Tampa Golf Courses - World Woods Golf Club Enhanced For 2011

Tampa Golf Courses: World Wood Golf Club A Great Choice in 2011

Most golfers who take a Tampa golf vacation inevitably make World Woods Golf Club part of their trip. Of all public play Tampa golf courses, World Woods has consistently been the most sought-after and highly ranked since it opened in 1993.

New for 2011, golfers at World Woods Golf Club will experience an all-new Rolling Oaks Course as well as enhancements on the Pine Barrens Course. Thus, anyone who has not played World Woods in years, or has been dreaming of playing the 36-hole Tom Fazio masterpiece on a future Tampa golf vacation, should consider making the trip to World Woods this year.

Even before the major renovation project at World Woods this summer, The Pine Barrens Course was ranked number 2 in Golfweek Best 2010 Public Courses You Can Play in Florida, while Rolling Oaks was ranked number 7 on the same list. Located about 45 minutes north of TPC Tampa Bay and several other top-ranked courses, World Woods has always been worth the drive.

It is reasonable to predict that the number 7 ranking for Rolling Oaks will get closer to the Pine Barren number 2, once the course reopens after the massive upgrades this summer. When the course opens on November 1, there will be aggressive, new unlimited golf rates as well as reintroduction rate specials.

When Rolling Oaks opens for play, golfers will experience greens that have been totally redone with TiftEagle, a grass chosen because it best suits the topography and character of Rolling Oaks, according to Stan Cooke, World Woods General Manager. While Rolling Oaks contouring remains the same, the greens are being restored to their original size from when the course was opened in 1993. This is a 20 percent expansion in the size of the Rolling Oaks greens from where they were if you played the course last winter.

World Woods Pine Barrens remains a Par 71 and Rolling Oaks remains a par 72, but both courses have extensive new teeing grounds, resulting in extended yardage for both courses. Pine Barrens has 10 new teeing grounds and has increased yardage from 6259 to 6955. Rolling Oaks has increased from 7032 to 7279 with nine new teeing grounds.

The Pine Barrens greens remain in immaculate condition. With the renovation, the Rolling Oaks greens are expected to run as true and as fast as those on Pine Barrens. The goal, according to Cooke, is to have the best 36-hole combination of greens not only among Tampa golf courses, but among all courses in the southeast.

World Woods Golf Club has also added new golf cart paths throughout the facility and a brand new fleet of 150 golf carts. The club house has been totally refurbished and the on-course restroom facilities have been renovated as well.

Top Golf Vacation Spots

Picking a top golf vacation spot is tough. There are many possibilities to consider while making a list. There are places all over the world so the possibilities are endless. Europe, Australia, Africa, Mexico, and Asia are some locations with great golf vacationing spots and of course there are many golf courses right here in the U.S. to choose from. To narrow it down a little bit there are popular golf vacation spots which are some of the best. You know you can never go wrong with picking from the best.

Myrtle Beach has hundreds of great golf courses to choose from. There are large spacious courses and small quaint ones all over Myrtle Beach to choose from. You may enjoy some of their golf packages they offer. They offer packages that include lodging on a resort with meals included as well as golf carts. There are different prices for different types of courses and packages. Whether you are going alone or bringing friends and family with you, there is a great package that will accommodate all your needs.

The golf packages are only half the fun. Once you are headed to your exciting golf location with your package fitting everything you like into the budget you want, you will start exploring your golf courses. On average there are 10,000 people traveling to Myrtle Beach for their glorious golf courses every month because it is so popular.

The international Club of Myrtle beach is a beautiful nature oriented course lined with lots of trees and marshland scattered throughout. It is one of the greatest courses designed by Williard Byrd according to many golfing fans.

Prestwick Country Club has received amazing ratings from magazines around the world. Its dynamics are impressive and the scenery is just gorgeous. Designed by Pete Dye, it is the favorite course of many golf vacationers.

Pearl West is another beautifully detailed course with many open stretches and lined in beautiful greens. It is the home of many tournaments for many years and is still a popular stop for tournaments today. It really challenges your golf power skills and allows you to try different things in your game.

Sea Trail is another Byrd course. It is right on and surrounded by the water. You certainly will be challenged with your game by this course. It is a four star course that is known for its playability like many of Willard Byrd's other designs.

There are many possibilities when choosing a golf vacationing spot that is right for you. Taking a little time to research different areas will benefit you.

Some of the Best Golf Courses All Over the World

Golf is a sport that is played on an international basis. Players are spoiled for choice in that they have a great choice of golf courses to play. It might be that they play locally, or it might be that they go on golfing holidays to find the famous golf courses of the world to test their skills on. Whichever a player decides to do, they need to understand that there are better courses out there that can help to increase their golfing skills.

Ireland is a place that has been well known in the past for great golf courses. Among the best here is The Royal County Down Golf Club. This course has been around since the 19th century and still offers players today an extremely challenging and exciting course. The course features a long drive on the first hole, totalling a huge 540 yards. For players that want to check out golf in this area, this is certainly going to be a safe bet.

