43 Luxury Resorts For Your Next Grand Golf Getaway
More than 12 million Americans took a trip to play golf last year. And almost half of those surveyed said they will spend more on their 2025 golf getaways. Driven by the chance to play a course they haven’t yet and immerse themselves in scenic or unique landscapes, golfers are on the go.
If you’re looking to combine an epic round with a luxury vacation, the Four Seasons, St. Regis, Ritz-Carlton, and Fairmont hotels may come to mind. But have you heard of these luxe options on a college campus, at the base of the Rocky Mountains, next to Hershey Park, at Lake Tahoe, or the Sheraton Grand on an Indian Reservation?
How Was This List Made?
Forbes Travel Guide, the only independent, global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises, released its Star Awards for 2025. Their anonymous inspectors evaluate hundreds of exacting standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, to help discerning travelers select the world’s best experiences. And within their 2025 list were North America golf getaway gems.
“Forbes Travel Guide’s Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality,” says Amanda Frasier,
FTG’s President of Standards & Ratings. “This year’s list reflects the changing landscape of luxury with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences, unparalleled amenities, enhanced well-being, and the delivery of unforgettable moments. We are thrilled to recognize their dedication to creating world-class experiences for today’s discerning guest.”
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club
The Caribbean Journal named it the best Caribbean Golf Resort of the year. This off-the-beaten-path island near St. Martin is home to luxury resorts, including Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club. Got kids? No problem, it’s known as a fab family Caribbean escape.
It features Greg Norman-designed greens that are both challenging and visually stunning. Take your time teeing off and soaking in the panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and St. Martin. You’re on vacation, after all.
The Biltmore Miami-Coral Gables
January 2026 will mark the 100th Anniversary of The Biltmore, yet it remains the iconic center of Coral Gables, Florida. And its fantastic 18-hole track still shines at one of Florida’s most opulent and historic hotels. The 1st hole is one of the most fun on the property, as it requires a massive slice for right-handed players to reach the par 5 in two.
Beach Club at The Boca Raton
Fresh from an extensive $130 million redesign, the luxury hotel seamlessly connects to its half-mile stretch of private golden beach, Forbes Five-Star Beach Club, and The Boca Raton’s long list of amenities. Tee up some competition on their championship-level golf course on the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, exclusively reserved for resort guests and members.
The Breakers Palm Beach
One of America’s most iconic properties, this Italian Renaissance-style Florida resort sits on 140 acres of prime oceanfront land on the island of Palm Beach. This luxury, legendary resort is still owned by the Flagler family, who founded it in 1896. Bring the whole family to enjoy the beach club, four pools, two 18-hole golf courses, and the John Webster Golf Academy.
The Broadmoor
The world’s longest-running AAA Five-Diamond resort sits on the edge of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs. Set on 5,000 lush acres, guests can choose from biking, horseback riding, and fly fishing. Their greens have hosted numerous national tournaments, including the U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Senior Open, and PGA Cup Matches, as well as presidents, celebrities, and world-class athletes.
Boar’s Head Resort
Looking for a different type of golf getaway? Take a look at this 4-diamond, quintessential Virginia countryside resort. Offering warm and intimate ambiance and southern hospitality across their 600 acres, you’d never know this resort is owned and operated by the University of Virginia’s Foundation. Set at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a stay-and-play package grants access to Birdwood Golf Course, one of Virginia’s best greens.
Casa Del Campo
A hallmark of luxury and the best-of-the-best greens, Casa de Campo offers expansive grounds, private beaches, luxury villas, fine dining, and a long list of outdoor activities.
A mainstay on best Caribbean golf course lists for decades, Teeth of the Dog’s reputation is well earned. But be careful with your booking dates. The Pete Dye masterpiece will be closed for the entire year 2025 for a comprehensive restoration. If you already have plans to visit Casa de Campo Resort, their Dye Fore and The Links will remain open, welcoming golfers to experience two of the most underrated courses in the region.
Casa Velas
If you’re looking for a luxury, boutique adults-only getaway, look no further than Casa Velas, one of Mexico’s best all-inclusive resorts. Long known for its unprecedented hospitality, dining options, and luscious grounds, see the Pacific Coast sunsets in all their glory. A stay here makes it easy to play two courses in one trip: the on-site Marina Vallarta and Vista Vallarta, only minutes away.
