Golfing Magazine 2023 Winter/Spring Travel Guide

Publisher Tom Landers TLanders@GolfingMagazine.net Creative Director Heidi Dyer Production@GolfingMagazine.net Editor John Torsiello Editor@GolfingMagazine.net Contributing Writers John DiCocco Claudio DeMarchi Scott Kramer Mike Stinton George Connor, PGA Sue Kaffenburg, PGA Dave Souza, PGA Gene Mulak, PGA Contributing Photographer Mark William Paul

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Golf Birmingham, Alabama

COME

Birmingham, Alabama, is a young, sophisticated city located in the heart of the southeastern United States. The climate is moderate yearround, making the city an excellent choice for golfing throughout most of the year. Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is a collection of championship courses that runs from the mountains in the north to the beaches in the south. Birmingham has two courses along the Trail, the Oxmoor Valley Course and the Ross Bridge Course. The greater Birmingham area has more than 140,000 yards of some of the best public golf on earth.

PLAY

Here are a few favorite courses in the greater Birmingham area:

BALLANTRAE GOLF CLUB

Ballantrae is situated just south of Birmingham in the rolling hills of the Pelham community. The challenging 18-hole course is fast and fun but fair. Wide landing areas, minimal bunkering, and closely cropped roughs add up to a player-friendly experience. www.ballantraegolf.com

BENT BROOK

This former dairy farm just east of Birmingham is an exceptionally beautiful course. With 27 holes of bent grass greens, Bent Brook has long, well-maintained fairways. www.bentbrook.com

HIGHLAND PARK

With its location in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Highland Park has unusual views of the city skyline. This 18-hole urban gem is the only course of its kind in the state. www.highlandparkgolf.com

ROSS BRIDGE GOLF RESORT

Beautifully carved into the rolling terrain of Shannon Valley, Ross Bridge is one of the courses along Alabama’s famed Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Because it is one of the longest courses in the world, Ross Bridge challenges even the best golfers. The course, however, offers multiple tees for golfers of all levels. www.rtjgolf.com/rossbridge/

OXMOOR VALLEY

The second Birmingham course along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, this 54-hole facility is sculpted from the peaks and valleys of the Appalachian Mountains, with scenic forests and challenging elevation changes. Oxmoor Valley includes the Ridge Course, with some of the most spectacular par fives on the trail, and the Valley Course that stretches two miles downrange along a slender valley leading to the clubhouse. The Short Course is a collection of 18 pure one-shotters with severe elevation changes. www.rtjgolf.com/oxmoorvalley/

TIMBERLINE GOLF CLUB

This par-71 course opened in 2002 and was designed by golf legend Jerry Pate. The gently rolling hills are shaded by oaks and other hardwoods that give the course its name. With four sets of tees, the

course plays from 4,808 to 6,745 yards, offering as much challenge as you like. www.timberlinegc.com

EAT AND DRINK

A great round of golf calls for a good meal. Birmingham is known throughout the region for its craft breweries and chef-owned dining rooms. Often called the “Dinner Table of the South,” the city is filled with fine restaurants serving memorable meals. Live music is also signature entertainment in Birmingham. Quaint nightspots attract an interesting mix of locals and tourists, while large music venues regularly feature nationally known artists.

EXPLORE

Birmingham is filled with an interesting assortment of attractions and entertainment for visitors to discover. Must-see places include Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum which houses the world’s largest collection of vintage and contemporary motorcycles, along with Lotus race cars. The Birmingham Civil Rights District is also an important place to visit. Retrace the steps of the brave men and women who struggled for racial equality in the 1960s.

Come to golf. Stay to enjoy all the pleasures of Birmingham, Alabama, USA.

Contact information: Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau 205-458-8000 www.InBirmingham.com

Ballantre Golf Course, Photo Credit Ted Tucker

WHY You Might Want to Consider a Golf Tour Operator for Your Next Golf Vacation?

According to IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators) there are 657 accredited Golf Tour Operators in 60 counties. They are responsible for approximately 90% of golf travel sold around the world.

If you have been a, do it yourself kind of person, it might just be time to open another door.

There is a big misconception out there, that when you utilize the services of a golf tour operator that you pay more for you golf vacation. That is simply NOT TRUE…there is a good chance that you will pay less, save time and get more of what you are really looking for.

If you are exploring someplace new this benefit grows tenfold – WHY? Because they, or one of their staff, have been there!! They can advise on which courses to play, how to get around, things to do and advise on some of their favorite restaurants.

When it comes to the rates, the cardinal rule

two. Generally the Tour Operator works off a net rate provided to them by the resort based on the relationship that they have established and the business that they deliver. The golf resort will rarely provide the consumer with a similar rate or there would be no trust and no integrity in the pricing structure. The Golf Tour Operator has earned the rates through the volume of business that they deliver. They are in fact an arm of the resort and their reputation is built on the service that they deliver to you and the resort.

Dynamic or last-minute pricing may play a role in price variance, however if you are planning a golf vacation and want preferred tee times on a last-minute basis, I wish you luck. Also, if you have a group, booking last minute rarely works out.

Reasons that you may want to consider booking a trip with a Golf Tour Operator.

Time is Money

One of the most valuable services a golf tour

major effort and research. Especially to a new destination.

