Imagine breathing in the ocean wind while teeing off in a tropical location or learning the history of the game while making par. For travelers who live for both the perfect swing and the perfect getaway, a golf vacation is the ultimate getaway for those who love the game.
From championship courses with legendary reputations to lesser-known courses in breathtaking destinations, the world is full of fairways worth the flight. Choosing a destination and a corresponding course that suits your game is the most important factor in planning your dream golf vacation. If traveling with other players, you will also need to take their abilities, ages and health into consideration. If the skill levels of your companions vary dramatically, perhaps you will choose a destination that boasts an assortment of courses with varying difficulty. And if non-golfers will be joining you, you’ll need to make sure other activities are available for them to enjoy, such as the beach, mountains, museums, art galleries, historic landmarks, and other tourist attractions.
Whether you’re chasing a PGA-level challenge, coastal beauty, or a golf-and-cruise combo, here’s where to tee up next.
Cruise and Play: AmaWaterways’ Exclusive Concierge Golf Program
If you’ve ever wanted to pair river cruising with premier golf vacation, AmaWaterways’ Concierge Golf Program is the way to go. This is available on select Danube River itineraries. With this program you will play golf at five world-class courses in four countries! A new Golf option on the Seine is also coming available as well. Impressions of the Seine & Paris: 9 Nights | 2 Nights Paris Pre-Cruise, 7-Night Cruise Le Havre to Paris (or reverse).
With this golf vacation, you sail in luxury between destinations. Every detail of your golf days are handled: tee times, transportation, club cleaning, and post-game celebrations. Non-golfing travel companions can enjoy daily excursions, making this the perfect “something for everyone” trip.
What’s Included
- Concierge service, including club care
- Private luxury Mercedes transportation to and from courses
- Lunch at each course with beer and wine
- 1 round per golfer at each golf course
- 1 shared golf cart per round
- 1 range token per round
- 1 Welcome Packet: a dozen Callaway Chrome Soft Tour golf balls per golfer, 1 pitch repair tool, 4 or 5 course guides, shoe bag
- Club cleaning after each round
Ireland: Legendary Links and Green Fairways
Ireland is a dream for golfers, home to some of the most celebrated courses on the planet. The rugged coastal landscapes and rolling green hills make for unforgettable rounds. Standouts include:
Ballybunion Golf Club – Consistently ranked among the world’s best links courses.
Lahinch Golf Club – A classic along the Wild Atlantic Way with challenging dunes.
Royal County Down – Dramatic views and a course design that’s as beautiful as it is demanding.
Pair your golf days with stays in luxury castles or coastal resorts, and enjoy Ireland’s famous hospitality along the was. Take a look at these Must-See Sites in Ireland to see what you could add to your golf vacation.
Golf Vacation in Scotland: The Home of Golf
How about a golf vacation in Scotland- where the game began during the 15th century and, as you can imagine, playing here is like stepping into golf history. Courses here range from centuries-old to modern championship layouts. Notable picks include:
St Andrews Links (Old Course) – The holy grail for golf lovers, with a legacy spanning over six centuries.
Royal Troon Golf Club – Known for its Open Championship pedigree.
Carnoustie Golf Links – A must-play for those seeking a true test of skill.
In Scotland, the drama extends beyond the greens, with sweeping seaside vistas, historic towns, and whisky tastings rounding out the experience.
The Caribbean: Sun, Sand, and Stunning Greens
Maybe your golf vacation involves a destination a little closer to home. If you prefer palm trees to pines, the Caribbean offers tropical beauty alongside exceptional courses. Two standout islands for golfers are:
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Dominican Republic – Home to Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo, consistently ranked as the top course in the Caribbean.
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Bahamas – The Ocean Club Golf Course on Paradise Island combines oceanfront holes with lush, manicured greens.
After your round, trade golf shoes for sandals and relax with a beachside cocktail—no packing layers required.
Planning Your Golf Vacation
Golf vacations can range from a fully guided golf experience with structured play or a more laid-back round or two.
A golf vacation require more than just booking tee times. It will come down to the perfect destination, the right accommodations, the best courses, the ideal weather, and the right balance of play and leisure. With this in mind, I don’t want you to think it would be impossible to achieve. It is all about the planning.
Ready to start planning? Schedule your complimentary consultation today.
