I’ve Played 103 Golf Courses – Here’s 10 Resort Courses Worth the Trip
I’ve been golfing for more than 50 years. After playing more than one hundred courses, I can confidently say this sport is played in some of the most beautiful places. If you want to combine your passion for golf with your next vacation, here are ten relaxing properties where the greens are just as impressive as the resort.
The Broadmoor (Colorado Springs, CO)
The Broadmoor, on Colorado Springs’s outskirts, opened in 1918. It features multiple accommodation options, all gorgeously furnished. If you’re after a wellness experience, this is a beautiful place to be—it’s been ranked in the top 25 resort spas by Conde Nast.
Spa-wise, they have a range of unique and innovative treatments. You’ll be asked a few questions upfront so they can tailor treatments to you specifically. Relax in a steam room, oxygen room, dry sauna, or fireplace room.
And if you’re keen on doing something a little outdoorsy, you can take part in one of their wilderness experiences. These activities include biking, horseback riding, fly fishing, and more.
Its Courses
As for the golf, there are three courses to choose from, all surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains. The East course is the favorite, a hybrid parkland course of dual Donald Ross and Robert Trent Jones design appealing to juniors, seniors, and those in between.
The West course is a nice mix of mountainous and flat terrain, so don’t get too complacent—it’s not as easy as you think! This is the most visually stunning course, so don’t miss the chance to stop for at least a few minutes, capture photos, and take it all in.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines (La Jolla, CA)
Want some relaxation? The Spa at Torrey Pines has a range of rejuvenating treatments inspired by the nature surrounding you, using natural botanical ingredients. The steam room, sauna, and serene relaxation area are perfect for unwinding.
Beyond the spa and golf, The Lodge at Torrey Pines also offers experiences like guided nature walks in the Torrey Pines State Reserve. You can explore the area’s rare pine trees, rugged cliffs, and scenic coastal trails.
Iconic Greens
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.
Innisbrook Golf Resort (Palm Harbor, FL)
In the lush surroundings of Palm Harbor, Florida, Innisbrook Golf Resort blends luxurious accommodations with a laid-back atmosphere.
The Salamander Spa at Innisbrook is a serene escape designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. You can enjoy massages, facials, and body treatments tailored to your needs.
It’s a Golfing Paradise
You have the run of four challenging courses, including the renowned Copperhead Course, known for its rolling terrain, pine tree-lined fairways, and tricky water hazards—a test for even the most skilled golfers. The Island Course is a bit of a different challenge—tight fairways and elevation changes, not for the faint of heart.
Big Cedar Lodge (Branson, MO)
Built in the Ozark Mountains, Big Cedar Lodge has the perfect mix of rustic charm and modern luxury. It’s a lovely destination for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts and is a regular on Best of lists.
You can also have other non-golf experiences like wildlife tours, bass fishing, exploring the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, hiking, biking, and wildlife encounters. You won’t leave without experiencing a deeper connection to the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
Its Award-Winning Courses
Big Cedar Lodge is also a golfer’s dream, with five spectacular courses, each with its unique design and challenges. Top of the Rock, a par-3 course, has an interesting and challenging layout for golfers of all levels. Ozarks National is a more traditional experience with sweeping vistas and natural obstacles that’ll test your skills with the clubs.
Four Seasons Resort Lanai (Hawaii)
This celebrity favorite resort does an excellent job of blending modern luxury with undeveloped nature. The Hawanawana Spa is inspired by the nearby ocean, creating innovative spa treatments with natural, local ingredients.
Four Seasons Lanai is also packed with unique experiences, like a private marine sanctuary where you can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs. If you’re a nature buff, you’ll love the chance to explore the island’s untouched beauty.
Its Infamous Course
Golfers will be captivated by the Manele Golf Course. Known for its challenging layout and holes that play over cliffs and along the coastline, every round is memorable. The signature 12th hole, where you tee off over the ocean, is thrilling.
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa (Austin, TX)
This resort gem is just minutes from downtown Austin. Aside from golf and spa activities, you can take part in guided nature hikes, lounge in the resort’s multiple pools, or enjoy fresh, locally sourced cuisine. Getaway, relaxation, recreation, or all three—whatever you’re hoping for, you’ll find it here.
The Mokara Spa at Barton Creek is known for treatments that blend holistic wellness with Texas-inspired therapies in a serene atmosphere. You can enjoy soothing massages or specific body treatments designed to help you release the tension keeping you stiff, sore, and stressed.
Sea Island Resort (Georgia)
Along the stunning Georgia coastline lives this charming Southern resort, which has received 80 Forbes Five-Star Awards. If you’re seeking wellness, this is a great choice. At its on-site spa, every experience is carefully and thoughtfully personalized. When you need time off the course, you can experience falconry, take a shooting lesson, or go yachting.
Three Courses to Choose From
Golfers can play three championship courses here: Seaside, Plantation, and Retreat. The Seaside is precisely as it sounds—you’ll play right alongside the ocean, a lovely experience, but keep your wits about you! You’ll need precision and smart strategy to score well.
Plantation is more forgiving, so beginners may enjoy it a little more. Retreat isn’t easy, but has some interesting elements that make it appealing to all kinds of golfers. You can enjoy a round on all 3 courses while you’re here, so there’s plenty of amazing golf to be played.
Pebble Beach Resort (California)
Pebble Beach Resorts is a legend in the golfing world. If your goal is to play at a “bucket list” golf course, this is it—and the spa facilities are the perfect way to wind down after a round on these iconic courses.
Legendary Courses
The three golf courses here are some that golfers tend to get starry-eyed over. Almost unbelievable ocean views set the legendary Pebble Beach links course apart from others, and it’s not just beautiful. It’s got a challenging design that everyone should play at least once.
The other courses, Spyglass Hill and The Links at Spanish Bay have their own unique challenges and stunning vistas, so it doesn’t matter what your skill level is—you’ll enjoy the play here.
The American Club (Kohler, Wisconsin)
The American Club is a AAA Five Diamond destination, stepped in classic luxury. The spa, which focuses heavily on hydrotherapy, can help you brush off the cobwebs of travel. Immersive baths, a rooftop whirlpool, and other water-based therapies are also available.
World Class Courses
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 3 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 absolutely worth playing, no matter how good you are or how new you are to the sport.
Pinehurst Resort (North Carolina)
Pinehurst Resort is full of Southern charm and rich golfing heritage. This sprawling resort offers a perfect blend of tradition and modern luxury, so if you’ve come for a calm, tranquil vacation, you’re in the right place.
The Spa at Pinehurst is a sanctuary of wellness. From stress-banishing massages to invigorating facials, the spa experience is complemented by a private garden and a peaceful lounge area where you can simply let go and enjoy the quiet. Each treatment is personalized, so you’ll be well taken care of in all the ways you really need to be.
Home to Nine Champsionship Golf Courses
Pinehurst No. 2 is the biggest legend, known for its spectacularly challenging layout. It’s a bucket list course if ever there was one. But each course has something special, and if you’re here long enough, you could spend time with each of them.
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