The Top 12 Golf Destinations Around the World Revealed

A study by Buffalo Groupe recently revealed that 44% of U.S. players plan to spend more on golf travel in 2025. Those with high budgets plan to take six trips to play. How are today’s golfers deciding where to go? They are driven by the chance to play a course they haven’t yet and immerse themselves in scenic or unique landscapes.

These 12 dream destinations worldwide are of the most interest to American golfers.

How Was This List Made?

Buffalo Groupe, an industry leader in sports and travel research, asked U.S. golfers to rate their interest in visiting places in the next 2-3 years. Respondents must have golfed in the past year, taken a golf trip in the last 5 years, and have taken one or more golf-focused getaways.

What’s influencing their preferences? Most rely on recommendations from friends and family. So, one person’s trip and good experience golfing abroad can drive future trips for those in their circle. Also, they prioritize convenience, such as golf packages, on-site accommodations, easy course access, and direct flights.

1. Scotland

“Scotland, the birthplace of golf, is an unparalleled destination for golf enthusiasts. With over 550 courses to suit all abilities, from legendary parkland and heathland layouts to stunning links courses, there’s something for everyone, “says Jill Walker, Visit Scotland’s Director of Marketing and Digital.

“Whether you’re playing on iconic courses that have hosted The Open Championship – such as the Old Course, Muirfield, Carnoustie, or Royal Troon – or discovering one of the country’s hidden gems, you can walk in the footsteps of golf legends. Beyond the fairways and greens, Scotland offers world-class hospitality, rich culture, and a heritage that promises a truly unique experience for every visitor.”

Where to Play in Scotland

Golf in Scotland is a place where centuries of tradition still meet the high expectations of today’s golf traveler. Iconic courses include The Old Course at St. Andrews, often called The Home of Golf, and Carnoustie Golf Links, one of the most dialogically challenging Open Championships greens. Free in May? Book a spot in The Kilted Open, an annual tournament in partnership with The Fife Arms that provides ultra-rare access to play the greens on the private grounds of Balmoral Castle, the Royal Family’s Scottish residence.   

Lesser-known gems to consider are:

• North Berwick West Links Open Qualifying Course, which has a history dating back to 1832 and stunning sea views.
• The wild, isolated, yet magical Royal Dornoch Golf Club in the Scottish highlands is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

2. Ireland

The British Isles remain the most frequented destinations in the past year and the most desired destinations for international golf in the future. No wonder the island of Ireland is called the ‘green of dreams.’

For a tiny island on the edge of Europe, Ireland has a surprising 400 golf clubs. With world-class courses in some of the most spectacular locations on the planet, Ireland’s credentials for golf are sky-high, attracting 240,000 players from across the globe. While most courses are open year-round, the weather is most predictable and pleasant from April to October.

Where to Play on the Emerald Isle

One popular pick is the hybrid course at the stunning Ring of Kerry Golf & Country Club, which overlooks Kenmare Bay. Or, The K Club is home to two massive, championship-caliber golf courses designed by Arnold Palmer.

However, don’t overlook Mount Juliet, beloved by Tiger Woods, Royal Portrush, one of Rory McIlroy’s favorite places to play in Northern Ireland, or Royal County Down, Rickie Fowler’s all-time favorite.

3. Caribbean

The Caribbean offers world-class courses, breathtaking natural beauty, year-round warmth, and a surge in flights from the U.S. Imagine teeing off against crystal-clear waters and lush tropical landscapes and then enjoying rich cultures and some of the world’s best cuisine. No wonder it ranks so high as a dream destination for players.

Playing Across the Islands

Golfing in the Caribbean isn’t just about the game; it’s about experiencing paradise, one swing at a time. Some of the region’s best include Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club in Providenciales, Casa De Campo’s Teeth of the Dog course in the Dominican Republic, and Apes Hill Barbados, a long-standing icon, now shining brighter after an extensive 2019 renovation.

Visiting the Caribbean on a cruise? It’s possible to golf, especially on the smaller islands. Day visitors can play at Pete Dye’s Old Quarry Golf Course, a masterpiece in Willemstad, Curacao. Or, in Aruba, play the updated Tierra del Sol Golf Course by Iberostar, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, situated on nearly 600 acres of unspoiled beauty underneath the historic lighthouse.

No passport? No problem! Head to Puerto Rico to play TPC Dorado Beach, one of the most luxurious experiences. According to Jack Nicklaus, its 4th hole is one of the world’s top 10.

