Seven of the Best Golf Courses in the World
Discover seven of the world’s best golf courses, from Augusta National to Ballybunion, each offering stunning views and unforgettable challenges.
For golf enthusiasts, the appeal of playing on some of the world’s finest courses is undeniable. These courses are not just about the game—they’re about the experience, the challenge, and the beauty that surrounds you as you play.
Get Abelson's Android App
Click the logo below to download our app from the Google Play Store:
Whether you're walking through the hallowed fairways of golf’s birthplace or teeing off with the sea breeze in your face, these courses promise to deliver unforgettable rounds of golf. Here’s our guide to seven of the best golf courses in the world.
1. Augusta National Golf Club – Augusta, Georgia, USA
Why It’s Iconic: Augusta National is a name synonymous with golf excellence. Home to The Masters, it is as prestigious as it gets. Every spring, the world’s best golfers battle it out at this revered course, but it’s not just the competition that makes Augusta so special. The immaculate fairways, vibrant azaleas, and perfectly manicured greens make every round feel like a privilege. The course’s tough challenges paired with its stunning beauty set the scene for one of the world’s most iconic sporting events.
Signature Hole: The 12th hole, "Golden Bell," stands as one of the most beautiful—and difficult—par 3s in the world. With Rae's Creek lurking, the hole demands a precise tee shot over the water to an island green, framed by towering pines and colourful blooms.
2. St Andrews Links, Scotland
Why It’s Legendary: St. Andrews, where golf was born, holds a special place in the hearts of golfers everywhere. The Old Course is as much a pilgrimage as it is a golf course. With the sea breeze, ancient stone bridges, and a rich history dating back to the 15th century, it’s a place steeped in tradition. The sight of golfers walking the famous Swilcan Bridge is enough to make any golf fan’s heart skip a beat. Playing here isn’t just a round of golf; it’s a connection to the sport’s roots.
Signature Hole: The 17th hole, "Road Hole," is a true test of a golfer’s skill and nerves. A tee shot over a railway and a bunker guarding the green make it a tough challenge—and a thrilling one at that.
3. Pebble Beach Golf Links – Pebble Beach, California, USA
Why It’s Breathtaking: Pebble Beach is the kind of course where the views steal the show. Situated along California’s rugged coastline, this course offers jaw-dropping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, its rocky cliffs, and pristine beaches. With its small greens and tight fairways, Pebble Beach is just as challenging as it is stunning. Having hosted multiple U.S. Opens, it’s a must-play for anyone who truly loves the game—and the scenery that accompanies it.
Signature Hole: The 7th hole is a standout—a short par 3 perched above the Pacific, with the wind often playing a crucial role. The view is stunning, but don’t be fooled; it requires perfect execution to avoid the cliffs and ocean below.
4. Royal Melbourne Golf Club – Melbourne, Australia
Why It’s World-Class: Royal Melbourne is the jewel of Australian golf, with a reputation that stretches far beyond its stunning location. Known for its exceptional sandbelt courses, it’s where strategy and skill come together. The design by Dr Alister MacKenzie ensures that players must think their way around every hole, with fast greens and perfectly placed bunkers testing even the most seasoned golfers. It’s a true test for those seeking to conquer the best.
Signature Hole: The 10th hole, a classic par 4, offers a tough tee shot with deep bunkers and a narrow fairway. Precision is the name of the game here, as one wrong move could lead to trouble.
5. Royal County Down Golf Club – Newcastle, Northern Ireland
Why It’s Stunning: With the Mourne Mountains as a backdrop and the rugged coastline as a constant companion, Royal County Down is often regarded as one of the most beautiful courses in the world. The dramatic landscape combined with its links layout makes it both challenging and thrilling. Each hole offers something unique, and the ever-changing wind ensures no two rounds are ever the same. It’s a place that combines natural beauty with a real test of golf.
Signature Hole: The 9th hole is an absolute gem—a par 3 with dramatic elevation changes and a view over Dundrum Bay. The wind and terrain make it a real challenge, but it’s worth every moment for the scenery alone.
6. Ballybunion Golf Club – County Kerry, Ireland
Why It’s Magical: In Ireland, where golf is a passion, Ballybunion stands out as one of the finest links courses in the world. With its windswept dunes and rugged coastline, it’s the quintessential Irish golf experience. Every hole seems to flow naturally with the land, and the relentless winds and shifting conditions add a level of unpredictability that makes the game here so exciting. Not just a test of skill, Ballybunion challenges golfers to adapt to the environment, providing an authentic links challenge.
Signature Hole: The 6th hole, known as "The Tombstone," is a par 4 that’s not for the faint-hearted. With a blind tee shot and a large bunker waiting on the fairway, it’s a hole that requires precision and bravery in equal measure.
7. Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, New Zealand
Why It’s Breathtaking: Perched on a clifftop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Cape Kidnappers offers one of the most dramatic and visually striking golf experiences in the world. Designed by Tom Doak, the course is as challenging as it is jaw-droppingly beautiful. The cliff-side fairways and panoramic views create an unforgettable golfing experience that’s unlike anything else. It’s a relatively new course, but it’s already garnered a reputation as one of the world’s must-play destinations.
Signature Hole: The 15th hole is a par 3 that seems to hang over the cliffs. The drop to the ocean below and the swirling winds make it a heart-racing challenge. The beauty and difficulty of this hole will stay with you long after your round is over.
