Choosing the Best Golf Trip Destination

(Without Letting Social Media Decide for You)

Planning a group golf trip is exciting, but with so many incredible destinations, how do you pick the right one? It’s easy to fall into the trap of chasing social media trends or choosing a spot just because it’s where everyone else is going. But the best golf trip isn’t about what looks good online—it’s about what fits your group’s budget, playing style, and expectations.

Here’s how to choose the best destination for your golf trip and why resisting outside pressure will lead to a much better experience.

Step 1: Understand Your Group’s Priorities

Before locking in a destination, consider what’s most important to your group. Ask questions like:

• Budget: Are you looking for a high-end resort or a budget-friendly getaway?

• Golf Experience: Do you want championship-level difficulty or a mix of fun, playable courses?

• Weather & Seasonality: Are you traveling in peak season, or do you want to avoid crowds?

• Off-Course Activities: Does your group want nightlife, beach access, or a more relaxed setting?

• Travel Logistics: How far is everyone willing to travel? Are direct flights available?

Having clarity on these factors ensures you pick a destination that makes sense for your group—not just one that’s Instagram-worthy.

Step 2: Ignore the Social Media Hype

It’s tempting to book a trip to the hottest golf destination just because it’s all over your feed. But just because a course or resort looks stunning in photos doesn’t mean it’s the right fit.

Why Social Media Shouldn’t Dictate Your Trip Choice

• Misleading Expectations: Photos often showcase perfect weather, pristine conditions, and empty fairways—things you might not actually experience.

• Price vs. Value: High-profile destinations often come with premium pricing, but that doesn’t always mean a better golf experience.

• Crowds & Availability: If a spot is trending, expect higher rates and packed tee sheets. This can lead to slow rounds and a less enjoyable experience.

• One-Size-Fits-All Thinking: Your group might not have the same priorities as influencers or golf media. The best trip for one group may not be ideal for yours.

Instead of picking a destination based on hype, focus on places that align with what your group actually wants.

Step 3: Choose a Destination That Matches Your Group’s Playing Ability

One of the biggest mistakes in golf trip planning is choosing a location with courses that don’t suit your group’s skill levels.

• High-handicap groups will struggle at ultra-challenging courses with forced carries and extreme difficulty.

• Mixed-ability groups should look for destinations with multiple course options, allowing everyone to find a comfortable challenge.

• Competitive groups might enjoy resort destinations with tournament-caliber tracks.

For example:

• Bandon Dunes or Pinehurst are golf meccas, but their walking-only policies and demanding layouts aren’t ideal for every group.

• Scottsdale or Myrtle Beach offer a wide range of courses, great weather, and options for all skill levels.

• Destination Kohler (Whistling Straits) is spectacular, but its brutal difficulty might be overwhelming for casual golfers.

Pick a place where everyone can enjoy their rounds, not just the lowest-handicap players.

Step 4: Balance Golf With the Overall Experience

A great golf trip is about more than just the golf. Some groups love non-stop rounds, while others want a mix of tee times and off-course fun.

Think Beyond the Course:

• Nightlife & Entertainment: Vegas, Scottsdale, and Miami offer a party scene, while places like Pinehurst are more golf-focused.

• Beaches & Relaxation: Destinations like Kiawah Island or Cabo provide a mix of world-class golf and beachside lounging.

• Casinos & Gambling: Las Vegas, Biloxi, and Atlantic City offer post-round entertainment for groups that like to test their luck.

• Culinary & Cultural Experiences: Destinations like Pebble Beach, Napa, or even Scotland offer amazing food, history, and sightseeing beyond golf.

Make sure the destination fits what your group actually wants to do when they’re not on the course.

Step 5: Factor in Travel Logistics

A dream destination loses its appeal if getting there is a nightmare. Consider:

• Direct Flights: The fewer layovers, the better—especially if your group is flying in from different locations.

• Proximity to the Golf Courses: Some destinations require long drives between courses, while others have everything in one resort.

• Rental Cars vs. Shuttle Services: Resorts like Streamsong or Bandon Dunes offer shuttles, but in places like Scottsdale or Orlando, you’ll need cars.

Choosing a destination with easy travel logistics reduces stress and maximizes time on the course.

Step 6: Make the Trip Unique to Your Group

At the end of the day, the best golf trip isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about creating an experience that fits your crew. Instead of following the crowd, consider:

• Booking lesser-known gems instead of overhyped destinations.

• Mixing in fun formats like a Ryder Cup-style event or a par-3 challenge.

• Choosing courses based on what excites your group rather than what’s ranked highest.

A trip that caters to your group’s preferences will always be better than one that just looks good on social media.

Final Thoughts

The best golf trip is one that fits your group’s budget, playing style, and expectations—not just what’s trending online. Social media can be a great source of inspiration, but don’t let it dictate your decision. Prioritize fun, playability, and convenience, and you’ll create a golf trip that’s truly memorable—regardless of whether it goes viral.

So before you book, take a step back and ask: Is this the best trip for our group, or are we just chasing what looks cool online? The answer could lead you to a much better experience.