4. Europe

Unlike golf in the United States, the best golf courses across Europe are easily accessible to the everyday player. With over half of the world’s best golf courses in Europe, why wait to book a trip across the pond?

Where to Play: A Few of The Stellar Options

With more than 40 countries, talking about every great course is impossible. But did you know that Portugal won the ‘World’s Best Golf Destination 2024’ at the 11th annual World Golf Awards? Here are some of the reasons why:

• Dunas Course at Terras da Comporta was named the ‘World’s Best Golf Course 2024’. David McLay-Kidd’s first design in mainland Europe creates challenging play while showing off the natural beauty of the Alentejo Coast.
• The Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort was named Portugal’s Best Golf Hotel. It’s set among extensive pine forests and undulating dunes, with spectacular views over the Atlantic and the Berlenga Islands.
• Experienced golfers will enjoy the challenging links-style West Cliffs Resort, one hour from Lisbon, with epic Atlantic Ocean views.

5. Australia

From traditional links golf courses of Tasmania to the championship Sandbelt region in Melbourne, to city and seaside holes, Australia has some of the best courses in the world, and some hidden gems worth playing.

Where to Play Down Under

You’ll find epic golf courses to play across its regions, territories, and stunning landscapes. Don’t miss:

• Bonville Golf Resort was voted Australia’s Favourite Golf Course. It is located between Sydney and Brisbane on the beautiful Coffs Coast and offers Australia’s best golfing experience.
• Royal Queensland Golf Club in Brisbane is one of Australia’s most prestigious courses, situated along the banks of the iconic Brisbane River and beneath the spectacular Gateway Bridge.
• The Royal Melbourne Golf Club, Australia’s most recognized golf club, offers two courses carved from a spectacular landscape.
• Advanced players will appreciate the challenge at Woodlands Golf Club. Putting shot-making abilities to the test, its traditional 1919 course design has remained the same for more than 100 years.
• If you’re heading to Tasmania, the Dunes Course at Barnbougle Golf Resort is a must-play. Since its 2004 opening, it has been heralded as one of the world’s most impressive links courses.

6. New Zealand

With dramatic scenery, greenery, long stretches of coast, and soaring mountains, New Zealand is a natural playground with more than 400 golf courses spread from one end of the country to the other. No wonder pro golfer Lydia Ko says, “It should be a must-visit place for golfers from all over the world.”

Where to Play

New Zealand’s exchange rate for Americans is currently at its most favorable in 20 years, cutting costs significantly. Te Arai Links, a new luxury resort, is surrounded by trees, dunes, and coastal views over one of the country’s most beautiful, white-sand beaches. See for yourself why Rory Mcllroy raved about his golf vacation here.

Don’t overlook these gems when planning a golf trip:

• Kauri Cliffs offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and is ranked by Golf Digest as the 37th-best course in the world
• Cape Kidnappers featuring eighteen holes of golf designed by Tom Doak
• The must-play Millbrook Resort has been voted the country’s Best Golf Resort in New Zealand for several years.

7. Central America

With over 50 golf courses to choose from across the region, their greens are the perfect addition to a trip or a reason to go all together! Imagine being surrounded by lush rainforests, epic mountains, and ocean views—that’s golfing in Costa Rica.

Where to Play in Costa Rica

A mix of stay-and-play and public courses offers options for beginners and advanced players.

• Paradisus Conchal resort guests can play Reserva Conchal, a Robert Trent Jones challenging course.
• Four Season’s Ocean Course at Peninsula Papagayo offers guests both elevation changes and stunning views of Culebra Bay.
• Players must concentrate fully on the Ted Robinson-designed course at Marriott Los Suenos. Tee off among exotic native plants, banana trees, orchids, and more than 150 species of birds.

8. Mexico

Unsurprisingly, the country’s premier courses are located in the three major tourism destinations of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta’s Nuevo Nayarit, and Cancun’s Riviera Maya. Convenience reigns with epic courses a short drive from each of their international airports.

Where to Play in Mexico

Nuevo Nayarit offers nine world-class golf courses designed by legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Jim Lipe, Percy Clifford, and Robert Von Hagge & Baril. Take your pick of spectacular views over the Bay of Banderas, the Pacific Ocean, beautiful beaches, or the mountain rainforests of the Sierra Madres. Book a golf getaway at a Vidanta Resort to tee off at one of their three golf courses for an easy stay and play.

