The Ultimate Golf Getaways: Exploring the Best Golf Vacations in the U

Golf has always been a sport that combines skill, strategy, and a touch of elegance. If you're a golf enthusiast looking to combine your passion for the game with a memorable vacation experience, the United States offers a plethora of destinations that cater to golfers of all levels. From picturesque coastal courses to championship layouts nestled in breathtaking landscapes, the country is a golfer's paradise. In this blog, we will embark on a virtual journey and explore some of the best golf vacations in the United States, ensuring you find the perfect destination for your next golfing adventure.

Pebble Beach, California

When it comes to iconic golf destinations, Pebble Beach is undoubtedly at the top of the list. Located along the stunning Monterey Peninsula, this coastal gem boasts world-class courses like Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and The Links at Spanish Bay. The mesmerizing views of the Pacific Ocean combined with challenging fairways and impeccable greens make Pebble Beach a dream destination for golfers from around the globe.

Best Course: Pebble Beach Golf Links
How to Get a Tee Time: Tee times can be secured by visiting the official website or by calling their reservation line. Guests of the resort can make tee times up to 18 months in advance. Non-guests can make reservations 24 hours before.
Cost To Play: As of 2023, the green fees at Pebble Beach Golf Links are $625 per person
What To Do Beyond Golf: Explore the scenic 17-Mile Drive, visit the iconic Lone Cypress, or indulge in spa treatments at the luxurious resorts.
Where to Stay: Stay at The Lodge at Pebble Beach or The Inn at Spanish Bay for an unforgettable experience.
Where to Grab a Drink: The Bench at Pebble Beach offers a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the golf course and ocean.
Where to Eat: The Stillwater Bar & Grill at Pebble Beach offers exceptional seafood dishes and picturesque views.

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

For a golf vacation immersed in natural beauty, look no further than Kiawah Island. Just a short drive from Charleston, this barrier island is home to the renowned Ocean Course, which has hosted the prestigious PGA Championship. With its windswept dunes, stunning marsh views, and challenging design, the Ocean Course offers an unforgettable golfing experience. Additionally, Kiawah Island boasts several other world-class courses, including Osprey Point and Turtle Point, making it a golf lover's paradise.

Best Course: The Ocean Course
How to Get a Tee Time: Tee times for The Ocean Course can be booked through Kiawah Island Golf Resort's official website or by contacting their golf reservations department. If you’re staying at the resort you can make a tee time as far in advance as you’d like. If you aren’t staying there, you can make a tee time up to 60 days in advance.
Cost: The green fees at The Ocean Course are $600 per person.
What to Do Beyond Golf: Enjoy miles of pristine beaches, go kayaking or paddleboarding in the marshes, or take a bike ride along the island's scenic trails.
Where to Stay: The Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island Golf Resort provides luxurious accommodations and a tranquil beachfront setting.
Where to Grab a Drink: The Ocean Room Lounge & Bar at The Sanctuary Hotel offers a sophisticated ambiance and a wide selection of beverages.
Where to Eat: Jasmine Porch at Kiawah Island Golf Resort serves Lowcountry-inspired cuisine, including fresh seafood and Southern favorites.

Bandon Dunes, Oregon

Nestled on the rugged coastline of Oregon, Bandon Dunes is a golfer's haven that embraces the true spirit of the game. The resort features multiple award-winning courses, each designed to showcase the natural terrain and provide a unique playing experience. From the dramatic oceanfront holes of Pacific Dunes to the breathtaking vistas of Bandon Trails and the Scottish-inspired Old Macdonald course, Bandon Dunes offers a golf trip unlike any other.

Best Course: Pacific Dunes
How to Get a Tee Time: Tee times at Bandon Dunes Resort can be reserved only by contacting their reservations department. Non-hotel guests may book tee times for April thru mid-November over 21 days in advance at a premium rate.
Cost: Green fees at Pacific Dunes range from $140 to $400 depending on the time of year, so if you’re price conscious, head to play in the Winter!
What to Do Beyond Golf: Take a scenic hike along the stunning Bandon Beach, explore the nearby Coquille River Lighthouse, or go fishing in the area's rivers.
Where to Stay: Stay at one of the charming lodges at Bandon Dunes Resort, such as The Lodge or The Inn, which offer convenient access to the courses.
Where to Grab a Drink: The Bunker Bar at Bandon Dunes Resort provides a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of beverages.
Where to Eat: Pacific Grill at Bandon Dunes Resort offers delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.

Torrey Pines, California

Perched on the stunning coastline of San Diego, California, Torrey Pines offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to two exceptional courses. The Torrey Pines Golf Course, situated on cliffs overlooking the ocean, is a renowned municipal course that has hosted multiple PGA Tour events, including the prestigious Farmers Insurance Open. Golfers can experience the challenging South Course or the scenic North Course, both offering a mix of challenging holes and stunning vistas. Playing at Torrey Pines provides a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of golfing legends while enjoying the beauty of the California coastline.

