How to Play at Pinehurst Without Staying at the Resort
Many golfers dream of teeing it up at Pinehurst, the “Cradle of American Golf.” With legendary courses like No. 2 (host of multiple U.S. Opens), the fun and welcoming Cradle short course, and the stunning redesign of No. 4, Pinehurst is on nearly every golfer’s bucket list.
But here’s the question: Do you have to stay at the resort to play?
The short answer: Yes — if you want to play most courses. But there are a few exceptions.
This guide breaks down exactly which courses you can play without staying at Pinehurst, and how to plan your trip around it.
Can You Play Pinehurst Without Staying Overnight?
Yes — but only on a limited basis.
Available to the public (no resort stay required):
Course No. 1
Course No. 3
Course No. 5
The Cradle (the popular short course)
Resort guests only:
All Other Course
👉 Translation: If you’re not staying on property, you’re limited to 1, 3, 5, or The Cradle.
How to Book Tee Times as a Non-Resort Guest
Key Tip: You MUST call the morning before you want to play to check availability. Pinehurst Resort phone lines open at 8am.
Call the Pinehurst Tee Time Office
Phone: (910) 235-8141
Request availability for Courses 1, 3, 5, or The Cradle.
Check Pinehurst.com
The Cradle often has online booking options.
Plan Ahead
These non-resort tee times are limited and fill quickly, especially in peak season.
Non-Resort Guest Courses Personal Ranks
The Cradle - $65 for UNLIMITED 9-Hole Rounds. Hardest of the four to get tee time.
Course No. 5 - This course plays to Lake Pinehurst. Best layout of the four in our opinion.
Course No. 3 - This is a replica of Course No.2, except way way shorter.
Course No.1 - This course has the most history. Great course but nothing special in my opinion unless you’re a history buff.
Tips for Playing Without Staying at the Resort
Set Expectations
You won’t be able to access No. 2 or No. 4 unless you book a stay.The Cradle is a Must
For a fun, social golf experience, The Cradle is a blast and far easier to book.Pair With Nearby Courses
If you’re not staying at Pinehurst, build your trip around Mid Pines, Pine Needles, or Tobacco Road — all highly rated and public-access friendly.
Alternatives Nearby
Even if you can’t access the resort’s premier courses, you’re still in golf heaven:
Tobacco Road – One of the boldest designs in America.
Mid Pines – A Donald Ross classic.
Pine Needles – Championship pedigree and U.S. Women’s Open host.
Mid South - Arnold Palmer Semi-Private Course
Bring Pinehurst Home 🖼️
Whether you’ve played Pinehurst or are still dreaming of it, you can capture the beauty of the Cradle of American Golf with our custom-designed Pinehurst posters.
👉 Click Here for Our Pinehurst Prints
Final Thoughts
So, can you play Pinehurst without staying at the resort? Yes — but only on Courses 1, 3, 5, and The Cradle.
If you want to experience No. 2, No. 4, or the resort’s other courses, you’ll need to book a stay.
But here’s the good news: even without a room, you can still enjoy a taste of Pinehurst golf, explore nearby world-class courses, and bring the magic home with a poster that keeps the dream alive.
