December 14, 2024

The 7 Best Golf Holidays to Book This Year

Plan an unforgettable golf holiday at one of these premier destinations this year. Start at the Algarve in Portugal offers beautiful coastal scenery and fine seafood dining. Pebble Beach in California, known for its stunning ocean views and challenging courses.

Explore St. Andrews in Scotland, often called the ‘Home of Golf,’ for a historical experience on the Old Course. Head to Cabo San Lucas in Mexico for first-rate courses and vibrant local culture.

Enjoy alpine backdrops in Queenstown, New Zealand, or tropical paradises in Maui, Hawaii. Don’t miss Dubai’s luxurious desert courses for a unique blend of sophistication and adventure. Dive deeper into these top choices for even more details.

Key Takeaways

  • Algarve, Portugal combines coastal scenery with Europe’s finest golf courses and rich cultural experiences in towns like Lagos.
  • Pebble Beach, California offers iconic ocean-view courses and historic greens designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant.
  • St. Andrews, Scotland provides a legendary golfing experience with landmarks like the Old Course and Swilcan Bridge.
  • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico features world-class golf, vibrant local culture, and stunning ocean views.
  • Dubai, United Arab Emirates, offers luxurious desert golf courses and access to top-tier amenities and adventure activities.
Albufeira golf course

Algarve, Portugal

Explore the Algarve in Portugal, where stunning coastal scenery meets some of Europe’s finest golf courses.

You’ll find world-renowned courses like the Oceanico Victoria, designed by Arnold Palmer, where you can test your skills on lush fairways and well-manicured greens. Another top course is the San Lorenzo Golf Course, nestled in the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, offering both challenging play and breath-taking views.

Your time off the greens can be just as enriching. The Algarve is rich in cultural experiences. Visit the charming town of Lagos, where cobbled streets and historic architecture offer a glimpse into Portugal’s past. The local markets are perfect for discovering traditional crafts and sampling regional delicacies.

Albufeira is another must-visit, known for its vibrant nightlife and golden beaches. For a more tranquil experience, head to Tavira, where you can explore ancient Roman bridges and quaint village squares. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants, savouring dishes like grilled sardines and cataplana.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking to unwind, the golf breaks Portugal in Algarve offers a perfect blend of sport and culture, ensuring a memorable holiday.

Pebble Beach, California

Nestled along the stunning Pacific coastline, Pebble Beach offers some of the most iconic golf courses you’ll ever play. Known for its rich history and breathtaking views, Pebble Beach has been a premier destination for golfers since 1919. As you walk the same fairways as legends of the sport, you’ll feel a sense of belonging to a cherished tradition.

The history of Pebble Beach is as fascinating as the game itself. The Pebble Beach Golf Links, designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, was crafted to maximize the natural beauty of the rugged coastline. The architecture of these courses is both challenging and rewarding, with each hole carefully planned to blend seamlessly into the landscape. The designers’ aim was to create a course that would test every aspect of a golfer’s skill while offering stunning ocean views at nearly every turn.

Playing at Pebble Beach, you’re not just enjoying a round of golf; you’re becoming part of a storied legacy. Whether you’re teeing off at the famous 18th hole or enjoying the meticulously designed greens, you’ll understand why Pebble Beach remains a beloved icon in the world of golf.

St. Andrews, Scotland

Often referred to as the ‘Home of Golf,’ St. Andrews in Scotland offers an unparalleled golfing experience steeped in history and tradition. When you visit, you’ll walk the same Scottish Links that have been played on for centuries. The Old Course at St. Andrews is perhaps the most famous course in the world, featuring iconic landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge and the Road Hole.

Playing here isn’t just about golf; it’s about immersing yourself in the rich golf history that has shaped the sport. Imagine teeing off where legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods have played. You can also explore the British Golf Museum, where you’ll learn about the evolution of the game and its cultural impact.

St. Andrews boasts several other remarkable courses, each offering a unique challenge and landscape. The New Course, designed by Old Tom Morris, provides a classic links experience. Kingsbarns Golf Links, just a short drive away, offers stunning coastal views and modern amenities.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

For a golfing experience that combines coastal beauty with luxury, head to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. This destination is perfect if you love the combination of stunning ocean views, exceptional golf courses, and a vibrant local culture. Cabo San Lucas offers a unique blend of desert and ocean landscapes that create a memorable backdrop for your golfing adventure.

