One of the most important links designs in North America, Shinnecock Hills was originally a 12-hole course designed by Montréal-based pro Willie Davis in 1891; it was extended to 18 holes by Scotland's Willie Dunn in 1895. This was replaced by the current course in 1931, when the very notable William S. Flynn designed 13 new holes, keeping five of the MacDonald-Raynor holes and a green from a sixth. Shinnecock Hills currently ranks fourth in Golf Magazine's list of top 100 courses in the United States.

Since hosting the second-ever United States Open in 1896, the club has hosted a long and illustrious string of major professional and amateur championships, including men's U.S. Opens in 1986, 1995, and 2004. Shinnecock Hills will again host the Open in 2018.

This is a private club; visitors are permitted only as guests of members.