Best Golf Trips in the US is a comprehensive guide that provides an in-depth look at the best golf courses and trips in the United States. From the iconic courses of California to the pristine links of Florida, this guide will take you on a journey through the most scenic and challenging golf courses in the country.
The US is home to some of the most renowned golf courses in the world, with each region offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and sporting challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, this guide will help you plan the ultimate golf trip in the US.
Unconventional Golf Courses in the US that Offer Breathtaking Scenery and Challenging Layouts
Golf enthusiasts seeking unique and thrilling experiences often traverse the country, from the Pacific Coast to the Gulf Coast, and from the Great Lakes to the Rocky Mountains. The US offers a diverse range of golf courses, each with its own distinct features, natural beauty, and historic significance. Let us explore some of the most fascinating and challenging golf courses in the country.
These courses have been handpicked from each region for their exceptional layouts, scenic views, and the unique experiences they offer.
Courses on the Pacific Coast
The Pacific Coast is renowned for its breathtaking ocean views, rolling hills, and dramatic elevation changes. This region boasts some of the most spectacular golf courses in the world.
Top 3 Courses on the Pacific Coast
The Pacific Coast is home to an impressive array of world-class golf courses, each offering a unique combination of scenic beauty and challenging layouts.
1.
Pebble Beach Golf Links, California
Regarded as one of the most iconic golf courses in the world, Pebble Beach Golf Links is nestled among towering cedars, Cypress, and live oak trees, overlooking the rugged Pacific coast. Designed by Jack Neville, this par 72 course boasts spectacular ocean views, undulating fairways, and meticulously manicured greens. The course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the US Open and the PGA Tour events.
2.
Oakmont Country Club, California
Located in Pasadena, California, Oakmont Country Club is an exclusive 18-hole course designed by William Bell and George Herbert. The par 70 course is set amidst beautiful gardens and rolling hills, offering golfers an unforgettable experience. Oakmont has been ranked among the top golf courses in the world, thanks to its exceptional layout, beautifully manicured greens, and dramatic elevation changes.
3.
Monterey Peninsula Country Club, California
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Monterey Peninsula, this 36-hole golf resort is a golfer’s paradise. Designed by the legendary architect, Alister MacKenzie, the Dunes Course is a challenging layout that meanders through undulating dunes and natural sand. The Cypress Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a par 72 layout that winds its way through towering cypress trees, lush gardens, and rolling hills, offering golfers breathtaking vistas.
Courses on the Gulf Coast
The Gulf Coast, stretching across the southeastern states, boasts a diverse array of golf courses, each offering its unique charm and appeal.
Top 3 Courses on the Gulf Coast
The Gulf Coast is famous for its white sandy beaches, mangrove forests, and lush wetlands, providing golfers with a unique and exciting experience.
1.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina
Located on the picturesque Kiawah Island, the Ocean Course is a par 72 links-style course designed by Pete Dye. This challenging layout is situated along the Atlantic coast, offering golfers a thrilling coastal golf experience. The course features dramatic elevation changes, rolling dunes, and undulating greens.
2.
Turtle Point Golf Club, Florida
Set amidst a lush tropical landscape, the Turtle Point Golf Club is an 18-hole par 72 course designed by Jack Nicklaus. The course features six sets of tees, carefully designed to provide an unforgettable experience for golfers of all skill levels. With its natural beauty, undulating greens, and beautifully manicured fairways, Turtle Point has become one of the most popular golf courses in the region.
3.
Cypress Bend Golf Club, Louisiana
Located in Leesville, Louisiana, Cypress Bend Golf Club is a par 72 challenge designed by architect Tom Fazio. This course meanders through cypress forests, bayous, and rolling hills, offering golfers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Deep South. With its natural beauty, challenging layout, and exceptional service, Cypress Bend has become a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.
Courses on the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes, stretching across the north-central states, boasts an impressive array of golf courses, each offering its unique charm and appeal.
Top 3 Courses on the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes region is famous for its stunning lakefront scenery, lush forests, and rolling hills, providing golfers with a unique and exciting experience.
1.
Whistling Straits Golf Course, Wisconsin
Designated as one of the greatest golf courses in the world by Golf Digest, Whistling Straits is a 36-hole par 72 course situated along the shores of Lake Michigan. This magnificent course is designed by Pete Dye and features a links-style design, rolling hills, and dramatic elevation changes.
2.
Medinah Country Club, Illinois
Medinah Country Club is an exclusive 18-hole par 72 course designed by Tom Bendelow and Albert Fichaux. This course is situated in the heart of the Chicago metropolitan area and boasts a challenging layout, beautifully manicured greens, and dramatic elevation changes.