Across the water and into New Jersey, The Pine Valley Golf Club offers some the best golfing in the world. This club is based in Pine Valley and has been the place where a lot of professionals in the area practice, because it is so challenging. The course is a 70-par course that has an extremely strange yet rewarding design, ensuring that every player walks away from the green feeling like they have achieved something and improved their game.

The great thing about this course is that it is not too challenging for new golfers, but not easy enough for experienced golfers to get bored. The par-3 fifth hole is one of the best holes on the course, making players drive 220 yards.

Moving over to California, The Cypress Point Club that is based in Monterey is possibly one of the candidates for the best golf course in the world. This course is a par-72 course that totals over 6,300 yards long and is extremely challenging for all sorts of players. This course has been designed professionally and is generally designed for the more experienced player, although new players are welcome to test their mettle any time they like.

There are hundreds of different golf clubs throughout the world that offer players the chance to improve their skills. These courses that have been mentioned above are definitely some of the most impressive. Some are big, some are small, but they all offer players the chance to walk away feeling like they have learnt a lot, which is what all players want to do.

Great Golf Courses Just 25 Minutes From Orlando International Airport

Don't wait one extra minute to start your Florida golf vacation. Hop straight from baggage claim into the rolling greens of Orlando and keep playing through the day of your departure. These top Florida courses offer great tee times and are located less than 25 minutes from the Orlando International Airport. They are perfect for rounds on the day of your arrival or departure. Let Florida's warm, tropical breezes whisk away your worries and remind you why those long plane rides are so worth the trip.

1. North Shore: 17 minutes

North Shore is just ten miles from the airport -- if you keep an eye out your window during landing, you can probably catch a few golf carts cruising over the greens! The Mike Dasher layout features two distinct styles in the Modern nine and Classic nine. Experience Florida's native wetlands right away on the Modern's links style, winding course. The Classic nine is carved through a beautiful grove of oaks that are centuries old. The course is one of the easier ones near the airport, with a beautiful layout, lots of birds, a full service bar, and a friendly staff. North Shore offers refreshing showers that are perfect for golfers leaving straight from a game to catch an airplane.

If you're catching a taxi or using a GPS, North Shore's address is 11507 North Shore Golf Course, Orlando, FL 32832. If you've got a rental car, make sure you have change for the toll roads and head south on Airport Boulevard onto Jeff Fuqua Boulevard. Merge onto FL-528 and take Exit 15. Merge onto FL-417 Toll S and take Exit 23. Turn left onto Moss Park Road, right onto North Shore Golf Club Boulevard, and the course will be on your left.

2. Eagle Creek: 20 minutes

Eagle Creek is also just ten miles from the airport. This course has been a customer favorite for years. Golfers rave about the friendly staff, great food, beautiful birds, and the small gator inhabiting the course lake. The European-style design was planned by Ron Garl and Howard Swan. It includes top-notch amenities and complimentary showers. The Audubon Silver Signature Course uses technologically advanced Mini-Verde grass, has lush landscaping, over 90 white sand bunkers, water hazards, and more than 1,500 trees. Play is challenging and the clubhouse is luxurious. Eagle Creek is a quality choice for golfers looking for a course that will give them a jump-start back into their game, but also relaxing enough after a long morning of traveling.

Eagle Creek's address is 10350 Emerson Lake Blvd., Orlando, FL 32832. To drive to the course from the airport, go south on Airport Boulevard onto Jeff Fuqua Boulevard. Merge onto FL-538 and take Exit 13. Turn right onto Narcoossee Road and left onto Emerson Lake Boulevard.

3. Shingle Creek: 23 minutes

Many golfers first play Shingle Creek because it's only 14 miles from the airport, but then find that it was their favorite course of their whole vacation. Golfers return again and again to the David Harman-designed fairways, which are surrounded by breathtaking waterways. The course is very challenging and has received awards for being one of the toughest courses in Orlando and being among the top courses in the country. Amenities are all first class and include showers. Course conditions, layout, and guest service are all outstanding. Arrive to or leave from your Florida golf vacation feeling like a king - or at least a pro - when you play at Shingle Creek.

Shingle Creek Golf Club's address is 9939 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 3219-8701. To drive there, head south on Airport Boulevard and continue onto Jeff Fuqua Boulevard and South Semoran Boulevard North. Take the ramp onto FL-528 West and take Exit 2 to Universal Boulevard. The course will be on your right after half a mile.

4. Hunter's Creek: 25 minutes

Hunter's Creek is fourteen miles from the airport and offers a beautiful, long course if you have some extra time before or after your departure. This Lloyd Clifton course recently came under new management and is eager to prove its commitment to customer service and ideal conditions. Its spacious fairways roll through majestic, towering pines and thirteen sparkling lakes. It has been very popular with recent golfers and is rated one of the "Top 75 Courses to Play" by Golf Digest.

