
- 5 publicly accessible courses that have hosted a USGA championship
- 12 courses ranked “Best in State” by Golf Magazine, Golf Digest, or Golfweek (see the table below)
- A rare mix of historic classics, modern standouts, and pure Sandhills golf
The best part? Most of these courses are open to the public, making Pinehurst one of the most accessible golf destinations in America.
| Course | Top World | Top USA | Top State | Max Fee | Distance |
| Mid Pines | Y | Y | $225 | 5 miles | |
| Pine Needles | Y | Y | $255 | 5 miles | |
| Pinehurst (No. 10) | Y | $395 | 5 miles | ||
| Pinehurst (No. 2) | Y | Y | Y | $495 | <1 mile |
| Pinehurst (No. 4) | Y | Y | $395 | <1 mile | |
| Pinehurst (No. 7) | Y | $245 | 2 miles | ||
| Pinehurst (No. 8) | Y | $245 | 2 miles | ||
| Pinehurst (No. 9) | Y | $245 | 3 miles | ||
| Southern Pines | Y | Y | $195 | 6 miles | |
| Tobacco Road | Y | Y | $225 | 25 miles | |
| Woodlake CC (Maples) | Y | $110 | 18 miles |
Don’t Overlook the Hidden Gems
Not every memorable round needs a top-100 price tag. Courses like Pinehurst No. 3 and Hyland Golf Club may not dominate the rankings, but they deliver outstanding Sandhills and heathland-style golf at a much friendlier cost—perfect for rounding out a multi-day trip.
Fun Beyond 18 Holes
Two must-dos that every Pinehurst golf trip should include:
- The Cradle – The wildly popular short course next to Pinehurst No. 2. Kick off your shoes, enjoy the music, and once you’re done, grab a drink and watch others take their turn. At just $65, it’s fast, fun, and endlessly replayable.
- Thistle Dhu – A massive, Himalayas-style putting course that’s completely free and an absolute blast in the afternoon or evening.
Where to Stay
Pinehurst Resort offers a wide range of lodging options, from single rooms to multi-bedroom cottages ideal for golf groups.
The iconic Carolina Hotel is the most famous (and most convenient), sitting just steps from the village center and several courses—but it also comes at a premium.
If your itinerary includes courses in Southern Pines, take a look at Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club, which offers both a classic inn and private villas. There are also plenty of Airbnb-style rentals throughout Pinehurst and Southern Pines for groups looking for flexibility.
PRO TIP: Let Birdie, the AI-powered golf trip planner, do the grunt work. It helps you find the perfect place to stay—whether that’s steps from the courses, in the heart of the village, or somewhere with extra space for your group.
Where to Eat (and Drink)
A full day of golf requires a full stomach. Luckily, Pinehurst punches well above its weight when it comes to food and drink.
Breakfast
- Pinehurst Track Restaurant – A fun, no-frills breakfast spot right on the harness track. Grab a classic diner breakfast, or their famous plate‑sized, blueberry pancakes, and watch the horses warm up.
- The Carolina Hotel – Celebrated for what many call the best breakfast in golf: a generous Southern buffet with made‑to‑order omelets, fruit, grits, and more.
- Agora Bakery & Cafe – Charming village bakery serving fresh pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and great coffee. Perfect for a quick bite or for grabbing something on-the-go.
Lunch & Dinner
- The Deuce – Just off the 18th green at Pinehurst No. 2, this is one of the best 19th holes in the country. A post-round drink here is non-negotiable – along with a little friendly heckling of golfers finishing up on No. 2.
- Pinehurst Brewing Company – A short walk from the village, serving BBQ, comfort food, and excellent local beers.
- Villager Deli – In the heart of the village, this is a local favorite for fresh sandwiches, soups, and salads.
- Pine Crest Inn – A cozy, historic inn with a warm, inviting dining room. Don’t miss the chance to chip into the lobby’s fireplace – a Pine Crest Inn tradition.
How to Get There
Pinehurst is easy to reach from several major hubs:
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) – About 1.5 hours drive away
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – About 2 hours drive away
Both airports offer nonstop flights from cities across the country. For a seamless experience, use Birdie to book flights, hotels, and build a complete golf itinerary in one place. And for the most hassle-free Pinehurst golf trip, ship your golf clubs ahead of time with ShipSticks–your back (and your wallet) will thank you.
When to Go
There’s really no bad time for a Pinehurst golf trip–but the experience can vary dramatically depending on the season.
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer some of the best weather, but these are also the busiest times of year, so tee sheets and accommodations fill up quickly. And beware of pollen season in the land of the pines – it can be brutal.
Summer offers long, sunny days and often more flexibility in tee times and accommodations; early mornings or late afternoons are perfect for beating the heat and humidity. Winter is peaceful and budget-friendly—ideal if you prefer a slower-paced trip and don’t mind bundling up for crisp mornings.
Few places combine history, variety, accessibility, and pure golf joy like Pinehurst. From rolling putts at sunset on Thistle Dhu to reliving the day over a drink at The Deuce, it’s a golf experience you’ll be talking about long after the last putt drops.
No matter when you visit, careful planning makes all the difference. With Birdie, the AI-powered golf trip planner from Open Links, you can map your perfect itinerary, coordinate lodging, and secure tee times in a matter of minutes. Ready to give it a shot? Start planning your dream Pinehurst golf trip with Birdie today.
