Nothing beats a weekend getaway with the guys, filled with golf, beer, and good times. If you're looking to plan the ultimate guys trip, why not combine your love for golf with a few cold ones at some of the top golf courses around the world? From classic courses steeped in history to modern, championship-worthy greens, there's no shortage of options to choose from. But planning the perfect golf getaway takes more than just booking tee times and packing your clubs. To help you make the most of your trip, we've put together a guide on how to plan the perfect guys' getaway to top golf courses. From picking the right location and accommodations to finding the best local brews and bonding activities, we've got you covered. So grab your buddies, dust off your clubs, and get ready for an unforgettable golf adventure.
Choosing the right destination for your golf trip
The first step in planning your guys' golf getaway is choosing the right destination. Do you want to stay local or venture farther afield? Are you looking for a classic course or a modern marvel? Do you want to combine your golf trip with other activities, like hiking or fishing? When choosing your destination, it's important to consider the needs and preferences of everyone in your group.
If you're looking for classic courses steeped in history, there's no shortage of options. Scotland, the birthplace of golf, is home to some of the world's oldest and most iconic courses, including St. Andrews, Muirfield, and Royal Troon. In the US, you can't go wrong with a trip to Augusta National, home of the Masters Tournament, or Pebble Beach, one of the most scenic courses in the world.
If you're looking for something a little more modern, there are plenty of options as well. The PGA National Resort & Spa in Florida is home to the Honda Classic and boasts five championship courses. In Hawaii, the Kapalua Resort on Maui offers stunning ocean views and two championship courses. And in Dubai, you can tee off at the Emirates Golf Club, home of the Dubai Desert Classic.
Factors to consider when selecting a golf course
Once you've chosen your destination, it's time to start thinking about which golf courses you want to play. When selecting a golf course, there are a few factors to consider:
- Difficulty level: Make sure the course is a good fit for everyone in your group. If you have beginners or high handicappers in your group, you'll want to choose a course that's not too challenging.- Scenery: Golf courses are often located in some of the most beautiful parts of the world. Consider the scenery when selecting a course.- History: If you're a golf enthusiast, you may want to choose a course with a rich history or one that's hosted major tournaments.- Amenities: Some courses offer more than just golf. Look for courses that offer amenities like spas, restaurants, and bars.
The best golf courses for guys' getaways
Now that you know what to look for when selecting a golf course, let's take a look at some of the best courses for guys' getaways:
- Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Oregon: Located on the rugged Oregon coast, Bandon Dunes is home to five championship courses, including the iconic Pacific Dunes.- Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina: This resort boasts five championship courses, including the Ocean Course, which hosted the 2012 PGA Championship.- Cabot Links, Nova Scotia: This seaside resort features two championship courses with stunning ocean views.- Whistling Straits, Wisconsin: This resort on Lake Michigan is home to two championship courses, including the Straits Course, host of the 2021 Ryder Cup.- Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland: No list of the best golf courses would be complete without the Old Course, the birthplace of golf.
Planning your itinerary: golf, beer, and bonding activities
Now that you've chosen your destination and golf courses, it's time to start planning your itinerary. While golf will likely be the main event, it's important to plan other activities as well. Here are a few ideas:
- Brewery tours: Many golf destinations are also home to great breweries. Take a tour and sample some of the local brews.- Fishing trips: If you're in an area with great fishing, consider taking a guided fishing trip.- Hiking or biking: Get some exercise and explore the local scenery with a hike or bike ride.- Spa days: After a long day on the course, relax and unwind with a spa day.
Accommodation options for your golf trip
When it comes to accommodation, there are a few options to consider:
- Resorts: Many golf courses are part of larger resorts that offer amenities like spas, restaurants, and bars.- Vacation rentals: If you're traveling with a large group, consider renting a house or condo.- Hotels: If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, a hotel may be your best bet.
Packing for your golf getaway: essentials and extras
When packing for your golf trip, make sure to bring the essentials:
- Clubs: Obviously, you'll need your clubs. Make sure they're in good condition and you have everything you need, like tees and balls.- Golf shoes: Invest in a good pair of golf shoes to help you grip the turf and improve your swing.- Golf attire: Dress codes vary by course, so check in advance to make sure you're dressed appropriately.- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is key to performing your best on the course.
In addition to the essentials, consider bringing some extras:
- Range finder: A range finder can help you get a more accurate read on distances.- GPS watch: A GPS watch can help you track your score and keep you on course.- Caddie: Hiring a caddie can help you improve your game and navigate the course.
Tips for making the most of your golf trip
To make the most of your golf trip, here are a few tips:
- Play early: If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the course at its best, play early in the morning.- Book in advance: Popular courses fill up fast, so make sure to book your tee times well in advance.- Take breaks: Playing 18 holes can be exhausting. Take breaks as needed and stay hydrated.- Have fun: At the end of the day, remember that golf is a game. Don't take it too seriously and enjoy the time with your friends.
Alternative activities for non-golfers in the group
Not everyone in your group may be a golfer. Here are a few alternative activities for non-golfers:
- Sightseeing: Take a tour of the local sights and attractions.- Shopping: If you're in a city, take advantage of the shopping opportunities.- Beach day: If you're near the coast, spend a day at the beach.- Spa day: Non-golfers can still enjoy a day at the spa.
Conclusion and final thoughts on planning the perfect guys' golf getaway
A guys' golf getaway can be the ultimate bonding experience. With the right planning, you can combine your love for golf with other activities and create memories that will last a lifetime. When planning your trip, make sure to choose the right destination, golf courses, and accommodation, and don't forget to plan other activities as well. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to planning the perfect guys' golf getaway.