If you’re dreaming of the best golf trips for 2026, this list has you covered. From the rugged Oregon coastline to the iconic fairways of Pebble Beach, these golf trips. combine breathtaking scenery, championship layouts, and luxury resort experiences that every golfer should enjoy at least once. Whether you’re planning a buddies’ trip, a couples’ getaway, or a bucket-list golf vacation, these five must-visit golf resorts—including Big Cedar Lodge, French Lick, Bandon Dunes, Pebble Beach, and Sand Valley—offer unforgettable golf, world-class accommodations, and incredible 2026 stay-and-play packages.

 

 

1. Big Cedar Lodge – Ridgedale, Missouri

 

Big Cedar Lodge is a must-visit for 2026 golf travelers. Located in Missouri’s Ozark Mountains, it features five signature courses, including Payne’s Valley, designed by Tiger Woods, and Buffalo Ridge, designed by Tom Fazio. Each course offers breathtaking lake views, pristine fairways, and a world-class lodge experience. This golf trip should be on everyone’s list. Great for the boys golf trips, and equally as nice for the whole family. There is so much to do including, fishing, hiking, lake cruises, swimming, and of course some of the best golf in the country. Payne’s Valley, Buffalo Ridge, and Ozarks National are all on Golf Digest’s Top 100 public courses list!

 

Why Go in 2026:

Tons of stay-and-play packages, upgraded accommodations, and a newly renovated clubhouse make it a top Midwest destination. Housing includes lodges, cottages, private log cabins, and exclusive villas that sleep up to 14 guests. There is something for everyone here and the views are incredible!

 

Travel Tips:

Book early through Expedia in the late summer or early fall for a great time to visit. Explore the lodge and accommodations here.

 

 

 

 

2. French Lick Resort – French Lick, Indiana

 

French Lick’s combination of historic charm and modern luxury makes it a sleeper golf trip for 2026. Play the classic Donald Ross Course and the breathtaking Pete Dye Course — both known for dramatic elevation changes and perfect conditioning. Sultan’s Run, another championship level course located just 30 minutes away, lends itself to the French Lick experience with it’s beautiful layout. Make sure to play the 9 hole course Valley Links and also check out the par 3 course Sand Creek! Really nice golf trip for juniors and newer players to enjoy as well. 

 

Why Go in 2026:

The resort continues to host major regional events while adding new spa and dining options, perfect for couples and families.

Travel Tips:

Visit in May or early September for cooler weather and fewer crowds. Check out hotels and VRBO’s and start planning now!

 

3. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort – Bandon, Oregon

Bandon Dunes remains the gold standard of links golf in America. With five stunning coastal layouts, walking-only courses, and Pacific ocean winds that test every club in your bag, this golf trip is heaven on earth. There are also two par 3 courses that are beautiful themselves. All five courses are ranked in the top 100 for public courses in the US. What a treat it would be to play all five in one trip! As the home to many USGA Women’s and Amateur tournaments, these links style courses are sure to not disappoint. 

 

Why Go in 2026:

Truly in a class of their own, Bandon Dunes and Pacific Dunes have elevated Bandon to legendary golf status. In 2026, expect enhanced lodging and new local travel partnerships.

Travel Tips:

Fly into Eugene or Coos Bay, and plan a week’s stay to play all 5 courses. The best time of year to play Bandon Dunes is late summer or early fall (August & September). Start planning today! 

 

4. Pebble Beach Golf Links – Monterey, California

 

No golf trip bucket list is complete without Pebble Beach. Its Pacific Ocean backdrop, timeless design, and history of hosting major championships make it a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Unanimously rated as the number 1 ranked public golf course in the country. Play the course that has hosted six PGA US Open tournaments, more than any other course in the last 50 years, with four more scheduled over the next 20 years. This course is at the top of every golfer’s list. Simply, one of a kind.

 

Why Go in 2026:

Pebble Beach celebrates a major anniversary tied to U.S. Open history — a great excuse to play this legendary track. 

Travel Tip:

Stay at The Lodge at Pebble Beach or Casa Palmero for preferred tee times. Extend your trip with rounds at Spyglass Hill and Spanish Bay. The best weather months are generally September, October, and November. Take a look at some of these hotels and rentals for a November trip!

 

 

5. Sand Valley Resort – Nekoosa, Wisconsin

Sand Valley brings the feel of Scottish links to the heart of the Midwest. With Sand Valley, Mammoth Dunes, and the new Lido Course, it’s quickly becoming a excellent spot for course architecture enthusiasts. Sand Valley, Mammoth Dunes, and The Lido, rank as the 20th, 21st, and 12th top public courses in the country, respectably, according to Golfweek’s Top 100 public courses review. Meanwhile, The Sandbox, a par 3 course, ranked #4 in Golfweek’s Top 25 public par 3 short courses in the country as well. Something here for all ages and skill levels. 

 

Why Go in 2026:

The Lido’s revival — a faithful recreation of a lost 1914 masterpiece — is attracting golfers from around the world.

Travel Tip:

Stay 3 nights to play all the courses. The best times to golf at Sand Valley are May through October, with early fall (September and October) offering cooler weather and fewer crowds. Avoid late April or early May, as courses may be cold, wet, and not yet fully green. Check out this lakefront home that sleeps 12 with a hot tub, deck, and boat dock!

 

 

Final Thoughts

 

Each of these 2026 golf trips offers something unique — from the rugged Oregon coast to the midwest appeal of Wisconsin. Whether you’re chasing bucket-list courses or planning a relaxing buddy getaway, these destinations deliver unforgettable golf and world-class hospitality.