With most tour companies, there is an initial discussion about where you want to go and play, but once you’ve confirmed a quoted itinerary, you just sit back while they do the work. They book your accommodation, golf, ground transportation, and even some extras.

Knowledge and Personalized Service: Golf Tour Operators will generally know what you need to know as they travel to the destinations they sell. They guide you to the courses that might be best suited for you / your group and stay within budget. They can advise on restaurants and nightlife, shopping and things to do outside of golf especially if there are non-golfers along. Getting around at the destination. There is a big difference between getting around in North America – easy peasy rent a car and go! Not so much when you are going to places like Thailand and Indonesia where you don’t dare try to drive. Two extremes I know and the tour operator will know and

Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, New Zealand

Why Purchase Travel Insurance?

By Richard T. Soldan, CTC Vice President, Marketing & Sales

Do you realize that most Medicare and ObamaCare plans don’t cover you when traveling outside the USA? Do you realize that many personal or company medical plans might not cover you as well, or if they do that you most likely have large deductibles and copays

What would you lose if you had to cancel your trip last minute because of a sickness, injury, loss of job, required to work, or a multitude of other reasons? What would it cost you to cancel your golf trip 2 days or more before leaving because you saw that the weather was going to be horrible and you didn’t want to play golf in the rain? The Cancel for Any Reason plan (Secure Plus) could help…

What about trip delays, lost or delayed baggage and golf equipment, missed connections and many other travel mishaps we experience? What if you get that memorable “hole in one ” shot?

GolfSafe Protection can help in many ways to protect your golf trip investments and while you are on that trip! Check out the website or call the customer care team for any questions you may have.

Taking a golfing trip? Don't forget to protect it with

For more details on both plans (Secure & Secure Plus), click the brochure link here: GolfSafe Brochure

GolfSafe plans offer an assortment of benefits that will help protect your "unexpected" travel mishaps. Both plans cover baggage and equipment, medical, and even a "hole in one" benefit plus much more. Go to our website www.travelsafe.com/golf, or scan the QR code to purchase your GolfSafe plan today!

The Secure Plus Plan offers "Cancel For Any Reason"*, however, you must meet the following terms to qualify in order to receive up to 75% in refunds of the penalty amount. Must be purchased within 21 days of your Must Insure 100% of your trip cost Must cancel 2 days or more before your

initial trip deposit scheduled departure date.

For Questions & Details on either plans, call our customer service team at (844) 673-7050

Internet Guesswork!

Do you find yourself and your group keep going back to the same old place because it’s easy for you or the group leader, rather than trying to figure out someplace new and exciting? A good tour operator will have plenty of choices and be able to customize the golf vacation to the group be it 4, 24 or 104.

Pictures and profiles on websites are not always what they seem. A Tour Operator will not send you to the unknown black hole! So many places and not enough time. Nothing worse than a bad golf vacation!

Advanced Bookings / Confirmed Tee Times:

Depending on where you are going and the size of the group you may want to have your plans set well in advance. Generally, online you are lucky if you can book tee times up to a month in advance. Tour Operators can book from three months to six months out with guaranteed pricing.

One Stop Shopping with Potential Added Value

Larger groups appreciate this when they need a favor to get some tee times shifted in order to accommodate them on certain days and certain courses.

Who wants to pay for replays? Nooooo body! Tour operator relationships help with that. Room upgrades online – very

That Private Course that you Want to Play

This is especially true when dealing with inbound operators. Private Courses for the most part do not allow just anyone onto their courses. An inbound operator may have certain relationships with private clubs that can often get visitors on, discreetly of course. Cancellations and Refunds

Let’s hope we are done with COVID!!! Enormous travel disruptions occurred at that time. Golf Tour Operators ongoing relationships with resorts and their clients allow them to negotiate more flexible terms, in

will know that you are in good hands.

You can search for accredited Golf Tour Operators here: https://www.iagto.com/membership/ golftraveller

Have conversations with two or three and get quotes. Pick the one that you feel more comfortable with and begin to develop that relationship. It could be one of the best things that you do for your golf and travel future.

Shepard’s Rock Golf Course Nemacolin, PA

Tacina Golf, La Gomera, Spain

BY THE GREATS

Tee off at a Floridian golf destination beyond compare. Reunion Resort is the only place in the world where you can play three signature courses designed by PGA legends Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Jack Nicklaus, all in the same location.

Visit ReunionResort.com

ORLANDO, FL

PALMER | WATSON | NICKLAUS

Sweet Home Alabama

Sweet Home Alabama is more than just a song or a movie, although they both certainly evoke the spirit of the beautiful state. It’s also a mantra for the hard-working, friendly folks that travelers encounter along the way. From the bagboys and beverage cart girls on the worldclass golf courses to the servers and chefs in the award-winning restaurants, visitors are made to feel right at home, ensuring that time spent in Alabama is as sweet as the tea.

Sweet Home Alabama is a golfing destination unlike any other, as home to the original golf trail, modern and historic golf resorts, and over 32 miles of sugar-white beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. Both the incomparable Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and the Arnold Palmerdesigned Craft Farms Resort in Gulf Shores put Alabama on the radar of traveling golf groups more than 27 years ago. The ensuing years have upgraded the state’s position on all types of vacation bucket lists by spawning award-winning hotels, spas, and luxurious resorts; exciting craft breweries with medal-quality beers; world-renowned bass fishing events and red snapper rodeos; and a thriving culinary scene,

ranging from fresh Gulf seafood and a unique BBQ Trail to James Beard-recognized chefs and restaurants.

