Best Golf Vacations for Beginners
Taking a golf vacation as a beginner can be one of the best ways to improve your game—if you choose the right destination.
Beginner golfers need forgiving courses, relaxed atmospheres, reasonable green fees, and plenty of opportunities to practice without pressure. The good news? There are plenty of golf destinations designed exactly for that.
This guide highlights the best golf vacations for beginners, focusing on places where learning, fun, and confidence come first.
What Makes a Golf Vacation Beginner-Friendly?
Before choosing a destination, beginners should look for a few key features:
Wide, forgiving fairways
Shorter course layouts or multiple tee options
Affordable green fees
Access to practice facilities
Casual, welcoming golf culture
Optional lessons or golf schools
The destinations below check all those boxes.
1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Why it’s great for beginners:
Myrtle Beach is often called the Golf Capital of the World—and for good reason. With over 80 courses, there’s something for every skill level.
Beginner Benefits:
Tons of resort and public courses
Wide fairways and playable layouts
Affordable golf packages
Relaxed, vacation-first vibe
Plenty of short courses and par-3 options
Bonus: Non-golfers will love the beaches, restaurants, and nightlife.
Check out the top hotel accommodations in Myrtle Beach here
2. Orlando, Florida
Why it’s great for beginners:
Orlando offers flat terrain, forgiving courses, and year-round golf—perfect for players still building consistency.
Beginner Benefits:
Courses designed for high-handicap players
Excellent practice facilities
Access to lessons and golf academies
Warm weather year-round
Top Picks: Disney Golf Courses, Orange County National, Celebration Golf Club.
See our top picks for places to stay here
3. Scottsdale, Arizona
Why it’s great for beginners:
Scottsdale courses are scenic, well-maintained, and generally easier to navigate visually—helping beginners aim and commit to shots.
Beginner Benefits:
Clear sightlines and desert layouts
Dry conditions = more roll and distance
Multiple tee options on most courses
Outstanding practice areas
Best time to go: Fall or spring for ideal weather and course conditions.
4. Pinehurst Area, North Carolina (Beyond No. 2)
Why it’s great for beginners:
While Pinehurst No. 2 is famously difficult, the surrounding area offers many beginner-friendly courses that are overlooked.
Beginner Benefits:
Excellent instruction and golf schools
Slower pace of play on non-championship courses
Traditional golf atmosphere focused on learning
Multiple courses in one location
Tip: Stick to Pinehurst Nos. 1, 3, 5, or local public courses nearby.
5. Branson, Missouri
Why it’s great for beginners:
Branson combines fun vacation vibes with playable golf courses and affordable prices.
Beginner Benefits:
Scenic but forgiving layouts
Budget-friendly lodging and tee times
Less intimidating than major golf hubs
Family-friendly destination
Great for: Beginner groups, couples, or mixed-skill trips.
6. Michigan Golf Destinations
Why it’s great for beginners:
Michigan offers a wide variety of public and resort courses that are playable, scenic, and affordable.
Beginner Benefits:
Great value for green fees
Plenty of resort courses with short tees
Cooler summer weather
Less pressure than elite golf resorts
Top areas: Traverse City, Boyne Golf, Grand Rapids.
7. Las Vegas (Off-Strip Courses)
Why it’s great for beginners:
While Vegas has some challenging championship courses, many off-Strip layouts are surprisingly forgiving and fun.
Beginner Benefits:
Casual golf atmosphere
Clear visuals and desert roll
Affordable weekday tee times
Endless entertainment after the round
Tip: Avoid ultra-premium courses early on and focus on value public tracks.
Tips for Planning Golf Vacations for Beginners
Play from the correct tees—ego has no place on vacation
Schedule morning tee times for cooler weather and less pressure
Mix golf with rest days to avoid burnout
Book lessons or clinics during the trip
Choose walkable courses or take carts based on comfort
Final Thoughts
The best golf vacations for beginners focus on fun, confidence, and improvement, not difficulty or prestige.
Destinations like Myrtle Beach, Orlando, Scottsdale, and Michigan offer the perfect balance of playability, affordability, and atmosphere—making them ideal places to learn the game while enjoying a true getaway.
Choose courses that welcome your skill level, embrace the process, and remember: a golf vacation should leave you excited to play more, not stressed about your score.
Related Posts
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. As an Expedia Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.