Golf is a sport known for its luxurious amenities and stunning landscapes. While many golf courses offer a premium experience, some take opulence to the next level. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of golf’s most expensive courses, showcasing the extravagance and exclusivity that makes them stand out.
1. Shadow Creek Golf Course, Las Vegas, USA
Cost: Estimated to be over $60 million.
Designer: Tom Fazio
Description: Shadow Creek is renowned for its lush green fairways, cascading waterfalls, and meticulously landscaped surroundings. It’s a private course that’s only accessible to guests of the MGM Resorts and their invited guests, enhancing its exclusivity. With its extravagant landscaping and pristine condition, it’s no surprise that it ranks among the world’s most expensive golf courses.
2. Pebble Beach Golf Links, California, USA
Cost: Green fees can exceed $550 per round.
Designer: Jack Neville and Douglas Grant (1919), redesigned by various architects.
Description: Pebble Beach Golf Links is famous for its breathtaking coastal views along the Monterrey Peninsula. It has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Open. The iconic 7th hole is world-renowned for its stunning par-3 over the ocean. The combination of stunning views and golfing history contributes to its high cost.
3. The Old Course at St. Andrews Links, Scotland
Cost: Green fees can be over £200 for non-residents.
Designer: Unknown, but dating back to the 15th century.
Description: Often referred to as the “Home of Golf,” the Old Course at St. Andrews is steeped in history. Golf has been played here for over 600 years. Its unique layout and the famous Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole make it a must-play for golf enthusiasts. While it may not have extravagant amenities, its historical significance and the chance to follow in the footsteps of golf legends make it an expensive pilgrimage.
4. Turnberry Golf Course, Scotland
Cost: Green fees can exceed £350 per round.
Designer: Various architects, with significant changes by Mackenzie Ross.
Description: Turnberry, a coastal course on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast, offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and the iconic lighthouse overlooking the 9th and 10th holes. It has hosted multiple Open Championships, and its rich history and championship pedigree contribute to its high cost.
5. Trump National Golf Club, Bedminster, USA
Cost: Initiation fees reportedly range from $100,000 to $200,000.
Designer: Tom Fazio
Description: This private golf club is known for its luxury and exclusivity. It was once owned by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The course features lavish amenities and meticulous landscaping, including a 45,000-square-foot clubhouse. The initiation fees and annual dues for membership put it in the upper echelon of expensive golf clubs.
6. Pinehurst No. 2, North Carolina, USA
Cost: Green fees can exceed $500 during peak seasons.
Designer: Donald Ross
Description: Pinehurst No. 2 is known for its unique design featuring natural waste areas and wiregrass. It has a storied history, having hosted multiple U.S. Open Championships, including the 1999 and 2005 events. The challenging layout and meticulously maintained course contribute to its high cost, attracting golfers from around the world.
7. The Greenbrier, West Virginia, USA
Cost: Initiation fees and annual dues for members.
Designer: Several architects have worked on the course over the years.
Description: The Greenbrier, a historic resort in West Virginia, boasts a world-class golf experience. The resort features multiple courses, including the Old White TPC, which has hosted the PGA Tour’s Greenbrier Classic. The elegant accommodations, spa, and casino add to the overall luxurious experience of this golf destination.
8. Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, Portugal
Cost: Green fees can exceed €250 per round.
Designer: Jack Nicklaus
Description: Monte Rei is a high-end golf resort in the Algarve region of Portugal. The course is known for its pristine conditions, stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and top-notch service. With a limited number of tee times available each day, golfers are assured a peaceful and exclusive round of golf.
9. Yas Links, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Cost: Green fees can range from AED 500 to AED 1,500.
Designer: Kyle Phillips
Description: Yas Links is part of the Yas Island complex in Abu Dhabi and offers a unique golfing experience with dramatic views of the Arabian Gulf. The challenging links-style course and the luxurious facilities make it a sought-after destination for golfers visiting the United Arab Emirates.
10. Kauri Cliffs, New Zealand
Cost: Green fees can exceed NZD 400.