Just a few of the golf resorts that make Alabama so special are Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa in Birmingham, boasting an RTJ Golf Trail golf course,

90 miles) and has a fun, feature pool with patio bar and a three-story spa; The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa on Mobile Bay near Fairhope offering 36 holes of golf on the RTJ Golf Trail and all of the amenities of a worldclass resort; and Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort in Gulf Shores, Alabama’s only gulf-front golf resort offering a Jerry Pate-designed course and clubhouse and fairway condominiums, as well as beach homes to rent.

luxurious spa and delectable dining; Pursell Farms just 45 minutes south of Birmingham, which is a unique golf resort with lodging options ranging from a boutique inn, 4 bedroom golf cottages and an 8 bedroom lodge, along with the award-winning FarmLinks golf course; Marriott Grand National Resort & Spa in Auburn-Opelika is the closest resort to the Atlanta airport (just

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, with its eight hotels/resorts and 26 courses at 11 sites around the state, and Coastal Alabama Golf, the booking entity for nine premier golf courses and lodging options ranging from golf resorts and hotels to beachfront condos and homes in the Gulf Shores-Orange Beach area, are eager to put together customized golf packages for your foursome or group.

Check out www.GolfAlabama.org for more information on how you can make Sweet Home Alabama your next golf destination or visit www.RTJGolf.com and www.CoastalAlabamaGolf.com to book today.

Marriott Grand National Resort & Spa

Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Birmingham

Award-winning dining, a booming craft beer scene, luxurious hotels and resorts and exceptional year-round golf on courses along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail await you in Alabama. Plus, with Jerry Pate’s Kiva Dunes and Arnold Palmer’s Craft Farms in Gulf Shores, from the Mountain Lakes to the Gulf Coast, you can take it all in.

Iberostar Resorts in the Dominican Republic Have it all!!

Regardless of which of the 5 All-inclusive, 5 Star, Iberostar properties in Punta Cana you decide to stay at you will have the opportunity to access the recently crowned “Best Golf Course” in the Dominican Republic by World Golf Awards – The P.B. designed Iberostar Bavaro Golf Club.

You will find a fine collection of P. B. Dye spectacular designs throughout the Dominican Republic. With the Bavaro Course, Dye turned a flat uninviting terrain into a magnificent work of art, to be admired by who set foot on its fairways and greens.

This magnificent course boasts a length of 6,718 yards, a rating of 71.8, and a 122 slope. Architect P.B. Dye oversaw the transformation of a naturally flat landscape into sculpted terrain featuring swales, mounding, 105 white silica sand bunkers forming eye-catching contrast to the intensely lush green fairways, streams and lakes. Combining the extensive use of existing stone and rock work with some desert like features provided the finishing touches to the course which guides golfers along the coast. Golfers of all handicaps will be able to enjoy both the scenery and the game.

Iberostar’s Bavaro Course

A great resort course!

A welcoming opening hole, a short par 4 with a relatively wide fairway, lets you ease into your round. The 2nd is a somewhat challenging mid length par 3, be longer rather than short to avoid front bunkers. On the 3rd make sure you gaze into the greenside cave like bunkers, just don’t go in.

One of the most memorable holes on the course without a doubt will be the

par 3, 8th. An unusual starfish-shaped island green complex, surrounded by sand, rather than water, from tee to green. This hole will certainly remain etched in the memory bank and the green’s star shape (the hotel chain’s logo) is a reminder, in case you needed one, that you’re playing an Iberostar resort course.

A little more water comes into play on the back nine and you will find that out right off the bat with water all down the right side of 10. Water and bunkers also greet you on the longest par 3 on the course – 11th. The 14th, number one handicap hole, long s-shaped par 4 runs up to an elevated green, beware water

left! Well deserving of the #1 status.

Three very enjoyable closing holes, short par 3, 16th is all carry over water. The 17th is a solid 3 shot, slightly uphill par 5, not too much trouble so a good chance for a closing birdie. A solid closing hole closing hole with fairway sloping left to right, plenty of fairway on the right but be aware of water there as well.

Iberostar Resort for You!

When it comes to All-Inclusive Resorts in the Dominican Republic, Iberostar leads the way. In Punta Cana alone there are 5 to choose from; Iberostar Grand Bavaro (Adults Only), Iberostar Selection Bavaro Suites, Iberostar Punta Cana, Coral level at Iberostar Selection Bavaro, Iberostar Dominicana.

Regardless of which property you decide on you will be steps from miles of beaches and clear coral blue pristine waters of the Caribbean.

For those preferring pools rater than beaches all properties are adorned with a number of pools with stunning ocean views, sweeping walkways lined with artwork, natural grasses and gardens. You will never go hungry or thirsty with multiple bars and restaurants around every corner to satisfy any pallet. Of course, it is all inclusive so once there leave your wallet in your room.

