Editor’s note: This is the first of a two-part series showcasing destinations that stand apart and should be considered for either a return trip or a first look.
The longer that golfers play the game, the more they realize that every course is unique in its own way. However, some golf courses — and resorts — are highly distinct, when compared to others.
From their locations to their natural settings, to their course architects, to their conditions, the following five United States-based golf resorts especially stand out.
ANGEL FIRE RESORT, ANGEL FIRE, NEW MEXICO
Located 8,600 feet above sea level, Angel Fire Resort offers golfers one of the United States’ highest elevation golf courses. Therefore, according to director of golf Don Willingham, golfers have a physical advantage they simply won’t find at sea level: the golf ball will soar.
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“While the ‘thin air’ yardage is a thrill, the true draw is the escape from the sweltering 100-degree summer heat of Texas and Arizona,” Willingham says. “With daytime temperatures averaging a crisp 76 degrees and cooling into the 40s at night, the climate is as perfect as the turf.”
How perfect is the turf, one may ask? Well, according to Willingham, Angel Fire Golf Course has lush bluegrass fairways. Not to mention, it also provides bentgrass greens that are fully maintained with the PGA Tour’s standards in mind. As a result, the course consistently has a “premium putting surface.”
“The course’s crown jewel is the sixth hole though, which sits at the property’s highest point,” Willingham adds. “The tee box rests 200 feet above the green, offering a dramatic 250-yard descent.”
BANDON DUNES GOLF RESORT, BANDON, OREGON
Unless guests have golfed in the British Isles before, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort — and its seven championship courses — provides experiences they’ve never had before.
Simply put, each of its courses offer authentic links golf that likely doesn’t exist anywhere else in the continental United States. Along with its true links experience, the public, walking-only facility is especially known for its connection to nature, too.
“The world’s so busy today. We’re all connected to our devices, and the cities are so packed,” says Michael Chupka Jr., director of communications. “Bandon Dunes does a great job of making sure guests can take a deep breath and be present in the moment.”
From its tranquil location, to its fresh air, to its sense of community (which increases since golfers are only walking, leading to more conversations), Bandon Dunes ensures guests fully enjoy the here and now, so to speak.
“It’s a healthy place to come,” Chupka Jr. says. “And it provides an experience that transcends your score and bonds you tighter with your surroundings.”
BOYNE GOLF, PETOSKEY, MICHIGAN
As Ken Griffin, director of golf sales and marketing, reflects on Boyne Golf, he doesn’t believe it’s “merely a collection of courses.” Rather, “it is a premier North American golf destination.”
After all, it features 10 18-hole championship golf courses, along with a recently opened short course, known as Doon Brae. Furthermore, it provides three distinct resort properties within an 18-mile radius of Petoskey, Michigan.
But what separates Boyne Golf the most? In Griffin’s opinion, its diversity of terrain and architecture, each of which “is unmatched in the United States.”
“Unlike many destinations that offer a singular look, Boyne provides a rotating gallery of environments,” Griffin says.
For example, Lakeshore has dramatic bluffs that overlook Lake Michigan at Bay Harbor Golf Club, while Boyne Mountain and The Highlands offer elevation changes and a mountain feel. Additionally, The Quarry was literally carved into a 150-year-old shale and limestone quarry.
“Meanwhile, The Heather provides serene layouts that wind through ancient blueberry bogs,” Griffin adds. “And The Arthur Hills Course offers a nine-mile cart path journey with a view of 4,000 acres of untouched forest from the 13th tee.”
OMNI MOUNT WASHINGTON RESORT & SPA, BRETTON WOODS, NEW HAMPSHIRE
As its name suggests, Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa provides guests panoramic views of Mount Washington, as it’s surrounded by the White Mountains. This has been the case since 1902, in fact, as guests’ views from the resort’s clubhouse — while overlooking the Mount Washington Course — haven’t changed at all.
“Golfers can enjoy rounds shaped by the terrain and scenery,” says Celine McArthur, public relations and communications manager. “And when their rounds are over, they can take advantage of the resort’s amenities, making for a complete and memorable stay.”
Designed by Donald Ross, the 18-hole Mount Washington Course is especially renowned for its strategic bunkers, subtle green complexes and walkable routing. On the other hand, the resort’s second course (the nine-hole Mount Pleasant Course) offers a more approachable round. Nestled along the Ammonoosuc River, it’s similar to the Mount Washington Course in one primary way: it also has mountain views.
“Within a single stay, golfers can enjoy two distinct courses, each with its own character, in a quiet, relaxed environment,” McArthur adds.
STREAMSONG GOLF RESORT, BOWLING GREEN, FLORIDA
As golfers prepare to book trips to Streamsong Golf Resort, they must know that it’s not a typical Florida-based resort. Instead, it’s “a departure from typical Florida golf,” according to Ben Rhodes, director of sales and marketing.
How so, one may ask? First, it isn’t flat. At all. Rather, it has numerous elevation changes. Moreover, its sand dunes are hard and fast — not soft and wet. Therefore, the resort and its three 18-hole championship courses (Red, Blue and Black) never get boring.
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“The courses are challenging for most golfers, as they can hit different types of shots and have different places to hit the ball every time they play here,” Rhodes said.
Designed by architects Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, Tom Doak, Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner, the Red, Blue and Black aren’t the only options for guests, as they can also play a short course known as The Chain. In addition, a new course — Bone Valley — will open for preview play on October 30, 2026.
“We’re building a legacy,” Rhodes says. “And we’re looking forward to welcoming golfers for years to come.”