Spring and summer may be the traditional stars of golf season, but there’s something uniquely special about playing when the rest of the world is bundled in coats and scarves. For golfers in northern climates, few feelings compare to stepping onto a plane in the dead of winter, only to step off into warm sunshine and palm trees.
This is your invitation to trade frost for fairways. From the sandy shores of South Carolina to the dramatic desert backdrops of Arizona and the lush fairways of Florida, we’ve rounded up 34 of the best winter golf destinations in the U.S. – where the golf season truly never ends.
Best Winter Golf Destinations in the Southeast
Florida Golf Destinations
1. Streamsong Resort
Bowling Green, Florida
Amid the flat horizons and farmland of Central Florida, you wouldn’t expect to find towering sand dunes, shimmering lakes, and theatrical terrain – but that’s exactly what awaits at Streamsong Resort. Its appeal lies not only in its comfortable year-round temperatures but also in its four stellar courses: Streamsong Red, Streamsong Blue, Streamsong Black, and The Chain – the resort’s newest addition. Here, you’ll find Coore/Crenshaw, Tom Doak, and Hanse/Wagner-designed courses, all ranking in the top 50 in the U.S. It’s one of the only places in the world where this caliber of golf exists side by side.
2. World Golf Village
St. Augustine, Florida
Just a short drive northeast of Streamsong Resort lies another can’t-miss winter golf destination where the game’s past and present collide: World Golf Village. Its two award-winning courses (King & Bear and Slammer & Squire) carry the names and design influence of golf’s greatest icons, including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Sam Snead, and Gene Sarazen.
3. Reunion Resort & Golf Club
Kissimmee, Florida
Reunion Resort is one of those rare destinations that’s always the right choice – no matter the season, no matter the occasion. Traveling with your buddies? Tee it up on three championship courses designed by Palmer, Watson, and Nicklaus. Bringing the family? You’re just minutes from Walt Disney World, but there’s plenty of magic on property too, including a 5-acre water park, tennis and pickleball courts, mini golf, and more.
4. JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort and Spa
Aventura, Florida
JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, conveniently located near Fort Lauderdale Airport, makes it easy to hop off the plane, slip on your spikes, and tee it up on the resort’s two courses: The Miller and The Soffer, both revamped in 2019 by Raymond Floyd. This is quintessential South Florida golf with shimmering lagoons, winding creeks, sprawling banyan trees, and, of course, the occasional gator.
5. Walt Disney World Golf
Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Beyond its world-famous theme parks and family attractions, Walt Disney World is also home to four standout golf courses: Oak Trail, Palm, Lake Buena Vista, and, most notably, Magnolia, which underwent a significant redesign in 2019. The centerpiece of that renovation is holes 14–17, now famously known as “Grumpy’s Gauntlet.”
6. Tiburón Golf Club
Naples, Florida
Play where the pros play at Tiburón, site of the LPGA Tour’s CME Group Tour Championship and the PGA TOUR’s Grant Thornton Invitational. Located in sunny Naples, Florida, the club features two 18-hole, Greg Norman-designed golf courses, The Gold and The Black. Ranked among Florida’s top 20 by Golf Digest and GOLF Magazine, Tiburón isn’t just golf… It’s your next bragging right.
7. Innisbrook Golf and Spa Resort
Palm Harbor, Florida
Escape to blue skies and rolling fairways on Innisbrook’s four championship courses, including the top-rated Copperhead Course. All courses were designed by Lawrence Packard, resulting in resort-wide consistency in vision. Inspired by the sand hills and foothills of Georgia and the Carolinas, these courses offer a refreshing change of pace from the typical Florida golf experience.
8. The Gasparilla Inn and Club
Boca Grande, Florida
The Gasparilla Inn & Club, named after the legendary pirate José Gaspar (who’s said to have hidden treasure on Gasparilla Island), embodies timeless Old Florida charm. Spanning 180 acres of lush, manicured grounds, the resort overlooks the sparkling Gulf of Mexico. At its heart is the Pete Dye Signature Golf Course, where the highlight comes between holes 12 and 17, as fairways trace the edge of scenic Charlotte Harbor.
