The sport of golf has grown recently to become one of the most popular pastimes in America.
Across the whole of the US, golf now has millions of fans and players, from top professional stars to casual occasional amateur players.
The latest figures suggest there are 24 million regular golf players in America. The sport itself is currently generating billions of dollars in revenue a year, with an economic impact ranging from simple course fees to chains of accessories shops.
It’s an active sport and outdoor pastime that seems to appeal to all ages and diverse social types. Playing golf is good for you, say the experts – it is certainly the most exercise that many Americans get on a regular basis.
Golf has also become a large factor in American tourism. Many golf courses have become major visitor resorts in their own right.
They are able to combine world-class greens and fairways in a stunning scenic location – with all the appeal of the luxurious amenities of a five-star resort.
The best of these top US golf resorts are now some of the continent’s top leisure destinations.
Augusta, Georgia
The National at Augusta is famous as the home of the US Masters Tournament. It is often considered one of the world’s best golf courses.
The picturesque course and exclusive club are major attractions to visiting players of all abilities. It’s also a big draw for wealthy and celebrity golfers.
Visitors may spot regulars like Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Phil Mickelson and Bill Gates out on the course or in the clubhouse.
Shadow Creek Golf Club, Nevada
This resort in Las Vegas has become famous for its fabulous amenities and the very challenging golf course. These holes were laid out by Tom Fazio and it is considered by experts to be one of the USA’s top courses.
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To get into the club however you have to be a guest of MGM Resorts in Vegas. This level of exclusivity makes it a very sought-after destination in the city.
A humble online poker UK player may not get an invitation to Shadow Creek – but the resort often invites its high rolling gamblers from the Vegas casino to play on the course or visit the club.
Pebble Beach, California
This is not just a fabulous golf course, Pebble Beach also has breathtaking views of the Pacific. Many of the holes are considered very challenging – and very picturesque.
The resort dates back to 1880 and since 1919 the golf course has covered a beautiful headland near Monterey in California. Pebble Beach is famous for having some of the highest green fees in the world.
The whole resort now includes three hotels and a spa.
It’s a spot where high-worth individuals and top celebrities like to escape the city. Stars like Clint Eastwood and Bing Crosby have often been spotted there over the years.
Trump National Golf Club, Los Angeles
The owner may split opinions down the middle – but there’s not much doubt about the quality of the courses run by his organisation. The prime Trump site is the LA National Golf Club, with Pacific views from every hole.
It’s popular with visiting celebrities, like Kid Rock and Michael Jordan, and many high-worth players are regulars.
Bandon Dunes, Oregon
It may seem like a luxury seaside resort but Bandon Dunes is primarily a golfing destination. The site includes a mix of traditional courses among the rolling dunes landscape alongside the ocean.
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
This prime east cost site has become an acclaimed resort in recent years. It actually has several world-class golf courses, although the highest level track is the Ocean Course, which has hosted several major international tournaments.
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Pinehurst, North Carolina
The historical gold club at Pinehurst is now home to eight different courses. The most famous is Pinehurst Number Two, a golf course that has hosted many US Open Tournaments.
Riviera Country Club, Los Angeles
This glamorous Californian club has attracted many Hollywood celebrity players over the years. Bob Hope, Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra have all been regulars at the Riviera.
It’s not all filmstar glitter though. The course itself is of championship standard and has hosted several major international golf tournaments.
What makes a top golf resort?
These clubs all have beautifully designed and maintained courses naturally but the very best golf resorts are set in beautiful landscapes too, usually with great views from every hole.
Then the courses have also invested heavily in other facilities, like hotels, bars and restaurants. Many have spas and pools too.
The final touch is to add an air of exclusivity. That can come from the appearance of major stars and celebrities at the course, although it is also helped by high prices, demanding conditions to join… and long waiting lists.
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