Golf is more than just a game; it’s a way of life, a set of guiding principles and for many of us, a reason and inspiration to take to the road in search of the next great adventure.
For golfers who dream of teeing it up in all corners of the world, the choice of where to go and when can – at times – feel overwhelming. So many countries are now filled with spectacular golf courses offering breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and challenging designs.
Whether you’re looking to play on the historic links of Scotland, the rugged coastlines of Ireland, or the sun-kissed fairways of the United States, we have put together a list of the top golf destinations on the planet, all of which are must-visits for avid golfers, wherever you are based. Enjoy.
1. Scotland – The Birthplace of Golf
No list of the top golf locations would be complete without Scotland, the ancestral home of the sport. Scotland offers some of the most iconic and challenging courses in the world, many of which have hosted The Open Championship.
Must-Play Courses in Scotland:
St. Andrews – The Old Course: The ‘Home of Golf,’ this legendary course dates back to the 15th century. With the famous Swilcan Bridge and the treacherous Road Hole (17th), it’s a bucket-list experience for any golfer. The course’s double greens, undulating fairways, and unpredictable coastal winds make every round unique.
Royal Dornoch: A natural links course located in the Scottish Highlands, Royal Dornoch offers stunning scenery and strategic challenges. Its raised domed greens, deep bunkers, and rolling dunes create a rewarding test of shot-making.
Muirfield: A classic championship course, Muirfield is home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers and has hosted multiple Open Championships. The layout’s precision-demanding fairways and well-guarded greens are designed to challenge even the best golfers.
Prestwick Golf Club:The birthplace of The Open Championship in 1860, Prestwick is located on the Ayrshire coast and features tight fairways, deep bunkers, and undulating greens which demand precision and creativity. With its old-world charm and storied past, Prestwick offers a truly authentic golfing experience for those looking to walk in the footsteps of legends.
Beyond the courses, Scotland offers an unmatched golfing atmosphere, with historic clubhouses, whisky distilleries, and breathtaking landscapes that make every round memorable.
2. Ireland – The Emerald Isle’s Stunning Links Courses
Ireland is home to some of the world’s most scenic and exhilarating golf courses. With its dramatic coastlines, rolling dunes, and warm hospitality, Ireland is undoubtedly one of the top golf locations globally.
Must-Play Courses on the island of Ireland:
Royal County Down: Consistently ranked among the world’s best courses, this links masterpiece offers breathtaking views of the Mourne Mountains and a layout that rewards precision. The blind tee shots, deep pot bunkers, and gorse-lined fairways make it one of the toughest yet most rewarding courses.
Lahinch Golf Club: Sometimes referred to as the ‘St. Andrews of Ireland,’ Lahinch offers classic links golf with unpredictable winds and rugged terrain. The famous ‘Klondyke’ and ‘Dell’ holes provide a quirky but thrilling experience unique to this course.
Ballybunion Golf Club: A favourite of Tom Watson, Ballybunion’s Old Course features towering dunes and sweeping sea views, making it a must-play for links lovers. Its rolling fairways and natural bunkers create a raw and untamed golfing challenge.
Portmarnock Golf Club: A short drive from Dublin, Portmarnock is an elegant and challenging course that has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments. With no weak holes, firm fairways, and a setting right on the Irish Sea, it remains one of the most enjoyable rounds in Ireland.
Beyond golf, Ireland’s friendly pubs, lively music, and rich history provide a fantastic cultural experience for visitors.
3. New Zealand – A Hidden Gem for Golfers
While New Zealand may not be the first destination that comes to mind for golf, it has rapidly gained recognition as one of the top golf locations in the world. With jaw-dropping landscapes ranging from dramatic coastlines to rolling mountains, New Zealand offers a unique and unforgettable golf experience.
Must-Play Courses in New Zealand:
Cape Kidnappers: Perched high above the Pacific Ocean, Cape Kidnappers is known for its stunning clifftop holes and world-class course design by Tom Doak. The par-5 15th, ‘Pirate’s Plank,’ plays alongside a sheer drop into the ocean, offering breathtaking views and a serious test of nerve.
Kauri Cliffs: Offering breathtaking ocean views, Kauri Cliffs is a luxurious golf retreat with a layout that is both beautiful and challenging. The course features 15 holes with spectacular sea views, including six playing directly alongside the cliffs.
