The Best Golf Courses Near Pinehurst That Aren’t Pinehurst No. 2
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When golfers think of North Carolina, one name inevitably comes to mind — Pinehurst No. 2. Designed by the legendary Donald Ross, it’s a course that’s hosted U.S. Opens, PGA Championships, and countless bucket-list rounds. But what many players overlook is that Pinehurst’s golf magic doesn’t end there. Just beyond the gates of No. 2 lies an entire region filled with stunning courses that share the same Carolina Sandhills charm, without the crowds or price tag.
If you’re planning your next golf trip to Pinehurst, here are some of the best nearby courses you shouldn’t miss.
Talamore Golf Resort – Southern Pines, NC
Set amid the rolling Carolina Sandhills, Talamore Golf Resort is a blend of Southern grace and Scottish character. Designed with a creative mix of elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and distinctive sod-wall traps, every hole feels fresh and full of personality. The recent renovation added Champion Bermuda greens, making for lightning-fast putting surfaces that roll as true as they come.
Talamore strikes a rare balance — challenging enough to captivate seasoned golfers while remaining welcoming to those just looking to enjoy a relaxed round. With spacious villas and access to multiple partner courses, its stay-and-play options make it an easy choice for an extended golf escape.
Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club – Southern Pines, NC
For golfers who crave a taste of nostalgia, Mid Pines delivers the timeless beauty of classic golf. Another Donald Ross gem, the course feels like stepping into a golden era of the game. The routing moves gracefully between tall pines and sandy waste areas, combining strategic shot-making with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Mid Pines is slightly more forgiving than its famous neighbour, but no less captivating. Every hole encourages creative play and a deep appreciation for Ross’s genius in letting the land shape the course.
Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club – Southern Pines, NC
Sister to Mid Pines and equally storied, Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club is one of the finest examples of traditional American golf design. This Ross masterpiece has hosted multiple U.S. Women’s Opens — a testament to its challenge and beauty. It’s longer and more expansive than Mid Pines, with large, rolling greens that test even the steadiest hands with a putter.
The course flows naturally with the undulating Sandhills terrain, offering a perfect blend of difficulty and enjoyment. After your round, the lodge is the ideal spot to relax — a welcoming blend of southern charm and understated sophistication.
Southern Pines Golf Club – Southern Pines, NC
Once a hidden gem, Southern Pines Golf Club has recently undergone a thoughtful restoration that brought back its Donald Ross roots. The course now features firm, fast fairways and open sandy areas that reflect the original 1930s design philosophy.
Here, strategy trumps power. The routing rewards precision and creativity over brute force, making every round both humbling and memorable. It’s also one of the most accessible courses in the area — a great option for players who want the authentic Pinehurst feel without the formality.
Tobacco Road Golf Club – Sanford, NC
If you’re craving something bold and unforgettable, Tobacco Road is your ticket. Designed by the late Mike Strantz, the course is carved through an old sand quarry and feels more like a cinematic adventure than a traditional round of golf.
Expect towering dunes, blind tee shots, wild fairways, and jaw-dropping visuals at every turn. Tobacco Road isn’t just a course — it’s an experience that pushes your imagination and your game. It may not be for the faint of heart, but it’s one every passionate golfer should play at least once.
Beyond No. 2: The Spirit of Pinehurst
Each of these courses captures a different side of Pinehurst’s enduring magic. From the refined elegance of Mid Pines to the daring drama of Tobacco Road, the Sandhills region offers an astonishing variety of world-class golf experiences — all within a short drive of the famed Pinehurst No. 2.
So when you plan your next trip, don’t just chase the legend — explore the landscape that inspired it. Around Pinehurst, great golf isn’t limited to one course. It’s everywhere you turn.