9. PGA National Resort
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
South Florida is known for fantastic golf, and PGA National Resort more than lives up to that reputation. The resort remains the only one in Florida with six different courses, including a nine-hole short course. Of course, the spotlight shines brightest on The Champion course, host of the PGA TOUR’s Cognizant Classic. Here you’ll find the infamous “Bear Trap” – three brutal holes (15–17) that even the pros call some of the toughest in the game.
10. Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge
Orlando, Florida
Set on 270 acres along Orlando’s Butler Chain of Lakes, Bay Hill features 27 holes of Dick Wilson–designed golf, later refined by Palmer for a personal touch from “The King” himself. The Champion and Challenger nines form the tournament routing, home to the annual Arnold Palmer Invitational, where the par-5 sixth hole famously tempts players to bite off as much of the water as they dare. Accessible only to members and Lodge guests, Bay Hill offers golfers a rare chance to walk in the footsteps of the pros while experiencing the timeless atmosphere of one of golf’s most storied resorts.
11. Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
ChampionsGate, Florida
Tucked just outside the buzz of Orlando’s theme parks, Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate feels like a world of its own. With 36 holes of Greg Norman–designed championship golf and 15 acres of endless recreation, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite winter escape for golfers. Off the course, the resort invites you to slow down – whether that’s drifting along a lazy river, unwinding at the spa, or claiming a lounger by one of the sparkling pools.
12. The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club® Orlando, Grande Lakes
Orlando, Florida
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club® Orlando, Grande Lakes offers a luxurious yet welcoming golf escape in Central Florida, designed by Greg Norman. Its 18 holes wind through stately pines, live oaks, and peaceful wetlands, offering both challenge and beauty for golfers of every level. The club also hosts the PNC Championship, where professional golfers team up with family members in a fun and celebrated scramble format.
13. Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Palm Coast, Florida
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, along Florida’s Atlantic Coast, offers a premier golf and leisure experience. The resort features two standout courses: the Ocean Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, and the Conservatory Course by Tom Watson. Both provide thoughtfully designed layouts with ocean views and challenging play, earning recognition as some of the “Best Courses You Can Play in Florida” by Golfweek magazine.
14. Omni Amelia Island Resort
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Guests of Omni Amelia Island Resort have access to world-class pools, a wide array of dining options, a full-service spa, and championship golf at the Pete Dye-designed Oak Marsh golf course and the exclusive member’s course designed by Tom Fazio: Long Point. Whether it’s strolling pristine beaches, kayaking through marshlands, or experiencing award-winning golf, adventure is endless at this idyllic winter golf destination.
15. Saddlebrook Resort
Wesley Chapel, Florida
Saddlebrook Resort is home to two of Florida’s finest golf courses, both designed by Arnold Palmer. Here, you’ll find rolling fairways, well-manicured greens, and captivating wilderness areas sprinkled with cypress, pine, and palm trees. Off the course, enjoy Saddlebrook’s championship tennis complex, spacious fitness centers, three swimming pools, a spa, and more. Or venture to downtown Tampa, just a short drive away, for even more fun.
Georgia Golf Destinations
16. Reynolds Lake Oconee
Greensboro, Georgia
Few winter golf destinations rival Reynolds Lake Oconee, which boasts an impressive lineup of six distinct golf courses. Crafted by legends such as Bob Cupp, Jim Engh, Rees Jones, Tom Fazio, and Jack Nicklaus, these award-winning courses offer a diverse range of challenges and stunning landscapes from amid lakefront fairways and towering hardwoods.
17. The Club at Savannah Harbor
Savannah, Georgia
Nestled between the Savannah and Back Rivers in the picturesque Georgia Low Country, The Club at Savannah Harbor is just minutes away from historic downtown Savannah. Former host of The PGA TOUR’s Champions Tour event, the Liberty Mutual Insurance Legends of Golf Championship, this 18-hole masterpiece was envisioned by renowned architect Robert Cupp in collaboration with “Slammin’ Sammy” Snead, showcasing tidal marshes and abundant wildlife. Notably recognized by Golfweek as one of the “Best Courses You Can Play in Georgia” in 2020, the club remains a local and visitor favorite. Beyond golf, the location offers a diverse range of off-the-course activities, cementing its title as one of the best winter golf destinations.
