Golf has risen to be a well-loved sport not only among men during their official business trips or free time but also among families all over the world. As time goes by, golfers have learned to experience golf not only in the same 18-hole local course that they have been used to but also in many other golf destinations around the world. These destinations offer not only golf courses but also hotel accommodations and resort-like amenities, thereby making it a conducive space for family bondings. Golf Digest lists the top golf destinations in various places.
Must-Try Golf Destinations
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort
Various sites refer to this as America’s ultimate golf destination. It is an 86-hole golf course with five parts: Bandon Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old Macdonald, Pacific Dunes, and a 13-hole par-3 course called The Preserve. It also offers a scenic place to have a peaceful walk, with bright yellow flowers along the coastline and a view of the sea.
Scottish Highlands
Seven golf destinations are in the Scottish Highlands, and the largest one is the Macdonald Aviemore. It measures 635 yards that stretch through the River Spey, allowing players to enjoy the view of the Caledonian pine forests. The resort also offers a choice among three hotels and 18 woodland lodges to further enjoy the mountain views.
Pebble Beach Resort, Monterey
The golf courses at Pebble Beach are well-known for their exciting challenges, dazzling views, and, not to mention, remarkable dining experiences. A lot of grand events have happened here. They hold an annual Pebble Beach Food and Wine featuring the world’s best cuisine, as well as the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, a classic car event.
Naples, Florida
Naples is also home to a beautiful coastal terrain and almost perfect weather throughout the year, thereby making it an excellent spot for enjoying its golf courses, such as the Naples Grande Golf Club. This area gives golfers the chance to be up close and personal with nature with the lush rolling fairways and green grass.
Pinehurst, North Carolina
Since 1898, Pinehurst has already hosted more championships than any single golf club in the country. Legendary golfers such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Payne Stewart have already walked the verdant golf courses in Pinehurst. This golf course gives off a very relaxing feel as golfers behold the landscape and native wiregrass throughout the area.
North Island, New Zealand
The Kauri Cliffs in the Bay of Islands and the Cape Kidnappers in the Hawke’s Bay are two of the golf courses that ranked among the top 50 fields according to Golf Digest. They offer fantastic views of New Zealand’s sweeping coastlines and quiet beaches, as golfers play and relax. The golf areas are also rich sceneries with vineyards of iconic architecture.
Sea Island Resorts
This golf destination is also one that has been there for a long time, since 1928. It is also the place wherein Davis Love III learned how to play golf, and any other golfer could do that too. From junior players just starting to PGA champions, this is a place for every golf player to learn and grow in their craft.
Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando
Legendary golfer Greg Norman designed Ritz-Carlton, one of the most beautiful golf courses in Florida. It is an 18-hole hotel course which offers just the right mix of being challenging but at the same time enjoyable and peaceful. Moreover, it is a place that protects natural resources and habitats to create stunning landscapes.
Four Seasons Resort Lana’i, Hawaii
Built on lava outcroppings, this golf course is unique as the holes are on cliffs, which all come as a challenge. One of the many things that it boasts is its beautiful view of the Pacific. Golfers across all ages, shapes, and sizes can freely enjoy the golf course and practice their craft on natural ravines.
The Greenbrier
Right at the heart of the mountains in West Virginia, The Greenbrier features various golf courses which offer a multitude of experiences to its golfers. Both the Rider Cup in 1979 and the Solheim Cup Match in 1994 were held here. It is also a world-class resort, with luxury amenities fit for the lifestyle of families who wish to experience home away from home.
Which To Choose?
The choice of which golf course to try will ultimately depend on the golfer’s preferences—the level of difficulty, landscape, view, and other services offered by the golf club. Also, for golfers who wish to bring their families with them, it would be best to choose the golf club that offers hotel accommodations and resort amenities too. This way, other family members who do not necessarily play golf will also have something to do and enjoy while the golfers cherish the one-of-a-kind golf experience that their chosen golf courses have to offer.
