Top Golf Destinations Around The World: Courses You Must Play

Golf has grown into an international pastime that bridges cultures and landscapes and is a passion for millions around the world. Let’s explore the top golf destinations around the world and discover the perfect blend of challenge and beauty on these incredible courses, get ready to add a few new spots to your bucket list!

St Andrews Golf Links

St Andrews Golf Links in Scotland is often referred to as the “Home of Golf” due to its historic and influential role in the development of the game. It is the oldest golf course in the world, with a history dating back to the early 15th century. The site is renowned for its contribution to the establishment of many of the rules and traditions that still govern the sport today.

The Old Course – The crown jewel, most famous and often considered the most iconic and revered golf course in the world. Known for its large double greens, deep bunkers and the challenge it presents even to the most skilled golfers where its layout has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Playing here is seen as a pilgrimage for golf enthusiasts.

The New Course – Despite its name, it dates back to 1895. Designed by Tom Morris, it offers a more straightforward, but still challenging, experience. The Jubilee Course – Opened in 1897, it is considered the toughest of the St Andrews courses due to its narrow fairways and challenging bunkers. The Castle Course – Opened in 2008, it offers stunning views over St Andrews Bay and a challenging modern links experience. The Eden, Strathtyrum, and Balgove Courses – offer a range of experiences from the less challenging Strathtyrum and Balgove, ideal for beginners, to Eden, known for its strategic layout.

Golfers walk the same fairways as legends of the game, experiencing the unique combination of natural landscape and carefully preserved traditions. The course is open to the public and although securing a tee time on the Old Course can be challenging. With a range of visitor facilities, a modern clubhouse, pro shops and restaurants, the town of St Andrews also offers a variety of luxury hotels to more modest options, making it a well-rounded destination for golf tourism.

St Andrews remains a must-visit destination for golfers, providing an experience that is both challenging and deeply connected to the roots of the game.

Pebble Beach Golf Course

Pebble Beach Golf Course Monterey Peninsula in California, USA is one of the most iconic and celebrated golf courses in the world. This legendary course has a rich history and is renowned for its breathtaking ocean views, challenging design, and prestigious tournaments.

The course was opened in 1919, designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, showcasing the dramatic beauty of the rugged coastline while providing a challenging layout for golfers. Over the years, it has been updated by several prominent architects, including Alister MacKenzie, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer. It has hosted numerous prestigious golf tournaments and the course’s reputation is further solidified by its frequent appearances on golfers’ bucket lists and its recognition as a regular stop for top-tier players.

The breathtaking scenery is set along the cliffs of Carmel Bay, with many holes offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, crashing waves, and rocky outcrops. The combination of natural beauty and masterful design makes it a visual masterpiece, as well as a challenging course.

Offering luxurious accommodations and providing guests with world-class amenities, fine dining and access to other renowned courses in the area, such as Spyglass Hill and The Links at Spanish Bay. Additionally, the resort features a spa, tennis courts, and other recreational facilities, making it a complete destination for relaxation and leisure.

Pebble Beach Golf Course is a symbol of the sport’s heritage and prestige and it’s championship pedigree ensures that it remains an iconic venue in the world of golf. It is a timeless classic and a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast seeking to experience one of the sport’s most legendary venues.

Real Club Valderrama

Real Club Valderrama, Sotogrande, Andalusia, Spain – Valderrama is a Robert Trent Jones Sr. masterpiece, featuring a par 71 layout that is both challenging and meticulously designed. The course is known for its tight fairways, strategic bunkering, and fast, undulating greens that require precision and careful strategy.

Known as the “Augusta of Europe.” It has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments. The most famous hole at Valderrama is the 17th, a par-5 known as “Los Gabilanes” featuring a challenging water hazard that forces golfers to make difficult decisions. Valderrama is renowned for its immaculate course conditions. The fairways and greens are always in perfect shape, making it a true pleasure to play, though it demands the utmost skill. The course is set in the picturesque region of Sotogrande, surrounded by cork trees and offering beautiful views of the Andalusian landscape. The natural beauty adds to the serene and exclusive atmosphere of the club.

The club provides top-tier facilities, including a well-equipped clubhouse, practice areas, and excellent dining options. The service is impeccable, with a strong emphasis on providing a world-class experience for members and visitors alike.