3.
Wheatcroft Country Club, Michigan
Located in West Bloomfield, Michigan, Wheatcroft Country Club is an 18-hole par 72 course designed by Charles C. Balsam. This course features rolling hills, undulating greens, and a stunning natural setting along the shores of Thornbury Lake.
Courses in the Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains, stretching across the western states, boast an impressive array of golf courses, each offering its unique charm and appeal.
Top 3 Courses in the Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains region is famous for its stunning mountain vistas, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes, providing golfers with a unique and exciting experience.
1.
Aspen Glen Country Club, Colorado
Located in Carbondale, Colorado, Aspen Glen Country Club is an 18-hole par 72 course designed by James R. Engh. This course features rolling hills, undulating greens, and a stunning natural setting surrounded by aspen groves and towering red rock formations.
2.
Green Valley Ranch Golf Club, Colorado
Green Valley Ranch Golf Club is a par 72 course situated in Commerce City, Colorado, and designed by Keith Foster. This course features rolling hills, undulating greens, and a unique natural setting along the banks of the South Platte River.
3.
Trappers Crossing Golf Course, Wyoming
Trappers Crossing Golf Course is an 18-hole par 72 course situated in Cody, Wyoming, and designed by Gene Curtis. This course features rolling hills, undulating greens, and a stunning natural setting surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Golf trips in the US that cater to different skill levels and budgets
As golf enthusiasts, we’re often on the lookout for golf trips that cater to our skill levels and budgets. The US offers a diverse range of courses, from beginner-friendly greens to challenging layouts that demand precision and skill. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, there’s a golf trip waiting for you in the US.
For golfers of all skill levels, the US has a plethora of courses that cater to their needs. From beginner-friendly courses with gentle slopes and wide fairways to advanced courses with treacherous obstacles and precision-requiring holes, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, golfers can opt for courses with varying price points, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts.
Golf Courses for Beginners
For new golfers, it’s essential to find courses that are forgiving and easy to navigate. Some of the top courses for beginners include:
- The Dunes Golf and Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – This course features wide fairways and gentle slopes, making it an ideal spot for beginners.
- The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina – With its wide fairways and forgiving greens, this course is perfect for new golfers.
- The Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort in Florida – This resort features a range of courses, including the Oak Marsh Course, which is designed for beginners and features wide fairways and gentle slopes.
These courses offer a great starting point for new golfers, with gentle slopes and wide fairways that make it easier to navigate the course.
Golf Courses for Intermediate Golfers
For golfers with some experience, intermediate courses offer a greater challenge and a more engaging game. Some of the top courses for intermediate golfers include:
- The TPC at Sawgrass in Florida – This course features challenging holes with precise shots and treacherous obstacles, making it an ideal spot for intermediate golfers.
- The Streamsong Resort in Florida – With its unique layout and challenging holes, this course is perfect for golfers who want to test their skills.
- The Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon – This resort features a range of courses, including the Old Macdonald Course, which offers a challenging but rewarding experience for intermediate golfers.
These courses offer a greater challenge for intermediate golfers, with precise shots and treacherous obstacles that demand skill and strategy.
Golf Courses for Advanced Golfers
For experienced golfers, advanced courses offer a greater challenge and a more intense experience. Some of the top courses for advanced golfers include:
- The Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia – This course is one of the most iconic and challenging in the world, with precise shots and treacherous obstacles that demand skill and strategy.
- The Pebble Beach Golf Links in California – With its stunning coastline views and challenging holes, this course is perfect for advanced golfers who want to test their skills.
- The Winged Foot Golf Club in New York – This course features a challenging layout and precise shots, making it an ideal spot for advanced golfers.
These courses offer a greater challenge for advanced golfers, with precise shots and treacherous obstacles that demand skill and strategy.
Suggested Itinerary for a 5-Day Golf Trip to Florida
For golfers looking for a 5-day golf trip in Florida, here’s a suggested itinerary:
- Day 1: TPC at Sawgrass in Florida – This course features challenging holes with precise shots and treacherous obstacles, making it an ideal spot for intermediate golfers.
- Day 2: Streamsong Resort in Florida – With its unique layout and challenging holes, this course is perfect for golfers who want to test their skills.
- Day 3: The Dunes Golf and Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – This course features wide fairways and gentle slopes, making it an ideal spot for beginners.
- Day 4: The Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort in Florida – This resort features a range of courses, including the Oak Marsh Course, which is designed for beginners and features wide fairways and gentle slopes.
- Day 5: The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina – With its wide fairways and forgiving greens, this course is perfect for new golfers.
