Pinehurst No. 1

Few places in American golf carry the weight of history that Pinehurst does, and No. 1 holds a special place in that story as the resort's original layout. Designed by Donald Ross — who would go on to shape nearly every corner of the Pinehurst property — it opened in 1898 and stands as the foundation upon which one of golf's most storied destinations was built. Ross refined it over the years, and it underwent a significant renovation by Kyle Franz in 2020 that restored much of its traditional character while modernizing playability. At the shortest end of the resort's numbered courses, No. 1 plays as a welcoming introduction to the Pinehurst experience rather than a stern examination.

What defines Pinehurst is the sandy, wire-grass terrain of the North Carolina Sandhills — a landscape that feels purpose-built for golf, with longleaf pines framing nearly every hole and the ground firm and fast underfoot.

No. 1 is where many guests begin their Pinehurst journey, and for good reason. It rewards shotmaking over power, encourages walking, and delivers the essential Sandhills atmosphere without the pressure of its more celebrated siblings. Consider it the resort's handshake — unhurried, gracious, and entirely genuine.