Booking a golf holiday should be exciting, not overwhelming. But if you don’t match the destination to your current ability, it can quickly turn from a relaxing break into a stressful experience. Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or you’ve got a low handicap and like a serious challenge, the right course can make all the difference to how much you enjoy your time away.
Golf holidays aren’t just about where you stay, but also about how the courses match your style of play, how much support you get on and off the course, and whether you’ll leave feeling satisfied or slightly defeated. Here’s how to choose the best destination based on your current skill level.
Beginners and High Handicappers
If you’re still learning the game or have a high handicap, the last thing you want is a course that is too challenging, with endless bunkers and water hazards. Look for courses that offer a bit of forgiveness and a lot of support. These are usually shorter in length, with wide fairways and fewer things to trip you up. Some resorts are designed with learning in mind, offering practice facilities, tuition, and even beginner-friendly packages.
Tips for beginners and high handicappers:
- Go for resorts that have multiple tee options so you can start from a place that feels manageable
- Choose resort-style courses that are more relaxed than championship venues
- See if the resort offers coaching sessions, group lessons or packages for new golfers
It’s also worth checking if there’s a driving range or short game area on-site. These extras give you the chance to warm up or work on your swing without the pressure of a full round.
Intermediate Golfers
If you’re a mid-handicapper, chances are you’re looking for a bit of a test but still want to enjoy your holiday. You’ll probably appreciate a bit of variety, with courses that reward good shots but aren’t too punishing if you stray offline now and then. A resort with more than one course can keep things interesting and give you the chance to play in different settings like links, parkland, or heathland.
Tips for intermediate players:
- Try to book tee times midweek when courses are quieter and there’s less pressure to keep pace
- Look for destinations known for their consistent conditions and good course maintenance
- Consider booking a lesson or two while you’re away to sharpen up specific parts of your game
Many resorts also offer custom coaching or video analysis, which can be a great way to fine-tune your swing between rounds.
Low Handicappers and Advanced Players
If you’re an experienced player who enjoys testing your full range of shots, you’ll want to play courses that offer strategic challenges and high-quality conditions. Look for venues that host professional tournaments or have a reputation for being demanding but fair. These tend to have narrow fairways, quick greens, and challenging bunkering — ideal if you want to push your game.
Tips for advanced players:
- Check the slope rating and difficulty of the courses to make sure they suit your level
- Look for resorts with excellent practice areas, including short game zones and putting greens
- Try to include a mix of course styles to make the most of your skills
Many top resorts also offer caddies, which can be a real bonus on unfamiliar courses where local knowledge matters.
Mixed Ability Groups
If you’re travelling with friends or family who play at different levels, choosing the right place can be a balancing act. The good news is that lots of golf resorts cater to groups of mixed abilities. You’ll want to make sure the courses have different tees or offer layouts that suit both new and experienced players. It’s also worth checking what’s available away from the course in case someone wants a break or doesn’t play at all.
Tips for mixed groups:
- Look for resorts with more than one course or flexible layouts
- Make sure there are buggies or even caddies available to help less confident players
- Pick a destination with non-golf activities like spas, pools or sightseeing for added variety
Planning ahead and being realistic about what each person wants from the trip can make the experience better for everyone involved.
A golf holiday should be something to look forward to — a chance to enjoy the game, relax in a beautiful setting, and maybe even improve along the way. By matching your destination to your current ability and travel companions, you’ll set yourself up for a more enjoyable and memorable trip. Take the time to research, speak to specialists if you’re unsure, and most importantly, remember that golf is meant to be fun.