Once seen as a niche pursuit for the privileged few, golf is now blossoming into a mainstream travel craze. The sport, long associated with exclusivity and prestige, is carving out a dynamic new niche in the hospitality industry, golf resorts. These sprawling havens are no longer just about the game; they’re a masterclass in blending world-class golf amenities with immersive luxury experiences, wellness, and inclusivity.
As affluent travelers, corporate groups, and even families increasingly prioritize golf-centric holidays, resorts are rethinking their offerings to cater to this burgeoning demand. The result? A new era of aspirational golf getaways that appeal to a broader audience.
The Rise of Golf-Centric Tourism from Niche to Mainstream
In recent years, golf tourism has surged in popularity, fueled by a combination of factors. According to a report by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), the global golf travel market is expected to grow by over 4% annually, with travelers spending upwards of $17 billion annually on golf-related trips (IAGTO Global Golf Tourism Survey, 2022). North America and Europe remain strongholds, but emerging destinations across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa are fast gaining traction.
This growth is being driven, in part, by affluent travelers seeking a unique blend of recreation and relaxation. Golf offers an appealing combination of sport, outdoor activity, and social engagement, making it particularly attractive to corporate groups looking for team-building experiences, as well as families and individuals seeking a leisurely yet active vacation. Additionally, as golf continues to shed its image as an elite, male-dominated pursuit, it’s seeing increased interest among women and younger demographics.
“For many travelers, golf is no longer just a sport; it’s a lifestyle experience,” says Amanda Hughes, a luxury travel consultant and founder of Elite Escapes. “Golf resorts are tapping into this shift by creating environments that are less about exclusivity and more about inclusivity, ensuring there’s something for everyone, whether you’re an avid golfer or just there to enjoy the scenery and amenities.”
The New Wave of Golf Resorts in 2025
Modern golf resorts are redefining what it means to cater to golf enthusiasts. While pristine, championship-grade courses remain the centerpiece, the experience is now being enriched with a suite of complementary offerings designed to appeal to a wider audience.
- World-Class Golf Amenities: At the core of these resorts are meticulously designed golf courses, many of which are crafted by legendary players-turned-architects like Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. Resorts now offer state-of-the-art tee-time booking systems, professional caddies, and on-site golf academies with expert trainers. For beginners, private lessons and group clinics are readily available, making the sport accessible to newcomers.
- Wellness and Beyond: Recognizing the growing demand for holistic wellness experiences, many golf resorts are integrating spa treatments, yoga sessions, and fitness programs. For instance, the Verdura Resort in Sicily combines its award-winning golf courses with a focus on Mediterranean wellness, offering everything from Thalassotherapy treatments to organic farm-to-table dining.
- Family-Friendly Offerings: Resorts are also ensuring families feel welcome by incorporating kid-friendly activities, junior golf programs, and non-golf amenities like water parks, adventure trails, and cultural experiences. The Villa Roma Resort in Catskills, New York, for example, offers Family Golf Packages alongside its celebrated courses.
- Luxury and Exclusivity: High-end golf resorts are taking luxury to new heights, offering private villas, personalized concierge services, and even helicopter transfers to and from the course. The Emirates Golf Club in Dubai exemplifies this trend, blending desert-inspired golf courses with opulent accommodations and fine dining.
Urban Demand of Golf Resorts Near Major Cities
Interestingly, the shift toward golf-centric travel isn’t limited to remote, countryside destinations. Urban hubs like New York City are seeing heightened demand for luxury golf resorts located within a short drive. Other cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas are also seeing a surge in demand for golf resorts and clubs that cater to travelers seeking both proximity to urban centers and the tranquility of resort life. This trend reflects the growing appeal of combining business travel with leisure, particularly for corporate groups hosting retreats or executives looking to unwind after a day of meetings.
Destinations beyond Traditional Golf Hubs
While traditional golf hotspots like Scotland, Florida, and Portugal’s Algarve region remain perennial favorites, new destinations are emerging as key players in the golf resort scene.
Asia-Pacific: Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan are investing heavily in golf tourism. Vietnam, in particular, has positioned itself as a rising star with luxurious resorts like Laguna Lang Co and Ba Na Hills Golf Club, both offering breathtaking landscapes and top-tier facilities (Vietnam National Tourism Administration Report, 2023).
Middle East: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are leading the charge with iconic courses like the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, offering a mix of desert and coastal scenery.
South Africa: Known for its stunning natural beauty, South Africa is attracting golfers to destinations like Fancourt in George, which combines world-class courses with safari experiences.
United States: Beyond New York, cities like Orlando (with its plethora of golf resorts like Waldorf Astoria Golf Club) and Scottsdale, Arizona, are among the top domestic destinations for golf enthusiasts. Scottsdale is home to world-renowned resorts like Troon North and TPC Scottsdale, which blend desert landscapes with premier golfing.
Making Golf Holidays More Inclusive and Aspirational
As golf resorts continue to evolve, they are increasingly focusing on making the sport and its accompanying experiences more inclusive. From offering affordable family packages to designing shorter, beginner-friendly courses, these resorts are ensuring a wider demographic feels welcome. Moreover, they are capitalizing on the “bleisure” (business and leisure) travel trend by catering to corporate groups with state-of-the-art conference facilities and team-building activities.
“For resorts, the key is to create a holistic experience that caters to both golfers and non-golfers,” notes James Cartwright, a hospitality analyst with Global Travel Insights. “This could mean incorporating culinary workshops, wine tastings, or even art tours into the itinerary. The goal is to ensure that guests leave with memories that extend far beyond the fairway.”
The Future of Golf Resorts
As the demand for golf-centric travel grows, the sector is poised for continued innovation. Technology is playing a significant role, with resorts adopting virtual reality golf simulators, advanced course mapping apps, and AI-driven swing analysis tools. Sustainability is also becoming a priority, with eco-friendly courses that use water-efficient irrigation systems and support local ecosystems.
Ultimately, the rise of golf resorts signals a broader shift in the luxury travel industry, one where experiences are tailored, inclusive, and aspirational. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer chasing the perfect swing or a curious traveler drawn by the allure of luxury and leisure, the modern golf resort promises an unforgettable escape.
So, pack your clubs or don’t. Either way, you’re bound to find something to love on the greens!
