Tee Time to Tranquility

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s Sandhills, Pinehurst is synonymous with world-class golf, Southern hospitality and a timeless atmosphere that captivates golf enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you’re seeking legendary courses, luxurious golf packages, or hidden gems beyond the famed fairways, Pinehurst and the surrounding Moore County region offer an unforgettable golf getaway.

Here are nine holes of local knowledge: A local’s ultimate guide to making the most of your visit to the “Home of American Golf.”

1. Play the Icons: Pinehurst No. 2, No. 4, No. 8, and No. 10

The Pinehurst Resort is the crown jewel of golf in North Carolina, boasting 10 courses plus The Cradle, each with a distinct character. However, four of them stand out as must-plays:

• Pinehurst No. 2 – Designed by Donald Ross, this legendary course has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and is known for its challenging turtleback greens. It’s a bucket-list experience for any serious golfer.
• Pinehurst No. 4 – Recently redesigned by Gil Hanse, No. 4 offers a dramatic contrast to No. 2, featuring rolling fairways, native sandscapes, and strategic bunkering.
• Pinehurst No. 8 – Tom Fazio’s masterpiece celebrates the resort’s centennial with a combination of classic and modern design elements. New luxury on-site cottages open in Spring 2025.
• Pinehurst No. 10 – The newest addition, designed by Tom Doak, seamlessly blends the natural terrain with a contemporary golfing experience.
• Be sure to also enjoy a round or three on the resort’s popular nine-hole par-3 layout, The Cradle, designed by Gil Hanse.

2. Beyond Pinehurst: The Best of the Rest

While the Pinehurst Resort courses steal the spotlight, several other remarkable courses in Southern Pines and the surrounding Sandhills region deserve attention.

• Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club – A Donald Ross gem, Mid Pines exudes classic charm with a layout that remains largely untouched since its 1921 debut.
• Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club – Another Ross-designed masterpiece, Pine Needles has hosted multiple U.S. Women’s Opens and is a favorite for its walkability and pristine conditions.
• Talamore Golf Resort – Known for decades for its llama caddies (yes, really!), Talamore offers a fun and challenging experience with rolling hills, well-placed hazards and sod wall bunkers highlighting a Rees Jones-designed golf course.
• Mid South Club – Talamore’s neighboring sister course is a private Arnold Palmer design that offers limited public access. Mid South delivers an elite experience with beautifully sculpted holes and top-tier conditions.
• Southern Pines Golf Club – Recently restored by Kyle Franz, this under-the-radar Ross course offers an authentic throwback experience that rivals its more famous neighbors.
• Woodlake Country Club is a gated community offering a picturesque golfing experience with lush fairways and tranquil lake views. Designed by Ellis Maples and recently restored by Kris Spence, Woodlake presents a welcoming destination for golfers seeking a peaceful outdoors escape.

3. Stay and Play: The Premium Pinehurst Golf Packages

A golf getaway to Pinehurst isn’t complete without a well-crafted stay-and-play package. Pinehurst Resort offers premium golf packages that include rounds at its renowned courses, luxury accommodations, and access to the historic Carolina Hotel, The Manor, or The Holly Inn. Other top options include:

• Talamore Golf Resort Stay & Play – Pairing Talamore with Mid South Club, this package offers an upscale, all-in-one golf retreat.
• Pine Needles & Mid Pines Package – Enjoy historic accommodations and play a trio of Donald Ross’s finest designs in one trip, including Southern Pines Golf Club, recently restored and continuing to deliver a classic Pinehurst experience.

4. Luxurious Stays: Where to Stay in Pinehurst

Beyond the fairways, Pinehurst offers accommodations ranging from grand resorts to charming inns.

• The Carolina Hotel – Known as the “Queen of the South,” this stately hotel offers Southern elegance, fine dining, and proximity to Pinehurst’s best courses.
• The Manor – A boutique-style property offering modern comforts with a rich golf history.
• The Holly Inn – Pinehurst’s original hotel, offering cozy accommodations and a historic ambiance.
• Talamore Villas – Perfect for groups, these spacious villas offer easy access to Talamore and Mid South Club.

5. The Ultimate 19th Hole: Where to Eat and Drink

After a day on the course, enjoy Pinehurst’s culinary scene and lively 19th-hole experiences.

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  The Deuce – Overlooking the 18th green of Pinehurst No. 2, The Deuce is the perfect spot to watch groups finish their rounds while enjoying a local craft beer.

• Pine Crest Inn – A legendary spot for post-round drinks and a place where golf lore comes to life.
• Elliotts on Linden – Upscale dining featuring locally sourced ingredients and a strong wine selection.
• Drum & Quill – A lively pub with great food and a rich Village of Pinehurst history.
• Red’s Corner in Southern Pines is a lively outdoor gathering spot featuring a rotating lineup of food trucks, a spacious beer garden, and plenty of seating.
• BHAWK distillery is headquartered in Southern Pines, where two Army veterans are raising the American spirit and expressing gratitude for extraordinary service through two premium brands, Sergeant’s Valor and Madam Colonel.

6. Beyond Golf: Relaxation and Activities

While Pinehurst is a golfer’s paradise, there’s plenty to do beyond the greens.

• Downtown Southern Pines exudes small-town charm with its tree-lined streets, vibrant storefronts, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, and outdoor spaces, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day of dining, shopping, and exploring the community’s rich, laid-back character.
• The Spa at Pinehurst – Unwind with a luxury spa treatment at this world-class wellness retreat.
• Village of Pinehurst – Stroll through this charming, historic village filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafés.
• Sandhills Horticultural Gardens – A hidden gem featuring beautiful gardens and walking trails.
• The Buggy Factory is a beautifully restored historic building in downtown Carthage blending old-world charm with modern energy. Once a hub for carriage-making, it now serves as a vibrant space for dining, shopping, and community events.

7. The Best Time to Visit Pinehurst

Pinehurst enjoys a mild climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best times to visit are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is perfect for golf, and the courses are in prime condition. Summer can be hot, but early tee times help beat the heat, while winter offers excellent value on golf packages.

8. Insider Tips for a Perfect Pinehurst Trip

• Book tee times in advance – The top courses fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
• Walk when possible – Many courses in Pinehurst, including No. 2, No. 4, Pine Needles, and Mid Pines are best experienced on foot.
• Mix in a hidden gem – While playing the famous courses is a must, adding a lesser-known course like Southern Pines or Talamore can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Explore golf history – Visit the World Golf Hall of Fame at the Pinehurst Resort, as well as the Tufts Archives in the Village of Pinehurst to dive into the rich history of the game.

9. Final Thoughts: Why Pinehurst is a Must-Visit Golf Destination

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning golfer, Pinehurst offers an unmatched blend of legendary golf courses, luxurious golf packages, and Southern hospitality. From the historic fairways of Pinehurst No. 2 to the classic charm of Mid Pines and the modern brilliance of Pinehurst No. 10, every round in the Sandhills tells a story. Pair that with world-class accommodations, fine dining, and a rich golfing tradition, and it’s clear why Pinehurst remains one of the most revered golf destinations in the world.

Start planning your golf getaway to Pinehurst today, and discover why this timeless destination continues to be the “Home of American Golf.”