Golf is one of the world’s favorite pastimes. The game requires concentration and skill. However, it’s something that can be enjoyed even by the amateur. Unlike a lot of sports, amateurs can play on the same course and feel the same feeling that professionals do during their tournaments.
A golf vacation is a wonderful thing. The chance to relax and enjoy yourself while engaging in one of your favorite activities is magnificent. There are dozens of countries around the world which feature top notch golf courses and golf vacations. Unsurprisingly, warm weather is an allure for golfing, but it’s not the only thing people consider when they go on vacation.
1 – Ireland
Ireland has some of the most impressive golf vacations and tours in the world. The entire country is full of wonderful courses. Typically, vacations are located in one of the four sections of Ireland. The north part of the country features Castlerock, Donegal, Rosapenna, Royal Country Down and Royal Portrush. The south part of the country has Old Head, Killarney, Ballybunion, Lahinch, Waterville, and Mount Juliet. Many clubs are private. However, vacation plans will often include a round at private clubs.
2 – Scotland
Scotland is often considered the Mecca of golf. Most people who are serious about golf try to get to Scotland at least once in their life for a vacation. Scotland is full of world class courses that often host the British Open. St. Andrews, Carnoustie and Turnberry are world class and the golfing opportunity of a lifetime. Typically, your vacation choices will have you base yourself in one of four locations, then play the courses in that area. These four areas are Edinburgh, St. Andrews, The Highlands or the West Coast.
3 – England
Rounding out the United Kingdom in this list is England. While many of the courses in Scotland and Ireland may be more famous, England has just as much character. Many tours in England can actually enjoyed alongside a former pro golfer. Many people who go to England may wish to stay in London. Around London is some great golfing including Sunningdale Old Course,. Walton Health, St. George’s Hill and The Berkshire. For people travelling around England, Royal Liverpool, Royal Birkdale and Royal Lytham are some beautiful courses.
4 – Hawaii
Combining tropical vacations with golfing is one of the things that Hawaii does best. Many resorts like the Westin Maui, Napili Kai Beach Resort and The Grand Naniloa Hotel all specialize as golf hotels. Many feature complimentary golf at their own courses. Others are located near multiple great courses.Courses like Turtle Bay, Makai Golf Course and Emerald Golf Course all use the beautiful ocean and coastline to their benefit.
5 – Florida
Florida is one of the most popular places to go for a golf vacation. The weather is typically good. It’s reasonably priced compared to some international locations and has all the conveniences of the United States. PGA Courses like the TPC Sawgrass mean there’s high level golf available. Seminole GC and the two Streamsong courses are all wonderful for people to play. Disney golf vacations can allow families to combine a trip to disney resorts, while playing on their world class golf courses.
6 – South Carolina
South Carolina has always been a major destination for avid golfers, with Myrtle Beach golf courses being of particular interest to visitors. With a wide variety of famous courses in the area, vacation accommodations, and some very reasonable pricing, Myrtle Beach can serve as the perfect golf getaway. Colonial Charters Golf Club and Hackler Golf Club are two particularly nice courses worth trying!
7 – Caribbean
There is glorious golf spread throughout the Caribbean. The Dominican Republic features multiple great courses around Punta Cana. The Corales Golf Course and Punta Espada Golf Club will make your Dominican trip memorable. A trip to beautiful Turks and Caicos is not complete without a visit to Provo Golf Club. The Ocean Club resort in the Bahamas features a full sea, view of the seas and a beautiful ocean view golf course.
8 – China
China is slowly becoming an emerging destination for golfers. One of the most beautiful courses in the world is located in Kunming. The Lake Course and Spring City is designed directly along a lake and features some of the most beautiful landscaping out there. For people looking to experience a vacation in Shanghai, golfing is just outside the city. The Shanghai Link is a Nicklaus designed course enjoyable by anyone. The Sheshan International course is just outside of Shanghai, offering a great challenge to golfers.
9 – Dubai
People may not think that Dubai is a natural location for golf. They’re not wrong. Golf courses in Dubai aren’t natural. However, the huge amount of money flowing through the city have allowed for enough engineering to create some incredible courses. These make a Dubai golf vacation very possible. Take in 18 holes at the Els Club, Emirates Golf Club or Jumeirah Golf Estate ClubHouse and see the softer side of the UAE. Vacations to Dubai should be well planned and thought out. The area is expensive and has specific regional rules and laws.