Hunter's Creek is located at 14401 Sports Club Way, Orlando, FL, 32837-6902. To get there, go south on Airport Boulevard and continue onto Jeff Fuqua Boulevard, South Access Road, and Boggy Creek Road. Take the I-4 ramp onto 417 Toll Road South. Then, take Exit 11 for Orange Blossom Trail, turn right onto Falcon Trace Boulevard, and take your second right onto Sports Club Way. Hunter's Creek will be on your right.

30 Minutes or Less

If you're looking for some more course options that are half an hour from the airport, be sure to also check out Remington and Osprey Ridge. For more information, travel tips, customer reviews, stats, and rental car information, be sure to check out Tee Times USA's online directory of Orlando golf courses.

Five Top New Affordable Priced Golf Courses in America

In this piece on the five top new affordable-priced golf courses, we will give a brief description of five courses that have been opened in 2009-2010, and offer some of the best values of any of the golf courses in the United States. These new courses are a vanishing breed, that is, quality courses recently built that can be played for $40 a round or less. Most of the new courses opening today are the high-end private courses built in accompanying residential communities, followed by upscale semi-private and resort courses.

These new affordability priced golf courses are located in five different areas of the country east of the Rocky Mountains, so a number of golfers will not have to travel too far to play one of these hidden gems. All courses will not allow metal spikes, and will have a driving range, rental carts and clubs, and will take credit cards unless otherwise specified.

• Lonnie Poole Golf Course at North Carolina State University. Raleigh, North Carolina.

This Arnold Palmer designed golf course gets an overall "good" course rating, although to fully enjoy this layout one should be in the low handicap area. There are some blind shots that must be contended with.

Weekday price range: $35-$75.

Weekend price range: $45- $75.

• CommonGround Golf Course, Aurora Colorado.

This course was originally opened as Mira Vista Golf Course, and was completely redesigned in 2009 by Tom Doak, who designed the course to maximize the enjoyment of the game for all levels of players. It is a fun course to play and can be walked easily.

Weekday price: $50.

Weekend price: $50.

• Highlands of Elgin, Illinois

The highlight of the course is the four holes built around a quarry, as they hug the top of the bluff thirty to forty feet above the water. The layout offers golfers numerous shot options and spectacular views on all four holes. They do not have clubs for rental, and are open from April to the end of October.

Weekday price range: $25- $36.

Weekend price range: $30- $45.

• The National Golf Club of Louisiana. Westlake, Louisiana, outside of Lake Charles.

Featuring 14 lakes, 80 bunkers, and very large, challenging greens, the five sets of tees offer an equal challenge to golfers of all levels. The course receives excellent reviews from those who have played it. Architect is Dave Bennett, and is open all year.

Weekday price range: $15- $25.

Weekend price range: $20-$35.

• Shining Rock Golf Club, Northbridge Massachusetts.

This course gets very high reviews. It may be quite difficult for the average golfer, but the course has five different tees ranging in yards from 6735 down to 5009, so you can shorten it up considerably if need be.

Weekday price range: $25- $45.

Weekend price range: $25- $55.

We are happy to recommend these five top new affordable priced golf courses, as they are able to provide all golfers a quality value with excellent golf at a comparatively low price. Of course there are other golf bargains if you search for them, but we tip our cap to these course operators for offering new, quality courses at good prices. We hope it will be a trend.

The Top Five Myrtle Beach Golf Courses for Your Golf Vacation

For many, Myrtle Beach golf is a tradition. For northerners especially, Myrtle Beach golf is a revered event to escape the doldrums of perpetually grey skies, grimy snow, icy gutters and the cabin fever that sets in for good around mid-January. No matter where you're coming from though, this beach is a sort of golf Mecca that almost never fails to catch first time golfers by surprise. The Grand Strand, as it's called, is a 60 to 70 mile stretch of some of the finest golf courses in the country.

Whether you've spent time on the vast stretch of Myrtle Beach golf courses or not, these are five courses to play, each for its own reasons:

1. Pawley's Island - This Jack Nicklaus designed golf course is set in the historical coastal region of South Carolina, lined with 200 year-old moss draped oaks. The prime attraction here is one of the most well known holes in Myrtle Beach golf - the 13th island green. Jokingly called the shortest par five in America, this scenic hole is actually a 145 yard par three. Usually blanketed with a stiff ocean breeze, this is a dangerous beauty.

2. The Wicked Stick - One of the more golfer-friendly courses on the Grand Strand, the Wicked Stick is the only John Daly signature course in the United States. What makes it so friendly? How about a complete absence of fairway bunkers - so you can "grip it and rip it." In true John Daly fashion, this course is made for big hitters.

3. Avocet at Wild Wing Plantation - Avocet is not for beginners. This challenging golf course - in addition to its tough playability - was named South Carolina Golf Course Owners Association 2002 - 2003 Golf Course of the Year. Its uniqueness also garnered it four stars from "Golf Digest."

4. Myrtlewood - Myrtlewood is about the accommodations as much as the golf. Outstanding amenities and proximity to the beach and nightlife have secured Myrtlewood as a celebrated favorite. Full access to two beautiful golf courses - PineHills and The Palmetto - only add to its allure.

