5 Best Public Golf Courses
In North Carolina

Visit the East coast this season and play at the best public golf courses in North Carolina! Budget and schedule permitting, anyone can play at these golf courses– no need for a membership or anything! How cool is that? For your convenience, we narrowed down your options to just the 5 best North Carolina golf courses.

1. Best Rated Course: Tobacco Road Golf Club Course

Sanford, NC

The course at Tobacco Road Golf Club is the best rated public golf course in North Carolina. The Mike Strantz-designed course boasts 18 holes of breathtaking beauty and thrilling risk-reward shots. The layout's dramatic elevation changes, expansive waste bunkers, and natural sandscapes offer a unique, links-style experience that will test even the most seasoned golfers.

Current Spring prices for 18 holes range between $248-$273/player depending on the time of day, day of the week, and season. This price includes the greens fee and a golf cart.

2. Best Traditional Course: Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club Course

Southern Pines, NC

Nestled in the charming town of Southern Pines, North Carolina, the Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club offers an unforgettable golfing experience. The Donald Ross-designed course features strategic bunkering, rolling fairways, and challenging greens that are sure to test golfers of all skill levels. The course's unique feature is its preservation of the classic design elements, including the placement of the bunkers and green complexes that remain true to Ross's original vision, creating an authentic and memorable golfing experience.

The price for 18 holes is $95-$235/player depending on the day of the week and season.

3. Best Scenic Course: The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course

Asheville, NC

Perched atop the rolling hills of Asheville, the Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course is a one-of-a-kind North Carolina golf course. The course's stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and its impeccable condition are unparalleled, as it has been meticulously maintained since its opening in 1899. The course features a challenging and varied layout with a mix of short and long holes, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens.

A round of 18 holes varies between $90-$200/player depending on the time of day, day of the week, and season. This price includes the greens fee and a golf cart. All golf carts include ball washers, club cleaners, and coolers.

4. Best Hidden Gem Course: Apple Valley Golf Course

Lake Lure, NC

The Apple Valley Golf Course at Rumbling Bald Resort on Lake Lure is a hidden gem tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This Dan Maples-designed course offers a picturesque setting, winding through lush forests and along the shores of Lake Lure. The course has a challenging but fair layout with elevation changes, doglegs, and water hazards that require strategic shot-making.

The price of 18 holes is $78/player on Mondays-Thursdays and $88/player on Fridays-Sundays. The price includes the greens fee and cart fee.

5. Best Value Course: Lonnie Poole Golf Course

Raleigh, NC

Located on the campus of North Carolina State University in Raleigh, the Lonnie Poole Golf Course seamlessly blends modern design with natural beauty. Designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, this collegiate course features state-of-the-art technology and sustainable practices that reduce water usage and maintain the surrounding ecosystem. With breathtaking views of downtown Raleigh and challenging holes that require strategic shot-making, the Lonnie Poole Golf Course is a must-play for any golfer looking for a world-class golfing experience.

Spring pricing for 18 holes is currently between $39-$85/player depending on day, time of day, and whether you choose to walk or rent a golf cart.

Make note of these 5 best public golf courses in North Carolina and start planning your golfing trip right away!