The Inside Swing

Shinnecock Hills Golf Club

New York, New York

One of the five founding member clubs of the USGA, Shinnecock Hills is among the most revered courses on the planet. The windswept links-inspired layout on the eastern end of Long Island has hosted five U.S. Opens and embodies the essence of American championship golf.

History & Heritage

Founded in 1891, Shinnecock Hills is one of America's oldest clubs. Willie Davis laid out the original 12-hole course with help from the Shinnecock Indian Nation. In 1895 it became one of five founding USGA member clubs and hosted the second U.S. Open.

William Flynn designed the current course in 1931 on a windswept site overlooking Peconic Bay with rolling hills, native fescue, and constant ocean winds. The Stanford White clubhouse (1892) is the iconic centerpiece.

Shinnecock has hosted five U.S. Opens (1896, 1986, 1995, 2004, 2018) and is set for 2026.

Signature Holes

7
Hole 7 Par 3 · 189 yards

The Redan hole with a green sloping front-right to back-left, guarded by three deep bunkers. One of the finest Redan-style holes in America.

9
Hole 9 Par 4 · 443 yards

Ben Nevis, an exceptional uphill par 4 playing toward the Stanford White clubhouse with a demanding approach.

14
Hole 14 Par 4 · 519 yards

One of the longest par 4s in championship golf, demanding two powerful and accurate shots.

What to Expect

Links-inspired course on eastern Long Island with views of Peconic Bay. Treeless windswept terrain in native fescue. Par 70 at 7,445 yards. Walking with caddies is standard.

Playing Tips

Wind awareness is critical as holes face prevailing wind from different angles. Take extra club into wind. Keep the ball below the hole on fast greens.

Highlights

  • Five-time U.S. Open host
  • Founding USGA member club
  • Links-inspired Long Island masterpiece

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the public play Shinnecock?
No. Private club, member invitation only.
How many U.S. Opens?
Five: 1896, 1986, 1995, 2004, 2018. Scheduled for 2026.
What is the Stanford White clubhouse?
Designed in 1892, one of the most beautiful clubhouses in American golf.

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