Thousands of golf courses spot the country — as a lover of golf, you could eyeing these with interest. The prices, however, vary widely. When you start putting together a trip for you and your friends, you could be at a loss for where to begin. Do you head west for the sunny fairways of Scottsdale? Or do you trek into the Michigan wilderness to find the gorgeous courses waiting for you behind the trees?
The good news is that there is no shortage of courses in the United States. But you’ll want to take a look at your budget and then find the courses that fit what you’re looking for. Let’s take a look at some of the trips you can take that will give you access to some awesome courses.
1. Miami, Florida
Miami is humming with innovation and a booming economy. While it’s an awesome place to check out for the culture, it’s also one of the best and most affordable places to play golf. Miami is filled with awesome courses to play — Miami Beach Golf Club, Miami Shores and the Soffer Course are just a few. These are some of the more premiere courses, of course — you’ll be able to find a whole host of affordable courses in the area that offer 18 holes for around $25.
2. Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale is quickly becoming the go-to place for people who love golf. And it’s easy to see why — always sunny, always beautiful conditions (except maybe in the summer) — it’s like heaven for golfers who want to wake up and play. Scottsdale is also dotted with great courses — many of them within a reasonable price range.
Planning a trip to Scottsdale is one of the best ideas for those who are looking fun and affordable golfing experience — and who don’t want to depend on the whims of northern weather to make or break their plans. Camelback Golf Club, Boulders Club and TPC Scottsdale offer some stay-and-play packages. Check out Troon North Golf Club for a really special golfing experience.
Scottsdale is an easy choice for a golf trip — you can wake up early in the morning for a cool round or tee off late and take in the breathtaking, natural beauty of a setting sun over the desert landscape.
3. Northern Michigan
One of the best things about the game of golf is that it gives us a reason to enjoy the world’s natural beauty. Even if you’ve spent the day hacking away at the course just trying to save triple bogey, there are moments when a course is so stunning that we can’t help but feel some sort of gratitude for stepping onto its grass.
The courses in northern Michigan are exactly like that. Arcadia Bluffs, for example, offer some of the best views you’ll ever see on a course. The wide array of courses in Northern Michigan offers something for everyone — some are brutally challenging while others are geared more for the amateur just looking for a good time. Whatever you and your golf mates are looking for, you’re sure to find something to love in northern Michigan.
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Not all of us have the purse to take a trip to Pebble Beach and play the course for a weekend. You can still find plenty of awesome courses along the coastline that offer stunning vistas and enjoyable golf. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is an area great for golfers looking for their fill. There are dozens of choices all over the area you can choose from. Play The Dunes Golf & Beach Club or the True Blue Golf Course for a memorable experience.
Whatever budget you’re on, you’re likely to find some great golf in the Myrtle Beach area that you can enjoy with some friends.
5. San Diego, California
Few places offer the kind of weather perfection that San Diego has — sunny, clear and beautiful, it’s the ideal location for a golf trip with your buddies. Borona Creek and Coronado are a couple to check out. And let’s not forget the iconic Torrey Pines. If you want to play a renowned course that some of the best in the game have walked, check out Torrey Pines.
6. Orlando, Florida
Florida is featured twice on this list, and for good reason — you can find so many awesome places to play in this region. Orlando is one of those — full of flashy resorts and fun activities, it’s also home to a variety of great courses that you can choose from with regard to budget and difficulty preference.
The Best Golf Course Trips to Take On a Budget: The Bottom Line
These are just some of the best golf trips you can take on a budget. A lot of this will depend on your location, what kind of courses you’re looking for and your overall price range. Be sure to take these more personal factors into account as you’re planning.