5. Farmstead - At the northern end of Myrtle Beach, Farmstead's 18th hole has been selected by "Golf Digest" as one of the "Top 18 Most Fun Holes in America." This par six, 767 yard monster has inspired the joke, "You tee off in South Carolina and putt in North Carolina." Myrtle Beach golf wouldn't be complete without a trip to Myrtlewood.

Top 10 Most Beautiful Golf Courses in France

Throughout France you'll find some superb golf courses: in the north, in the south,and even in the mountains. The most renown is The Albatros in Guyancourt/Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines but the beauty of it could be questioned, due to the airport which disrupts the quiet a golf player needs. Nevertheless, the best European players produce some of their best games there at the French Open.

Have a look at the 10 best French courses not to miss:

1-ETRETAT:

Famous for its cliff as well as its sea views, it remains quite hard to find golf courses with such a picturesque location to attract its customers. Located between Le Havre and Fécamp on the Upper Normandy coast, golf courses can rarely enjoy such a superb site, overhanging the sea and bay of Etretat. Classified among the best golf courses in Europe by the famous specialist newspaper Golf magazine, it is easily accessible by ferry since it is near Le Havre port. If you come to play golf in Etretat, you will discover quite a hard course as soon as the wind blows. But whatever your score, you will undoubtedly have many a magic moment- pure pleasure for golf lovers!

2-SPERONE:

Let's stay by the seaside! A magnificent course in Corsica called Sperone is located near Bonifacio at the very south of the Ile de Beauté as it is called by the French. This time you're faced not with cliffs but with clear waters and a magnificent view of the corals. With views over the sea, the bays and even the Sardinia Mountains, the charming creeks are sometimes flooded by the tide which means Sperone has its own natural ponds on the course.

3-DINARD:

Set in Brittany close to Saint Malo, the Dinard golf course is one of the oldest in Europe as it was built in the late 19th century. It was founded by a small colony of British people during the Industrial revolution when the railway and the enthusiasm of a new lifestyle arrived. This course extends over 12 acres of dunes and fields along the coast. The view over the Channel is stunning and the number of lost golf balls due to the wind should be impressive as well.

4-PONT ROYAL:

Absolutely marvellous! A stone's throw from Aix-en-Provence on the French Riviera, the Pont Royal Golf course enjoys a magnificent view over several streams and the mountains. Set in Mallemort, Pont Royal benefits from many prestigious residences with individual swimming pools enjoying a breathtaking view over the mountains and the course. It is surrounded by a nature full of fragrant herbs and undulating hills, where hikers had been coming until 1989 when the golf was created. Nowadays, tourists and locals form the population of the area, which offers all amenities from a post office to the tourist information office. This cohabitation gives its charm to Pont Royal, as tourists bring activity, and residents contribute to the durability of the region. Classified one of the best courses in Europe, the 18-hole golf was designed by the recently late Spanish champion Severiano Ballesteros.

5-EVIAN:

Shrine of the female golfer, the Evian Masters Golf Club is one of the 4 Grand Slam tournaments on the Female Golf Tour. Overlooking the Leman Lake in the French Alps, the view is absolutely magnificent and its greens are perfect. The resort's residents are always welcome with no entrance fee. It is located only 45km from Geneva airport.

6-LA BAULE:

La Baule Golf courses are just a few kilometres from the Atlantic Ocean. Well known by British golfers for the quietness of the surroundings and the quality of the greens, La Baule is among some of the most challenging courses. It has three different courses:

Lucien Barriere golf course: The presence of several water obstacles makes these greens a delicate challenge.
Diane Barriere Desseigne: this course offers a clear contrast of styles between holes out in the wide open, and those which weave their way around a 5-acre lake.
Francois Andre: situated in a marvellous natural setting, this golf links is suitable for all levels whilst also respecting the standards of difficulty applicable to modern courses.

7-CHAMP DE BATAILLE:

Located between Rouen and Evreux in Normandy, the Champ de Bataille Golf Course surrounds a superb castle. It has a huge garden and beautiful ponds which constitute the icing on the cake!. The course has even recently been named the finest course in the region "thanks to its design, the exceptional setting and the quality of maintenance according to European Golf, a specialist magazine".

8- LE TOUQUET:

Set on the Cote d'Opale in Northern France, The Touquet Golf Course called La Mer has strong British connections not because it was laid out by British architects, but because it was originally the playground of the British gentry. Nominated as the most stunning golf course of the Nord Pas-de-Calais, La Mer is perhaps one of the only true links course in France with its high tees that enable a very distant view.

9- FONTAINEBLEAU:

There is one of the largest and most beautiful French forests in Fontainebleau. A place of history and royal association, the course is situated in an ancient walled site, which strengthens the historic atmosphere. Opened in 1909, its greens are small and well guarded: an excellent short game is paramount for any golfer on this course! There is a little rough here but this is offset by the thickness and density of pine and oak trees.