This itinerary offers a great combination of challenging courses and beginner-friendly greens, making it ideal for golfers of all skill levels.
Top Golf Resorts and Hotels in the US Southwest
For golfers looking for a luxurious golf experience in the US Southwest, here are some top resorts and hotels:
| Course Name | Location | Rating | Cost-Per-Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Boulders Golf Club | Arizona | 5/5 | $250-$350 |
| The Troon North Golf Club | Arizona | 5/5 | $200-$300 |
| The PGA West Stadium Course | California | 5/5 | $150-$250 |
| The La Quinta Resort and Club | California | 4.5/5 | $100-$200 |
| The JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort and Spa | Arizona | 4.5/5 | $80-$180 |
These resorts and hotels offer a luxurious golf experience in the US Southwest, with challenging courses and high-end amenities.
Table of Top Golf Courses in the US
Here’s a table of top golf courses in the US:
| Course Name | Location | Rating | Cost-Per-Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Augusta National Golf Club | Georgia | 5/5 | $250-$350 |
| The Pebble Beach Golf Links | California | 5/5 | $150-$250 |
| The Winged Foot Golf Club | New York | 5/5 | $100-$200 |
| The TPC at Sawgrass | Florida | 4.5/5 | $80-$180 |
| The Streamsong Resort | Florida | 4.5/5 | $70-$170 |
| The Bandon Dunes Golf Resort | Oregon | 4.5/5 | $60-$160 |
| The Dunes Golf and Beach Club | South Carolina | 4.5/5 | $50-$150 |
| The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort | South Carolina | 4/5 | $40-$140 |
| The Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort | Florida | 4/5 | $30-$130 |
| The La Jolla Municipal Golf Course | California | 4/5 | $20-$120 |
This table offers a range of top golf courses in the US, with varying ratings and cost-per-round rates.
Golf trip experiences that incorporate local culture and outdoor activities
Golfing in the US offers an unforgettable experience that combines breathtaking scenery, challenging layouts, and memorable local culture. To make your golf trip even more immersive, consider exploring resorts and courses that deeply incorporate the surrounding environment and community. These establishments offer unique opportunities to taste local flavors, witness local traditions, and participate in events that celebrate the local way of life.
Unique Cultural Experiences
The Bandon Dunes, located in Oregon, stands out for its emphasis on Pacific Northwest culture and cuisine. Guests can enjoy delicious seafood, try local wines, and immerse themselves in the region’s rich history. Similarly, the Inn at Spanish Peaks, situated in Montana, offers a variety of cultural experiences, such as guided tours of the nearby Native American reservations and traditional cooking lessons. These activities not only enhance the golfing experience but also provide a chance to connect with the local community.
Top 5 Outdoor Activities to Enjoy
When not on the course, golfers can explore the US’s stunning natural beauty through a range of outdoor activities. Here are the top 5 options:
- Hiking: Explore the US’s most breathtaking landscapes through guided or self-guided hiking tours. From the scenic trails of Academia Drakensberg in Colorado to the stunning vistas of Yosemite National Park in California, options abound for hikers of all skill levels.
- Fishing: Experience the thrill of catching a large fish in the US’s vast waters. With abundant species and expert guides, fishing is a popular activity among golfers looking to relax and explore the outdoors.
- Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species in the US’s diverse ecosystems. From the migratory birds of the Gulf Coast to the songbirds of the Rocky Mountains, birdwatching is a tranquil way to connect with nature.
- Kayaking: Paddle through calm waters or navigate whitewater rapids in the US’s numerous rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the US.
- Mountain Biking: Discover the US’s extensive network of mountain bike trails, catering to different skill levels. From casual rides through forest trails to demanding descents, mountain biking offers a thrilling way to experience the US’s rugged landscapes.
5 Golf Courses That Incorporate Natural or Historic Features
Several iconic golf courses in the US seamlessly blend their natural or historic surroundings into the design. Among these, the Black Hawk Mining and Golf Course in South Dakota and the TPC Harding Park in California stand out for their unique designs. Other notable mentions include:
- TPC Los Angeles at River Wild in California, which features dramatic ocean views and lush vegetation.
- TPC Boston on Massachusetts, incorporating scenic views of Boston Harbor and a challenging layout.
- TPC Las Colinas in Texas, blending rolling hills, water hazards, and scenic vistas.
- Pebble Beach Golf Links in California, renowned for its stunning ocean views and historic architecture.
- The Preserve Golf Club in Colorado, a challenging course set amidst the rolling hills and forests of the Rocky Mountains.
