When our clients start dreaming about their next getaway, it is important to seek out a destination that is both thoughtfully curated and perfectly suited to their style of travel. And for our avid golfers, or those who simply enjoy the unforgettable experiences of world-class service at luxury destinations, the right resort can offer a setting that brings together an exceptional play, with beautiful surroundings and time to truly unwind.
We turned to two of our trusted Alabama World Travel advisors, Emily Trione and Julie Smothers, whose firsthand knowledge and client experiences drive how we plan travel for our clients every day and ensure you feel confident you are choosing a destination backed by expert insight. Whether you are planning a dedicated golf getaway or simply want to incorporate a round or two into your next vacation, these five expert-curated destinations are designed to inspire your next trip.
New Zealand
For the Bucket-List Golfer
New Zealand attracts travelers who want one big, meaningful trip as opposed to a quick getaway, with the golf secondary to the setting. Courses sit on cliffs above the ocean, and you find yourself playing in different winds, elevation, and overall terrain that you can not get at many other destinations around the world. Most clients do not travel there just to golf, as they can pair it with a variety of excursions, including popular vineyard tastings, guided hikes, a Tasman Sea day trip, and scenic drives along the coast of Oceania. Many also add helicopter tours or national park visits, so the trip becomes a full itinerary, with tee times peppered in.
Because New Zealand is a top dream destination recommended by our advisors, this works best for milestone trips; think anniversaries, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, or travelers who want stories to share with fellow golfers for years to come.
Our Expert Resort Picks:
Rosewood Kauri Cliffs offers oceanfront golf with dramatic elevation changes and picturesque views over the Bay of Islands. This unique resort works well for couples and travelers who want golf as an accent rather than the focal point of the trip. It pairs well with New Zealand’s iconic wine touring and nature-immersed excursions along the coast, such as cruising, kayaking, and enjoying renowned geothermal hot pools.
Ireland
For the Scenic-Links Golfer
Ireland offers a style of golf that feels deeply connected to its surroundings, as courses are shaped by the land itself and set along the coast where terrain and coastal weather all play a role in how the game unfolds. What makes Ireland particularly appealing is how well it works as a full itinerary, since many travelers are not limited to a single property or course and can move throughout the country to combine rounds of golf with time spent in small towns, visiting historic sites and local pubs.
Emily recommends Ireland for those who want a variety of links courses. She proposes this destination for travelers who appreciate the scenery of Ireland’s coasts and country sides, as well as for couples, father-son trips, and small groups. Not everyone needs to be on the course all day. Instead, travelers of all ages and interests can go off course for activities, such as tasting world-renowned stout or hiking the iconic Cliffs of Moher.
Our Expert Resort Picks:
The historic Adare Manor offers a luxurious castle stay paired with championship golf and exceptional service and is consistently ranked one of the top hotels in Europe. Additional standout courses include Doonbeg and Old Head Golf Links, both known for their iconic coastal golf layouts. Together, these options create an itinerary that appeals to everyone, whether you be an avid golfer or someone who wants to balance golf with Irish cultural exploration, dining, and relaxed sightseeing tours.
Scotland
For the History-Seeking Golfer
Scotland is a top recommended destination for one reason above all else: history. With Scotland being the birthplace of golf itself, there is nothing that compares to the experience of teeing off where the sport was created.
Golf is structured differently in Scotland. With courses being grouped closely together, clients can stay in one accommodation and play multiple rounds without relocating, making it efficient for focused golf trips and perfect for avid golfers. Although for non-golfers, there is still plenty to explore, whether it be visiting one of Scotland’s many historic towns, such as St. Andrews and Culross, or touring popular landmarks and castles, including the remarkable Edinburgh Castle.
Our Expert Resort Picks:
The Gleneagles Hotel offers a full resort experience with multiple courses, dining, and non-golf activities such as shooting, fishing, horseback riding, and falconry, making it a strong fit for mixed-interest groups. Additionally, St. Andrews provides access to some of the most historic courses in the world, with surrounding resorts like the Old Course Hotel and Fairmont St. Andrews, including multiple course options in one area that make it ideal for both avid golfers and those who love diving into the history of their destination.
Hawaii
For the Sight-Seeing Golfers
Hawaii is a “visual delight” destination that brings a completely different perspective to golf, in which the islands’ natural beauty is just as much a part of the experience as the game itself. Hawaii’s courses are surrounded by majestic ocean views and lush, tropical greenery that make every round feel unique and distinct.
Julie described the feeling best: “Hawaii is a mind explosion everywhere you look…you think ‘that can’t be real,’ and it really is!” While the surrounding areas are framed by volcanic landscapes and even exotic rainbow eucalyptus trees, Hawaii is as visually engaging as it is relaxing, which makes it an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore the natural world in tandem with golf.
Our Expert Resort Picks:
Championship golf courses near the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua and the Grand Wailea provide both scenic and lavish options across Maui, one of Hawaii’s most nature-rich islands. These destinations are perfect for both couples and family groups alike with mixed interests, offering exceptional golf as well as beach access and first-class spa services. There are also a variety of sea and land excursions, such as surfing, snorkeling, luaus, and ATV volcano tours. The ease of balancing time on the course with adventurous activities and relaxation is what sets Hawaii apart.
Florida
For the Beachside Golfer
For those more interested in staying close to home through domestic travel, Florida continues to be one of the most versatile golf destinations by offering a combination of quality courses and warm, sunny weather. Not only do you enjoy the luxury of world-class beachside golf, but Florida is especially appealing for travelers who want a high-end experience and service without the complexity of international travel.
As Emily recommends that Florida is a top golf destination within the US, its multiple courses and extensive variety of outdoor and beach activities make it easy to tailor each trip to different interests. It’s especially great for groups who want downtime at the beach or pool to relax between rounds, as well as those who enjoy being on the water through activities like parasailing, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
Our Expert Resort Picks:
Cabot Citrus Farms offers multiple courses in one location, along with home-style cottage accommodations great for families or friends, making it a flexible option for groups and extended stays. Travelers can also combine golf with a variety of outdoor activities between rounds, including archery, axe throwing, shooting, and bass fishing.
Which of these destinations has sparked your interest? Whether you crave the grandeur of New Zealand, immersion of Ireland, history of Scotland, beauty of Hawaii, or ease of Florida, this is certain: no two travelers are the same. Connect with us today to begin a journey that fits your style and priorities.