Tee Off All Year: The Best U.S. Golf Courses to Visit by Season
No matter the time of year, there’s always a tee box calling your name somewhere in the U.S. From the sun-drenched fairways of Palm Springs in winter to the rolling Carolina hills in fall, golf lovers can plan their travel around perfect weather, spectacular scenery, and unforgettable rounds.
Here are the best courses to visit each season—plus one great story from the green at each stop.
Spring: Augusta National Golf Club – Augusta, Georgia
It’s impossible to talk about spring golf without mentioning Augusta National, home of The Masters. With pristine conditions, blooming dogwoods, and iconic holes like 12 and 13, this is more than a course—it’s hallowed ground.
Golf Story:
In 1986, 46-year-old Jack Nicklaus staged one of the greatest comebacks in golf history here. After falling behind early in the final round, “The Golden Bear” birdied five of the last nine holes, finishing with a thunderous putt on 17. The roars of the crowd shook Georgia’s pines—and cemented his sixth green jacket.
Summer: Pebble Beach Golf Links – Pebble Beach, California
When the rest of the country is sweltering, the California coast is calm, misty, and perfect for golf. Pebble Beach offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, jaw-dropping par 3s, and the kind of drama that’s perfect for a summer escape.
Golf Story:
During the 2000 U.S. Open, Tiger Woods didn’t just win—he dominated. He finished at 12-under par, a record 15 strokes ahead of the runner-up. It was such a blowout that golf analysts had to invent new ways to describe just how much he dismantled the field.
Fall: Pinehurst No. 2 – Pinehurst, North Carolina
As leaves turn fiery red and orange, Pinehurst No. 2 shines. The crisp air and fiery backdrop create a unique canvas for this Donald Ross masterpiece. It’s a course where precision trumps power, and every chip matters.
Golf Story:
In 1999, Payne Stewart sank a dramatic 15-foot par putt on the 18th hole to beat Phil Mickelson by one stroke and win the U.S. Open. Just months later, Stewart tragically passed in a plane crash. His fist-pump celebration on that final green remains one of golf’s most emotional moments.
Winter: PGA West Stadium Course – La Quinta, California
Need a winter warm-up? Head to the PGA West Stadium Course in La Quinta, where the desert sun keeps the fairways firm and the pace fast. This Pete Dye design is both punishing and fun, featuring dramatic water features and deep bunkers.
Golf Story:
At the 1987 Bob Hope Classic, David Duval, then just a teenager, walked the course with his father, who was a club pro. Ten years later, Duval returned and shot a final-round 59 on this course, sealing his place in golf history.\
Honorable Mention (Year-Round): Bandon Dunes – Bandon, Oregon
Though the weather can shift quickly, Bandon Dunes offers play nearly year-round. With true links golf along rugged Pacific cliffs, it’s often misty, breezy, and breathtaking. For purists, it’s heaven.
Golf Story:
Golf Digest once profiled a solo traveler who lost his luggage, arrived in jeans and borrowed clubs, and still called it “the best three rounds of my life.” The wind tore through every shot, but the raw beauty of Bandon made each swing worth it.
Plan Your Year of Golf
Whether you're chasing sunshine or fall foliage, there’s a perfect course waiting. And if you’re planning to cruise from tee to green in style, don’t forget to check out Lake Erie Golf Cars for your custom E-Z-GO golf cart to match the season.