Eden Roc Cap Cana
A 60-room hotel nestled in the exclusive Dominican Republic community of Cap Cana, it was voted the best resort in the Caribbean by Travel & Leisure readers for its blend of luxury, beachfront tranquility, gourmet dining, and top-notch amenities. Guests receive access to the community’s three Jack Nicklaus signature courses. More of a masterpiece than a course, The Signature Punta Espada has been named one of the best in the region for its masterful design in the stunning Caribbean setting.
Edgewood Tahoe Resort
Nestled on the shores of Lake Tahoe, Edgewood Tahoe Resort offers a luxurious retreat with stunning
lake views. Initially opened in 1968 as a premier golf retreat, it has since evolved into a world-class resort with a Forbes 4-Star and AAA 4-Diamond rating.
Ordinary players rarely have access to the same greens that celebrities and top players do. Edgewood has welcomed some of the biggest names in the game. Players like Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, Phil Mickelson, John Daly, and Lee Trevino teed up here, adding their masterful strokes to this mighty legend on the lake. Every July, it’s filled with A-list celebrities competing in the American Century Championship.
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
For over 100 years, Fairmont’s elegant luxury has lured presidents, royalty, and the most discerning travelers. Staying and playing at one of Fairmont’s iconic resorts and golf courses is an unforgettable experience. These greens showcase the world’s most captivating scenery, from desert landscapes and classic coastal links to century-old courses amid forests and snow-capped peaks.
These five Fairmont properties were recognized in Forbes’ 2025 guide:
- Fairmont Banff Springs
- Fairmont Chateau Whistler
- Fairmont Gold at Banff Springs
- Fairmont Grand Del Mar
- Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya
Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
When travelers think of luxury, they often think of The Four Seasons. And for good reason. They collectively hold the most Five-Star Ratings from Forbes Travel Guide for ten years in a row. Forty-four hotels, 17 spas, and four restaurants have received this honor.
And five of those properties also offer golf:
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
- Four Seasons Resort Lanai
- Four Seasons Resort Nevis
- Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
- Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Say aloha to Kauai’s sunny south shore at this luxury beachfront oasis with lush tropical gardens, acres of pools, and championship golf. Poipu Golf Course, designed by Robert Jones, Jr, provides both challenging play and incredible views and is adjacent to the resort.
Half Moon
Jamaica’s highest-rated resort is also the home of Robert Trent Jones, Sr.’s 1962 bow-tie classic masterpiece. Modernized by Roger Rulewich, the course still offers Half Moon Bay vistas throughout the old sugarcane estate setting. Caribbean sea winds constantly blow, but the caddies, who have seen it all, are players’ secret weapons.
Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa
Only minutes south of St. Augustine is a haven for vacation bliss. Golfers will love the Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Course, which winds along wetlands and lakes, or the Tom Watson-designed course, featuring waterfalls, brooks, and stunning stonework. Non-golfers will love the spa, 91,000 square foot water park, or the resort’s pink shell beach and ocean waves.
Hilton Los Cabos
Find your slice of Mexico’s paradise at Hilton Los Cabos, perched along one of the area’s only swimmable beaches. Following a comprehensive property-wide renovation in 2020, it added 14 new plunge pool suites, six refined global culinary concepts, an adults-only infinity pool, and elevated family offerings.
Its neighbor, the Cabo Real Golf Club, was designed by Robert Trent Jones II and offers a relaxed front nine and a challenging back nine. Don’t forget to take in the ocean views at every hole.
The Hotel Hershey
Did you know that Chocolate Town USA also has an AAA Four Diamond-rated resort? Inspired by a Mediterranean postcard, chocolate magnate Milton S. Hershey built the hotel of his dreams over a hundred years ago. Set within 300 acres of manicured gardens, you’d never know you’re in a theme park city.
Looking for a sweet game? Guests at The Hotel Hershey in Hershey, Pennsylvania, enjoy access to the nearby West Course, designed by architect Maurice McCarthy.
The Inn & Club at Harbour Town
The only Forbes four-star hotel on Hilton Head Island oozes elegance at every turn. For an epic stay, book The Fairway Suite with your private terrace overlooking the first and ninth fairways of Harbour Town Golf Links. Spread out in your living room or the two adjoining king-sized guest rooms with your group.
Harbour Town Golf Links will be closed for restoration from May 5 to November 10, 2025, but make plans to see it fresh off the upgrades.
JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
Want to plan a golf trip that will score with the whole family? A vacation at this AAA 4-Diamond gem with an on-site waterpark, Revive Spa, and pickleball courts will knock it out of the park. JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa’s Wildfire Golf Club offers two championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Nick Faldo.
Kohler’s The American Club
The American Club is a AAA Five Diamond destination steeped in classic luxury in Kohler, Wisconsin, one of the U.S.’s best golf destinations.
Whistling Straits encompasses the Straits and Irish courses, two smashing experiences that weave alongside Lake Michigan. A cool breeze is almost constant here—hit hard and place your golf ball carefully. Blackwolf Run has three courses: two 18-holers and a unique 10-hole par-3 course. Contoured around the natural land, these courses are trickier than you might expect but worth playing, no matter how good you are or how new you are to the sport.
The Lodge at Pebble Beach
For over a hundred years, a stay at The Lodge overlooking the famed 18th green of Pebble Beach Golf Links has rightfully so been on players’ bucket lists. This luxury lodge is surrounded by Monterey pines and its iconic Scottish-style links golf course.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Step into the timeless craftsman charm of The Lodge at Torrey Pines. Overlooking the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course with views of the Pacific Ocean, the AAA Five Diamond-rated resort exceeds expectations with world-class dining, a full-service spa, and unprecedented service.
The Torrey Pines Golf Course is a true gem. You can look forward to challenging gameplay against the backdrop of some unforgettable (but potentially distracting) ocean views. The South Course is a test for golfers of all skill levels, with a demanding layout and strategically placed bunkers. The North Course is slightly more forgiving but certainly not boring—it’s an engaging experience in play and view.
Mayakoba Mexico
Forty-five minutes south of Cancún is one of the best resort communities in Mexico and home to the most prestigious golf course in Latin America. Mayakoba comprises four luxury hotels: Andaz, undergoing a complete renovation to become Alila Mayakoba, Banyan Tree, Fairmont, and Rosewood.
It’s also the home to the world-renowned El Camaleón Golf Course. This Greg Norman-designed masterpiece blends through the magical ecosystems of Mayakoba, from the tropical jungle and dense mangroves to the freshwater canals and expansive oceanfront. The 18-hole professional golf course captures spectacular views in every direction, with kayaks floating peacefully by and the surprising cenote of the Devil’s Mouth claiming the most adventurous drives.
Montage Kapalua Bay
Set along Maui’s Namalu Bay, Montage exudes Hawaii’s unique hospitality and spirit of Aloha. Long recognized as one of the world’s best golf resorts, rave about its white sand beaches, hiking trails, and two championship golf courses set on this 22,000-acre paradise property.
The Plantation Course regularly ranked one of Hawaii’s best golf courses, is a challenge even for avid players. The Bay Course, a match for various skill levels, is known for its gently rolling fairways and epic views. Don’t miss the chance to play Maui’s only hole over the Pacific Ocean.
Nemacolin
About 70 miles outside Pittsburgh, Nemacolin is set on 2,200 acres in the picturesque Laurel Highlands and is renowned for its exceptional luxury. The resort also offers a kids’ club, so bring the whole family along. Explore outdoor pursuits at The Peak, including tubing, ropes courses, and rock climbing, as well as cultural offerings such as art tours, cooking classes, and more. With newly reimagined amenities, accommodations, experiences, and venues, there’s never been a better time to finally go.
“So many consider Nemacolin, with our two world-class Pete Dye championship golf courses, and The Nemacolin Golf Academy, to be a bit of a ‘hidden gem,’ but a growing number of discerning golf travelers are discovering the magic of a golf vacation in the majestic Laurel Highlands, ” said Nemacolin’s Director of Golf Operations Chris Anderson. “The golf experience here is unforgettable, and when you pair that with the adventurous and indulgent array of off-course activities and amenities, there’s truly nothing that compares to a Nemacolin getaway.”
Ojai Valley Inn
For over 100 years, travelers have been escaping Los Angeles to this ‘Shangri La’ in Ojai Valley. It’s where tranquility, luxury, and chic bohemian vibes meet Southern California’s natural beauty. The founder gave landscape architect George C. Thomas free rein to design the course, instructing the engineer to “Go ahead and build me the finest course that can be built . . . and use whatever land you wish. Give me the best. Money will be no object.”