For more information and to check out all of the property features and amenities visit: www.Iberostar.com/Golf

Enjoy your all inclusive golf experience at Iberostar

Welcome to a collection of golf courses so diverse and engaging, they are each a destination on their own. Designed by famed course architects, Golf at Iberostar offers the ideal balance of challenge, beauty and world-renowned hospitality. The Iberostar Golf experience allows guests to connect body and mind in a unique and memorable setting.

The Iberostar Bavaro Golf Club is surrounded by lush vegetation and panoramic views. Located just next to the Iberostar Bavaro Complex this course is sure to offer a memorable golfing experience.

Iberostar Cancun Golf Club boasts a fantastic location next to the Iberostar Selection Cancun complex, just 10 minutes from the international airport, making it ideal for an amazing day of golf.

www.iberostar.com/golf

Iberostar

The Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club is located within the grounds of the

Playa Paraiso Complex, this course offers a complete

IBEROSTAR PLAYA PARAISO GOLF CLUB

IBEROSTAR BAVARO GOLF CLUB

IBEROSTAR CANCUN GOLF CLUB

By Scott Kramer

Boyne Golf

The Golf Epic…The Trip Easy

As a golf writer, I get to play at a lot of great golf resorts. One I keep going back to is BOYNE Golf. This renowned Michigan golf destination has grown to become one of the largest golf destinations in North America, encompassing 10 courses and three resort properties, including Bay Harbor, The Highlands, and Boyne Mountain. The lakeside resort towns of Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Boyne City have long been summertime playgrounds for those in the know.

At BOYNE Golf’s flagship property, along the shores of Lake Michigan near Petoskey, the nationally esteemed Inn at Bay Harbor and Bay Harbor Golf Club are high-end luxurious properties. Bay Harbor Golf Club, designed by Arthur Hills, offers 27 holes with the award-winning Links, Quarry and Preserve courses. It features a unique combination of open links along the Lake Michigan bluffs, holes flowing in and out of a rock quarry, and through the area’s hardwoods. Within five minutes lies BOYNE’s Crooked Tree Golf Club that is perched on bluffs overlooking Little Traverse Bay.

87 guest rooms provide refined and luxury accommodations fitting for golfing couples and women’s buddy trips, in addition to many townhouses and condominiums for the traditional buddy trips.

The four courses at The Highlands are led by the classic Robert Trent Jones Sr. Heather course, which started BOYNE Golf’s boom back in 1966. The National Course of the Year in 2019, the Heather is a classic parkland experience. The popular Arthur Hills course takes golfers through a variety of landscapes including the hills of Northern Michigan reaching a pinnacle on the 13th tee with a view thousands of acres. The Donald Ross Memorial course provides a replica of great golf holes designed by the Hall of Fame architect. Renovations on holes #1, #13 and #15 have been completed and will be ready to play this spring. The fourth course, The Moor, offers wide fairways and expanded collection areas around the greens to create more fun and playable shot options.

The third BOYNE Golf property, Boyne Mountain Resort, is located 20 minutes south of Petoskey. It features two 18-hole layouts, the Monument and Alpine courses,

experience with a European flair. Golfers can choose from a variety of additional options, including the Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa or condominiums and townhouses. Solace Spa, the recently opened SkyBridge Michigan, the world’s longest timber suspension bridge, and guided fly fishing are several of many off-course activities.

Publications like Forbes, Links, Golf Digest and Golfweek continuously rank BOYNE and its courses among the best in America. The variety of golf here is unmatched, the scenery amazing, and the staff always welcoming. And the long Northern Michigan days mean you can play all day, whether it be 36 holes per day or 18 and plenty of time to “play” off the course after your round.

The trip to BOYNE Golf has never been easier, with direct service from 17 cities into Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport, about an hour away. For private jets Boyne Mountain recently invested four million dollars of improvements to their 5,200-foot airport near the resort village. To find out more information visit www.BOYNEGolf.com

Donald Ross Memorial Course, Hole #8

THE GOLF, EPIC. THE TRIP, EASY.

Getting to BOYNE Golf has never been easier... fly into nearby Traverse City (TVC) or our private 5200’ airport at Boyne Mountain. Call 855.428.7447 to plan your 2023 trip today.

BOYNEGolf.com

Ka‘anapali: Where The World Comes to Play

Hawai‘i’s first master-planned resort remains one of the best

Acclaimed for its warm hospitality, beautiful beaches and an adventurous spirit, America’s 50th state is also “golf heaven” – a plethora of diverse courses featuring jaw-dropping views and fun at every turn.

LOCATION

Situated on 300 acres of sacred lands once home to the Royal Chiefs of Maui, Ka‘anapali Golf Courses offers 36 holes of panoramic views of Lana‘i, Molokai and the West Maui Mountains. As part of the Ka‘anapali Beach Resort Association, guests can stay at one of 13 beautiful hotels and resorts. The community is anchored by Whalers Village, a beachside shopping center with boutiques, restaurants, a whaling museum, hula lessons and other entertaining activities.

Three miles south lies the historic town of Lahaina, which translates to “relentless sun” in Hawaiian. The bustling area is filled with shops and plays host to the annual Thanksgivingweek college basketball tournament, the Maui Jim Invitational.

