National Golf Links of America
- Par
- 72
- Yardage
- 6,800yds
- Holes
- 18
- Opened
- 1911
- Access
- Private
- Design
- Classic
History
The National Golf Links of America was C.B. Macdonald's magnum opus, a deliberate attempt to create the finest golf course in the United States by transplanting the best strategic concepts from Britain's great links. Macdonald traveled twice to study the Road Hole at St Andrews, the Eden at Hoylake, and other classics before building his template holes on Long Island's Sebonack Neck. Opened in 1911, it pioneered American course architecture and established the template hole philosophy — Alps, Redan, Road Hole, Eden — that influenced generations of designers. Its mix of seaside scenery and strategic brilliance remains unmatched.
Signature Hole
4th 'Redan', par 3, 195 yards — a classic diagonal par-3 template modeled on the 15th at North Berwick
Notable Tournaments
- 1922 Walker Cup
In the context of the top 100
Where this course sits against every ranked course on the list.
Frequently asked questions
Is National Golf Links of America public or private?
National Golf Links of America is a private club. Play is generally limited to members and their accompanied guests.
Who designed National Golf Links of America?
National Golf Links of America was designed by C.B. Macdonald and opened in 1911.
Where does National Golf Links of America rank among the top golf courses in America?
National Golf Links of America ranks #7 on our consensus ranking of America's 100 greatest golf courses, synthesized from Golf Digest, Golfweek, and GOLF Magazine.
What is the signature hole at National Golf Links of America?
The signature hole at National Golf Links of America is the 4th 'Redan', par 3, 195 yards — a classic diagonal par-3 template modeled on the 15th at North Berwick.