And he delivered. Upon its completion, the press described the fairways as some of the most beautiful in the state. Play it yourself and see if you agree.
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa
Looking for your next one-of-a-kind golf getaway? Then check into The Palmer Suite at the Park Hyatt Aviara on 200 lush acres along South California’s Pacific coast. The suite incorporates course elements, a private putting green on its patio, course record scorecards, and a small collection of Palmer’s books.
Its award-winning par-72 course features beautifully maintained fairways, vibrant greens, and naturally occurring challenges, all while keeping the game enjoyable.
The Phoenician
Situated at the base of Camelback Mountain, the Phoenix area’s only five-star resort, The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, offers a luxurious collection of experiences, accommodations, and style for an unforgettable golf getaway. The Phil Smith-designed 18-hole course provides four sets of tees and a more contiguous pattern of play. Regardless of the hole, it showcases the beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
Rosewood Bermuda
The centerpiece of Tucker’s Point Club, Bermuda’s premier resort, golf club, and residential community, sits across 250 acres of the island’s coast. With only 88 rooms, it feels exclusive and uncrowded. The 200-acre Tucker’s Point Golf Course, sculpted by Charles H. Banks and Roger Rulewich, makes the most of the rolling hillsides and turquoise water views.
Sea Island Resort
A small island on the southeastern coast of Georgia contains a 97-year-old resort with 80 Forbes 5-Star ratings. There are five miles of private beach, a beach and Yacht Club, children’s activities, three championship golf courses, and the legendary state-of-the art 17,000 square foot Sea Island Golf Performance Center across some of America’s most stunning land.
The Resort at Pelican Hill
Newport Beach’s five-star, five-diamond Resort at Pelican Hill features two courses and 36 spectacular holes with sweeping ocean views designed by legendary architect Tom Fazio. Fazio sculpted the 400 picturesque acres of natural terrain along the coast to create the beloved Ocean North and Ocean South courses. Players will find sage and eucalyptus trees at every hole set against the cobalt sea and California blue sky. Book an early morning tee time for misty play, or end your day with an epic sunset round.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resorts
From coastal resorts overlooking the sea to breathtaking desert retreats, The Ritz-Carlton offers a collection of golf experiences that speak to players of every level. And their iconic resorts and a offer rounded getaways for more than just golfers.
Tee off next at one of these 14 resorts across America and the Caribbean.
- Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
- The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Spa
- The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburon
- The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
- The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
- The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Amelia Island
- The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Grand Cayman
- The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Half Moon Bay
- The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
- The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
- The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
- The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
- The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Sensitively developed on a South Carolina barrier island 21 miles from historic Charleston, Kiawah Island Golf Resort lies along ten miles of pristine Atlantic beach. The jewel of this 10,000-acre island is home to the resort named the best in the south.
It offers players five championship courses designed by the world’s leading golf course architects:
- The Ocean Course designed by Pete and Alice Dye, is widely regarded as one of the best golf courses in the country
- Osprey Point by Tom Fazio
- Turtle Point by Jack Nicklaus
- Cougar Point by Gary Player
- Oak Point by Clyde Johnston
St. Regis Resorts in Puerto Rico and Punta Mita
It’s not surprising to see two St. Regis resorts on this list. Bahia Beach, already renowned for its exceptional service with luxurious touches, including on the golf course, will become a Four Seasons property in late 2025. Its Robert Trend Jones II’s course is known as one of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean’s best.
St. Regis Punta Mita Resort is set amidst 22 lush acres on a tranquil peninsula. Tee off on two Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses just moments away and dine at exquisite culinary experiences, from fine dining menus to beachside dining under the stars.
Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
If you’re looking for a luxurious golf getaway that the whole family can get behind, look no further than this destination resort located in the Gila River Indian Community, where ancient vistas, mountains, and roaming wild horses remain untouched.
Splash around in one of our four pools with waterfalls, fly down the 111-foot waterslide, discover horseback riding at the Koli Equestrian Center, or participate in Native American cultural programming. End your day at the only AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes Five-Star dining experience in Arizona. Ranked among Golf Digest’s “Best You Can Play in Arizona,” the Whirlwind Golf Club features two championship courses adjacent to the resort and nestled into the foothills of the Sierra Estrella Mountains.