10-CHANTILLY:

One of the most beautiful courses in Europe and set in the forest of the Ile de France, it was built in the same years as Fontainebleau and hosted numerous French Opens; including the 1913 Open de France before the test was definitely based in Guyancourt (see above). With 36 holes, many famous players teed off here, including the great Bobby Jones and The Golf Channel's Nick Faldo. Faldo even won the French Open at Chantilly.

This top 10 has been compiled due to their beautiful landscapes and panoramas, the course characteristics and the availability of French properties in this area. Now take your clubs and enjoy a great afternoon in one of these courses...

The Best 10 Golf Courses In The World

What exactly are golfers looking for in a golf course? Golfers typically seek for a golf course that will take him or her to the limit. There is absolutely no better achievement in defeating yourself and getting through the challenge golf offers you. A golf course that will offer not only a fair degree of difficulty, but also offers a breathtaking scenery is a feast for the golfers. Public golf courses that are used for competitions can also provide a good experience for average golfers as they can also undergo what the pros dealt with. After a long pursuit, here are a number of the topnotch courses that a golfer can go to. There are a lot of golf courses out there, but the following courses can offer the very best of the best.

The Old Course, St. Andrews Links: For being around for nearly 6 centuries, who would not totally agree that this golf course is "The Home of Golf"? Golf has been played around this course from 1400 A.D. and is actually the biggest golfing complex in Europe. The fairways carefully managed, the beautiful scenery, and the taunting challenge starting from the first hole could make your round of golf a very unforgettable experience. It could be deceiving when you see images and videos of this golf course on TV or online. The ground might appear flat when viewed on TV or online, but it is actually humped and the bunkers are deep when you are on the course, so it can offer you with the best challenge when you play. You may book beforehand by ballot to this golf course which is situated in Scotland. If you wish to feel what golf really is about, this might be best for you.

Murfield: This is the golf course of The Honorable Company of Edinburgh Golfers - the eldest organization in golf. The design of this course is simple categorized as a masterpiece since 1891. If that history is not enough, this club was regarded as linked to writing the original rules of golf in 1744. This golf course was designed in a way that the holes are situated in a circle that will make certain that the players will need to always adjust with the wind directions. There are times when a player will need to stop and appreciate the amazing view of this course which includes trees, the sea view, and the trees near it. The eye-catching scenery is just a glimpse of what this course actually offer to the players. The bunkers are all around and the greens are small, which challenges the golfer in terms of accuracy.

Oakmond Country Club: If you get the opportunity to play golf in the course, you need to expect an experience worth reminiscing. 210 deep bunkers and greens that slope away await the golfer, and it will be tough as every shot needs to be carefully done. One wasted shot and you might end up on its deep bunkers. The fairways are tight, so accuracy will be the key. This course also cradles a lengthy history, which expands as far as 1903. This course can be viewed as the most hardest to play on as bunkers can be found left and right.

Royal Birkdale (The Birkdale): This is England's top golf course that has a magnificent scenery and awesome golf holes. The fairways of this course is styled in such a way that the ball will rarely go off course. A club house, kind staff, and a fully stocked golf shop are just a number of what this course can provide. However, you have to ready your pocket as the experience can be very expensive. Yet, the course's challenge will make your money's worth more. The wind Birkdale has is really an malefic pressure to cope with, nevertheless the struggle will thrust the golf player to the limits. A fantastic bang for the money.

Shinnecock Hills: Constructed in 1891 and remodelled in the 30s, this course has sponsored four US opens and is a very challenging course to play on. The holes look very easy to make shots with, but steadily gets you scratching your head as it is in fact deceiving. The holes would require a golfer to adapt and be very skillful. The 300-acre course has a clubhouse that's located at their highest point, hence giving an excellent view to the place. The course boasts of winds from the Atlantic, the sandy terrain, and the grasses that border the fairways. After-game cocktails can be availed by the club members besides the game experience they receive.

Turnberry (Ailsa Course), Scotland: The Turnberry Golf Club was established in 1902, then the Turnberry Hotel in 1906 that connects to the nearest railway station. It was even almost destroyed as it was used in the 2 World Wars but it was reopened in 1951 after extensive repairwork. What makes this course distinctive from the others is the lack of dunes on holes near the seacoast, which makes a perfect test for the player. It has stayed a favorite course and has hosted 4 Opens. The view of the British Isles is just a teaser for the game experience and being on the very same holes Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson battled on!

Royal County Down Golf Club: Having one of the best front nines amongst the world's courses, this is worth the trip. Located in Northern Ireland, it rests nicely at the foot of the Mourne Mountains and is welcomes the golf player with an impressive view of the Bay of Dundrum. With its spotless conditions for a challenging game, this course surprisingly haven't hosted a single Open. Although the course has an incredible surrounding, it could give you major frustration as the wind can be quite unpredictable. The wind is strong enough to topple a trolley, bend the ball in flight, or bend the flagstick. The difficulty of the course will challenge a golfer to the limit, not only because of the winds but also with its number of blind drives also. The challenge it offers simply deserve a spot in the top ten of the world.

