Why The Cradle Might be the Most Fun 9 Holes in Golf
Nestled steps from the historic Pinehurst No. 2, The Cradle is a 9-hole, par-3 course that redefines what golf can be. Spanning just 789 yards in total, it may be one of the shortest layouts you’ll ever see — but it packs in more charm, challenge, and creativity than courses three times its length.
Pinehurst’s most playful golf experience is coming soon to GOLF+. But before you tee it up in VR, let’s take a closer look at what makes The Cradle one of the most talked-about short courses in the game today.
A Modern Classic by Gil Hanse
Designed by renowned architect Gil Hanse, The Cradle was unveiled in 2017 as part of Pinehurst Resort’s ongoing reinvention. Hanse, known for his work on The Olympic Club, Streamsong Black, and the Rio 2016 Olympic Course, brought an imaginative flair to the layout. The Cradle isn’t just a pitch-and-putt. It’s a canvas for shot-making, with bold bunkering, artistic contours, and green complexes that encourage every player to get creative with wedges and putters.
Where Everyone Belongs
The Cradle has quickly earned a reputation as golf’s ultimate hangout spot. Whether you’re a seasoned player fine-tuning your short game or a newcomer looking for a low-pressure entry point, this course delivers. You’re as likely to hear music playing from a Bluetooth speaker as you are to see someone holing out with a putter from 70 yards.
Even the scorecard invites freedom: most holes hover around 100 yards, and many players walk the course barefoot with a wedge and putter in hand. It’s golf distilled to its most joyful, accessible essence.
A Cult Following
Despite its size, The Cradle has built a huge fanbase. Golfers from around the world make pilgrimages to Pinehurst not just for its championship pedigree, but to spend an afternoon at The Cradle with friends, family, and a few cold drinks. Golf Digest called it “the most fun 10 acres in golf,” and it’s not hard to see why.
How Can I Play the Cradle in Real Life?
Despite its casual vibe, The Cradle is one of the most in-demand tee times at Pinehurst—and for good reason.
Golfers that are not staying on property at Pinehurst can attempt to book a round on the Cradle 24 hours in advance. Provided there is availability, golfers pay $50 and can loop around the property as many times as they want before the sun goes down!
The Cradle is more than just a short course — it’s a blueprint for how the game can grow. It’s welcoming, unpretentious, and endlessly replayable. It celebrates the best parts of golf: camaraderie, creativity, and pure fun.