Valderrama is a private club with limited access for non-members. However, it does offer limited tee times for visitors. Real Club Valderrama’s combination of challenging design, pristine conditions and historical significance makes it the premier golf course in Spain.

Cape Kidnappers Golf Course

Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, North Island, New Zealand is one of the world’s most stunning and challenging golf destinations. Perched atop dramatic cliffs that drop sharply into the Pacific Ocean, the course offers incredible views and a unique playing experience.

Designed by renowned golf architect Tom Doak and opened in 2004, incorporating the natural landscape, using the rugged coastline, deep ravines, and rolling terrain to create a challenging yet fair test of golf. Each hole offers a different experience, with a combination of risk-reward opportunities and strategic shot-making required.

The 15th hole, known as “Pirate’s Plank,” is perhaps the most famous. This par -5 runs along a narrow ridge, with the ocean on one side and a deep ravine on the other. The green appears to float above the sea, making it one of the most visually intimidating shots in golf.

The course is set on a sheep and cattle farm, adding to the rustic and untouched feel of the location. The cliffs, which rise 800 feet above the ocean, provide panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay and beyond, making it as much a visual experience as a golfing one.

A luxury lodge offers high-end accommodations, dining and spa services. The lodge’s rustic elegance complements the natural beauty of the landscape. The practice facilities are top-notch, including a driving range, short game area, and putting greens.

Cape Kidnappers Golf Course is a bucket-list destination. Its combination of dramatic scenery, challenging holes, and luxury amenities makes it a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable golfing experience. The course offers something for everyone, set against one of the most beautiful backdrops in the world.

Leopard Creek Golf Course

Leopard Creek Golf Course, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa, offers a unique golfing experience where the wild African bushveld meets a world-class golf facility. Designed by the legendary Gary Player, the course is set along the banks of the Crocodile River, with gorgeous views of the park and its wildlife.

Th course incorporates the natural landscape and wildlife into the course itself. It is meticulously maintained, with lush green fairways contrasted against the rugged terrain of the surrounding bushveld. The signature 13th hole is particularly famous, with its island green and views over the Crocodile River, where players often catch glimpses of crocodiles and hippos. One of the most striking aspects of Leopard Creek is its proximity to the Kruger National Park, with sightings of elephants, buffalo, antelope and a variety of bird species while playing a round of golf. This connection to nature adds an element of excitement and unpredictability.

Leopard Creek offers a range of world-class facilities, including a modern clubhouse with luxurious amenities, fine dining, a well-stocked pro shop and a state-of-the-art practice facility, with a driving range, chipping and putting greens, and a golf academy. It has hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the Alfred Dunhill Championship. Known for its exclusivity, it is a members-only club, with limited access granted to guests staying at select lodges in the nearby area.

Playing at Leopard Creek is an experience that blends world-class golfing with the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Its challenging design, stunning scenery, and exclusive nature make it a bucket-list destination for golfers. If you want a serious round of golf or simply looking to enjoy the serenity of the bushveld, Leopard Creek offers an unparalleled golfing experience that is both memorable and unique.

The Els Club

The Els Club, Dubai is one of the premier golf destinations in the Middle East, offering a world-class golfing experience in the vibrant setting of Dubai Sports City. Designed by the legendary South African golfer Ernie Els, often referred to as “The Big Easy.

It is a championship course with a blend of traditional links-style with a desert landscape, creating a unique golfing environment, with wide, rolling fairways, steep bunkering and greens that are fast and undulating. Water hazards come into play on several holes, adding to the challenge and beauty of the course.

The Els Club boasts top-notch facilities that cater to both golfers and non-golfers. The clubhouse is a luxurious space featuring a fully-stocked pro shop, locker rooms, and several dining options. One of the standout dining experiences is at 261, named after Els’ average driving distance during his prime. The Club offers a state-of-the-art practice facility, driving range, short game area and putting greens as well as a golf academy that provides lessons and clinics for all levels, led by PGA professionals. It has hosted several high-profile events and tournaments, further cementing its reputation as a premier golfing destination.

Located within Dubai Sports City, The Els Club is easily accessible from most parts of Dubai, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. The area surrounding the club includes other sports facilities, residential areas, and leisure options, making it a vibrant community.

The Els Club is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. With world-class facilities, it offers the pro and casual player a unique opportunity to enjoy the game in a luxurious and picturesque setting.