Tara Iti: This exclusive, private course is a masterpiece of minimalist design, blending seamlessly with the surrounding dunes. Without traditional rough and with firm, sandy fairways, it presents a unique style of play rarely found elsewhere.
Jack’s Point: Located near Queenstown, Jack’s Point boasts stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range. The undulating terrain and strategic bunkering make for an exciting round of golf amid breathtaking scenery. With its warm hospitality, adventure activities, and scenic wonders, New Zealand is a must-visit destination for any golfing enthusiast.
4. The United States – A Golfing Mecca
The United States boasts a vast array of world-class golf courses, ranging from iconic championship venues to hidden gems in breathtaking settings. With courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, and Tom Fazio, the U.S. remains one of the top golf locations worldwide.
Must-Play Courses in the United States:
Pebble Beach Golf Links (California): One of the most famous courses in the world, Pebble Beach offers spectacular Pacific Ocean views and a rich tournament history. The iconic 7th and 18th holes are some of the most picturesque in golf.
Augusta National: Home of The Masters, Augusta National is the pinnacle of golfing excellence, though access is highly exclusive. The undulating greens, azalea-lined fairways, and iconic Amen Corner create a magical experience.
Pinehurst No. 2 (North Carolina): This Donald Ross-designed masterpiece has hosted multiple U.S. Open Championships and remains one of the best tests of golf in America. Its turtleback greens and strategic bunkering require ultimate precision.
Whistling Straits (Wisconsin): With rugged bunkers, stunning lake views, and a links-style layout, Whistling Straits is a must-play for serious golfers. The wind-swept dunes mimic the rugged beauty of Scotland’s links courses.
Bandon Dunes (Oregon): A golfer’s paradise, Bandon Dunes features multiple links-style courses set along the Pacific coastline, offering an authentic Scottish golfing experience in the U.S.
5. Australia – World-Class Golf Down Under
Australia is home to some of the most breathtaking and challenging golf courses in the world, offering a mix of coastal links, championship layouts, and stunning landscapes.
With a temperate climate and world-class course design, Australia is a top-tier golf destination.
Must-Play Courses in Australia:
Royal Melbourne Golf Club: As one of the finest courses in the Southern Hemisphere, Royal Melbourne’s West Course is consistently ranked among the world’s best. Designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, it features fast, undulating greens and strategic bunkering that make every shot a challenge.
Barnbougle Dunes: Located on Tasmania’s rugged north coast, Barnbougle Dunes is a links-style masterpiece reminiscent of Scotland’s great courses. The natural contours, wild seaside winds, and firm fairways make for an unforgettable round.
Kingston Heath Golf Club: Another Melbourne gem, Kingston Heath is known for its immaculate conditioning and strategic bunkering. As a frequent host of major tournaments, it remains one of Australia’s top courses.
Cape Wickham Links: Situated on King Island, Cape Wickham offers a truly spectacular setting, with dramatic coastal views and a layout that blends seamlessly with the natural terrain.
Australia’s golf scene is complemented by its vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and rich sporting culture, making it a fantastic destination for golf travellers.
Top Golf Locations: where to go next
No matter where your golf travels take you, the world offers a diverse array of spectacular courses that cater to every golfer’s waking dreams. From the ancient links of Scotland to the dramatic cliffs of New Zealand and the iconic fairways of the United States, each location provides a unique and unforgettable golfing experience.
Whether you’re chasing championship history, purely seeking breathtaking scenery, or simply looking for the thrill of playing on a world-class course, these top golf locations offer something for every level of golfer. So pack your clubs, plan your itinerary, and get ready to embark on the ultimate golf adventure.
Top Golf Locations: Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)
What is the best golf destination in the world?
The best golf destination depends on your preferences. Scotland is the birthplace of golf, while the US has a wide variety of championship courses. Ireland and New Zealand offer breathtaking links experiences, while Australia boasts world-class coastal courses.
What is the most famous golf course in the world?
St. Andrews Old Course in Scotland is often considered the most famous due to its rich history and status as the ‘Home of Golf.’ Augusta National, home of The Masters, is another legendary course.
What is the best time to play golf in these locations?
Scotland & Ireland: May to September
United States: Year-round (depends on the region)
New Zealand & Australia: October to April
Which of these courses are public?
Many courses, such as Pebble Beach, St. Andrews (Old Course by ballot), and Bandon Dunes, allow public play, while others, like Augusta National, are private.