Top-Rated Golf Instructors
Looking for expert advice to improve your golf game? Here are a few top-rated instructors with specialized knowledge in various areas:
- David Leadbetter – short game and putting expert.
- Butch Harmon – renowned instructor with extensive experience in teaching players of all skill levels.
- Alice Dye – expert in physical training and injury prevention.
- Greg McHatton – short game specialist with extensive experience in teaching players of all skill levels.
- Matt Fryer – specialist in physical training and injury prevention.
Budget-friendly golf trip options and packages in the US
Planning a golf trip to the US can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to budget constraints. However, with careful planning and research, it is possible to find affordable golf trips that cater to different skill levels and budgets. In this section, we will explore budget-friendly golf trip options and packages in the US, including popular golf tour operators and online booking platforms.
Comparing Prices and Packages
GolfNow and Golf Breaks are two popular online booking platforms that offer a wide range of golf courses and packages in the US. While both platforms offer competitive prices, there are some differences in their packages and services. GolfNow is known for its easy-to-use interface and wide selection of courses, while Golf Breaks offers more luxurious packages and amenities. In terms of pricing, GolfNow tends to be slightly cheaper, with green fees starting at around $20 per person. Golf Breaks, on the other hand, offers more high-end courses with green fees starting at around $100 per person.
Ways to Save Money on Golf Trips, Best golf trips in the us
There are several ways to save money on golf trips in the US. One of the most effective ways is to play twilight rounds, which are typically discounted by 50-75% compared to regular rounds. Another way to save money is to choose courses with lower green fees, which can range from $20 to $50 per person. Finally, booking off-season trips can also result in significant savings, with green fees sometimes discounted by as much as 90%.
Sample Budget-friendly Golf Itinerary
Here is a sample budget-friendly golf itinerary for a 4-day trip to the Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday in South Carolina:
– Day 1: Arrive in Myrtle Beach and check into your hotel. Play a round at the True Blue Golf Course, which offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands and ocean. Green fee: $40 per person.
– Day 2: Play a round at the Caledonia Golf and Fish Club, which is known for its challenging layout and beautiful scenery. Green fee: $50 per person.
– Day 3: Take a break from golf and explore the area, which offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking.
– Day 4: Play a round at the Grande Dunes Resort Course, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Green fee: $40 per person.
Top-rated Golf Courses with Affordable Prices
Here are some top-rated golf courses in the US with affordable prices and convenient amenities:
- Forest Lake Lodge in Idaho: This course offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake, as well as a relaxed atmosphere and affordable green fees (starting at $20 per person).
- Pine Lakes Country Club in Alabama: This course is known for its challenging layout and beautiful scenery, with green fees starting at $30 per person.
- TPC at Southwind in Tennessee: This course is a popular choice for golfers of all skill levels, with green fees starting at $25 per person.
- Wildhorse Golf Club in Oregon: This course offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with green fees starting at $20 per person.
High-end golf trips and luxury resorts in the US: Best Golf Trips In The Us
For the discerning golfer seeking an unparalleled experience, the US offers a plethora of high-end golf resorts and exclusive private clubs. These luxury destinations offer an array of premium amenities and services designed to provide an unforgettable encounter. From championship golf courses to world-class spas, fine dining, and exceptional customer service, every detail is meticulously curated to create a truly regal experience.
Premium Experiences Offered by Luxury Golf Resorts
Luxury golf resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North in Arizona and the La Quinta Resort & Club in California are paragons of opulence, catering to the most exacting golfing enthusiasts. These resorts boast high-end amenities and services, including championship golf courses, exclusive fitness centers, world-class spas, and bespoke dining experiences.
The Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, nestled in the rolling hills of north Scottsdale, Arizona, offers an intimate golfing experience amidst the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape. The resort features two world-class golf courses, the Pinnacle Course and the Monument Course, both meticulously crafted to challenge even the most skilled golfers. Guests can also indulge in the resort’s exceptional dining experiences, from the casual, upscale comfort food of Spavinaw Grille to the refined, gourmet cuisine of Four Season’s restaurant.
Similarly, the La Quinta Resort & Club in California offers an unparalleled golfing experience amidst the majestic Santa Rosa and Santa Monica Mountains. The resort features five championship golf courses, each designed by a renowned architect, including the Greg Norman-designed Stadium Course and the Gary Player-designed Dunes Course. Guests can also unwind at the resort’s world-class spa, indulge in a rejuvenating treatment, or dine at one of the resort’s many fine dining establishments.
Private Golf Clubs and Exclusive Resort Communities
For the ultra-exclusive and discerning golfer, private golf clubs and exclusive resort communities offer a level of luxury and exclusivity unparalleled in the golfing world. These private retreats often boast stunning architecture, exquisite landscaping, and top-notch amenities, including world-class dining, fitness centers, and spas.
