{"id":4196,"date":"2025-01-16T22:07:38","date_gmt":"2025-01-16T22:07:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shipsticks.com\/blog\/?p=4196"},"modified":"2025-01-16T22:07:40","modified_gmt":"2025-01-16T22:07:40","slug":"bucket-list-golf-courses","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/bucket-list-golf-courses\/","title":{"rendered":"18 Bucket List Golf Courses for Every Golfer"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR1-6578-1.jpg\" alt=\"bucket list golf courses\" class=\"wp-image-9628\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR1-6578-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR1-6578-1-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR1-6578-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR1-6578-1-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Golf is much more than a game. It&#8217;s a lifelong pursuit of the perfect swing, the elusive hole-in-one, and the dream of playing the world&#8217;s most legendary courses. And these bucket list golf courses aren&#8217;t just about the fairways and greens. They&#8217;re about the stories they tell, the history they hold, and the memories waiting to be made. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From the iconic links of Scotland to the sun-soaked fairways of Pebble Beach, these courses are the stuff of golf legend. So, if you\u2019re ready to turn those dreams into reality, let\u2019s take a look at the top bucket list golf courses every golfer should experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><ul><li><a href=\"#u-s-bucket-list-golf-courses\">U.S. Bucket List Golf Courses<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#1-pebble-beach-golf-links\">1. Pebble Beach Golf Links<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#2-the-ocean-course-at-kiawah-island\">2. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#3-pinehurst-no-2\">3. Pinehurst No. 2<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#4-bandon-dunes-golf-resort\">4. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#5-kapalua-resort-plantation-course\">5. The Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#6-whistling-straits\">6. Whistling Straits<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#7-tpc-sawgrass-the-players-stadium-course\">7. The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#8-bethpage-black-course\">8. The Black Course at Bethpage State Park Golf Course<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#9-the-lido\">9. The Lido at Sand Valley<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#10-pinehurst-no-10\">10. Pinehurst No. 10<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#11-cabot-citrus-farms-karoo-course\">11. The Karoo Course at Cabot Citrus Farms<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#international-bucket-list-golf-courses\">International Bucket List Golf Courses<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#12-royal-county-down-golf-club\">12. Royal County Down Golf Club<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#13-old-course-st-andrews\">13. The Old Course at St. Andrews<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#14-royal-troon\">14. Royal Troon Golf Club<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#15-carnoustie-golf-links\">15. Carnoustie Golf Links<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#16-cape-kidnappers\">16. Cape Kidnappers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#17-ballybunion-golf-club\">17. Ballybunion Golf Club<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#18-royal-st-georges-golf-club\">18. Royal St. George\u2019s Golf Club<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"u-s-bucket-list-golf-courses\"><span style=\"color: initial; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen-Sans, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: revert;\">U.S. Bucket List Golf Courses<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Golf has remained a staple in the United States since its popularity soared in the early 20th century. Today, the U.S. is home to over 15,000 courses. But not all courses are created equal. The bucket list golf courses we\u2019ve highlighted here are more than just places to play. They\u2019re masterpieces of design set on some of the most dazzling real estate in the world. Each one honors the traditions of the game while showcasing the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of its location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trust us &#8211; you won\u2019t regret adding any of these extraordinary destinations to your golf bucket list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-pebble-beach-golf-links\">1. Pebble Beach Golf Links<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pebble-beach-california\">Pebble Beach, California<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Pebble-Beach18a_B0013682-copy-2-1.jpg\" alt=\"Pebble Beach\" class=\"wp-image-9629\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Pebble-Beach18a_B0013682-copy-2-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Pebble-Beach18a_B0013682-copy-2-1-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Pebble-Beach18a_B0013682-copy-2-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Pebble-Beach18a_B0013682-copy-2-1-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photograph Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pebblebeach.com\/golf\/pebble-beach-golf-links\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pebble Beach Golf Links<\/a> is one of the most celebrated bucket list golf courses, whose name alone is synonymous with the sport. This links-style course has earned its place in golf history, and its reputation as the greatest public golf course in America only adds to its allure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But it\u2019s not just the history or the prestige that makes Pebble Beach so special. It&#8217;s the setting. Designed in 1919, this course may be old by American golf standards, but it\u2019s far from outdated. Carved into the rocky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/top-20-golf-courses-california\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">California<\/a> coastline, Pebble Beach brings elements into play like few other courses can. The prevalent ocean wind will test your mettle from the tee, while the nearby crashing waves will try to steal your focus. No wonder it&#8217;s regarded as &#8220;the greatest meeting of land and sea,&#8221; because here, nature doesn\u2019t just surround you, it competes with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-the-ocean-course-at-kiawah-island\">2. