As a golfer, it’s easy to daydream about planning the perfect golf trip. There’s something so satisfying about putting a golf trip on your calendar. Because for that for that length of time, all the stress of daily life will melt away and it’s just you and the course. From legendary courses to breathtaking landscapes, there are a few golf destinations that are on the top of our bucket list.
1. Old Course, St. Andrews, Scotland
The Old Course at St. Andrews needs no explanation. St. Andrews has hosted 30 Open Championships and is considered the Home of Golf. The course is forever etched in golf history. Plus, there are numerous courses in the area, so your trip will be full of variety.
2. Augusta National, Augusta, Georgia
If you’re lucky enough to get the opportunity to play at Augusta National, we hope you seize the opportunity. Home of the Masters and a mean pimento cheese sandwich, Augusta is the pinnacle of iconic golf. The incredible course was designed by Jones and Alister MacKenzie and opened for play in 1932. We dream about playing the famous Amen Corner, made famous by the legendary Arnold Palmer.
3. Ocean Course, Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Have you been to Kiawah Island? The scenic island has so many attractions even beyond golf. The Ocean Course is one of the best courses on the island. Designer Pete Dye raised the entire course to give players unobstructed views of Kiawah’s stunning coastline from every hole. One thing to consider the course is affected by the Atlantic’s brisk and unpredictable breezes so the course is extra demanding.
4. Pinehurst Resort, Pinehurst, North Carolina
Pinehurst has a long history of excellence. Built in 1895, the first championship was held at Pinehurst in 1901. Pinehurst Resort is full of amenities, including world-class golf. The resort includes three historic hotels as well as a collection of condos and villas. After your round, enjoy a trip to the spa, fishing on Lake Pinehurst, or a delicious meal.
5. Ballybunion Golf Club, County Kerry, Ireland
Located on the north-west coast of County Kerry, Ballybunion is a breathtaking course. It was established in 1893 and has a long history of being a challenging course where you will lose many golf balls. The course is on a beautiful stretch of sand dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It boasts two wonderfully challenging and unique world-class links golf courses, the Old Course and the Trent Jones Cashen Course.
6. Manele Golf Course, Lanai, Hawaii
The Manale Golf Course is part of the Lanai Four Seasons resort in Lanai, Hawaii. Built on lava outcroppings, this golf destination is a Jack Nicklaus-signature course. It features three holes perched on cliffs that have the Pacific Ocean as a water hazard. Off the course, you will enjoy botanical gardens, cuisine by NOBU, and the aquatic sanctuary of Hulopoe Bay.
Golf Trips of a Lifetime
Whether you’re a scratch golfer or you’re just looking for an adventure, these golf destinations will not disappoint. From the links courses of Ireland and Scotland to the pampered luxury of Hawaii these courses have a way of making bogeys not feel so bad. So pack up your clubs and get ready for an experience unlike any other.