7 bucket-list golf destinations every golf lover should play at least once
Perhaps you've played some of the best golf courses in the United States. Now, you're looking to pack your clubs, rally some friends, and hit the links on an international golf trip. But which parts of the world boast the best collection of golf courses?
In honor of National Golf Month (it's celebrated every August), I've rounded up some of the bucket-list golf destinations around the world that are worth planning an entire trip around. From legendary links courses overlooking the sea to spectacular fairways set amid lush greenery, these destinations deliver plenty of reasons to bring your clubs along on your next international getaway.
Top golf destinations around the world
From Latin America to the South Pacific — and, of course, Scotland — here's a list of seven international destinations perfect for a golf trip.
A Fast-Growing Golf Destination: Vietnam
For golfers looking for the next 'it' destination, turn your attention to Vietnam, where some of the world's best golf architects are designing courses in the mountains, jungles, and along its coastline. Before 2020, there were about 80 golf courses in Vietnam, many attached to luxury resorts. By 2025, more than 200 courses will be built out.
Golfers can find year-round golf in Vietnam, heading into the highlands like Dalat for a cool mist and mountain breezes and hitting and booking tee times in Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam throughout the year. November to April is dry and cool in Northern Vietnam, and the same goes for Central Vietnam from February to May.
Hoina Shores Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., is a must-play for any golf enthusiast visiting Vietnam. It's located within the $4 billion Hoiana Casino and Resort development on the Vietnamese coast south of Danang.
When to go: Shoulder seasons are when you'll experience the most optimal weather and when rainfall is least likely to interrupt your rounds. Aim for February through April in the early spring or in the fall, between September and November.