Terranea Resort
Less than 20 miles south of Los Angeles International Airport is a luxe oceanfront resort that feels worlds away. With 102 coastal acres and stunning views, it’s close to Los Angeles yet far removed from its bustling everyday life.
Golf here is how the game was meant to be played. Masterfully designed into stunning natural beauty, unobstructed vistas, and magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. Is there a better golf experience on the Los Angeles Coast? Play for yourself and decide.
Tortuga Bay Resort
When you think of Caribbean luxury, the AAA Five Diamond opulent Tortuga Bay is what travelers dream of. The only hotel designed by fashion icon Oscar de la Renta, it offers three AAA Diamond restaurants and access to two championship golf courses, all with a tranquil environment.
Lana Cana Golf Club has 27 Dye-designed holes and has been named the number one course in the Caribbean by Golf Magazine. Corales Golf Courses is known for its final holes, including the Devil’s Elbow.
Trump National Doral
A Florida icon for over 60 years, this golf resort offers four championship courses, including the famous Blue Monster. It hosted PGA Tour events for 55 years and has undergone a recent renovation by Gil Hanse. Though it might not seem like it at first glance, only the best golfers dare challenge this 7,600-yard beast. You’ll finish on the 475-yard 18th, arguably the most demanding hole.
Wailea Beach Resort
Set between the Pacific Ocean and Wailea Golf Club’s Blue Course, it’s a no-brainer for a luxe Maui family golf getaway. With the island’s two best beaches steps away, four pool experiences set over 22 acres, and the longest resort waterslide in the state, there’s plenty to keep the kids busy while players golf. No wonder it’s one of the top properties requested by Marriott Bonvoy members.
Wailea Golf Club, situated at the base of the striking Mount Haleakala, features three courses that offer stunning vistas of Wailea’s rugged coastline and neighboring islands.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
The Waldorf Astoria Orlando and its greens are visually stunning. And now this Florida jewel, set inside Walt Disney World Resort, shines even brighter after property-wide upgrades. No wonder Conde Nast Traveler readers voted it the eighth-best hotel in the world.
Integrated beautifully into the landscape, its course feels like it has been there forever. Yet, prolific golf course architect Rees Jones designed it only in 2009. Golf Magazine lists it as one of the top courses to play, and with their five-tee system to accommodate golfers of different skill levels, everyone can score bragging rights.
The Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
Did you know there’s a AAA Four Diamond Inn located on the edge of a 300-acre forest in North Carolina? Beloved for its stunning accommodations, world-class golf, and award-winning AAA Four Diamond dining, it’s hard to believe it’s on the campus of Duke University.
The Duke University Golf Club is an 18-hole championship course originally designed by architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr., in 1957 and masterfully renovated by his son, Rees Jones. Known for its scenic layout and challenging design, the course has hosted many prestigious tournaments.
Wequassett Resort and Golf Club
Built in 1925, Wequassett Resort & Golf Club is a luxurious waterfront estate on Cape Cod set against the stunning backdrop of Pleasant Bay. The summer the 27-acre oceanfront property unveils its $12 million renovation of common areas, 113 guestrooms, villas, and cottages.
Overnight accommodations include access to the private Cape Cod National Golf Club, a Par 72 championship course that is a true test for golfers.
Wynn Las Vegas
Wynn Resorts is the recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. Their Las Vegas property offers 21 signature dining experiences, 11 bars, two award-winning spas, two nightclubs, a beach club, and the only resort course on the Las Vegas Strip.
Wynn Golf Club, an 18-hole, 129-acre championship golf course, was reimagined in 2019 for an entirely new golfing experience that captures both the luxury and thrill guests come to expect from a Wynn Resort. Set among lush landscapes unique to desert golf with several water features and streams, 100,000 shrubs, and 7,000 mature trees, players who step onto the parkland-style course would never know they are only steps away from the Wynn.
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More than 15 million Americans go to the Caribbean a year. With the best beaches in the world, year-round warm weather, different cultures, and fabulous resorts, it’s no wonder it’s a go-to getaway. Add in courses designed by the greats, integrated into the tropical natural beauty, and it’s a no-brainer.
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Finding a course that is accessible, affordable, and stellar is like finding a needle in a haystack. However, Golfer’s Choice lists do all the work, spotlighting the game’s best playgrounds for everyday players. Created by recreational golfers, for recreational golfers, find out which greens in your state have been deemed the best by players like you.
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