Augusta National Golf Club: Being the host to the annual Masters, this dream course is situated in a dream-like setting, and even getting to play here is also dream-like also. This course has a high exclusive status with its green fees and the list of its members aren't available to the public. The popularity of the course is all over, with lots of other courses that tried to imitate the course design. Designed by Bobby Jones and Alister Mackenzie, anyone can easily say that it is an ideal duo that created a perfect course. Usually, every after concluded Masters, changes are done with one or two holes to incorporate variety to the playing experience. It's no wonder that it will get closed to every 6 months and nobody can just simply list up to get to play the tee. The scenery just comes second with the good standing of this course, the playing experience and with the unique status. If there is an opportunity to play, a golfer will undoubtedly not refuse.

Cypress Point, USA: This golf course has surely the largest water hazard of all which is the Pacific Ocean on the third tee. It is a longshot to even get the chance to play on this course that even the late J. F. Kennedy was declined admission to the restaurant and has only a few members which ranges from actors, political, and corporate giants. The course still maintains it historical traditions, being a walking-only course, no yardage markers and even the lockers can make you feel that it's still 1920. Its parking lot is not even more than 15 stalls and does not have that much players in a single day. It is really an advantage for the course to have not so many players as it will help the course to be kept pristine in its condition and one of greens that is so smooth without bumps, ball marks, nematode patches, or sand from nearby bunkers. Simply one of the best courses that anyone will get to play on if given the opportunity.

Pine Valley, USA: This was a brain child of Philadelphian hotelier George Crump, who passed away a year ahead of the course's completion. It opened on 1919 and players had a difficult experience accomplishing the course in 70 strokes, effortlessly gaining the popularity as the amazing golf challenge. Each hole mocks you with a different challenge, with one bunker 10 feet deep. Missing the green will mean a lot, since there are sloping greens and the holes are wrapped in pine-covered heath - not a good place the see the golf ball go. It can be a massive pain the moment you get a mistake in your shot. Having the chance to play in this superb course is very rare, so don't decline an invite. There is no golf course that is visually inviting and hard as Pine Valley. It greatly justifies why golfers rank this as No. 1.

Certainly, there are numerous other courses around that doesn't require membership. However, being able to feel the real challenges of golf lies in these courses, so don't let an opportunity to play in these courses pass by.

Best New Golf Courses In The United States

If you are planning a golf vacation there are many new golf courses built during any given year. For example, in 2010 there were 43 new public courses opened in the USA alone. In this article we will examine the top courses that have been opened recently.

Arguably the best new golf course that has been opened recently is the Old Macdonald course built at the Bandon Dunes Resort, located at Bandon, Oregon. This 6,978 yard par 71 course was designed by Tom Doak and Jim Urbina. Charles Blair Macdonald is known as the father of American golf because he built the first 18-hole golf course in the US, helped found the USGA and won the first US Amateur championship. Doak and Urbina had access to twenty golf holes that Macdonald said were his favorites. They managed to use sixteen of these ideas in this new golf course. The great news for golfers is that this is not only a great course, but it is just one of four great courses at the Bandon Dunes Resort.

The runner-up honor for the best new course to open recently for the public to play is located at Valentine, Nebraska. It was designed by Tom Lehman and Chris Brands, and it takes advantage of the sand hills that it is located in Valentine, by placing sand bunkers everywhere. The new golf course looks like a wonderful course you would find in Scotland. This is the tenth course that Tom Lehman has designed.

Another new golf course is Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor, Michigan, which is home to the 2012 and 2014 Senior PGA Championships. This may be the shortest new golf course in the United States at just 6,861 yards. It was designed by Jack Nicklaus and takes full advantage of varied terrain from hardwood timber to wetland to sand dunes. It incorporates Lake Michigan as a water hazard in three of the holes. This new golf course is priced very reasonably, as it can cost as little as $45 dollars to play.

We certainly cannot overlook Shining Rock Golf Club, located in Northbridge, Massachusetts. It was not designed by a known name, but by a construction superintendent named Patrick Sullivan who may just have found a new career - because this new golf course is fantastic. It has large rocks, woods and water as its hazards which makes golfers sit up and take notice on almost every golf shot.

The last new course to make our list is The Old American Golf Club at The Tribute, located in The Colony, Texas. This course, built on the banks of Lewisville Lake, was designed by Tripp Davis and Justin Leonard. The course was set up to resemble Shinnecock Hills, National Golf Links, Prairie Dunes, and Crystal Downs which the developers played in preparation for designing this course. The designers require the golfer to account for the ever blowing Texas winds.

So if you are planning a golf vacation soon I hope this article has helped to open your eyes to some possibilities you may have never thought about visiting and playing. You can also search on the internet to find the next new golf course to hit the limelight. Playing a new golf course can be a lot of fun, but playing one that hardly anyone has ever seen or played before can be even better!

By the way, do you want to add 42 yards to your golf drives?

Top Myrtle Beach Golf Courses

Myrtle Beach has without question, some of the best golfing in the country and even the world, and with over 100 options, it can be difficult to decide. Here we have a few top Myrtle Beach golf courses to make things run a bit more smoothly.

