Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club
Southern Pines, North Carolina
Our weekend in the Sand Hills began with a twilight tee-time at Pine Needles. A classic Donald Ross design, there is not much water present to punish golfers, instead challenging players via bunker placement while forcing you to navigate tricky greens. Although hilly, the walk through the Carolina pines is a great way to spend a relaxing evening. We recommend walking and playing from the Ross Tees if your ability allows you to do so.
The site of what will be four US Women's Opens (1996, 2001, 2007, 2022),
Pine Needles has become one of the country's epi-centers for women's golf. Bought and restored by Peggy Kirk Bell (LPGA) and her husband Warren "Bullet" Bell in 1954, Peggy broke down many of the walls that made golf un-inclusive, especially for women. As the owner and head golf pro for 60+ years, Peggy introduced a unique program to teach golf called Golfari (Safari of Golf). Combining learning golf with off-course activities and entertainment, Golfari’s prioritize teaching golfers in a more relaxed and fun environment.
Staying at the Pine Needles Lodge reminded us of staying at a tight-knit, friendly ski-mountain lodge. The clubhouse itself served as a golf museum with photos of the club's past and many famous events of the region. Its game room is a perfect source of late-night entertainment after a challenging walk.
While it feels like you're taking a step back in time, there is an excellent balance between old and new at Pine Needles. Surely a must-hit when traversing the Sand Hills.
Public: Course Website | Opened: 1927 | Designer: Donald Ross
