The best golf resorts combine championship courses with first class accommodation and dining. A scenic location is another bonus and a bit of pampering goes a long way. Golfers are happy to indulge in their sport all day but their non-golfing companions will need other activities to occupy them.
- The Homestead - Hot Springs, Virginia
This is a historic resort with a view of the Appalachian Mountains and it’s particularly lovely in the fall. There are three championship courses and each one has a separate clubhouse. It’s got one of the longest lists of amenities of any resort, including a premier spa, tennis courts, a world class shooting club, outdoor and indoor pool, bowling alley, movie theatre, and access to fly fishing with instruction. Guests enjoy 6-course meals in a formal dining room whilst being entertained by the resident orchestra. There is a Kids Club, 100 miles of trails, and guided nature walks. Golf Packages are offered throughout the year and include Early Bird rates.
- Bandon Dunes Golf Resort - Bandon, Oregon
The links courses here have been compared to ones in Scotland. They stretch along the southern coast of Oregon, which gets its fair share of wind. The large dunes and pine trees make this a challenging resort and one that keen golfers will savor. Four courses make up the resort, namely Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, and Old Macdonald. After a day doing battle in the bunkers, the accommodation is warm and welcoming, ranging from a single room lodge to 4 bedroom cottages. Bandon Dunes also has bars, restaurants, and a golf clubhouse. There is a convenient shuttle service for guests to use.
- Doral Golf Resort and Spa - Miami, Florida
Something for everyone awaits guests at Doral, including five palm-lined, championship 18-hole courses. 'Blue Monster' is used on the PGA Tour and is considered very challenging! It’s a Marriott Resort and the amenities include a fitness center, tennis courts, Jacuzzi, saunas, and a jogging trail. Children will enjoy Camp Doral, a club with activities for ages 5 – 12, and the Children’s Pool, whilst parents can relax in the spa or the Blue Lagoon Pool. Accommodation is in rooms and suites in cozy lodges, close to the main clubhouse.
- Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa - Carefree, Arizona
Desert golf is a favorite amongst many players and this resort has two championship 18-hole courses in the Sonoran Desert with granite boulders and fabulous views. There is a choice of suites and villas to stay in and six different restaurants. The Golden Door Spa offers a variety of treatments and facilities, including a traditional Japanese bath and Pilates and yoga instruction. There is also a fitness center, tennis courts and four swimming pools.
- The Greenbrier - White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
Many visitors have come to this location since 1778 to take advantage of the natural hot springs. Today, the resort contains three 18-hole championship courses, namely The Old White, the Greenbrier, and The Meadows. Many legendary players have competed here. Guests can enjoy the spa treatments, using the sulphur waters, and the grand architecture. There is a wide selection of accommodation from single rooms to 4 bedroom estate houses and 7 bedroom suites. Lots of different packages are on offer including four Golf Packages. Other facilities include the Tavern Casino, with table games and slots, and indoor and outdoor tennis courts.
- Pinehurst Resort - Pinehurst, North Carolina
Pinehurst has a choice of eight golf courses and has hosted several championships. The 2014 US Open will be played here. Vacationing golfers will appreciate the slightly inclining sand hills for teeing off. There is a variety of accommodation including a luxury hotel, vacation villas, a lodge, and condominiums. Eight different eating venues serve delicious meals. Other activities include tennis and relaxing in the spa. For those who like to get out on the water, kayaking on Lake Pinehurst is popular.
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai - The Big Island, Hawaii
The Four Seasons chain has an enviable reputation and this location is just a 10-minute drive from Konu International Airport. The legendary Jack Nicklaus designed the 18-hole course, which runs along the scenic Pacific Coast. Guests stay in two-storey bungalows on the white sand beachfront or adjacent to the golf course. A spa and tennis courts are also available and there are lots of activities for the children, making it a popular spot for family vacations. Guests get a friendly 'aloha' in Hawaii and there is a display of local artwork that reflects the Hawaiian culture.
- The American Club - Kohler, Wisconsin
This resort boasts four championship courses and several top tournaments have been played here. There are various Golf Packages to choose from and Golf and Spa Packages too. Kohler is the place to come for real luxury and pampering and it’s known as ‘one of the most luxurious hotels in the Midwest’. There is still a good price range however, from Standard Rooms up to the Presidential Suite. The building is listed on the Register of Historic Places and visitors can go on the American Club Tour to learn about the history of the building and its conversion to a hotel.
- Reynold’s Plantation - Greensboro, Georgia
This southern gem has 99 holes of golf in total, across seven courses, one of which was designed by Jack Nicklaus. The accommodation offers a view of the lake, the woods, or the golf course. The Ritz-Carlton Lodge has 251 guest rooms. Alternatively, guests can stay in a Reynolds Landing Cottage, or in a Village at Lake Club condominium or at Marina Cove. The resort is only an hour’s drive from Augusta and Atlanta. Many guests like to rent a pontoon on Lake Oconee, which is the second largest lake in the state. Golf Packages include the use of the swimming pools, tennis club, boat rentals, Southern style breakfast, and the spa facilities at the Ritz-Carlton.
- Kapalua Resort - Lahaina, Hawaii
Kapalua is a gorgeous resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean, consisting of two 18-hole championship courses and a branch of the Ritz-Carlton hotel. Guests enjoy amazing views, three white sand beaches, and the chance to snorkel in clear water. There are also tennis courts and a spa. There is a choice of luxury condominiums, vacation villas, and luxury homes in the best neighborhoods, in addition to the hotel. Golf Packages include an "All you can play for 5 days' package.
Whether you are looking to tee off in the mountains or on the beaches of Hawaii, pack up your golf bag and head out to one of these best golf resorts.