For a scenic, upscale course related closely to its Scottish namesake the Prestwick Country Club provides deep sand bunkers across a natural dune filled field framed by native pine, oaks, and dogwood trees. The course is designed by Pete Dye, who received a 4.5 star rating for the course from Gofer's Digest for the naturally challenging terrain, and 50-acre lake that sits between the 9th and 18th holes. Prestwick also received the best hospitality award in 2006, for their stunning restaurant and club where you can unwind after a tough day of golf.

Indigo Creek, another exciting course just south of Myrtle Beach, away from the crowds, boasts lakes, marshes, waste bunkers, and beautiful, vast greens. Willard Byrd chose the site for its scenic marsh, set in the "Grand Strand" low country plantations, and won "Best New Course" at its inception in 1990. Par is 72, but the braver ones may challenge "Golf Master Jim" who holds a 62 record on the course. The club and restaurant offer a number of choices for meal or quick snack.

For stunning views and an enjoyable, player friendly experience, one would be hard pressed to find a course more suitable than Sea Trail. Another Willard Byrd course, it is known best for wide easy fairways, roll it on pitch, dogleg holes, and the occasional sand bunker. Playing here also means you may use all 3 courses for one reduced rate, which, as any golfer knows, can make all the difference. If you wish to practice, there are driving ranges, putting greens, and a designated area to practice sand and chipping. The clubhouse is known for it full service restaurant, and friendly staff, while the locker rooms offer showers and other amenities to get ready for a delicious meal at one of Myrtle Beach's award winning restaurants. One of the other Sea Trail Courses, designed by Reese Jones is tricky, but known for large greens, and even larger waste bunkers, which makes the course ideal for those who enjoy chipping around a green as opposed to straight shots, as well as more than enough chances to blast the ball out of the sand.

Regardless which course you choose, Sea Trail or otherwise, Myrtle Beach has literally over 100 different choices just to make your golf vacation as enjoyable, or challenging, as it can be!

Two of the Best Golf Courses You Do Not Want to Miss

Many golf players love to play in different courses, and they may tell you that each course provides a different experience. It is difficult to come up with a list of the best golf courses in the country, as different golfers obviously have different standards, not to mention there are far too many courses to choose from! If you ask me, I can tell you that I really like a course that is driven by a rich historical background, filled with world class facilities, surrounded by breath-taking scenery, and is rising in popularity.

Having said that, I am still feel like to share with you two of my top favorites where you can play this wonderful game. I vote for them not just for the technical challenge they impose on golf players, but also for the extra features that adds to your golfing fun.

1. The Eagle Point Golf Club

This par-72 golf club is situated in the eastern part of North Carolina, and is a low-profile course that keeps amazing golfers at various skill levels. With its easily accessible greens, you can choose to walk as you go through different holes. Guests may also like to use the club's very nice caddie service, as well as the tennis and swimming facilities.

There are more than 7,000 yards of golfing grounds, with a 74.5 rating and replete with 137 slopes for golf players to test

their mettle. What adds to the challenge for players is the prevailing wind from the Atlantic Ocean. At the first glance, the club looks traditional, but it is filled with top rated facilities. There is even a high-tech learning center for those who would like to further their golfing skills. These, together with the town's unbeatable year-round weather and the great private retreat for golfers and their families, make the Eagle Point Club one of the best golf destinations country wide.

2. The Concession In Florida

This club was created by two legendary golfers - Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin. Since its opening in 2006, the club keeps being featured in the best golf course list by a number of well-known publications such as the Golfweek.

The name was derived from what transpired in 1969 when Nicklaus yielded a three-foot putt. That act of sportsmanship was all the British team (led by Jacklin) needed to tie with the Americans. While the Americans eventually won in the tournament, the act was forever etched in the annals of the sporting world.

Decades after, the golf legends have worked on a 1,200-acre property that is free from housing developments. The par-72 Concession (7,470 yards, with 155 slopes and 77.6 rating) may be hard to conquer for its landscape angles and fairway bunkers, but this is exactly what make the club one of the best golf courses -it's challenging, yet fun.  In case you need some tips, just ask pro Jimmy Wright at the practice range.

10 of the Best Golf Courses in the World

Up until just a few years ago, Golf course were soles the domains of Golfers. Now, however, their incredibly beautiful designs and landscape, not to mention their attachment to all inclusive resorts, makes these courses a destination for thousands of tourists yearly. Some are golfers, some are not. Below, we have listed 10 of the most beautiful and touted Golf Courses in the world. If you are an avid golfer, you would do well to make a goal of visiting a few of these before you hang up your clubs for good.

1. Cape Kidnappers (New Zealand) - This course, designed by American Architect Tom Doak, is a challenging and beautiful marvel to behold. It features sloped green and jagged ravines to challenge golfers of any skill level. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Cape Kidnappers was built on a 2000-hectare sheep farm.