For the best Riviera Maya greens, leave Cancun behind and travel a bit south to play Fairmont Mayakoba’s El Camaleon Golf Course, host of PGA and LIV events. Or stay and play at the Bahia Principe Resort, which has two Robert Trent Jones Jr. courses.

In Los Cabos, there are greens that look arduous because of the landscape but are very playable. One of Jack Nicklaus’s best, Quivira has been a mainstay on award lists since its 2014 opening.

9. Japan

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, tourist visits reached an all-time high in 2024. While spring break is often associated with sand and sun, according to recent search data from Hilton.com, Japan is the most searched spring destination for American travelers. And high interest follows for golfers too!

“2025 and 2026 are the years to come to Japan as the yen is still at a great rate, and whilst tourism is booming in Japan, golf is still of great value and relatively undiscovered. With LIV golf rumored to be arriving in 2026 and tourism numbers growing year on year, the time to come is now,” shares Patrick Ohtani, Chief Operating Officer, The Luxe Nomad.  

Where to Play

Japan is not yet accustomed to golfing tourists, so a golfing agency or tour package is highly recommended. English-speaking staff and internationally friendly reservation systems are rare. The following courses have a stellar reputation and are easy to navigate for foreigners.

• Kawana Hotel Golf Course (Fuji Course)
• Taiheiyo Club (Gotemba Course)
• Hokkaido Classic
• Brookes Country Club
• Prince Hotels’ Kawana
• Taiheyo Gotemba Wes
• Kanuchabay Resort
• Miyazaki Country Club
• Setouchi Golf Resort

While most courses are on the mainland, don’t miss your chance for a once-in-a-lifetime play against a breathtaking backdrop where the sky and sea blur into one at Japan’s warmest tee. The country’s southwesternmost golf course, nestled within RISONARE Kohamajima by Hoshino Resorts, is pure serenity.

10. Thailand

“Given The White Lotus effect and Thailand taking over everyone’s travel wish list, it can be a holiday that all the family will enjoy,” says Milos Kosanovic, General Manager for Thailand, The Luxe Nomad. “From walking in the footsteps of favorite characters from the show while enjoying all that Koh Samui and Phuket have to offer: emerald beaches, jungle clifftop accommodation, wellness and cultural activities, and world-class courses.”

Where to Play

“Samui’s Santiburi Golf and Country Club and Phuket’s Blue Canyon Country Club have hosted many international tournaments and definitely are world-class,” he continues. “Phuket’s Mission Hills and Phang Nga’s Aquella should also be on players’ radar. “

11. South Africa

South Africa, the king of golf, has over 400 courses. While traditional British heritage design is represented, most offerings today are modern and chic.

Where to Play: 3 Options

Two of the countries best courses, Leopard Creek adjacent to Kruger National Park and The Links Course at Fancourt, were both scultpted by Gary Player.

The Player’s Course at the Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa (1666) is a historical gem. In 2005, Erinvale hosted the SAA Open, and its 18-hole course quickly became renowned worldwide. The first nine holes run through beautiful estates, and the second nine are set among mountains and stunning views of False Bay.

12. Dubai

If you’ve seen any pictures of Dubai, you know that they’ve dreamed big in the past 50 years and brought those dreams into reality. And that goes for Dubai golf courses as well. The golf options are seriously impressive for a small riverside city that rose from desert sands in a relatively short time. Many of the city’s sporting facilities are beautifully woven into its jaw-dropping architecture, and the vistas from Dubai golf courses are unique.

Insiders recommend booking a weekday tee time to avoid weekend crowds.

Where to Play in Dubai

Why not stay and play at the Middle East’s Best Golf Hotel, the Park Hyatt Dubai, at the Dubai Creek Resort?  For a diehard golfer, this spot amidst the tranquil surroundings of Dubai Creek in Dubai is unmissable. With its varying elevations and several world-class options, it is rightly ranked among the Top 100 Must-Play Golf Courses worldwide.

Or, want to tee off in an extraordinary Dubai golf spot? Dubai Hills Golf Club, a Troon Golf-managed championship course, was 2019’s World’s Best New Golf Course. Arabian Ranches, located a few blocks from the prime city sights, designed by Ian Baker-Finch, is an exciting Dubai golf experience. Don’t leave town without experiencing the epitome of class and elegance at Emirates Golf Club and one of its three greens. 

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