ROYAL KA‘ANAPALI

Opened in 1962 by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the par-71, 6,700-yard Royal Ka‘anapali is renowned for its forgiving fairways, quick undulating greens and trade winds. Beginning at sea level, the course hugs the shoreline before rising into the foothills, where bird’s-eye views are abundant. Arnold Palmer remarked, “The 18th hole is one of the best and most

challenging finishing holes that I have ever played.”

Royal Ka‘anapali gained international notoriety by hosting high-profile events, including Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf (1964), Canada Cup (1964), LPGA Women’s Kemper Open (198285), PGA TOUR Champions’ Ka‘anapali Classic (1987-2000) and SKINS Game (200811) and Ka’anapali Collegiate Invitational (2014-2019, 2021, 2022).

KA‘ANAPALI KAI

Debuting in 1976 by Arthur Jack Snyder and renovated in 2005 by Hawaii’s most prolific golf course architect, Robin Nelson, Ka‘anapali Kai is an 18-hole, family-friendly complement to Royal Ka‘anapali. The 6,400-yard, par-70 layout boasts an array of strategically placed bunkers, contoured fairways and native flora and fauna. Ka‘anapali Kai famously hosted Golf Channel’s “Big Break Ka‘anapali” in 2008.

FOOTGOLF

Fueling soccer fan’s enthusiasm from the World Cup, Ka‘anapali is also home to Maui’s only FootGolf Course. This outdoor activity offers a fun combo of golf and soccer. The 9-hole, par 34 layout stretches 1,165 yards along the fairways of Ka‘anapali Kai. The FootGolf Course is open seven days a week from 4 – 6 p.m. Guests can play for just $15. Ball rentals are $5.

ROCK ‘N RANGE

For those who enjoy grooving to good music while simultaneously groov-ing nice golf swings, Ka‘anapali is the place for you.

“Rock ‘N Range is an activity for golfers and non-golfers to come together in a fun, relaxed and lounge-style atmosphere. Paired with happy hour-style Hawaiian food, drinks, music and games, individuals and private groups are treated to a memorable event,” said Susan Havens, Director of Sales and Marketing for Ka‘anapali Golf Courses.

STAFF

Hawaiian culture is celebrated for its familystyle (‘Ohana) sense of inclusion. Ka‘anapali is no exception. Over the last nine months, more than half of Ka‘anapali’s new hires have been women and minorities. Anchored by females serving as the Regional Operations Director and Head Golf Professional, Ka‘anapali is a leading club with diversity, equity and inclusion in golf, with a focus on Aloha for all.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Ka‘anapali can be reached via Kahului Airport (OGG) or Kapalua Airport (JHM).

With three miles of white sand beaches and scenic Pacific Ocean views, Ka‘anapali is ready to “E Komo Mai” (welcome) you to paradise in 2023!

To learn more, visit www.KaanapaliGolfCourses.com

Boasting the longest stretch of ocean front holes in all of Hawaii, the Ocean Course Hokuala will test your golf and your photography skills as you maneuver through the mango groves of the rainforest terrain and play along the cliffside of the beautiful Pacific on this Jack Nicklaus signature layout.

North Carolina’s Pinehurst Area Buzzing with 2023 Excitement

By BRAD KING

Headed into 2023, there’s a palpable buzz pulsing throughout North Carolina’s Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Aberdeen area — or as it is more globally recognized, the “Home of American Golf.”

Golf around Pinehurst boasts a storied legacy unlike any other place in the country, offering a variety of memorable sporting experiences on layouts created by the most renowned names in the game including Donald Ross, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Gil Hanse, Dan Maples and many others.

With nearly 40 golf courses in the Tar Heel State’s Sandhills region, all concentrated within a 15-mile radius of each other, there are a host of memories to be made. In addition to North Carolina’s best collection of golf courses, the area also serves up world-class dining and shopping, outdoor adventures, equestrian facilities and more.

The USGA is in the process of constructing its second headquarters — called Golf House Pinehurst — while the Pinehurst Resort’s legendary No. 2 course will host the 2024 U.S. Open and will serve as the USGA anchor site for future championships in 2029, 2035, 2041 and 2047.

In addition, Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club hosted the 2022 U.S. Women’s Open, the fourth time the storied Donald Ross layout has played host to the prestigious championship.

Golf House Pinehurst is an active construction site. The two-building facility will include an equipmenttesting center, a visitorfriendly USGA Experience and an educational landscape feature to be completed by

the end of 2023.

Another previous USGA championship venue is Legacy Golf Links in Aberdeen. The Nicklaus Design now features Mini Verde greens and is beautifully routed around five lakes. The collection of par 3s at Legacy may be the best in the area, while the 18th hole nicknamed “The Bear” was rated as the best finishing hole in the Sandhills.

In Southern Pines, Talamore Resort

recently debuted its new Toptracer Range. The Toptracer technology uses highspeed cameras, coupled with sophisticated computer algorithms, to provide instantaneous ball tracking information to guests using the range that features 10 hitting bays.

Meanwhile, Golf Pride has opened a first of its kind Retail Lab in the company’s 36,000-square-foot Global Innovation Center (GIC) Pinehurst, which opened in 2019. It is located next to the Tom Fazio-designed and highly acclaimed Pinehurst No. 8 golf course that recently received a host of upgrades, including new TifEagle greens, bunker restoration and fresh bunker sand, improved drainage throughout the course and the removal of invasive trees limiting views and inhibiting sunlight.

