For golf enthusiasts, the perfect course is about more than just the game—it’s about the entire experience. From the hallowed grounds of St. Andrews to the sun-soaked splendor of Dubai’s desert greens, the globe is dotted with bucket-list destinations that marry world-class play with unforgettable beauty and rich tradition.
Whether you’re craving the challenge of a championship-caliber layout or simply dreaming of a leisurely round in a jaw-dropping setting, these 15 golf destinations deliver on all fronts. Pack your clubs—it’s time to explore the most spectacular places to tee off around the world.
15. Fife, Scotland
Known as the “Home of Golf,” Fife boasts over 42 golf courses, including the iconic Old Course at St Andrews. From historic links like The Golf House Club, Elie and modern gems like Dumbarnie Links, Fife offers diverse golfing experiences for all skill levels. The region’s rich golfing heritage, picturesque coastal scenery, and warm Scottish hospitality make it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.
14. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne’s Sandbelt region boasts world-class golf courses, including Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath. The city offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, with the nearby Mornington Peninsula providing additional golfing gems. Enjoy year-round play in a destination that combines exceptional golf with vibrant culture and cuisine.
13. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown offers world-class golf amidst breathtaking scenery. Play at top-rated courses like Jack’s Point, Millbrook Resort (Coronet 18 and Remarkables 18), and The Hills. The region boasts six exceptional courses within a 20-minute drive. Combine your golf adventure with adrenaline-pumping activities and stunning natural beauty for an unforgettable vacation.
12. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai offers a unique blend of luxury and world-class golf. With championship courses like Emirates Golf Club and Jumeirah Golf Estates, golfers can enjoy challenging play amid stunning desert landscapes. The city’s opulent resorts, year-round sunshine (especially from November to March), and vibrant nightlife make it an unforgettable golf destination for 2025 and beyond.
11. Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve boasts over 42 golf courses along its sun-drenched coastline. Standout venues include Monte Rei, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo. With over 300 days of sunshine, dramatic cliff-top holes, and luxurious resorts, it’s an ideal European golf holiday destination. Don’t miss the iconic 16th at Vale do Lobo’s Royal Course, probably the most photographed hole in Europe.
10. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a golfer’s paradise, boasting world-class courses designed by legends like Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus. Casa de Campo’s Teeth of the Dog, ranked #1 in the Caribbean, is undergoing a major restoration in 2025 and will reopen in December. Don’t miss Punta Cana’s Corales Golf Club, host to PGA Tour events like the Corales Puntacana Championship, offering stunning coastal views and challenging play.
9. Los Cabos, Mexico
Los Cabos offers world-class golf with stunning ocean views. Quivira Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature course, is recognized as one of the most challenging and memorable resort venues and was voted to Golf Digest’s elite roster of the “World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses”. The region boasts other exceptional courses like Palmilla and Puerto Los Cabos. With 355 days of sun a year, Los Cabos is a fantastic place to golf.
8. Maui, Hawaii
Maui boasts world-class golf courses set against stunning ocean and mountain backdrops. The island features renowned courses like Kapalua’s Plantation Course, host of the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions, and Wailea’s Gold Course. With sunny, calm mornings and courses designed to suit varying skill levels, Maui offers an unparalleled golfing experience for enthusiasts.
7. Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale boasts over 50 golf courses within city limits and more than 200 additional courses in the Valley of the Sun. Top-rated courses include TPC Scottsdale and Troon North. With over 300 days of sunshine per year and Sonoran Desert landscapes, it’s a popular golf destination. Luxury resorts like The Westin Kierland offer stay-and-play packages. The vibrant Old Town scene provides post-golf entertainment. Peak season is winter (December to March), but summer brings discounted rates and wide open fairways despite high temperatures.
6. Kohler, Wisconsin
Kohler Resort offers four championship courses designed by Pete Dye: the Straits and Irish Courses at Whistling Straits, and the River and Meadow Valleys Courses at Blackwolf Run. The famous Whistling Straits, host of the 2021 Ryder Cup, features stunning Lake Michigan views and a links-style design reminiscent of Scotland. With world-class amenities, including a five-star spa, Kohler has hosted major tournaments like the PGA Championship and U.S. Women’s Open, making it a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.
5. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers five championship courses, including the renowned Ocean Course, host of the 1991 Ryder Cup, the 2007 Senior PGA Championship, the 2012 PGA Championship, and the 2021 PGA Championship. The Ocean Course will host the 2031 PGA Championship, marking the third time the course will hold the event. The resort features luxurious accommodations, including The Sanctuary Hotel, villas, and homes. Guests enjoy world-class amenities such as a five-star spa, multiple dining venues, tennis, and pools. The resort has 10 miles of pristine sandy beaches. Golf packages combine rounds with resort stays, providing a vacation experience in a coastal setting.
4. Pinehurst, North Carolina
Pinehurst is considered the “Cradle of American Golf” and boasts ten 18-hole courses, a putting course, and a 9-hole short course. The best known is Course No. 2, designed by Donald Ross, which has hosted several major tournaments. Pinehurst offers various golf packages, accommodations, and dining options. With a rich golfing history, Pinehurst provides an experience for golf enthusiasts. Houses border most of the courses, but only one course was created specifically as a housing development: Pinehurst #7.
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3. Bandon Dunes, Oregon
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is a premier golfing destination, boasting seven world-class courses along Oregon’s rugged coastline. The resort’s newest addition, Shorty’s, a 19-hole par-3 course, opened in 2024. With its links-style layouts and stunning ocean views, Bandon Dunes offers an authentic Scottish golfing experience in the Pacific Northwest.
Related: The 16 Best Beginner-Friendly Golf Courses in the US
2. Pebble Beach, California
Pebble Beach offers world-class golf experiences with its iconic courses like Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill. Spyglass Hill is described as “Pine Valley-by-the-Sea meets Augusta National”. While a specific “Play After the Pros” package isn’t explicitly mentioned, Pebble Beach co-hosts the annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The Inn at Spanish Bay offers accommodations with views of the grounds, forests, fairways, or the Pacific Ocean and easy access to Pebble Beach courses. Playing three courses is possible, given Pebble Beach Resorts has four 18-hole courses and one 9-hole course.
Related: The 30 Greatest Golf Courses in the US
1. St. Andrews, Scotland
St. Andrews, known as the “Home of Golf,” offers an unparalleled golfing experience. The iconic Old Course, where golf has been played since the early 15th century, is a must-play for enthusiasts. Nearby courses like Kingsbarns and Carnoustie complement the historic links. In 2025, guaranteed Old Course tee times are available through authorized providers between April and October, making it easier for golf enthusiasts to plan their dream vacation.
Related: The 20 Most Exclusive Golf Courses in the US