Membership requirements for these exclusive clubs and communities vary, but typically involve significant initiation fees and annual dues, sometimes ranging into the hundreds of thousands of dollars per annum. However, the benefits are commensurate with the costs, with members enjoying unparalleled access to world-class golf courses, exclusive social events, and VIP privileges at fine dining establishments and high-end retailers.
Examples of private golf clubs and exclusive resort communities include the exclusive members-only golf club, the Winged Foot Golf Club in New York, and the exclusive resort community, the Montage Deer Valley in Utah. Winged Foot Golf Club, a private golf club located in Mamaroneck, New York, is renowned for its three world-class golf courses, including the West Course, host to five U.S. Opens. Members also enjoy access to the club’s fine dining establishments, including the exclusive members-only dining room.
Similarly, the Montage Deer Valley in Utah offers an exclusive resort experience amidst the breathtaking mountains of Park City. The resort boasts an array of world-class amenities, including a private golf course, a fitness center, a spa, and several fine dining establishments. Guests can also indulge in exclusive activities, such as ski-to-door access, horseback riding, and helicopter excursions.
High-end Golf Tournaments and Events
The US is a hub for high-end golf tournaments and events, attracting many of the world’s top golfers and golf enthusiasts. From the prestigious PGA Tour’s Players Championship to the LPGA’s Tournament of Champions, these events offer a glimpse into the world of professional golf and provide an unparalleled opportunity to witness golf’s greatest talents in action.
The Players Championship, held annually at the TPC at Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, is one of the most prestigious events on the PGA Tour. The tournament attracts many of the world’s top golfers, including Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Justin Thomas, and features a unique island green at the 17th hole, one of the most iconic in golf.
Similarly, the LPGA’s Tournament of Champions, held annually at the Tiburón Golf Club at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples, Florida, features the world’s top female golfers, including Lydia Ko, Lexi Thompson, and Brooke Henderson. The event offers a unique opportunity to witness these outstanding golfers compete in a world-class golf tournament.
Suggested Itinerary for a 5-day Luxury Golf Trip to Napa Valley Wine Country
For a luxurious golf trip to the Napa Valley Wine Country, we recommend the following 5-day itinerary, featuring rounds of golf at the Silverado Resort and Spa and the Montage Yountville.
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
* Arrive at the Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa Valley, a luxurious resort situated in the heart of Wine Country.
* Check into your room and spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or exploring the resort’s amenities.
Day 2: Golf at Silverado Resort and Spa
* Tee off at the Silverado Resort and Spa’s North Course, a challenging and scenic 18-hole layout designed by Robert Trent Jones.
* After golfing, indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the resort’s Spa.
Day 3: Explore Yountville
* Drive to Yountville, a charming town in the heart of Napa Valley, known for its world-class restaurants and boutique shops.
* Visit the French Laundry, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, for a taste of culinary excellence.
Day 4: Golf at Montage Yountville
* Tee off at the exclusive Montage Yountville Golf Course, a picturesque 18-hole layout designed by Rees Jones.
* After golfing, unwind at the resort’s spa or explore the town’s charming shops and galleries.
Day 5: Departure
* Spend the morning relaxing at the resort or exploring the town of Yountville.
* Depart the Silverado Resort and Spa, bringing with you memories of an unforgettable luxury golf trip to Napa Valley Wine Country.
Last Point
In conclusion, Best Golf Trips in the US is the ultimate guide for golf enthusiasts looking to experience the best of what the country has to offer. With its comprehensive coverage of golf courses, resorts, and destinations, this guide is sure to inspire you to take your passion for golf to the next level.
Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, Best Golf Trips in the US has something for everyone. So why wait? Start planning your dream golf trip today and discover why the US is truly the golf capital of the world.
User Queries
What is the best time to visit the US for golfing?
The best time to visit the US for golfing depends on the region you are planning to visit. Generally, the spring and fall seasons (March to May and September to November) are considered the best times for golfing in the US, as the weather is mild and the courses are less crowded.
How can I save money on golf trips in the US?
There are several ways to save money on golf trips in the US, including playing twilight rounds, choosing courses with lower green fees, and booking off-season trips. You can also consider staying at budget-friendly accommodations and eating at local restaurants instead of resort dining rooms.
What are some popular golf destinations in the US?
Can I rent golf equipment in the US?
Yes, you can rent golf equipment in the US at most golf courses and equipment rental shops. Many courses also offer club and ball rentals for a small fee.