Aside from Golf Pride, the USGA, U.S. Kids Golf and the Carolinas Golf Association (CGA) have moved portions or their entire headquarters to the area in recent years.

Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club, 4th Hole

Pinehurst #2 - 9th Hole

Play America’s Golf Island Hilton Head Island, SC

Golf’s popularity is surging, and there’s no place better to experience this great game than America’s Golf Island. Comprised of a diverse collection of 26 golf courses spread throughout Hilton Head Island, Bluffton and Beaufort, South Carolina, the region’s breathtaking natural beauty attracted many of golf’s greatest architects: Robert Trent Jones, Rees Jones, Davis Love III, Gary Player, Arnold Palmer, Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus and George Fazio, just to name a few.

The Golf Island is the perfect destination for any golf getaway, whether it be a buddies trip, family vacation or couples retreat. Golf is played 365 days a year here among the palmettos and live oaks, as the Lowcountry boasts glorious spring and fall weather, mild winters and balmy summers. Off the course, the region is home to world-class beaches, award-winning restaurants and local

eateries, and a myriad of activities ranging from deep sea fishing, tennis, pickle-ball and biking along 50-plus miles of public pathways.

Many golfers are already familiar with Hilton Head Island because of the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage, an area tradition since it was first played at Harbour Town back in 1969. One of the most popular stops on TOUR, the tournament is known for its Southern hospitality, laid back atmosphere and the famed Harbour Town Lighthouse overlooking the 18th green along the Calibogue Sound.

Rounds are best re-lived in the evening over a relaxing dinner with family, card games with friends or sitting a spell on a deck watching the sun drop in the South Carolina sky. Numerous lodging partners oblige with a vast array of accommodations ranging from rental homes, villas and condos

to brand-name hotels and boutique inns.

A PGA Tour Favorite

Hilton Head Island has been voted by PGA Tour players as their 2nd favorite stop on Tour and received Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Award as the Best Island in the US for 2021.

Plan Your Entire Trip Online

Planning your entire golf vacation from start to finish is easy at www.HiltonHeadGolfIsland.com. Browse all of the area’s golf courses, seasonal golf package offers, accommodations options, off-the-course activities and request a custom golf trip quote from our resort partners. With a few clicks of your mouse, your dream vacation can quickly become a reality.

Harbour Town Golf Links

Photo Credit: The Sea Pines Resort and Rob Tipton

Palmetto Dunes - Jones Course

Oyster Reef Golf Club

Photo

The North Carolina Outer Banks

The Golf Trip You Must Take in 2023

Located at the top of North Carolina’s barrier islands, the Outer Banks divides the Atlantic Ocean from the Currituck Sound making for one of the most unique coastal golf experiences in the country. With so many holes along the waters completely surrounding the Outer Banks, you would be hard pressed to find a more picturesque and exciting place to tee it up.

A Most Uncommon Golf Landscape

From true barrier island links courses to modern parkland marvels located inland, the region is so chock full of variety, golfers truly don’t have to go anywhere else. The challenges at The Pointe Golf Club, The Carolina Club, Nags Head Golf Links, Kilmarlic Golf Club and The Currituck Club are as spectacular as the coastal views they possess. In fact, three courses were ranked in the Top 50 You Can Play in North Carolina for 2022.

There is a reason why the Wright brothers came to the Outer Banks to test their flying machine: the winds. And for that reason –in combination with some amazing layouts – successful golf along the OBX can produce as lofty a sensation as there is to be found anywhere along the Eastern seaboard.

Amazing Golf Accommodations

The Golf Village Cottages at Kilmarlic is the Outer Banks’ premier golf accommodations featuring 18 well-appointed cottages, located within the awardwinning Kilmarlic Golf Club community. Each two-bedroom two- bath cottage comfortably accommodates four golfers and features a full kitchen, living room,

high-speed WiFi, flat screen HDTV’s, and washer and dryer. After your round, relax on the back deck overlooking a 5,000 square-foot putting green or settle bets on a four-hole short course steps from your cottage door. This quartet of par-

3 holes plays between 27 and 40 yards.

Your Group is Unique and Your Golf Vacation Should Be the Same

No matter the group size or budget, OBX golf travel professionals can build a golf trip that far exceeds the needs of your group. The golf travel team consists of lifers who know how to build the best trip itinerary to include golf, lodging, food, off-thecourse activities and more! The perfect golf trip awaits on North Carolina’s Outer Banks and they will help you find it!

To begin dreaming and planning your OBX golf vacation, visit www.PlayOBXGolf.com.

Carolina Club

Nags Head Golf Links

The Golf Village Cottages at Kilmarlic

Looking for something more unique in a golf vacation destination? Well-versed in all things North Carolina Outer Banks, our travel experts will help you build a trip you and your friends will never forget.

Enjoy one of our five award-winning golf courses, sink your teeth into our fresh coastal cuisine, and end the day with drinks on the deck at your well-appointed golf cottage overlooking a lighted putting green. Simply put, you’ll find a golf vacation experience unlike any other right here on the OBX!

