ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
Following Gil Hanse’s 2018 redesign, Pinehurst No. 4 was named Best New Course by Golf Magazine and hosted the 2019 U.S. Amateur stroke play rounds.
About
Pinehurst No. 4, part of the historic Pinehurst Resort, was originally designed by Donald Ross and dramatically renovated by Gil Hanse in 2018. The layout features dramatic elevation changes, extensive sandy waste areas, and native wiregrass, echoing the Carolina Sandhills terrain. No. 4 has hosted USGA championships and is praised for its striking visuals and challenging yet playable design.
Caddie Tip
Many greens are heavily contoured and runoff areas are common. Aim approaches to the center of the green, even when pins are tucked. Stay aggressive off the tee when sure of the line, but always respect the sandy waste areas that punish errant shots. Manage your expectations on the long par 4s.
The Main Challenge
The toughest element of Pinehurst No. 4 is negotiating its massive sandy waste areas and undulating green surrounds. With minimal rough and numerous runoffs, golfers must be crafty around the greens. Strategic shot placement is crucial to avoid tricky lies and natural obstacles, especially on the longer par 4s and finishing stretch.
The Good
Golfers rave about No. 4’s visually stunning design, with dramatic elevation changes, broad sandy areas, and panoramic views found throughout the course. Every hole feels like a unique adventure, and the natural contours make it both memorable and fair. Many visitors love the vibrant resort atmosphere and excellent service.
The Not So Good
The most frequent complaints relate to pace of play during busy resort periods, particularly around high-profile weekends. Some golfers wish for more forgiving rough and green surrounds, as missed shots can run deep into sandy waste or wiregrass. Nevertheless, the overall experience typically outweighs these concerns.
Signature Hole:
#
6
The par 5 sixth is widely considered Pinehurst No. 4’s standout hole. With dramatic elevation changes and vast sandy waste areas, the hole features a demanding tee shot framed by native wiregrass before doglegging left toward a green set beside a natural lake. The scenery and risk-reward challenge make it a true modern classic.
Clubhouse
Guests enjoy a full-service clubhouse with locker rooms, pro shop, dining options, and outdoor patio overlooking several finishing holes. Post-round amenities include club cleaning, lounges, and easy transport to the main resort and hotels.
Practice Facilities
Pinehurst Resort offers an expansive practice facility with a large driving range, chipping greens, short game areas, and practice bunkers. The short game area mirrors the design of the main courses, so players can simulate course conditions before teeing off.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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