- Pebble Beach Golf Links is one course that has received much critical acclaim. Located in Pebble Beach, California, the course has brought class and elegance to the game of golf since its inception in 1919. It was ranked the number one public golf course in America in Golf Digest's 2005 list. The terrain is a thing of beauty, with holes cutting across ragged coastline and the great Pacific Ocean being incorporated into most holes. Spanning 6,737 yards, this 72-par course has been host to numerous golfing events throughout the years, with the 2000 U.S. Open Championships being held the most recently at the course.

- Located in Pinehurst, North Carolina is the Pinehurst Resort and Country Club. This historic golfing locale has been around since 1895, and features 8 separate golf courses, allowing for much diversity in play. Spanning over 2,000 acres, you can spend weeks just getting used to the different courses. A wonderful place to vacation, Pinehurst also features much in the way of accommodations and recreation.

- Shadow Creek is a golf course located in North Las Vegas. Designed by an architect of much critical acclaim named Tom Brizio, the course is featured in an extravagant package that you can purchase at one of Vegas's MGM Mirage properties. Upon setting your tee time, a private limousine will pick you up at the hotel and transport you to the course. The landscape of the course is highlighted by beautiful scenes, with waterfalls, creeks and mountains dotting the landscape. Be sure to check out the 18th hole at Shadow Creek; it is a trademark of the beauty and careful thought that went into creating the course.

These are merely a few of the best public courses throughout America. There are hundreds of wonderful courses out there, and as a golfer, you're encouraged to make at least a few pilgrimages to the beautiful courses our land has to offer.