The Platinum Clubs® of the World has unveiled its list of the most exclusive golf and country clubs for 2022–2023. These prestigious establishments are celebrated for their history, exclusivity, and world-class courses, setting the standard for excellence among private golf and country clubs globally.
Clubs earn Platinum status through a confidential voting process involving international industry experts and connoisseurs of private clubs. According to Dennis Burns, Executive Director of Club Leaders Forum & Platinum Clubs®, private golf clubs saw increased demand during and after the pandemic, with memberships, initiation fees, and club usage rising significantly.
Rathan Kumar, Founder and CEO of MobiCom, notes a surge in demand for access to private clubs among global travelers, with members seeking seamless and secure experiences. Kumar’s network, PlatinumClubNet, currently spans 17 countries and plans to expand significantly, enhancing access to elite golf and city clubs.
Highlights of Top Clubs
1. Augusta National Golf Club (Georgia)
Renowned for hosting the Masters Tournament, this iconic club opened to female members in 2012. With meticulous landscaping and an initiation fee of $500,000, it remains one of the world’s most exclusive clubs.
2. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (Scotland)
Known as the “Home of Golf,” this historic club dates back to 1754. It admitted female members for the first time in 2015, including Princess Anne.
3. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club (New York)
A historic club in Southampton, it was the first in the U.S. to admit women and features a separate ladies-only course established in 1893.
4. Golf de Morfontaine (France)
Retaining its 19th-century design, this exclusive French club is owned by its small membership group.
5. The Royal Melbourne Golf Club (Australia)
Australia’s oldest club, Royal Melbourne boasts the nation’s top-ranked course and is internationally celebrated.
6. Pine Valley Golf Club (New Jersey)
Ranked as the best course in the world by GOLF, this invitation-only club is known for its exclusivity and challenging design.
7. Baltusrol Golf Club (New Jersey)
Famous for hosting multiple U.S. Open tournaments, this private club has a storied history and stringent membership requirements.
8. Merion Golf Club (Pennsylvania)
With a legacy of hosting more USGA championships than any other venue, Merion features unique design elements and exclusive membership terms.
9. Ocean Reef Club (Florida)
A private retreat with luxury amenities, including a marina and airstrip, this club is a self-contained paradise for its elite members.
10. Congressional Country Club (Maryland)
Known for its association with U.S. presidents, this club boasts the largest clubhouse in the country and extensive amenities.
Other noteworthy entries include Shanqin Bay Golf Club in China, Muirfield in Scotland, and Sunningdale Golf Club in England.
Platinum Clubs of America (2023–2024)
The U.S. also recognizes its finest golf and country clubs, including:
• Augusta National Golf Club
• Pine Valley Golf Club
• Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
• Ocean Reef Club
• Congressional Country Club
These clubs epitomize the pinnacle of luxury, tradition, and exclusivity in the world of golf and country club membership.