Designer: David Harman
Description: Kauri Cliffs is a stunning coastal golf course on New Zealand’s North Island. It offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and incorporates natural features like farmland, forests, and cliff edges into its design. The remote location and the awe-inspiring scenery make it one of the most expensive golf experiences in the Southern Hemisphere.
Most Expensive Golf Courses
Golf Course Name
Location
Year Established
Designer
Estimated Cost to Play (USD)
Shadow Creek
Las Vegas, USA
1989
Tom Fazio
$500 – $600
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Pebble Beach, USA
1919
Jack Neville
$550 – $600
Augusta National Golf Club
Augusta, USA
1933
Alister MacKenzie
Invitation Only
Pinehurst No. 2
Pinehurst, USA
1907
Donald Ross
$495 – $695
St. Andrews Links – Old Course
St. Andrews, Scotland
1552
Various
£195 – £230 (Non-residents)
More Expensive Golf Courses
Golf Course Name
Location
Year Established
Designer
Estimated Cost to Play (USD)
The Country Club
Brookline, USA
1882
Willie Campbell
By Invitation Only
Cypress Point Club
Pebble Beach, USA
1928
Alister MacKenzie
Invitation Only
Trump National Golf Club
Bedminster, USA
2004
Tom Fazio
Membership Required
Whistling Straits
Kohler, USA
1998
Pete Dye
$410 – $485
Royal County Down Golf Club
Newcastle, N. Ireland
1889
Old Tom Morris
£210 – £250
Expensive Golf Courses
Golf Course Name
Location
Year Established
Designer
Estimated Cost to Play (USD)
Muirfield
Gullane, Scotland
1744
Old Tom Morris
By Invitation Only
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Southampton, USA
1891
William S. Flynn
By Invitation Only
Oakmont Country Club
Oakmont, USA
1903
Henry Fownes
By Invitation Only
Valderrama Golf Club
Sotogrande, Spain
1974
Robert Trent Jones
€395 – €450
The Links at Fancourt
George, South Africa
2000
Gary Player
$320 – $420
Prestigious Golf Courses
Golf Course Name
Location
Year Established
Designer
Estimated Cost to Play (USD)
Merion Golf Club
Ardmore, USA
1896
Hugh Wilson
By Invitation Only
Royal Portrush Golf Club
Portrush, N. Ireland
1888
Harry S. Colt
£220 – £260
Winged Foot Golf Club
Mamaroneck, USA
1923
A.W. Tillinghast
By Invitation Only
Royal Melbourne Golf Club
Melbourne, Australia
1891
Alister MacKenzie
By Invitation Only
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort
Bandon, USA
1999
David McLay Kidd
$100 – $310
Exclusive Golf Courses
Golf Course Name
Location
Year Established
Designer
Estimated Cost to Play (USD)
Medinah Country Club
Medinah, USA
1924
Tom Bendelow
By Invitation Only
Sunningdale Golf Club
Sunningdale, England
1900
Willie Park Jr.
By Invitation Only
The Ocean Course
Kiawah Island, USA
1991
Pete Dye
$370 – $450
Ballybunion Golf Club
Ballybunion, Ireland
1893
Tom Simpson
€100 – €220
San Francisco Golf Club
San Francisco, USA
1915
A.W. Tillinghast
By Invitation Only
Conclusion:
These expensive golf courses offer not only exceptional playing conditions but also a sense of exclusivity and luxury that attracts golfers seeking a premium experience. Whether it’s the historical significance, breathtaking scenery, or impeccable course maintenance, each of these courses has something unique to offer to golf enthusiasts willing to invest in the ultimate golfing experience. While the cost may be steep, the memories and satisfaction of playing on these prestigious courses are often considered priceless by those who have had the opportunity.
Anglo Carson, a Certified Golf Instructor, embarked on a remarkable journey, driven by his unwavering love for golf. He founded The Golf Mine with a singular mission - to create a golfing haven where passion knows no boundaries. His lifelong love affair with golf, combined with his expertise as a Certified Golf Instructor, turned into a vision to share his extensive knowledge, inspire, and promote the game he holds dear.