Golfers are always ready, if not eager, to check their bags and hop aboard a plane for a round in a beautiful place. And the U.S. is filled with course-rich destinations that beckon golfers to enjoy the sport while surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, such as these 10 spots that have been nominated by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best golf destinations in the country.
Beyond the greens, these locales are brimming with luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining spots, and other outdoor recreation opportunities, making them well-rounded getaway spots.
No. 10: French Lick, Indiana
French Lick in southern Indiana is known for its historic resorts, mineral springs, and golf courses among the area’s rolling hills. French Lick Resort offers challenging, scenic golf courses designed by Donald Ross, Pete Dye, Tim Liddy, and Tom Bendelow.
No. 9: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
In Myrtle Beach, there seems to be a golf course around every corner — with over 90 courses in the area, this perception’s not far from the truth. Pretty much every notable golf architect has a course in the “Golf Capital of the World,” and a majority are public, making a golf trip to Myrtle Beach an affordable option.
No. 8: Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area, North Carolina
Pinehurst, Southern Pines, and Aberdeen are often referred to as the “Home of American Golf.” With nearly 40 courses in the area, including the legendary Pinehurst No. 2, this destination was the home of Donald Ross, one of golf’s most notable course architects. Beyond golf, visitors can enjoy small-town hospitality, local dining, and spa experiences.
No. 7: Tucson, Arizona
With gorgeous desert landscapes and over 350 days of sunshine, Tucson is home to more than 40 golf courses, including at the acclaimed Ventana Canyon Club. The award-winning layouts at Sewailo Golf Club and The Club at Starr Pass offer challenges amid the Sonoran Desert with cacti and rugged terrain. Tucson also has an impressive food scene, luxurious resorts, and outdoor adventures to fill non-golfing time.
No. 6: Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama
There are a whopping 15 top-notch courses to play in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area, making it an attractive winter getaway spot for golfers. In addition to the golfing, visitors will also find resort-style and chain hotels, condos, and plenty of non-golf activities, such as deep-sea fishing.
No. 5: Upper Peninsula of Michigan
With rugged forests, rolling terrain, and views of both Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, the Upper Peninsula is a unique golfing location. Popular courses include Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club, renowned for its dramatic elevation changes and striking scenery, and Sweetgrass Golf Club, a course known for hosting the LPGA Epson Tour. There’s also an annual day of Ice Golf when golfers play with fluorescent golf balls on snow-covered lakes.
No. 4: Coastal Mississippi
Often referred to as the “Golf Coast,” Coastal Mississippi has become a premier golf destination with nearly 20 top-tier courses that are open year-round. Notable courses include the Fallen Oak Golf Course — consistently ranked the top course in Mississippi by Golf Digest — Grand Bear Golf Club, The Preserve Golf Club, The Bridges Golf Club, and Windance Country Club.
No. 3: St. George, Utah
St. George and the Greater Zion communities boast 14 golf courses within a 20-mile radius. A combination of championship courses and red rock scenery, it includes Sand Hollow Golf Club, ranked among the best in the nation, and Coral Canyon Golf Course, known for its dramatic desert landscapes and challenging layouts. Bonus activities include visiting nearby Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park.
No. 2: Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Lake of the Ozarks in central Missouri has a number of scenic courses set amongst its rolling hills. Courses include Osage National, Old Kinderhook, and Lake Valley Golf Club, all known for their playability. Beyond golf, the region boasts lakeside resorts, water activities, and plenty of local dining.
No. 1: BOYNE Golf
BOYNE Golf, in Petoskey, Michigan, is home to multiple resorts that offer a total of 11 courses, many designed by renowned architects such as Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Donald Ross. Visitors to BOYNE Golf will also find comprehensive amenities including luxury accommodations, plenty of dining options, and golf practice facilities.