Best Course: Torrey Pines South
How to Get a Tee Time: Tee times for Torrey Pines can be booked through the Torrey Pines Golf Course website or by contacting their reservations team. They release a batch 90 days in advance for non-residents and then another batch 3 days before.
Cost: Green fees for Torrey Pines vary for residents and non-residents, but if you’re visiting, they range from $135-278, depending on the time of day & day of the week.
What to Do Beyond Golf: Visit the stunning Torrey Pines State Reserve for scenic hiking trails, relax on the sandy beaches of La Jolla, or explore the vibrant neighborhoods and attractions of San Diego.
Where to Stay: The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a luxurious hotel located adjacent to the golf course, offering comfortable accommodations and stunning views and makes it easier to get tee times. You can also stay in nearby La Jolla for beaches or San Diego for more city vibes & nightlife.
Where to Grab a Drink: The Grill at Torrey Pines offers a cozy atmosphere and an outdoor patio with panoramic views of the golf course and the Pacific Ocean.
Where to Eat: A.R. Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a renowned farm-to-table restaurant, showcasing fresh and seasonal ingredients with a focus on California cuisine. If you want a famous chef and a meal outside of the course, head to California English, a British restaurant helmed by the Top Chef winner Richard Blais.

Pinehurst, North Carolina

Steeped in golf history, Pinehurst is a charming village renowned for its exceptional golf courses and Southern hospitality. The centerpiece of this golfer's paradise is Pinehurst Resort, home to nine stunning courses, including the iconic Pinehurst No. 2. Designed by the legendary Donald Ross, Pinehurst No. 2 has hosted several major championships and showcases classic architecture combined with challenging greens. With its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Pinehurst is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.

Best Course: Pinehurst No. 2
How to Get a Tee Time: There are ten courses at Pinehurst. Anyone can play courses 1, 3, 5 or the Cradle. You can make a tee time by calling their reservation line but only 24 hours in advance. To play 2, 4, 6, 7, 8 or 9, you either need to be a member or be staying at the resort.
Cost: The green fees vary vastly at Pinehurst. In general, they range from $55-495/person. High season and elevated courses (like No. 2) cost significantly more.
What to do Beyond Golf: Discover the historic Pinehurst Village, visit the Tufts Archives to learn about golf history, or explore nearby hiking and biking trails.
Where to Stay: The Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst Resort is a grand and elegant option, providing a luxurious stay with easy access to the courses.
Where to Grab a Drink: The Deuce at Pinehurst Resort is often referred to as the best19th hole in golf and is a great place to grab a drink and some classic pub food.
Where to Eat: The Carolina Dining Room at Pinehurst Resort is an iconic restaurant that captures the essence of Southern hospitality and charm. It provides an elegant and refined dining experience with a focus on classic American cuisine and Southern-inspired dishes.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Known for its year-round sunshine and desert beauty, Scottsdale has emerged as a premier golf destination. This vibrant city in the Sonoran Desert boasts an impressive collection of top-rated courses, including TPC Scottsdale, Troon North Golf Club, and Grayhawk Golf Club. The diversity of courses in Scottsdale caters to all levels of play, with options ranging from desert layouts to lush oasis-style fairways. Beyond golf, Scottsdale offers a wealth of luxurious resorts, rejuvenating spas, and a vibrant culinary scene, ensuring a well-rounded vacation experience.

Best Course: TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course)
How to Get a Tee Time: Tee times at TPC Scottsdale can be booked through their official website or by calling their golf shop.
Cost: The green fees at TPC Scottsdale range from $199 to $499 per round, depending on the course and time of year.
What to do Beyond Golf: This is definitely the one on our list with the most activities outside of the resort. Experience the vibrant art scene in Old Town Scottsdale, wander the Heard Museum and fall in love with the incredible Native American art on display, or go hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Where to Stay: If staying close to the course is what you’re after, opt for The Phoenician or The Boulders Resort & Spa for a luxurious stay in a stunning desert setting. If you want to stay in the area but looking for a funkier vibe more in town, hit up Hotel Valley Ho.
Where to Grab a Drink: The Rusty Spur Saloon in Old Town Scottsdale is a popular spot for enjoying live country music and a cold beverage.
Where to Eat: Cafe Monarch is the most popular spot in town for fabulous food and a great atmosphere. Be sure to get your reservations in advance! Talavera at The Four Seasons Scottsdale offers a refined dining experience with breathtaking views of the desert landscape.

So, whether you're seeking challenging fairways, natural beauty, relaxation, or culinary delights, these golf vacation destinations have it all. Pack your clubs, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an unforgettable journey that combines the thrill of golf with incredible experiences both on and off the course. Your golf vacation awaits, and memories of a lifetime are just a tee shot away.