Kilmarlic Golf Club The Currituck Club

The Carolina Club The Pointe Golf Club

Nags Head Golf Links

Santee, South Carolina

The Most Fun, Value-Packed Golf Vacation on the East Coast

The top priority at Santee Cooper Resort is to provide a golf trip for guests that is fun and loaded with value. This is why 89% of Resort customers repeat every year. From great golf and firstclass accommodations to BBQ dinners, golf shop gift cards and deeply discounted replay rounds, the golf vacation experience is second to none. And, to top it all off, the Resort recently opened the first 18hole, 35,000 square-foot, natural grass putting course in South Carolina to extend the fun into the wee hours! You will be charmed with good ol’ southern hospitality and wowed with an experience you and your group will never forget.

13 Fun-Filled Golf Courses to Play

Santee Cooper Resort features two, 18hole courses that have been the perennial favorites of traveling golfers for more than 30 years. Eleven other championship courses dot the landscape in Santee and

the surrounding area, giving you lots of choices. As you play your way around Santee, you will notice each and every course has been designed for maximum enjoyment and a thrilling challenge.

Relaxing and Spacious On-Course Accommodations

Fall out of bed and onto the first tee at the Lake Marion Golf Villas and Townhouses. Resort guests can kick back and relax in the area’s best golf accommodations. These spacious units range from 1250 to1500 sq. ft. each and feature two bedrooms with four extended full beds, up to 2.5 bathrooms, an over-sized fully-equipped kitchen, outdoor patio, three televisions with satellite TV featuring 160 channels with HD options, complimentary WiFi service, daily towel service, and a gas grilling station.

The Largest Golf Shop on Interstate 95

Lake Marion Golf Course features

the the most talked about golf shop on I-95. Known for being the largest Footjoy retailer in the Carolinas, the golf shop carries more than 2500 pairs of golf shoes in all sizes and widths at incredible prices. In addition, there’s no shortage of apparel, hats, golf balls, and equipment.

So Much for Your Money...

Seasonal resort golf packages with overnight stays at Lake Marion Golf Villas & Townhouses include the following value-added perks: unlimited putting on the Palmetto Traverse Putting Course, unlimited range balls, $50 golf shop gift card, daily breakfast buffet, bbq and beer cookout, and discounted replay rounds. Now that’s a ton of value!

To start planning your golf trip to Santee, South Carolina, visit www.SanteeCooperGolf.com or call (800) 344-6534.

Lake Marion Golf Course

Dynamic Duo, Experience Florida’s

Sports Coast and Saddlebrook Resort Come On, Let’s Play

By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI

Let’s Play is what they say at Experience Florida’s Sports Coast. You might not be able to find Florida’s Sports Coast on a map simply because it is a tourism district, and tourism districts in my mind don’t get their “just rewards”. Read on and you will know exactly where it is and all that there is to do!

If you are a golfer, paddler, fisherman, beachgoer or just a toe dipper, there is a good chance that you have been to the Sport’s Coast. This region, on the Gulf of Mexico is located about 35 miles north of Tampa, 90 miles east of Orlando and 75 miles south of Ocala, is a magnet to outdoor adventurers’ as well as those into Extreme Sports…..skydiving anyone?

Golfers from the Northeast USA and Canada have been flocking to Saddlebrook for years. The two Arnold Palmer designed courses are surely the number one reason and I suspect, the gazillion gallon pool with its conveniently located Tiki Bar could be number two.

There are 11 premier golf courses in the immediate Sports Coast region with

the crown jewel in the region, is without a doubt Saddlebrook Resort.

Coming north from Tampa, Saddlebrook Resort is a short drive off I-75 on Route 54 towards Wesley Chapel. Wesley Chapel offers up another for of adventure, unless it is really hot outside you might not even break a sweat! Shopping!!!! The community grabs your attention like a shiny new penny with first-class retail, a plethora of restaurants and contemporary homes that look like they were built yesterday.

SHOP TIL YOU DROP

The Shops at Wiregrass lures shoppers with a pedestrian-friendly, open-air and aesthetically pleasing alternative to the generic big-box-in-a-giant-parking-lot headache that’s found everywhere else in America. No shop till you drop would be complete with the ultimate in brand name deals at Tampa Premium Outlets.

Staying and Playing at Saddlebrook Resort (www.Saddlebrook.com) is almost like being at home. Except that your home here has 2 Arnold Palmer designed courses in your back yard. No walking required and

if you decide not to walk to the Pro Shop from your villa, call the concierge and a golf cart will come get you. There are over 500 condo style units 1-3 bedrooms, so not everyone can be right next to the pro shop or pool.

“On the Saddlebrook course, it’s about course management,” said director of golf Kyle Bruce. “There are water and tree lines on both sides of the fairway, you basically want to get the ball to the 150-yard marker, then move the ball from there. The greens are relatively flat so it’s easy to get up and down. It’s more course management than a grip-it-and-rip-it type of golf course.

Its fairways are lined by a hammock of cypress and oak, the natural beauty will transport you back in time to the Florida of the Conquistadors. The signature hole, the 425-yard 18th, magnifies this sensation. The drive must be sent down an emerald ribbon between stands of towering cypress, whose branches are adorned with Spanish moss. Three white-faced bunkers staring at you in the landing area. The soft afternoon sunlight glints softly off the deep pond fronting the green, where gators and turtles

Saddlebrook Resort

SADDLEBROOK RESORT

Tampa Bay’s preeminent resort

A place to rest and recharge with family and friends, a place to enjoy your athletic passions on the golf course or the tennis court, a place to meet and mingle … the legendary Saddlebrook Resort is Tampa Bay’s preeminent resort, where leisure time takes over, whether you’re getting away with your friends or vacationing with the family.