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"charleston-south-carolina\">Charleston, South Carolina<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/kiawahresort.com\/golf\/the-ocean-course\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Ocean Course<\/a> at Kiawah Island, perched right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean along the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/5-of-the-best-golf-courses-in-south-carolina\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Carolina<\/a> coast, is as breathtaking as it is challenging. With 10 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/8-breathtaking-oceanfront-golf-courses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">seaside holes<\/a>, more than any other course in the Northern Hemisphere, and eight more running parallel to them, the views here are nothing short of grand. Pete Dye, the mastermind behind the design, ensured that every hole offers an unobstructed view of the island\u2019s coastline, allowing players to take in the beauty of the Atlantic at every turn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The real test, however, comes from the wind. Both westerly and easterly winds whip across the island, and the course\u2019s elevated design leaves players even more exposed. Dye anticipated this and cleverly incorporated a &#8220;two-sided&#8221; design, offering two distinct playing experiences depending on the wind\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As for service, you won\u2019t be disappointed. Visitors rave about the quality of the course and practice facilities, the professionalism of the caddies, as well as the elegance of the club and restaurant, including the renowned Ryder Cup bar &#8211; one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/19-of-the-best-19th-holes-around-the-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best 19th holes<\/a> in golf. From the scenic drive to the course to the final seaside hole, this is an experience that belongs on every golfer&#8217;s bucket list.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-pinehurst-no-2\">3. Pinehurst No. 2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pinehurst-north-carolina\">Pinehurst, North Carolina<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/No.-2_13th-Hole_-3-1.jpg\" alt=\"pinehurst no. 2\" class=\"wp-image-9630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/No.-2_13th-Hole_-3-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/No.-2_13th-Hole_-3-1-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/No.-2_13th-Hole_-3-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/No.-2_13th-Hole_-3-1-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/where-is-pinehurst-golf-course\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pinehurst Resort<\/a>, tucked away in the heart of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/best-golf-courses-in-north-carolina\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">North Carolina&#8217;s<\/a> Sandhills, is home to ten top-tier courses, but <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinehurst.com\/golf\/courses\/no-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">No. 2<\/a> is the undisputed star. A true granddaddy of American golf, this course was designed in 1907 by the illustrious Donald Ross, who spent the next 50 years perfecting it. Ross, a native Scotsman and an accomplished player himself, even lived in a cottage behind the third green, where he relaxed by tending to his championship roses. Talk about a life well-lived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pinehurst No. 2 has been carefully restored to preserve Ross\u2019s original design, and it\u2019s a course that demands your full focus from the first tee to the final putt. The sandy waste areas that line the fairways add a rugged, natural beauty, but they\u2019re also a reminder that this course doesn\u2019t give you anything easy. And the turtleback greens, with their subtle slopes and tricky contours, are as stunning as they are unforgiving. Don\u2019t be surprised to see a well-struck shot roll off the front of one of these greens, followed by an endearing &#8220;F DR&#8221; (as in Donald Ross) &#8211; it\u2019s a rite of passage here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-bandon-dunes-golf-resort\">4. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bandon-oregon\">Bandon, Oregon<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR-0437-1.jpg\" alt=\"bandon dunes\" class=\"wp-image-9631\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR-0437-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR-0437-1-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR-0437-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/SR-0437-1-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The next best thing to playing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/what-is-a-links-style-golf-course\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">links-style golf<\/a> in Scotland or Ireland is teeing it up at <a href=\"https:\/\/bandondunesgolf.