Carolinas Golf Destinations
18. Pinehurst Resort
Pinehurst, North Carolina
The Sandhills region of North Carolina boasts several exceptional golf courses, including renowned gems like Tobacco Road and Southern Pines. However, the true golfing mecca lies within Pinehurst Resort, which boasts an impressive array of ten fantastic golf courses. Among these, No. 2 stands as the most notable, having hosted numerous professional golf tournaments and earned global acclaim for its challenging design.
19. Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club
Southern Pines, North Carolina
A brief drive from the famed Pinehurst Resort unveils another Carolina treasure: Pine Needles. Originally designed by Donald Ross in 1927, this classic course underwent a meticulous restoration in 2017 under the expert guidance of Kyle Franz. Adding to its prestige, Pine Needles served as the distinguished host for the 77th edition of the U.S. Women’s Open.
20. Wild Dunes Golf Resort
Isle of Palms, South Carolina
Spanning from the scenic mountains to the sun-kissed beaches, South Carolina boasts a diverse array of golf courses. And you’ll discover some of the finest along its captivating coastline, including those at Wild Dunes Golf Resort. This coastal gem features two fabulous courses, the Links Course and the Harbor Course, both crafted by renowned designer Tom Fazio.
21. Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Kiawah Island Golf Resort isn’t just a destination; it’s an escape that lingers in your memory long after you’ve strolled its sandy shores, played its championship links, or stayed in its upscale accommodations. This haven of tranquility boasts a collection of five award-winning golf courses, each a testament to the resort’s commitment to excellence. These include Cougar Point, Turtle Point, Oak Point, Osprey Point, and, of course, the Ocean Course.
22. The Sea Pines Resort
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Golf on the Carolina coast just keeps getting better and better at The Sea Pines Resort. It’s considered one of the best winter golf destinations as it offers the perfect combination of top-tier golf among that beautiful Lowcountry landscape. Play three courses on your visit to Sea Pines, including Heron Point, Atlantic Dunes, and Harbour Town Golf Links – home of the RBC Heritage.
23. Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Just a 10-minute drive from The Sea Pines Resort will have you teeing it up at another one of the best winter golf destinations: Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. This premier resort beckons with three exquisite golf courses that seamlessly weave through the picturesque coastal wetlands, beneath the canopy of towering oaks, and occasionally offer glimpses of the pristine beaches.
24. Barefoot Resort and Golf
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is largely regarded as the “Golf Capital of the World!” And Barefoot Resort and Golf is certainly one of the reasons why the Myrtle Beach area is such a hotspot for winter golf trips. Not only does the resort boast a fabulous collection of four golf courses, but it also previously hosted Golf Channel’s popular television show “BIG BREAK Myrtle Beach.”
Best Winter Golf Destinations in the Southwest
Arizona Golf Destinations
25. Gold Canyon Golf Resort and Spa
Gold Canyon, Arizona
Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa invites you to experience its stunning desert landscape, situated at the base of the majestic Superstition Mountains. Stretching over 400 acres, the resort features 36 holes of championship golf at the Sidewinder and Dinosaur Mountain golf courses.
Dinosaur Mountain features elevation changes and spectacular views. The track was also recently named one of the “11 Most Scenic Golf Courses in the World” by Travel & Leisure Magazine. Sidewinder was rated 4 Stars by Golf Digest. The course leads players through desert arroyos, making for an exciting layout.
26. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
Fort McDowell, Arizona
If golf is on the agenda for your winter vacation, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is a must-play. The area experiences an average of just 3 inches of rain from January through May. So, sunshine is surely a safe bet. The resort features two award-winning courses: Cholla and Saguaro. Both have notched top-10 accolades from LINKS and Golfweek, making it one of the best winter golf destinations in the Phoenix area.
27. Troon North Golf Club
Scottsdale, Arizona
Troon North Golf remains the hallmark of the desert golf experience. Its two 18-hole tracks stretch through natural ravines and foothills of the high Sonoran desert. The Monument and The Pinnacle courses snake through steep arroyos and lush vegetation. Enormous boulders and saguaro cacti only add to the beautiful mountain vistas.
