Golf is more than just a game; it’s an immersive experience that combines the thrill of the sport with the natural beauty of the outdoors.
From the lush fairways and scenic vistas of public golf courses to the luxurious amenities and top-tier services of golf resorts, each location offers its own unique allure. Golf course restaurants elevate the experience further, allowing players to unwind and savor gourmet meals amidst picturesque landscapes. And amazing golf destinations deliver all of the above in one convenient package.
To find the best places to enjoy golf and all of its trappings, we asked a panel of experts to nominate their top picks across four different categories. Then, readers voted to determine the winners.
Click on each category below to see the full winners list:
Best Golf Course Restaurant: Rubino’s at The Cascades in Hot Springs, Virginia
Enjoy stunning golf course views along with your meal at Rubino’s at The Cascades – Photo courtesy of The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa
With rugged forests, rolling terrain, and views of both Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, the Upper Peninsula is a unique golfing location. Popular courses include Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club, renowned for its dramatic elevation changes and striking scenery, and Sweetgrass Golf Club, a course known for hosting the LPGA Epson Tour.
Play in paradise at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai – Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Lanai
Golfers could spend weeks playing Hawaii’s best courses, but the Four Seasons Resort Lanai offers some hard-to-beat features, including a Jack Nicklaus-signature course built on lava outcroppings. When not teeing off, guests can lounge on the private beach or soak in one of many pools. Plus, the resort offers private aviation packages for seamless round-trip travel.
Full list of winners: Best Golf Resort »
Best Public Golf Course: Payne’s Valley at Big Cedar Lodge in Hollister, Missouri
Scenic Payne’s Valley at Big Cedar Lodge was designed by Tiger Woods – Photo courtesy of Big Cedar Lodge
Payne’s Valley at Big Cedar Lodge is a par-72, 7,370-yard course and was the first public-access golf course designed by golf legend Tiger Woods and his golf course design firm, TGR Design. Woods created a course with a backdrop of the Ozark Mountains that could cater to all skill levels. Design highlights include plentiful water features, expansive fairways, and a bonus 19th hole — the Big Rock at Payne’s Valley — which is flanked by waterfalls and a limestone wall.
Full list of winners: Best Public Golf Course »
Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers’ Choice Awards.