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bandon Dunes Golf Resort<\/a>, home to seven distinct courses, each a bucket-list destination in its own right. The craggy terrain, hearty forests, and spectacular ocean views remain untouched by civilization. Here, you&#8217;ll master your ground game and become a methodical player, working with the ever-present winds that sweep across the dunes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bandon Dunes offers a range of courses that showcase the spirit of true links golf, from the classic, rolling layout of the original Bandon Dunes course to the dramatic, cliffside fairways of Pacific Dunes. The resort\u2019s newest addition, \u201cShorty\u2019s,\u201d is a 19-hole par-3 course designed for creative play and a quick, fun round. Needless to say, Bandon really has it all. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-kapalua-resort-plantation-course\">5. The Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"island-of-maui-hawaii\">Lahaina, Hawaii<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/KapPlantation_11A_11-19_WebReady-1.jpg\" alt=\"kapalua resort\" class=\"wp-image-9632\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/KapPlantation_11A_11-19_WebReady-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/KapPlantation_11A_11-19_WebReady-1-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/KapPlantation_11A_11-19_WebReady-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/KapPlantation_11A_11-19_WebReady-1-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Plantation Course at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kapalua.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kapalua Resort<\/a> is consistently ranked as one of Hawaii\u2019s premier golf courses, celebrated for its magnificent location and exceptional playability. Challenging for the pros, but also eminently playable for average golfers, the course\u2019s 7,596 yards with a par-73 layout includes downhill tees (for the longest drives of your life), wide fairways, and large greens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Come for the game, stay for the views. Snuggled up against the West Maui Mountains, Plantation offers ocean views and dramatic elevation changes throughout. And if you need another excuse to visit, it\u2019s the home of the PGA TOUR\u2019s season-opening event, The Sentry, held each January &#8211; prime time to trade winter blues for Maui greens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-whistling-straits\">6. Whistling Straits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kohler-wisconsin\">Kohler, Wisconsin<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/The-Straits-at-Whistling-Straits-Hole-12-2-1.jpg\" alt=\"whistling straits\" class=\"wp-image-9633\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/The-Straits-at-Whistling-Straits-Hole-12-2-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/The-Straits-at-Whistling-Straits-Hole-12-2-1-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/The-Straits-at-Whistling-Straits-Hole-12-2-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/The-Straits-at-Whistling-Straits-Hole-12-2-1-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Pete Dye\u2019s genius shines at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kohlerwisconsin.com\/golf\/whistling-straits\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Whistling Straits<\/a>, home to two exceptional courses: The Straits and The Irish. Hugging two miles of Lake Michigan\u2019s rugged shoreline, The Straits course channels the spirit of traditional Irish links with towering sand dune bunkers, rolling terrain, and a windswept landscape that dares golfers of all levels. Eight holes flirt directly with the water, offering endless views and heart-pounding shots, while some of the most intriguing tests lie further inland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Inland, The Irish course offers a striking contrast. Streams weave through grasslands and dunes, creating a layout that\u2019s as scenic as it is strategic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s hard to believe this masterpiece was once an abandoned airfield. With nearly 7,000 truckloads of dirt, Pete Dye transformed the flat expanse into a dramatic, undulating golfing playground that feels as though it\u2019s always belonged. Anchored by a charming stone clubhouse that enhances the resort\u2019s Old Country vibe, both courses strike the perfect balance of beauty and difficulty, consistently ranking among <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/top-10-golf-courses-in-wisconsin\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wisconsin\u2019s best<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-tpc-sawgrass-the-players-stadium-course\">7. The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ponte-vedra-beach-florida\">Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Speaking of Pete Dye\u2019s brilliance, another of his notable designs takes center stage at the Stadium Course at <a href=\"https:\/\/tpc.com\/sawgrass\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TPC Sawgrass<\/a> in beautiful Ponte Vedra Beach, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/best-golf-courses-in-florida\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Florida<\/a>. Designed in collaboration with then-PGA TOUR Commissioner Deane R. Beman, this course was established in 1982 as the permanent home of THE PLAYERS Championship. Their vision? To create a perfectly balanced course where no single playing style holds an advantage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And what they created is something truly remarkable. The Stadium Course presents a new challenge with every round, ensuring that no two days on the course are ever alike. Dye and Beman designed it with fans in mind, too, so it\u2019s one of the rare courses that impresses whether you\u2019re swinging on the fairways or cheering from behind the ropes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-bethpage-black-course\">8. The Black Course at Bethpage State Park Golf Course<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"farmingdale-new-york\">Farmingdale, New York<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Bring your golfing chops to the Black Course, because it wasn\u2019t built for the faint of heart. One of five courses at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bethpagegolfcourse.