The Best Golf Destinations Around the World

There’s golf—and then there’s golf with a view, a story, and a once-in-a-lifetime setting. For discerning travelers who see the game as more than a sport, the world is filled with exceptional destinations where championship courses meet cultural richness, five-star resorts, and unforgettable landscapes. 

Whether you’re chasing your bucket list or simply want to swing in style, we’ve put together the best golf destinations around the globe to inspire you to plan the round of your dreams.

Scotland: The birthplace of golf

There’s no place more sacred to the game than Scotland. From the hallowed grounds of St Andrews to the coastal beauty of Royal Dornoch, this is where history and heritage tee off. After a day on the greens, enjoy whisky tastings in Speyside, dine fireside in historic inns, or retreat to a castle-turned-hotel. It’s golf steeped in legacy and luxury.

Pebble Beach & America’s West Coast classics

Few places blend dramatic beauty and golf prestige like California’s Monterey Peninsula. Pebble Beach Resorts offers iconic oceanfront courses, luxury accommodations, and gourmet dining with sweeping Pacific views. Further north, Bandon Dunes in Oregon delivers rugged terrain, raw ocean air, and a purist’s take on the game—all within reach of America’s wild west coast.

Tropical fairways: Caribbean & Hawaii

Sunshine, sea breezes, and oceanfront greens make the Caribbean and Hawaii perfect for golf travelers craving a warm-weather escape. Tee off at Sandy Lane in Barbados or Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic. In Maui, courses like Wailea and Kapalua combine challenging play with sweeping views of volcanic peaks and turquoise waters. It’s paradise par excellence!

Europe’s hidden gems

Beyond the big names, Europe boasts lesser-known destinations that rival the best. Portugal’s Algarve region is a sun-soaked haven for golf enthusiasts, while Spain’s Costa del Sol combines beachside luxury with stunning fairways. In Ireland, rugged links courses deliver windswept beauty, warm welcomes, and the challenge of true links play.

Exotic escapes for the golf adventurer

For those looking to take their swing somewhere truly different, a few far-flung destinations promise both adventure and excellence. South Africa’s Leopard Creek borders Kruger National Park, where you might spot elephants mid-round. New Zealand’s Cape Kidnappers pairs dramatic cliffside holes with world-class wine. And in Dubai, play through desert dunes at dawn before retreating to luxury spas and sky-high suites.

From iconic courses to off-the-beaten-path gems, the world’s top golf resorts worldwide invite you to elevate your game while exploring unforgettable destinations. Let the travel experts here at Leisure Travel Enterprises help you design a bucket list golf trip complete with expert planning, VIP perks, and access to premier courses across the globe.