In the rapidly expanding world of destination golf, one area qualifies as a bonafide American classic: Pinehurst.

The “Home of American Golf” has become one of the epicenters of the golf travel world in the years since the pandemic — a fact only aided by an all-time U.S. Open in June to kick off an expanded partnership between the region, the USGA, and the new World Golf Hall of Fame.

Even as Pinehurst No. 2 basked in Bryson and Rory’s historic spotlight, a groundswell of epic golf was bubbling to the surface just outside the resort gates. In August, as Pinehurst’s red-hot summer reached a sweltering point, GOLF editors James Colgan and Josh Sens visited the region to find “everything else” — the great golf that ISN’T No. 2, the cool spots that not enough tourists visit, and yes, even a local-favorite Martini (or three). They were joined for part of their trip by longtime local resident – and GOLF architecture editor, Ran Morrissett–who doubled as a tour guide.

This is the first part in that series, beginning with a conversation on the area’s other legendary major championship host: Pine Needles.

Josh Sens, GOLF senior writer: On the morning of our first round in the Pinehurst area, we showed up at Pine Needles in pouring rain. It had been dumping for hours. But then the skies cleared, and 20 minutes later, we went out on a course that was amazingly dry, given how much rain had fallen. I guess they don’t call this area the Sandhills for nothing, eh?

James Colgan, GOLF news and features editor: As someone who once worked on golf courses in the northeast, I found it mindblowing to see a golf course go from underwater to fully playable in the time it took to sip a cup of coffee. This is the reason why every golf course designer from here to Australia is chasing that precious sandy soil. We were hoping to see what makes the Sandhills stand out, and we got a glimpse before we hit our opening tee shot.

But once the golf got started — it was really good. Even after the rain, Pine Needles showed us plenty of teeth as, behind Pinehurst No. 2, the area’s preeminent “championship” test. I’ll admit, Josh, that I’m not the best person to articulate the differences in golf course details. Maybe we should call in our pal Ran.