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bethpage State Park<\/a>, the Black Course is a walking-only layout, demanding both physical endurance and strategic acumen. It has been ranked among America&#8217;s toughest public golf courses, with a course rating of 77.5 and a slope rating of 155 &#8211; the highest possible on the difficulty scale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bethpage Black has a storied history of hosting major tournaments, including the U.S. Open in 2002 and 2009, the PGA Championship in 2019, and is set to host the Ryder Cup in September 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This course will make you carefully think through every hole, and your game will be better for it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-the-lido\">9. The Lido at Sand Valley<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"nekoosa-wisconsin\">Nekoosa, Wisconsin<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/sandvalley.com\/thelido\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Lido<\/a> is no ordinary addition to this group of bucket list golf courses &#8211; it\u2019s a literal resurrection. A legend, reborn. A faithful recreation of the mythic Lido Golf Club, originally designed by C.B. Macdonald in 1914 on Long Island, this course has been brought back to life in Nekoosa, Wisconsin. The original Lido, famous for its use of classic design templates like the Alps, Redan, and Eden, was once considered comparable to Pine Valley and National Golf Links. But after being demolished by the U.S. Navy during World War II, it faded into golf lore as one of the game\u2019s great lost treasures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fast forward to 2023, when developers Mike Keiser and Michael Clayton set out to revive the spirit of the original. And they did just that. The new Lido blends timeless design with modern conditions, creating an experience that feels like stepping into a piece of golf history, without the time machine. Set on rolling terrain that mirrors the original layout, the course features intricate bunkering, complex greens, and hazards that make each round a thrilling adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-pinehurst-no-10\">10. Pinehurst No. 10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pinehurst-north-carolina-1\">Pinehurst, North Carolina<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/DJI_20240827072614_0308_D-Enhanced-NR-1.jpg\" alt=\"pinehurst no. 10\" class=\"wp-image-9634\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/DJI_20240827072614_0308_D-Enhanced-NR-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/DJI_20240827072614_0308_D-Enhanced-NR-1-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/DJI_20240827072614_0308_D-Enhanced-NR-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/DJI_20240827072614_0308_D-Enhanced-NR-1-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Pinehurst is a golf town through and through. So when Pinehurst <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinehurst.com\/golf\/courses\/no-10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">No. 10<\/a> was unveiled in 2024, the excitement was palpable. Designed by the renowned Tom Doak, this latest addition to the Pinehurst Resort family was highly anticipated, and it\u2019s already living up to every expectation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nestled in the heart of the rolling sandhills, Pinehurst No. 10 is a minimalist masterpiece that lets the land do the talking. With wide fairways and bold greens, the course offers a dynamic experience while delivering breathtaking views at every turn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No. 10 has quickly earned its place on every golfer\u2019s bucket list, further solidifying Pinehurst\u2019s status as the \u201cCradle of American Golf.\u201d If you haven\u2019t experienced it yet, it\u2019s time to add it to your list &#8211; because Pinehurst just got even better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-cabot-citrus-farms-karoo-course\">11. The Karoo Course at Cabot Citrus Farms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"brooksville-florida\">Brooksville, Florida<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>As Pinehurst No. 10 continues to make waves, there&#8217;s another rising star among bucket list golf courses. The Karoo Course at <a href=\"https:\/\/cabotcitrusfarms.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cabot Citrus Farms<\/a> opened in early 2025 to rave reviews. Located in Brooksville, Florida, this 18-hole masterpiece is part of the Cabot Citrus Farms development in Central Florida designed by Kyle Franz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Karoo Course is a striking blend of Florida\u2019s natural beauty and Franz\u2019s design brilliance. From its undulating fairways to the strategically placed sand dunes and vibrant citrus groves, every hole feels like a new adventure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With its extraordinary location and thoughtful design, the Karoo Course is quickly becoming a must-play destination for golfers seeking something new, exciting, and undeniably memorable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"international-bucket-list-golf-courses\">International Bucket List Golf Courses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_412182798-2.jpg\" alt=\"bucket list golf courses\" class=\"wp-image-9638\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_412182798-2.