Sure, golf used to be associated with male retirees in pastel-colored grandpa attire. But in recent years, the togs for women and men who golf have gotten a lot more stylish. And as night follows day, the focus in the sport is making it easier for parents with children to get the entire family out on the course. A real golf course, not a mini-golf course with lots of circus-themed holes. If you’re looking for the best luxury travel destination for a family golf vacation, or the best places for your kids to learn how to play, read on. Here are some of the best, most luxurious golf resorts for family vacations in the world where kids can learn to play with expert lessons in a fun environment.
golfing is becoming a family affair
Bloomberg News reports that a study commissioned by the National Golf Federation revealed that since 2019, there has been an increase of about 1 million golfers younger than 17. It’s at the highest level since 2006.
And the hospitality industry has taken notice. Many more luxurious resorts have tailor-made courses and programs for kids. Marriott even hosts an annual Family Golf Festival across its global collection of resorts.
If you’re one of the many parents keen to get the littles (or tweens or teens) in the family out on the course, here are some of the best, most luxurious golf resorts for family vacations in the world. They’re perfect for a spring break trip, or a skip-generation trip with Grandma and Grandpa.
What are the best, most luxurious golf resorts for family vacations in the world where kids can learn to play with expert lessons?
best luxurious golf resorts for a family vacation where kids can learn to play
1. kiawah island golf resort, south carolina
This chic golf resort in South Carolina has garnered rave reviews from families seeking to get every generation in the family out on the course. Willingly, that is. Situated on a private, barrier island off the coast of South Carolina, Kiawah Island Golf Resort boasts five championship courses. Including the world-renowned Ocean Course. The property’s leaning center is set on the Turtle Point golf course, designed by Jack Nicklaus. Group and private lessons are available for kids of all ages.
Of course there’s plenty more for families to do at the resort and in the surrounding area. But if your goal is actually getting everyone to enjoy playing golf, this is a great place to start.
2. indian wells, palm springs, california
This California resort is about two hours east of Los Angeles, very close to the Palm Springs International Airport. It’s home to two golf courses: the Players Course and the Celebrity Course. Reviews from parents online praise the quality of the courses, the family-friendly vibe and expert lessons available to golfers of all ages looking to build their skills. The Indian Wells Golf Academy hosts PGA Junior Golf Camps, too.
3. sea island, georgia
Sea Island is a privately owned resort located on the southeastern coast of Georgia. It features three championship courses and a 17,000 square foot Golf Performance Center.
The Sea Island Golf Performance Center is designed to help junior players reach their full potential, with four different golf camp programs based on skill level and gender. They’ll also design a custom curriculum if none of these programs suit your child’s needs.
4. pinehurst resort, north carolina
“The Cradle” is the short course at this tony destination golf resort, which will host the U.S. Open later this year. Pinehurst offers a wide array of potential golfing experiences, with nine 18-hole courses. And the Thistle Dhu putting course. There are golf-related activities for players of all ages and skill levels. Kids under 17 play free with a parent.
5. destination kohler, wisconsin
Destination Kohler boasts an incredible roster of PGA events. Two U.S. Women’s Opens. A U.S. Senior Open. Three PGA Championships. And the first public course in over a quarter-century to host the Ryder Cup. So you know they’re operating at the highest level.
Your family can opt for golf school or private lessons at Kohler Golf Academy. “Offering four levels of instruction (Starter, Sport, Player, and Champion), the kids’ program focuses on five core elements to help youth learn, develop and practice skills to become better golfers and enjoy the sport of golf.”
6. black butte ranch, oregon
This resort in Central Oregon gets rave reviews from family travel websites like Kidtripster. That’s due to thoughtful details and a genuine commitment to meeting players wherever they are in their journey as golfers.
Kidtripster explains: “The resort’s Big Meadow Golf Course stretches over 7,000 yards, with expansive fairways that make it less frustrating for younger golfers to play and learn new skills. The Glaze Meadow Golf Course plays 7,007 yards from the back tees and includes five sets of tees on every hole, allowing golfers of all skill levels to enjoy the game.”
“Golf director Jeff Fought runs kids’ clinics, camps, and fun junior putting challenges. He also offers free, 90-minute ‘snag golf’ sessions at Big Meadows. Snag golf is designed to make golf fun, with oversized equipment and contests that introduce basic skills.”
where to go for a luxurious family vacation at a leading golf resort
That’s our rundown on some of the best golf resorts for a luxurious family vacation, where kids of all ages can learn to play with expert lessons in a fun and encouraging environment. Enjoy!
