The Best Golf Courses Near Pinehurst That Aren’t Pinehurst No. 2

Pinehurst No.2 usually steals the spotlight if you’re golfing in North Carolina. It’s not without cause—the course has hosted major championships and is one of the most iconic in the world. But there’s a big secret many golfers tend to ignore: the surrounding area is packed with plenty of other opportunities to hit the links. These golf courses in Pinehurst are just as beautiful, usually more accessible, and easily as fun to play.

So if you’re planning your next golf trip around Pinehurst No. 2, consider these hidden gems instead.

Talamore Golf Resort (Southern Pines, NC):

Talamore blends the natural beauty of the Carolina Sandhills with a touch of Scottish flair. You’ll golf among rolling elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and signature sod wall bunkers that make every hole feel special. The recently-renovated course now features Champion Bermuda greens that are smooth, fast, and ready for your best round yet. Talamore is challenging enough for low handicappers but still approachable for casual players. And with villas and access to multiple partner courses, you can take advantage of their stay-and-play packages to make the most out of your trip.

Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club (Southern Pines, NC):

If your vibe is pure classic golf, the Mid Pines course, designed by Donald Ross, is it. It feels like a step back in time in the best way, with scenic, thoughtful, and slightly more forgiving holes. The fairways weave between towering pines and native grasses, offering just enough challenge to keep things interesting. It’s a perfect course for golfers who love traditional design.

Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club (Southern Pines, NC):

The sister course to Mid Pines and another creation from Ross, Pine Needles has hosted multiple U.S. Women’s Opens. It’s longer and wider than Mid Pines with large, undulating greens that make putting a fun (and humbling) experience. Each hole flows beautifully with the land’s natural contours, creating a rhythm that’s as challenging as it is satisfying. After your round, there’s a lodge where you can drink and soak in the laid-back but refined atmosphere.

Southern Pines Golf Club (Southern Pines, NC):

If you love golf history and value, Southern Pines Golf Club is a must-play. Yet another Ross design, this course has been beautifully restored. You’ll find firm, fast conditions and a layout that rewards strategy over brute strength. The course still retains an old-school feel, as the renovations were aimed at highlighting the preserved routing while making advancements to invite beginners to try the course and have fun.

Tobacco Road Golf Club (Sanford, NC):

If you’re looking for something totally different, Tobacco Road is unlike any course you’ve ever played. Built through an old sand quarry, it’s dramatic, bold, and unforgettable. You’ll find massive dunes, blind shots, and fairways framed by wild, untamed vegetation. It’s the kind of course you’ll brag to your friends about when you get home. It’s a little quirky, but that’s part of the fun.

Each of these courses proves Pinehurst’s golf magic extends far beyond one famous fairway and should be added to every golfer’s must-play list. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a full North Carolina vacation, the area surrounding Pinehurst has plenty of world-class options beyond No. 2.