Must-Play Short Courses in North America

Forget the driver, ditch the long irons. Short courses are taking the golf world by storm, offering a refreshing alternative for golfers of all levels. From breathtaking ocean views to playful sandboxes, these miniature masterpieces pack a punch in terms of design, fun, and pure enjoyment.

Bandon Preserve at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort (Bandon, Oregon): Stunning Pacific vistas? Check. Play for a good cause? Check. This Coore & Crenshaw-designed gem is a win-win.
The Hay at Pebble Beach Resorts (Pebble Beach, California): Tee off on a replica of Pebble Beach's iconic 7th hole, designed by none other than Tiger Woods himself.

The Cradle at Pinehurst Resort (Pinehurst, North Carolina): Kick back, relax, and enjoy the Sandhills vibes at this Gil Hanse-designed masterpiece. Perfect for unwinding after a challenging round on Pinehurst No. 2.
Roundabout Short Course at Streamsong Resort (Bowling Green, Florida): This choose-your-own-adventure style course is a great way to warm up before tackling Streamsong's beasts.
Little Sandy at Omni Amelia Island Resort (Fernandina Beach, Florida): Family-friendly fun with gorgeous lake views. This 10-hole course is perfect for all skill levels.

The Sandbox at Sand Valley (Nekoosa, Wisconsin): Coore & Crenshaw strikes again! This 17-hole course showcases the unique landscape of Wisconsin with rolling hills and challenging green complexes.
The Baths of Blackwolf Run at Destination Kohler (Kohler, Wisconsin): Water hazards galore! This Kohler Co. tribute course offers a unique aquatic challenge.
The Nest at Cabot Links (Nova Scotia, Canada): Soak in the breathtaking scenery from atop Cabot Cliffs while playing this classic links-style layout.
The Staple Golf Course at PGA National Resort (Palm Beach Gardens, Florida): This Andy Staple creation offers casual fun with holes ranging from 60-130 yards, including one that starts in a bunker!
Horse Course at The Prairie Club (Valentine, Nebraska): Inspired by the game of "H.O.R.S.E.," this Gil Hanse and Geoff Shackelford design lets the winner choose the next teeing ground, making every round unpredictable and exciting.

Top of the Rock Golf Course at Big Cedar Lodge (Ridgedale, Missouri): The first par-3 course ever featured in a professional championship, this Jack Nicklaus design boasts stunning waterfalls and Ozark beauty.
Threetops at Treetops Resort (Gaylord, Michigan): A regular on ESPN's Par-3 Shootout, Threetops offers challenging greens and elevation changes for a truly unique test.
QuickSands at Gamble Sands (Brewster, Washington): This recently opened course features 14 holes with creative names like "Crater" and "Boomerang," all showcasing incredible green complexes.

The Par-3 Course at Augusta National Golf Club (Augusta, Georgia): Home to the Masters Par-3 Contest, this iconic course is a pilgrimage for any golf fan. With its picturesque ponds and birdie opportunities, it's no wonder it's a cherished tradition.