We’ve taken our fair share of golf trips over the years and some places keep us yearning to return (BANDON!). There is always room for more adventures, but the real challenge is deciding what type of trip are you looking for (and who you should go with). So, we broke down five of our favorites under three categories to make sure you have enough ammo to convince your friends, (romantic) partner or the entire family where to go next.
Look no further than Kiawah Island Golf Resort for your quintessential beach haven that will fit everyone’s needs. Two recent PGA Championships put this popular destination even more on the map with its stunning natural beauty, world-class golf courses, luxurious accommodations, and a wide range of recreational activities no matter the age. If you come the right time of year, you basically have the place to yourself. From experience, I rifled through Turtle Point (Jack Nicklaus course) in the same amount of time it took my wife to get a massage. Here’s why it’s a great choice for different types of getaways:
- Buddies Golf Trip:
- Championship Golf Courses: Kiawah Island is home to five open-access courses (+ two private) including challenging, major championship golf at the Ocean Course. It’s a dream destination for golf enthusiasts looking for exceptional courses and memorable rounds. If you don’t want to break the bank on the Ocean Course ($600+ for greens fee and caddie), there are plenty of other options like Cougar Point.
- Group-Friendly Amenities: The resort offers group packages, golf clinics, and equipment rentals to cater to buddies’ golf trips. The variety of courses ensures that every player’s skill level is accommodated.
- Couples Getaway:
- Romantic Setting: The island’s picturesque beaches, serene marshes, and tranquil surroundings provide a romantic backdrop for couples seeking relaxation and quality time together. It’s only 40 minutes from downtown Charleston, SC so an easy drive to enjoy a night on the town in the “Holy City.”
- Spa and Wellness: The resort’s spa facilities offer couples’ massages, rejuvenating treatments, and wellness activities to unwind and enjoy a soothing escape.
- Fine Dining: Kiawah Island boasts upscale dining options like the Ocean Room at The Sanctuary where couples can enjoy intimate, scenic views and exceptional cuisine.
- Family Vacation:
- Family-Friendly Activities: There is arguably no better place for a youngster to experience biking, kayaking, nature tours and kids’ camps – the resort offers a wide range of activities suitable for families of all ages.
- Beach and Outdoor Adventures: The pristine beaches provide opportunities for building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and enjoying water sports, while the island’s natural beauty invites exploration.
- Spacious Accommodations: The resort features a variety of accommodations, including The Sanctuary, their world renown hotel, villas and rental homes, providing ample space and amenities for families.
Need we say more? Anyone who loves golf has heard of Pebble Beach and likely has had dreams of making an ace on the iconic par 3 7th hole. Needless to say, Pebble is renowned for its breathtaking coastal beauty, world-class golf courses (from the main course to the new Tiger Woods designed short course called “The Hay,” luxurious accommodations, and diverse recreational offerings. Pebble Beach is our #1 golf resort, hands down. But, it also lands at #1 in terms of how expensive it is too.
- Buddies Golf Trip:
- Legendary Golf Courses: Pebble Beach Golf Resort is home to iconic courses like Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and The Links at Spanish Bay. Buddies can enjoy challenging rounds on these world-famous layouts. And if you need a reminder, Pebble has hosted six U.S. Opens. For those of you who “know a guy who knows a guy” you might be able to pick up a round at Cypress Point or MPCC. Epic.
- Scenic Views: The stunning oceanfront settings and awe-inspiring coastal panoramas create a memorable backdrop for golfing camaraderie and friendly competition. Just think of the waves crashing into the rocks while you tee off on 18 at PB.
- Golf Packages: The resort offers customizable golf packages, including accommodations, tee times, and various golf-related amenities to cater to groups of golf-loving friends.
- Couples Getaway:
- Romantic Setting: The picturesque coastline, romantic sunsets, and charming ambiance make Pebble Beach a perfect retreat for couples seeking a romantic escape.
- Spa and Relaxation: The resort’s award-winning spa facilities provide couples with a range of rejuvenating treatments, couples’ massages, and relaxation experiences.
- Fine Dining: Pebble Beach offers exceptional dining options with ocean views, providing couples with intimate and memorable culinary experiences.
- Family Vacation:
- Family-Friendly Activities: Beyond golf, the resort offers activities like horseback riding, kayaking, and biking, ensuring there’s something for every member of the family.
- 17-Mile Drive: A scenic drive along the famous 17-Mile Drive offers families the chance to explore stunning vistas, unique rock formations, and beautiful beaches.
- Wildlife and Nature: Families can enjoy wildlife spotting, tide pooling, and nature walks in the picturesque surroundings. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the finest in the world.
Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Resort
Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Resort, located in Southern Pines, North Carolina, is a charming and picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of golf, relaxation, and family-friendly activities located in perhaps the golf mecca of the US. We could have also just dropped Pinehurst into our list right here too, but wanted to recommend an alternate resort in the Carolinas.
- Buddies Golf Trip:
- Championship Golf Course: Pine Needles boasts a renowned Donald Ross-designed golf course that provides a challenging and enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts. The U.S. Women’s Open was played at Pine Needles in 2022, so major level golf is found here, too.
- Group-Friendly Atmosphere: The resort welcomes group golf outings and offers various golf packages, making it easy for buddies to plan their golf-centric trip.
- Proximity to Other Courses: Southern Pines and Pinehurst are renowned for their concentration of excellent golf courses, allowing buddies to play multiple courses during their trip. The only trouble is deciding which ones will make your cut.
- Couples Getaway:
- Romantic Setting: The peaceful and serene atmosphere of Pine Needles, with its tall pines and scenic beauty, creates a romantic backdrop for couples seeking a quiet escape.
- Cozy Accommodations: The lodge offers comfortable and cozy accommodations, providing a relaxed setting for couples to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.
- Couples’ Activities: Beyond golf, couples can indulge in activities like spa treatments, leisurely walks, and exploring the charming local area.
- Family Vacation:
- Family-Friendly Activities: Pine Needles provides a range of family-oriented activities, including swimming, tennis, and biking, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Golf for All Levels: While avid golfers enjoy the championship course, beginners and juniors can partake in lessons and family-friendly rounds.
- Nearby Attractions: Families can explore nearby attractions such as the Southern Pines Historic District, local parks, and nature trails.
The Four Seasons Hualalai Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii is a luxurious and versatile destination that offers a wide range of amenities and experiences suitable for different types of trips.
- Buddies Golf Trip:
- Championship Golf Course: The resort features the Jack Nicklaus Signature Hualalai Golf Course, a stunning oceanside course that provides a challenging and memorable golfing experience. The PGA Tour Champions hold an annual event here, and in addition, you have the option for night golf. The Golf Hale Night Social is a must play to cap off the night.
- Group-Friendly Accommodations: The resort offers spacious and luxurious accommodations, including suites and private villas, which are ideal for groups of friends traveling together.
- Golf Packages: Customizable golf packages and special offers cater to golf enthusiasts, providing a seamless experience for a buddies golf trip.
- Couples Getaway:
- Romantic Setting: The picturesque oceanfront location, lush gardens, and Hawaiian ambiance create a romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape.
- Couples’ Activities: Enjoy couples’ spa treatments, private dinners on the beach, and scenic walks along the coastline, offering intimate and memorable experiences.
- Sunset Views: The resort’s location allows couples to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean, adding to the romantic charm.
- Family Vacation:
- Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort offers a variety of family-friendly amenities, including kids’ and teens’ clubs, family pools, and a range of recreational activities suitable for all ages.
- Cultural Experiences: Families can partake in Hawaiian cultural activities, such as lei-making, hula lessons, and guided tours, providing a rich and educational experience.
- Beach and Water Sports: The resort’s beachfront location allows families to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, promoting quality family time.
Big Cedar Lodge, located in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri, offers a unique and diverse experience that makes it an excellent choice for your next golf trip. Through the vision of Bass Pro Shops founder, Johnny Morris, he’s transformed this into a first-class golf destination with five spectacular courses.
- Buddies Golf Trip:
- Championship Golf Courses: Big Cedar Lodge features several top-tier golf courses designed by renowned architects like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Tom Fazio, Coore and Crenshaw and Gary Player. Golfing buddies can enjoy challenging rounds amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
- Group-Friendly Amenities: The lodge offers group packages, golf clinics, and equipment rentals, catering to the needs of buddies traveling together.
- Variety of Courses: With multiple courses available, golfing buddies can experience a range of different layouts and challenges during their trip.
- Couples Getaway:
- Romantic Setting: The lodge’s serene location, nestled in the Ozark Mountains and surrounded by lakes and forests, provides a romantic backdrop for couples looking to escape and reconnect.
- Cozy Cabins and Suites: Big Cedar Lodge offers cozy and well-appointed accommodations, including private cabins and suites, allowing couples to enjoy privacy and comfort.
- Spa and Relaxation: The resort’s spa facilities provide couples with opportunities for massages, couples’ treatments, and relaxation, enhancing the overall romantic experience.
- Family Vacation:
- Family-Friendly Activities: Big Cedar Lodge offers a wide range of family-oriented activities, such as fishing, boating, horseback riding, and hiking, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
- Fun for Kids: The resort’s Kids’ Adventure Club provides supervised activities and educational experiences, giving parents time to relax while children have fun.
- Wildlife and Nature: Families can explore nearby attractions like Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, where they can encounter wildlife and enjoy outdoor adventures.