Spread out on our 480 lush acres of lagoons and cypress trees, teeing off on one of our two Arnold Palmer signature golf courses, volleying on one of 43 tennis courts, savoring a convivial meal with friends at Dempsey’s Too or spending a blissful afternoon in the expansive pool.

It’s our pleasure to host you for your golf getaway, whether you’re hoping to improve your game or are simply seeking a fairway-filled weekend with favorite golfing buddies. Our Tampa golf packages are designed to give you access to Saddlebrook’s complete resort experience. Want to add something? Just give us a shout and we’ll make it happen.

Getaway Package includes a stay in a Deluxe Guest Room, One-Bedroom Suite or Two-Bedroom Suite; full breakfast per adult per paid night of stay; lunch per adult per paid night of stay; total of 4 rounds of golf (18 holes on arrival day, 36 holes on middle day, 18 holes on departure day, with cart and greens fees); a $20 resort credit per adult for the golf pro shop; a welcome golf gift; unlimited use of the practice facility; nightly club cleaning and storage; fitness center access; and additional Saddlebrook amenities. Starting at $129 per night per person!

Anclote Key

rest on the bank. Two solid, aggressive shots will reach the green and award the player with par.

“The Palmer course is more of a links style course. You want to try and get as far as you can down the fairway. It’s open off the tee box, left and right. Your second shot is most important, if you’re above the hole, it’s going to be a three putt, pretty much, with the undulation of the greens. If you’re not on your short game that day, it can be very tough.”

While many of the holes provide generous driving areas, level ground is rare and the firm green fairways are contoured. Facing the green from the slanting fairways, the smallish greens are framed by whitefaced bunkers. Hilly lies and sweeping Florida breezes make it challenging to attain the accuracy needed to find these targets. The Tif-eagle greens are firm, fast and undulating, allowing only a crisply struck shot to hold their surface. Surrounding the greens, the thick, gnarly Bermuda rough tangles around the club and complicates the soft touch needed to play short pitch shots. Miss the green, and you face a difficult par. Several holes require length, all reward finesse. The Par 4 fifth hole is a beauty, with water to the right and sand to the left of the green.”

The other courses in the Experience Florida’s Sports Coast region offer up a great

variety in both stye and challenge making it ideal for every level of golfer. Below is a sampling of what you will find.

Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club: Two pristine courses await traveling golfers here, Lake Jovita South Course and Lake Jovita North Course designed by US Open Champion Tom Lehman and golf course architect Kurt Sandness. The 7,151-yard, par 72, Lake Jovita South Course is known for its immaculate maintenance, velvet greens and generous fairways blend in perfectly with the hilly terrain.

The 7,276-yard Lake Jovita North Course is equally impressive. More contemporary in style, this par-72 course has even greater elevation changes than the South Course. In fact, from the second tee box, you can see five or six miles to the northeast!

Fox Hollow Golf Club is one of the last courses designed and built by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., one of the most prolific and innovative golf course designers of all time. Recently rated 57th by Golf Digest’s Top 75 Courses, the par-71 championship layout features, rolling fairways, five sets of tees, mixing native trees and vegetation, sparkling lakes, sand bunkers and a variety of wildlife.

Plantation Palms Golf Club: The David Harmon design meanders through naturally rolling terrain with abundant

Tampa Bay Golf & Country Club: Designed by Chi Chi Rodrigues and Bobby Weed stretches back to over 7,000 yards, winding its way around beautiful lakes and conservation areas. Position off the tee is critical to good scoring as water and out of bounds comes into play on all 18 holes. With five sets of tees, the course is appealing to all skill levels.

Lexington Oaks Golf Club: Built on a stunning piece of land, Lexington Oaks is an 18-hole, Par-72 masterpiece course that’s known for its par 3s. Measuring 6,748 yards from the tips, this stunning course is skillfully routed through woods, lakes and marshlands, providing a fun challenge for golfers of all skill levels.

When not on the golf course you are in the right place to let the adventure seeker in you come out. With 35 area parks, 2 state parks, vibrant nature trails, thrilling zip line courses, hot-air balloon outings, sky-diving adventures, nearby islands with artificial reefs, year-round recreational fishing, paddleboarding and kayaking trails, the options for exploration are unlimited.

To find out more details on the adventures that abound at Experience Florida’s Sports Coast visit www.FLSportsCoast.com

wildlife. Considered one of Land O’Lakes finest properties with its meticulous conditioning, with each hole designed to challenge every level of golfer.

A destination for the adventurous

Florida’s Sports Coast offers a more exciting kind of vacation. With four amazing cities to explore – and countless ways to get out and play – visitors will find there’s much more than just great golf in this area. Whether they’re exploring the Gulf of Mexico, tackling tandem skydiving over Zephyrhills, or enjoying a beer at one of our craft breweries, they’ll discover Florida’s Sports Coast is an unbeatable location for their next golf trip.