28. The Wigwam Resort
Litchfield Park, Arizona
Escape to the desert oasis of The Wigwam Resort in Phoenix’s West Valley for an unforgettable golf trip in Arizona. As the state’s sole 54-hole golf resort with the perfect blend of fun, golf, off-course entertainment, and affordability, this luxurious 440-acre property is one of the best winter golf destinations.
In addition to the trio of championship golf courses, The Wigwam offers a haven of amenities for guests of all ages. Dive into the enjoyment of three expansive swimming pools, engage in friendly competition on bocce ball and tennis courts, and indulge in relaxation at the expansive LeMonds Aveda Salon and Spa.
Texas Golf Destinations
29. Omni Barton Creek Resort
Austin, Texas
In the grand expanse of Texas, where everything is said to be bigger, the world of golf is no exception – especially at Omni Barton Creek Resort. This destination boasts not one, but four world-class golf courses. Across the sprawling landscape of the resort, you’ll encounter rolling hills, meandering streams, and a diverse array of challenging layouts that culminate in immaculately contoured greens.
California Golf Destinations
30. Monarch Beach Golf Links
Dana Point, California
Nestled along the dramatic bluffs of Southern California, Monarch Beach Golf Links is a testament to the genius of master golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Few golf resorts in California match the blend of breathtaking natural beauty and the diverse challenges found on this exquisite course.
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, a rarity in California, every hole on this par-70 layout provides not just a fair challenge but also stunning views of the surf breaks. And, we can’t forget about the average highs in the mid-60s throughout the winter months.
31. Desert Willow Golf Resort
Palm Desert, California
Desert Willow Golf Resort features two award-winning championship courses: Firecliff and Mountain View, making it a favorite destination for golfers in the Palm Springs area. Golf Digest has recognized Firecliff as one of the top “Places to Play,” one of only three courses in California to earn this distinction for its exceptional conditioning.
Firecliff stretches 7,056 yards and is a true test of skill, with numerous water features and more than 100 bunkers challenging golfers at every turn. Mountain View, at 6,913 yards, offers wide fairways and fewer desert waste areas, but don’t be fooled – its 98 strategically placed bunkers make it nearly as demanding as Firecliff.
32. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Carlsbad, California
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa has long been regarded as one of the best winter golf destinations. Additionally, the resort was ranked as one of the “Top 100 Golf Resorts in North America” by Golf Magazine. Its charming seaside community provides an ideal climate for golf year-round.
The property offers 36 holes at two challenging courses: the Champions Course and the Legends Course. After a day on the course, relax at the resort’s eight sparkling pools, award-winning spa, seven restaurants, or 17 tennis courts.
33. PGA West
La Quinta, California
Picture this: You’re standing on the tee box, ready to swing, surrounded by a jaw-dropping view of endless blue skies and rugged mountains. You’re not just playing any golf course; you’re stepping onto an 18-hole masterpiece. Welcome to the golf paradise of PGA WEST.
This Palm Springs golf resort is more than just a place to hit the links; it’s a golf haven with nine iconic courses designed by some of the game’s greatest visionaries. With a legacy spanning over three decades as the “Western Home of Golf in America™,” PGA WEST offers an unparalleled experience.
34. Silverado Resort and Spa
Napa, California
Silverado Resort showcases the beauty of wine country with its two championship golf courses. Access is limited to members and resort guests, promising an exclusive day on the links.
Both courses have been redesigned by owner and PGA Hall of Fame inductee, Johnny Miller. Named one of Golfweek’s best resort courses, Silverado is also home to the Fortinet Championship, formerly known as the Safeway Open. After your round, enjoy tours and tastings at some of the region’s premier wineries. Gourmet cuisine at local restaurants will make for the perfect ending to your day, too.
Whether you’re drawn to iconic golf resorts like Pinehurst in North Carolina, the scenic allure of Monarch Beach in California, or the desert delights of Scottsdale in Arizona, these best winter golf destinations provide more than just a game – they offer an escape into the beauty of their surroundings.
So, whether you’re planning a buddy trip, a romantic getaway, or a solo golf adventure, these 34 best winter golf destinations promise not just a round of golf but a memorable experience in some of the most picturesque corners of the nation. Now, it’s time to pack those clubs, chase the warmth, and embark on your most epic winter golf vacation yet!