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_412182798-2-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_412182798-2-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_412182798-2-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Traveling beyond the U.S. opens the door to a whole new world of golf. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/top-24-international-golf-courses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">international bucket list golf courses<\/a> take you from the birthplace of golf in Scotland, to the towering cliffs of New Zealand and beyond. Get ready to experience golf like never before, on the courses where it all began.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-royal-county-down-golf-club\">12. Royal County Down Golf Club<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"newcastle-northern-ireland\">Newcastle, Northern Ireland<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/royal-county-down-1-1.webp\" alt=\"royal county down\" class=\"wp-image-9635\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/royal-county-down-1-1.webp 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/royal-county-down-1-1-340x220.webp 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/royal-county-down-1-1-300x194.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/royal-county-down-1-1-150x97.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photograph Courtesy of Evan Schiller<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s go back to 1889. The Eiffel Tower opened, North and South Dakota became states, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.royalcountydown.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Royal County Down<\/a>, arguably the most incredible links course ever created, was established. Over a century later, that still holds true.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Set in the heart of the Murlough Nature Reserve, this course is as much about the scenery as it is about the golf. You\u2019ll find tee boxes with jaw-dropping views of Dundrum Bay, the imposing Mourne Mountains in the distance, and a sea of purple heather and gorse that makes you want to stop and stare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13-old-course-st-andrews\">13. The Old Course at St. Andrews<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"st-andrews-fife-scotland\">St. Andrews, Scotland<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_338619976-2.jpg\" alt=\"Old Course\" class=\"wp-image-9636\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_338619976-2.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_338619976-2-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_338619976-2-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/AdobeStock_338619976-2-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As the birthplace of golf, it\u2019s no surprise that our next pick is one of the most popular bucket list golf courses in the world. There are records suggesting golf was played at the Old Course at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.standrews.com\/homepage\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">St. Andrews<\/a> as early as the 15th century, making it the oldest golf course in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, as one would expect, the Old Course is home to some of the game&#8217;s most famous landmarks, like its double greens, the legendary Road Hole, and Swilcan Bridge, which is believed to be more than 700 years old. What\u2019s truly remarkable, though, is that the course is closed on Sundays, transforming into a public park where locals come for picnics and dog walks. It\u2019s hard to imagine such a historic place opening its doors to everyone, but that\u2019s what makes St. Andrews so special.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14-royal-troon\">14. Royal Troon Golf Club<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"south-ayrshire-scotland\">Troon, Scotland<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.royaltroon.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Royal Troon<\/a>, ten-time host of The Open Championship, is home to two spectacular bucket list golf courses: the Old Course and the Portland Course.The Old Course is the epitome of the Scottish golf experience: the wind howls, the rough punishes, and every shot demands pinpoint precision. And then there\u2019s the revered 8th hole, The Postage Stamp, a par-3 so small it\u2019s a wonder anyone can find the green. But they do, and it&#8217;s part of what makes Royal Troon unforgettable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Portland Course, while shorter and more sheltered from the wind, doesn\u2019t take anything away from its playability. It\u2019s a worthy companion to the Old Course, offering its own set of obstacles and rewards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"15-carnoustie-golf-links\">15. Carnoustie Golf Links<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"carnoustie-angus-scotland\">Carnoustie, Scotland<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Golf has deep roots in Scotland, and Carnoustie is no exception. The game was being played in the area as early as 1560, with parish records mentioning it under the old spelling, &#8220;gowff.&#8221; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carnoustiegolflinks.