Golf vacations offer a coveted blend of relaxation, sport, and luxury. With pristine courses, high-end resorts, and beautiful scenery around the world, 2024 promises exceptional golf getaways for enthusiasts. From classic destinations in the United States and historic links courses in Europe to exotic locales in remote islands, several premier golf spots beckon for your next trip. In this article we talk about Top Destinations for Golf Vacations in 2024.
Legendary Courses and Resorts in the United States and Canada
America boasts some of the most acclaimed golf destinations on the planet. In 2024, top US hotspots will continue providing unmatched experiences for avid golfers through championship courses, luxury accommodation, fine dining, and impeccable service.
Pebble Beach Resorts, California
The iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links overlooking the rugged Pacific coastline remains a pilgrimage for many golfers. Its challenging layout and coastal views create an unforgettable experience. Beyond the legendary course, Pebble Beach Resorts features four other courses, including Spyglass Hill and Spanish Bay. The resort also provides deluxe rooms, villas, spa treatments, and gourmet dining at over 20 restaurants, making it a comprehensive luxury golf getaway.
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Oregon
Bandon Dunes earns accolades for its pure golf focus and spectacular setting along the Pacific coast. Its five links-style courses consistently rank among the best in the country, especially the original Bandon Dunes layout. Between rounds, unwind in a variety of lodging options from hotel rooms to multi-bedroom cottages ideal for groups.
Fairmont Banff Springs, Alberta
Few golf destinations can match the sublime backdrop of the Fairmont Banff Springs course in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. A Stanley Thompson original design, the challenging layout winds through glacier-fed streams and evergreen forests with breathtaking mountain vistas. Afterwards, retire to lavish guest rooms and suites or indulge in fine dining and the world-renowned Willow Stream Spa.
Pinehurst Resort, North Carolina
Pinehurst Resort enjoys a storied reputation as America’s first golf destination, renowned as the “Cradle of American Golf.” Its mainstay No. 2 course challenges professionals every decade for the US Open. Beyond its nine pristine 18-hole tracks, Pinehurst entices with historic lodging options from cozy rooms to modern multi-bedroom villas, exceptional southern cuisine, and leisure amenities from tennis to croquet.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina
As a long-standing PGA Championship site, Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course garners worldwide acclaim, including its seaside beauty and testing winds. Five total championship choices await at the luxury resort, which also features lavish accommodations like spacious villas, beachside dining, and a premier tennis center. The resort sits just 21 miles from historic Charleston to complete the ideal couples’ or groups’ escape.
Historic Links in the British Isles and Europe
From hallowed Open Championship venues to understated hidden gems, Great Britain and Ireland remain every golfer’s dream journey. Historic European layouts have challenged the game’s legends for over a century and provide an authentic links experience capped with regional cuisine and hospitality.
St Andrews, Scotland
No golf travel list is complete without the “Home of Golf” itself, St Andrews. Old Course experiences are booked years in advance, as much for its beauty and history as its perplexing double greens. Nearby, excellent alternatives exist like the New Course and the Castle Course. Check into the Old Course Hotel for luxury right by the iconic 17th hole and road hole. Beyond golf, don’t miss touring the local university and cathedral ruins.
Ballybunion Golf Club, Ireland
Irish links are revered for their mystique and beauty, with Ballybunion rated amongst the finest. This remote outpost features two acclaimed courses rimming the Atlantic. Stay nearby in charming B&Bs and pubs in the village of Ballybunion to sample hospitality as memorable as the golf.
Finca Cortesin, Spain
Spain emerges as a premier golf destination, and few places exemplify it more than Finca Cortesin near Marbella. A chic country estate, its namesake course consistently ranks as Spain’s best, having hosted Volvo Match Play and other European tour events. The five-star hotel offers posh rooms, villas, and restaurants, not to mention one of Europe’s best spas and proximity to Puerto Banus.
Golf du Médoc Resort, France
Wine and golf might seem an unlikely pairing, but they harmonize perfectly at Golf du Médoc. Located northwest of Bordeaux, two championship courses wind through vineyards lined with wine châteaux. Visitors rave about the cuisine and wine featured in resort restaurants. Nearby vineyards allow guests to bike or drive between tastings and rounds.
Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, Portugal
In Portugal’s Algarve region, Monte Rei has emerged among the world’s finest courses since opening in 2007. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the layout ranks as Portugal’s number one course today. The country club features modern villas and apartments with one to five bedrooms, four restaurants, a world-class spa, tennis courts, pools, and more.
Luxury in Exotic Destinations
For golfers seeking truly exclusive and remote destinations, boutique luxury properties set the stage for exceptional and sustainable travel experiences. These resorts allow guests to not just play golf but immerse into local cultures and environments.
Leopard Creek Country Club, South Africa
Bordering Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves, Leopard Creek infuses golf with luxury safari. The championship course affords sightings of the Big Five animals between shots. For accommodation, stay in one of the stone and thatch suites with views of Crocodile River or the bushveld. The restaurant even integrates traditional elements into its refined setting.
Constance Belle Mare Plage, Mauritius
On an Indian Ocean island known as a golfer’s paradise, Constance Belle Mare Plage dazzles with two 18-hole championship courses designed by Ernie Els. Guests revel in luxury villas showcasing Mauritian décor, plus seven high-end restaurants and bars. Families appreciate kid’s and teen’s clubs, water sports, and multiple pools too.
COMO Laucala Island, Fiji
At this exclusive private island owned by Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz, COMO Laucala Island defines luxury golf vacations. Its David McLay Kidd course promises memorable play along volcanic cliffs and the Pacific shoreline. Guests stay in private residences with private pools or overwater villas with full resort amenities from world-class cuisine to watersports. Even the airport lounge caters fully to visitors upon arrival and departure.
FInal Thought
These top golf destinations for 2024 offer a variety of experiences, from the rugged coastlines of Oregon to the historic courses of Scotland and the exotic beauty of Mauritius and Fiji. Whether you are looking for a pure golfing experience or a luxurious getaway with world-class amenities, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable golf vacation. Plan your trip now to ensure you enjoy the best that these top-rated golf resorts have to offer. I sincerely hope you find this “Top Destinations for Golf Vacations in 2024” article helpful.