The Best Golfing Vacations in the US
For golf lovers, there’s nothing quite like finding just the right combination of the thrill of travelling and the serenity and relaxation of a round. And the United States, it’s fair to say, is home to some of the most iconic fairways on the planet. From oceanside to desert courses and gorgeous courses with stunning mountain backdrops, the variety is immense.
Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a group getaway, here’s a look at some of the best golfing vacations in the US.
1. Pebble Beach, California
First, we have Pebble Beach Golf Links, which, for many, isn’t just a course, it’s a bucket-list destination. Situated perfectly on the cliffs of the Monterey Peninsula, this is a public course famous for its incredible ocean views. Moreover, it has hosted a number of US Open tournaments, making it perfect for golf fans and pros alike.
The Pebble Beach Resorts offer everything… luxury accommodation, spa treatments, and world-class dining, offering the perfect vacation even when you’re not on the course. And if you time your visit during a major tournament, following the US Open betting odds can add even more excitement to it all.
With stunning, dramatic scenery and a chance to walk in the footsteps of legends, it’s a no-brainer.
2. Scottsdale, Arizona
Next, we have Scottsdale, which is a desert paradise for golfers. With more than 200 different courses in the area, constant sunshine and an excellent nightlife scene, it’s great for both the most experienced players and casual fans. With top resorts like Troon North, Grayhawk, and TPC Scottsdale, get ready for a luxury golf experience with a dramatic desert backdrop.
When you’re taking time off the course, you can check out the hiking trails, spas, and even spend your dollars with a bit of high-end shopping – and, if you happen to be there during the Waste Management Phoenix Open, the party atmosphere and betting action can rival even the biggest US sporting event
3. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
In third spot, we have Kiawah Island – a tranquil but tricky destination for golfers. The Ocean Course, which is consistently ranked as one of the best public courses in the US, has hosted lots of PGA Championships and even a Ryder Cup. But with the course’s notorious coastal winds and expansive dunes, it’s not for the faint-hearted.
You can stay at The Sanctuary – a five-star beachfront resort, and spend some time at the island’s incredible beaches – and relax with some serious luxury amenities. If you’re looking for quiet island charm paired with championship-level golf, it doesn’t get better than this.
4. Bandon Dunes, Oregon
If you’re after a more rugged and pure golf experience, then we have to think about Bandon Dunes. This is a remote Oregon resort that offers a links-style experience, similar to something you might experience over the pond in Scotland, with its stunning coastal views, tall fescue grasses, and those unpredictable sea winds that can add a bit of bite to your game. The property has no less than six courses, and each one comes with its own, unique challenge.
Bandon Dunes is all about walking golf, with experienced caddies giving it a real authenticity. So, if you want a true links golf adventure without leaving the U.S, this should be your go-to.
5. Pinehurst, North Carolina
Referred to by some as ‘The Cradle of American Golf’, this is a resort with history and plenty of Southern charm. With nine courses – including the legendary Pinehurst No. 2- this is the place to go if you want a golfing vacation with a past. It’s also been a past and will be a future host of the US Open, giving it extra credence.
The Pinehurst Resort also comes with stunning accommodations, along with classic Southern cuisine, and a spa if you want to relax after a long and tiring day on the fairway. This is a place of tradition, elegance, and it will make you feel even more connected to golf’s American legacy.
There are plenty more, of course – but these are the ones that offer everything… luxury, beauty… and world-class golf!