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Carnoustie<\/a> Golf Club itself was founded in 1842, with a 10-hole course designed by Allan Robertson, the first golf professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are three courses at Carnoustie: the Championship Course, which has hosted many tournaments and championships and most recently hosted the 2018 Open; the Burnside, which, though sometimes overlooked, offers players an excellent game; and the Buddon, the newest course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And while you&#8217;re there, be sure to ask the locals how Carnoustie got its name &#8211; it\u2019s a story worth hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"16-cape-kidnappers\">16. Cape Kidnappers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hawkes-bay-new-zealand\">Te Awanga, New Zealand<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rosewoodhotels.com\/en\/cape-kidnappers\/overview\/golf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cape Kidnappers<\/a> is the only international golf course on our list that&#8217;s located in the South Pacific, but it more than holds its own among its British counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you would expect from a New Zealand golf course, the surroundings are striking. You\u2019ll play atop towering cliffs that overlook the sea within a ridge-and-valley landscape that might have been a national park if it wasn\u2019t a golf course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Designed by Tom Doak, Cape Kidnappers is a newer course built in 2004. So, it has all the modern amenities of a luxury club to go along with its remarkable location and supreme playability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"17-ballybunion-golf-club\">17. Ballybunion Golf Club<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ballybunion-county-kerry-ireland\">County Kerry, Ireland<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Ballybunion_Old11_B0003680-copy-2-1-1.jpg\" alt=\"ballybunion\" class=\"wp-image-9637\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Ballybunion_Old11_B0003680-copy-2-1-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Ballybunion_Old11_B0003680-copy-2-1-1-340x220.jpg 340w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Ballybunion_Old11_B0003680-copy-2-1-1-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Ballybunion_Old11_B0003680-copy-2-1-1-150x97.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Quaint Irish name aside, playing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ballybuniongolfclub.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ballybunion\u2019s<\/a> 36 holes will have you questioning whether the Scots were truly the early masters of the game. Ballybunion puts Ireland on the map as a golf destination, and its location makes it the perfect base for exploring nearby gems like Lahinch, Waterville, Old Head, and Tralee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Old Course and the Cashen Course are nestled along a stretch of sand dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The Old Course, consistently ranked among the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/best-golf-courses-in-the-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best golf courses in the world<\/a>, offers a classic links experience with dramatic landscapes, rolling fairways, and winds that can change the course of your game in an instant. The Cashen Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., offers a more modern challenge with stunning views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"18-royal-st-georges-golf-club\">18. Royal St. George\u2019s Golf Club<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"sandwich-kent-england\">Sandwich, England<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re a James Bond fan, visiting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.royalstgeorges.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Royal St. George&#8217;s Golf Club<\/a> is a must. While the iconic golf match between James Bond and Goldfinger in the 1964 film was actually filmed at Stoke Park Golf Club in Buckinghamshire, Royal St. George&#8217;s is featured in Ian Fleming&#8217;s original novel &#8220;Goldfinger&#8221; as the setting for their match. Teeing off here, you might just channel your inner 007 (but remember, no cheating!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Royal St. George&#8217;s has hosted The Open Championship 15 times, most recently in 2021, along with numerous other prestigious tournaments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re chasing the windswept links of Scotland or the sunlit fairways of Hawaii, these courses offer more than just a round of golf. They promise memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your clubs, book your tee times, and start checking off your bucket list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make your journey to these bucket list golf courses even better with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ShipSticks<\/a>. Skip the hassle of lugging your clubs through airports and let us handle the heavy lifting. With door-to-door delivery, you can focus on your game while your clubs arrive safely and on time. Wherever your bucket list takes you, we\u2019ll help make your dream golf trip as smooth and stress-free as possible.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Golf is much more than a game. It&#8217;s a lifelong pursuit of the perfect swing, the elusive hole-in-one, and the dream of playing the world&#8217;s most legendary courses. And these bucket list golf courses aren&#8217;t just about the fairways and greens. They&#8217;re about the stories they tell, the history they hold, and the memories waiting&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":9628,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[14,249],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4196","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel","category-destinations"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4196","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4196"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4196\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":9639,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4196\/revisions\/9639"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9628"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4196"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4196"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipsticks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4196"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}