Here’s why you should consider Cabo for your next golf holiday:

1. World-Class Golf Courses: Cabo San Lucas is home to some of the best golf courses in the world, designed by renowned architects like Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. The courses offer a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

2. Rich Golf Culture: The region boasts a rich golf culture, with several prestigious tournaments held throughout the year. You’ll find a community of golf enthusiasts who are passionate about the sport, making it easy to feel at home.

3. Delicious Local Cuisine: After a day on the greens, indulge in Cabo’s local cuisine. Fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and international flavors are all part of the dining experience here.

Choose Cabo San Lucas for a golf holiday that offers more than just great courses, but also a sense of belonging and culinary delight.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown, New Zealand, boasts some of the most picturesque golf courses set against stunning alpine backdrops. If you’re a golfer looking to combine your love of the sport with breath-taking Queenstown scenery, this destination should be at the top of your list. The majestic mountains and crystal-clear lakes create a unique setting for a memorable golf holiday.

Here’s why Queenstown should be your next golfing destination:

1. Variety of Courses: Queenstown offers several world-class golf courses, each with its own unique challenges and spectacular views. From the Jack’s Point course, nestled at the foot of the Remarkables mountain range, to the scenic Queenstown Golf Club on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, you’ll find a course that fits your style.

2. Adventure Activities: When you’re not on the green, Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world. You can try bungee jumping, skydiving, or jet boating. These activities are perfect for adding a bit of adrenaline to your trip and making unforgettable memories.

3. Relaxation and Leisure: After a day of golfing and adventure activities, unwind at one of Queenstown’s many fine dining restaurants or luxurious spas. The town’s vibrant nightlife and welcoming community guarantee you’ll feel right at home.

Maui, Hawaii

Switching from the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s mountains to the tropical paradise of Maui, Hawaii, you’ll find a golfer’s dream come true. Maui golf offers stunning views and challenging yet rewarding courses. Imagine teeing off with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, an invigorating breeze rustling the palm trees, and the scent of tropical flowers in the air.

One of the must-visit Hawaiian courses is the Wailea Golf Club. It boasts three championship courses, each with its unique layout and difficulty level. The Gold Course is renowned for its rugged terrain and strategic bunkers, while the Emerald Course is more forgiving, perfect for a relaxing round. For a mix of both, try the Blue Course, known for its lush, rolling fairways.

Another gem is the Kapalua Golf Club, home to the famous Plantation Course. This course hosts the PGA Tour’s Tournament of Champions each year, making it a bucket-list destination for avid golfers. The Bay Course at Kapalua is also worth your time, offering oceanfront holes that are both beautiful and challenging.

In Maui, you’ll experience world-class golf in an unforgettable setting.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Prepare to be amazed by the luxurious golf courses in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where cutting-edge design meets desert landscapes. You’ll find this destination perfect if you’re looking for a unique blend of sophistication and adventure. Dubai offers some of the most impressive desert courses, combining challenging terrains with breathtaking views.

Staying in Dubai means you’ll have access to luxury resorts that provide exceptional amenities and services. Imagine unwinding at a spa or enjoying fine dining after a day on the greens.

Here are three must-visit golf experiences in Dubai:

1. Emirates Golf Club: Known for its iconic Majlis course, this club offers a world-class golfing experience with stunning city skyline views.

2. Jumeirah Golf Estates: Home to the Earth Course, where the DP World Tour Championship is held, it’s designed to test even the most seasoned players.

3. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club: Set along the waterfront, this course provides a picturesque setting and a challenging play.

When you’re not golfing, explore Dubai’s vibrant culture, world-class shopping, and thrilling desert safaris. You’ll feel right at home in this dynamic city, making your golf holiday truly unforgettable.

Conclusion

Whether you’re drawn to the iconic greens of Pebble Beach or the scenic courses in Queenstown, there’s a perfect golf holiday waiting for you.

Each destination offers unique experiences, from the historic fairways of St. Andrews to the luxurious resorts in Dubai.

Don’t forget Cabo San Lucas, Algarve, and Maui, which combine stunning landscapes with exceptional golfing.

Plan your trip, pack your clubs, and get ready to tee off in some of the world’s best golf locations.

 

About Julie Chalmers 126 Articles
Easy travel is a professional travel guide site that provides both seasoned travelers and first timers with valuable, practical, accurate and detailed information on traveling to several destinations in the world.