Terre Blanche

Terre Blanche, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France, is often regarded as one of the top golf resorts in Europe, offering a luxurious and tranquil setting. Featuring two 18-hole championship courses—Le Château and Le Riou.

Le Château is the more challenging of the two, that tests even the most skilled golfers. It’s known for its beautiful landscapes and perfectly maintained greens, with water hazards and strategic bunkering adding to the challenge. Le Riou is slightly less challenging but still offers a stunning golf experience with its rolling fairways and panoramic views. It’s a bit more forgiving and suitable to amatures or someone looking for a relaxed round.

The resort offers a world-class golf academy, state-of-the-art practice facilities, and personalized coaching programs. An ideal place for golfers who want to improve their game while enjoying the luxurious amenities.

The resort itself is a 5-star property with a focus on elegance and comfort. Guests can enjoy spacious suites and villas, gourmet dining, and a top-rated spa, making it a perfect retreat for golfers and non-golfers alike.

Set in the heart of Provence, the courses are surrounded by olive groves, lakes, and the rolling hills of the French countryside. Adding Terre Blanche to your list highlights the blend of luxury, natural beauty and top-notch golfing that France offers.

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, Portugal is home to many outstanding golf courses but in the Algarve is often regarded as the best in the country. The North Course at Monte Rei is a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course and widely considered one of his best designs in Europe, a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.

Located in the eastern Algarve, in a stunning natural landscape surrounded by rolling hills, olive groves, and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The course is meticulously maintained, with pristine greens and fairways that reflect its world-class status. The attention to detail in the course’s upkeep is one of the reasons why it consistently ranks as the best in Portugal.

The club offers luxurious amenities, a well-appointed clubhouse, excellent practice facilities and a golf academy. The service is exceptional, with staff dedicated to providing a top-tier experience.

Monte Rei offers a selection of luxury villas and apartments for guests who want to stay on the property. These accommodations provide privacy and comfort, making it a perfect choice for a golfing getaway. Dining here is an experience in itself, with menus that focus on local and seasonal ingredients.

Besides the outstanding golf course design, Monte Rei is often praised for the overall luxury and serenity it offers, making it a must-visit destination for any serious golfer visiting Portugal.

Teeth of the Dog

Teeth of the Dog, Casa de Campo Resort, Dominican Republic is widely considered the best golf course in the region. Designed by the legendary Pete Dye, Teeth of the Dog is a masterpiece of golf course architecture. 7 of the holes are set directly along the Caribbean Sea and known for its challenging holes, ocean views and innovative design that makes the most of the natural landscape.

It has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments and is a favorite among professional and amateur golfers alike. The course’s coastal holes are particularly famous, with golfers having to contend with ocean winds and stunning views.

Casa de Campo Resort offers top-notch facilities, including a well-equipped clubhouse, practice areas and a golf academy. The resort also features two other Pete Dye courses—The Links and Dye Fore—both of which are highly regarded.

This luxurious resort offers a variety of accommodations, from hotel rooms to private villas, all with access to world-class amenities, including fine dining, a marina, a beach club and a spa.

Teeth of the Dog is celebrated for its challenging and beautiful course and for the overall luxury and variety of experiences offered at Casa de Campo, a must visit destination in the Caribbean.

Old Head Golf Links

Old Head Golf Links, Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland, is one of the most dramatic and visually stunning golf courses in the world. Situated on a narrow promontory that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean, the course offers breathtaking views from every hole, with sheer cliffs dropping into the ocean below.

Old Head was designed by a collaboration of golf architects, including Ron Kirby, Eddie Hackett, and Joe Carr. The course officially opened in 1997 with many of the 18 holes perched perilously close to the edge of the cliffs. This course is known for its challenging layout, with unpredictable winds adding to the difficulty. The course’s location on a headland offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from almost every point. The scenery is often described as both exhilarating and intimidating, with some holes that run along the edge of the cliffs with greens that seem to hover above the sea. .

The club offers a luxurious experience with fine dining, a spa and accommodation options, making it a destination for golfers who want to combine world-class golf with relaxation.

The course’s exposure to the Atlantic means that weather conditions can change rapidly, with strong winds being a common challenge. These winds can make even the most straightforward holes play much longer and more difficult.

Playing at Old Head Golf Links is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The combination of challenging golf, stunning scenery and luxury amenities makes it a top destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide.