Even if you're a hardcore golfer, you'll find it hard to concentrate on the game when you are standing on the tee box overlooking the Pacific Ocean atop a towing cliff. If you're planning your next golf vacation have we got some amazing courses to share with you! From breathtaking ocean views to panoramic vistas of the Rocky Mountains, you won’t want to miss these 6 stunning golf courses from around the world.
The Ocean Course at Hokuala, Kauai, USA
This gem of the Pacific winds its way through mango groves to dramatic coastal cliffs and top’s our list of the most stunning golf courses in the world. The Ocean Course at Hokuala is a Jack Nicklaus Signature course that hugs the ocean on a continuous stretch of oceanfront golf—the longest in all of Hawaii. To make your stay in paradise perfect, try the Timbers Kauai oceanfront residences where you can have your own private oasis and experience the spirit of aloha and luxury living, Hawaiian style.
The Old Course, St. Andrews, Scotland
No list of stunning golf courses is complete without including the “home of golf.” Make a tee-time at the Old Course at St. Andrews—the oldest and most legendary golf course in the world. Even though the Old Course is not as scenic as some of the other courses on this list, this course is stunning just because of what it means to golf. For example, the Swilcan Bridge is a revered icon to golfers all around the world. Be ready to yell “fore” because one of the unique features of the course are the large double greens where seven greens are shared by two holes each. The Old Course has hosted the “Open Championship” 29 times since 1873 and yet, many say the greatest feature is that it remains a public golf course, open to all who dare to tee it up.
Kauri Cliffs Golf Course, North Island, New Zealand
You will never want to leave the tee box as you gaze out over the Pacific Ocean perched atop a cliff that plunges to the sea. Kauri Cliffs features six of those vistas on this stunning course overlooking the Cavalli Islands and Cape Brett on the North Island of New Zealand. Besides the breathtaking views, you will find some of the best fairways, greens and tees in the world. This award-winning golf course is attached to the Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, a luxury Relais & Chateaux Lodge (a global fellowship of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants) with three private beaches and luxury galore.
Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Club, Banff, Alberta, Canada
It’s hard to imagine, but standing on every tee, you will be blown away with panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies every way you turn. The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course in Alberta, Canada will captivate you with its beauty as well as challenge your golf game. The course was built more than 100 years ago by a Scottish golf pro who wanted to bring the sport to Banff, Canada’s first national park. The Fairmont Banff Springs Resort is a world-class resort and is the perfect place to stay and play.
Leopard Creek Country Club, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Deep in the bush of South Africa, you will find a golf course like no other you will ever experience in your wildest dreams. Golfing “hazards” take on a new dimension at the Gary Player designed Leopard Creek Country Club, for the water is home to the amazing creatures for which the river is named, crocodiles. The course borders the world’s most famed safari destination—Kruger National Park. Many of the holes have water features that bring the wildlife to drink. Don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of crocodile, hippo, antelope, buffalo and elephant. Stay at Manyatta Rock Camp and your African safari will be magical.
Old Head of Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland
Stunning may be an understatement for our next entry. The Old Head of Kinsale may be home to the most breathtaking golf course in the world. Set on an exquisite and unique headland stretching out over two miles into the Atlantic Ocean, the course showcases Ireland's wild and rugged landscape. Old Head is clearly a highly sought-after golf experience that is hard to match anywhere on earth. A stay at Old Head Seaview Suites offers magnificent views of the 18th green, Atlantic Ocean and Old Head Lighthouse. After an unforgettable day on the links, you will be lulled to sleep by waves crashing against the sheer walls and the salty smell of the sea air.
