Ah, 2025—the year when hovercarts still aren’t a thing (I’m looking at you, future tech!), but at least the world’s best golf courses are better than ever. If you’re itching to pack your clubs, board a plane, and show off your questionable backswing on the global stage, then pull up a barstool and grab a lemonade—this post is for you. Below, I’ve rounded up the top golf travel destinations for 2025, complete with places to stay, courses to conquer, and a few laughs along the way.
1. St. Andrews, Scotland: Where Legends Are Born and Balls Are Lost
Why Go: Let’s start with the Holy Grail of golf travel: St. Andrews. It’s old, prestigious, and just waiting to remind you that you need another lesson. If golf is a religion, this is your cathedral. Sure, the wind might knock your ball into the North Sea, but that’s all part of the authentic Scottish experience—plus, you’ll have a brag-worthy story to tell at the 19th hole.
Where to Stay:
- Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa: Overlooks the 17th hole of the Old Course. Perfect for sipping Scotch and weeping over that triple bogey in plush, tartan glory.
- Ardgowan Hotel: A classic, cozy base for easy walks to the course and the iconic town center.
2. Pebble Beach, California, USA: Scenic Views and Ego Bruises
Why Go: If you’re eager to pay big bucks to have seals judge your swing, Pebble Beach is the place. The Pacific views are just as jaw-dropping as your flubbed chips. Don’t worry, everyone’s too busy gawking at the ocean to notice your ball barely made it off the tee.
Where to Stay:
- The Lodge at Pebble Beach: Pricier than a bucket of custom Titleists, but you’ll wake up to the hush of the Pacific. Classy, comfortable, and steps from the first tee.
- Spanish Bay Inn & Suites: A short drive away and a tad more affordable, offering scenic walks and ocean breezes.
3. Quinta do Lago, Portugal: European Sunshine and Smooth Fairways
Why Go: Portugal’s Algarve region takes “golf travel” to a whole new level, and Quinta do Lago’s courses are as smooth as a well-hit 7-iron. Plus, with sunshine that refuses to quit and local seafood so fresh it might just flop onto your plate, you’ll never want to leave—unless you slice one into the olive groves, of course.
Where to Stay:
- Conrad Algarve: Luxury digs with a pool that might rival your local pond’s hazards. Perfect for recharging after wrestling with the fairways.
- Quinta do Lago Hotel: Right at the heart of the action, this hotel puts you close to the course and the nightlife, ensuring your holiday is one long, joyous swing-fest.
4. Kiawah Island, South Carolina, USA: Alligators & Sand Traps—A Delightful Combo
Why Go: If you’re into alligators, osprey sightings, and challenging seaside links, you’ll love Kiawah Island. The Ocean Course is as famous for its Ryder Cup lore as it is for devouring stray balls. It’s the kind of place where you’ll be telling your buddies, “I nearly aced that par-3!” while omitting the two that ended up in the drink.
Where to Stay:
- The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort: Five-star treatment. Because after you’ve dealt with tough bunkers, you deserve a five-star pillow fort.
- Andell Inn: A boutique option with chic decor, a quiet setting, and easy course access for early morning tee times.
5. Mission Hills, China: The “Mega-Course” Mecca
Why Go: Mission Hills in China is basically golf Disneyland—if Disneyland had 10+ courses, each designed by a legend, and no long lines for the 9th hole hot dog stand. You’ll have more tee boxes to choose from than you have socks in your luggage. It’s a golf travel jackpot that’s perfect for bragging rights back home: “Oh, I played a different championship course each day!”
Where to Stay:
- Mission Hills Resort Shenzhen: There’s really no reason to leave the grounds. You’ll find spas, restaurants, and enough practice greens to finally fix that slice.
- Mission Hills Resort Dongguan: Another on-site gem, offering comfort and convenience so you can waltz right out the door to your tee time.
6. Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic: Rum, Sun, and Fairway Fun
Why Go: If your idea of golf travel includes perfect weather, white sand beaches, and post-round mojitos that could knock your socks off, Casa de Campo is calling your name. Teeth of the Dog course isn’t just a cool name—it’s a canine-themed test of skill set against the blue Caribbean Sea. Lose a ball? No worries, rum therapy awaits.
Where to Stay:
- Casa de Campo Resort & Villas: Stay right at the resort for the ultimate convenience. Rooms, villas, and golf carts aplenty.
- Hostal Silvestre: A more local experience a short drive away, offering a comfortable stay and easy access to the course.
7. Melbourne’s Sandbelt Region, Australia: G’day, Greens!
Why Go: No “top golf travel” list would be complete without a Down Under detour. Melbourne’s Sandbelt courses like Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath might leave you speechless—or at least mumbling, “Crikey, that was tough!” The bunkers are deep, the greens are fast, and you might just see a kangaroo hop by to critique your follow-through.
Where to Stay:
- Crown Towers Melbourne: High-end luxury in the city center—because who doesn’t love fancy digs after getting bunkered all day?
- Art Series Hotels: Quirky, comfortable, and close to the golfing action. A good pick for those who appreciate a side of culture with their birdies.
Conclusion:
From the Scottish Highlands to the sunny shores of the Caribbean, these top golf travel destinations for 2025 are primed to challenge your handicap, broaden your horizons, and possibly make you question your life choices (at least on the back nine). Take your pick, pack your clubs, and remember: it’s not about how well you play, it’s about how stylish you look doing it. And if you hit a bunker or two dozen along the way? Just blame it on that “challenging sea breeze” and enjoy the 19th hole. Safe travels and happy swinging!