2. Royal County Down (Northern Ireland) - Number two on the list is Royal County Down. The green's shine in all their beautiful glory on this historic course that overlooks the Irish Sea. Beware the 7th and 12th holes...many a ball has been lost and a club been thrown on these incredibly challenging holes.

3. Pebble Beach (United States) - "If I had only one more round to play, I would choose to play it at Pebble Beach." -Jack Nicklaus Ok, that pretty much says it all. If Jack chooses his last round there, why not make this stop your NEXT round? The Golf Courses at Pebble Beach were recently voted #1 Golf Resort in America by Golf Digest Magazine in 2007. See what the pros already know...Pebble Beach is THE place to play in the States.

4. Leopard Creek (South Africa) - Membership by invitation only helps to make Leopard Creek the exclusive hotspot for golfers that it is. This course was funded and co-designed by banker Johann Rupert, and together with the help of pro golfer Gary Player, this course has become a destination for the world's elite golfers. A challenging course that was completely remodeled in 2000, this course is not only home to some of world's most incredible golfers, but crocodiles, hippos, and tigers can be spotted here as well. Be careful of the water hazards!

5. Green Monkey (Barbados) - Barbados...The Caribbean, those two words are probably enough to attract most golfers to check this out, but the addition of one name helps to cinch the deal: Tom Fazio. Credited as being the world's BEST golf course designer, Tom was at the helm of this 45 hole masterpiece. Part of the Sandy Lane Golf resort in the Caribbean, Green Monkey has enough beauty and challenge to make this destination a worthwhile investment.

6. Turnberry (Scotland) - Many of the great pros of the sport have won the Open here. Watson, Norman, Price, just to name a few. This world class resort resides in the home of our great sport, Scotland. That fact alone should help to make Turnberry a MUST VISIT on your list. The courses are undergoing renovation and should be completed early in 2009, just in time for the Open, hopefully to be hosted here again this year!

7. Valderrama (Spain) - Inaugurated in 1985, Valderrama is known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Meticulously cared for and manicured, the fairways and greens rate among the best in the world. The breathtaking beauty of Spain add to the atmosphere. THis course must be experienced to be believed.

8. St. Andrews Old Course (Scotland) - THIS, is the accepted birthplace of Golf. Six courses of varying levels of difficulty, including a 9 hole course for children and begginers. The history is rich here. A must visit Golf Resort.

9. Augusta National Golf Club (United States) - Augusta Masters is played at the Augusta National Golf Club. The course is not a difficult one at all, but some editions in the recent past have been marred by inclement weather, which makes conditions challenging for players.

10. Ballybunion (Ireland) - Located on the West Coast of Ireland, Ballybunion is considered one of the top 10 courses in the world, and boasts one of the toughest par 4's in the world as well. A favorite of Tom Watson among others, Ballybunion delivers in both beauty and challenging golf.

Obviously, there are many courses around the world, but these are bound to be found in many a top 10 list of the world's top pros. Good luck in your journeys, and I hope to see YOUR top 10 list in the near future!

The 4 Best Golf Courses in Mauritius

Want to keep your golf game up to scratch on your Mauritius holidays? Here are four of the courses you simply must play.

Mauritius is one of the premier luxury holiday destinations, and it is now also making a name for itself as an unforgettable place to go on a golf holiday. The first course on the island opened in 1994, so the golfing scene here is still young, but plenty of other top quality courses have sprung up over the past decade, giving avid golfers on Mauritius holidays numerous options when it comes to picking a course. Many of the courses are attached to five star hotels that offer free and discounted green fees to their residents, so bear that in mind when choosing your accommodation on the island.

If you are keen to play a few rounds of golf during your visit to Mauritius, here are four courses that you shouldn't miss out on...

One & Only Le Touessrok Golf Club

This is a tough course that is recommended for more experienced players, but if you've got a low enough handicap to take it on, you'll be well rewarded. Designed by Bernard Langer around nine lakes, to stay out of the water you'll have to play the game of your life, or just bring plenty of spare balls! But golfers looking for a challenge on their Mauritius holidays should accept no substitute - One & Only Le Touessrok is a must play.

Anahita Golf Course

For sheer beauty, there are few courses in the world that can match the Anahita. Designed by Ernie Els, this course only opened in the last few years but has already established itself as one of the best on the island. The scenery as you follow the coast is breathtaking, and the finish at the last hole is simply "to die for".

Heritage Golf & Spa Resort

Attached to this excellent five star hotel is a delightful championship quality golf course that is one of the best on the island. With a combined backdrop of mountain and sea, you'll have a hard time concentrating on the game at hand, but this expansive course deserves your attention and is a joy to play.

Belle Mare Plage Golf Club - The Legend

The very first (and, some would say, the very best) of the golf courses in Mauritius, The Legend more than lives up to its name. Host to the prestigious Mauritius Open, this superbly designed course includes forests, lakes and volanic rock in the landscape, and it is a treat for both top class golfers and keen amateurs on their Mauritius holidays. Belle Plage is also home to two more courses, The Links and Lemuria - both well worth playing.