Combining the thrill of golfing with the serene experience of boating is a dream vacation for many. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a boating enthusiast, there are destinations worldwide where you can enjoy both activities in one beautiful locale. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 golf and boating destinations to visit, highlighting their offerings, prices, and essential specifications.
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1. Pebble Beach, California, USA
Golf at Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Description: Ranked as one of the greatest public golf courses in the United States, Pebble Beach offers a breathtaking experience overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The 18-hole course presents a challenging terrain that has hosted several U.S. Open Championships.
- Green Fees: $625 for a single round, plus a $50 cart fee.
- Accommodation: Pebble Beach Resorts offers luxurious stays starting at $1,045 per night.
Boating in Monterey Bay
- Description: After your game, set sail in nearby Monterey Bay, where you can spot wildlife like sea otters and whales. Monterey Bay is perfect for yachting or sailboats.
- Boat Rentals: Charter rates range from $200 to $600 per hour depending on the boat size and type.
2. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA
Golf at Harbour Town Golf Links
- Description: Famous for its iconic lighthouse, Harbour Town Golf Links is home to the RBC Heritage PGA Tour event. The course, designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, is known for its narrow fairways and strategic challenges.
- Green Fees: $330 during peak season.
- Accommodation: Luxury resorts such as The Sea Pines Resort start at $350 per night.
Boating in Calibogue Sound
- Description: Hilton Head is a boating haven, offering everything from sailing to deep-sea fishing charters in the calm waters of Calibogue Sound.
- Boat Rentals: Starting at $300 per half-day for pontoon boats.
3. Kiawah Island, South Carolina, USA
Golf at The Ocean Course
- Description: The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island is often referred to as one of the most challenging golf courses in the world, particularly due to strong coastal winds. It’s hosted the PGA Championship twice.
- Green Fees: $463.
- Accommodation: Kiawah Island Golf Resort starts at $300 per night.
Boating in Kiawah River
- Description: Kiawah River offers a tranquil boating experience with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, or cruising along its scenic banks.
- Boat Rentals: Rentals for kayaks start at $50 for two hours; motorized boats at $200 per hour.
4. The Bahamas
Golf at Ocean Club Golf Course, Paradise Island
- Description: Offering stunning ocean views, this Tom Weiskopf-designed course on Paradise Island provides golfers a lush experience in a tropical setting.
- Green Fees: $275.
- Accommodation: The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort, starts at $1,200 per night.
Boating in Nassau and Exumas
- Description: The crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas are perfect for island hopping. Boaters can explore Nassau, Exuma’s swimming pigs, or snorkel at Thunderball Grotto.
- Boat Rentals: Starting at $500 per day for a small yacht.
5. Punta Mita, Mexico
Golf at Punta Mita Pacifico Golf Course
- Description: Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this course offers an oceanfront layout with the world’s only natural island green. It’s a bucket-list destination for golf lovers.
- Green Fees: $270 for resort guests.
- Accommodation: The Four Seasons Punta Mita Resort offers rooms starting at $900 per night.
Boating in Banderas Bay
- Description: The sheltered waters of Banderas Bay offer some of the best boating in the Pacific. Try sailing, fishing, or even whale watching.
- Boat Rentals: Starting at $400 per half-day for a motorboat.
6. Queenstown, New Zealand
Golf at Jack’s Point Golf Course
- Description: Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range, Jack’s Point offers an unforgettable golfing experience.
- Green Fees: $135 USD.
- Accommodation: Stays at luxury lodges nearby start at $250 per night.
Boating on Lake Wakatipu
- Description: Take in the breathtaking scenery by boating on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu. Choose from kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet boating.
- Boat Rentals: Kayaks start at $35 for a half-day; motorboats at $120 per hour.
7. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Golf at Circolo del Golf di Napoli
- Description: Located near the historic city of Naples, this course offers a mix of challenging golf and Mediterranean scenery.
- Green Fees: $150.
- Accommodation: Five-star hotels like Le Sirenuse on the Amalfi Coast start at $600 per night.
Boating Along the Amalfi Coast
- Description: The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its cliffside villages and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the best places for yachting or sailing in Europe.
- Boat Rentals: Starting at $300 for a half-day on a small boat; luxury yacht charters start at $1,500 per day.
8. Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
Golf at TPC Scottsdale
- Description: Known for hosting the Waste Management Phoenix Open, this desert course provides a unique challenge with its arid landscape and beautifully manicured greens.
- Green Fees: $384 during peak season.
- Accommodation: The Four Seasons Scottsdale starts at $700 per night.
Boating on Lake Pleasant
- Description: Lake Pleasant, located near Scottsdale, offers a serene boating experience in the desert. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or sailing.
- Boat Rentals: Pontoon boats start at $350 for a half-day.
9. Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA
Golf at The Captains Golf Course
- Description: Offering two 18-hole courses, The Captains is Cape Cod’s largest public golf facility. With tree-lined fairways and scenic views, it’s a popular choice among visitors.
- Green Fees: $95.
- Accommodation: Beachside inns and hotels range from $200 to $500 per night.
Boating in Cape Cod Bay
- Description: Cape Cod Bay offers excellent boating for those interested in sailing or fishing. Whale watching tours are also popular.
- Boat Rentals: Starting at $250 for a half-day sailboat rental.
10. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, USA
Golf at The Brute at Grand Geneva Resort
- Description: Known for its challenging design and beautiful setting, The Brute is one of the most well-maintained courses in the Midwest.
- Green Fees: $135.
- Accommodation: Grand Geneva Resort rooms start at $220 per night.
Boating on Lake Geneva
- Description: Lake Geneva is perfect for leisurely boating, sailing, or even paddleboarding. The lake’s calm waters and scenic beauty make it a top spot for Midwestern boaters.
- Boat Rentals: Pontoons and ski boats start at $250 per half-day.
Conclusion
These 10 golf and boating destinations offer some of the best experiences for lovers of both sports. Whether you’re looking to play a round at a world-class golf course or set sail on pristine waters, each destination provides a blend of relaxation and adventure. From the tropical allure of the Bahamas to the rugged beauty of Queenstown, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
Read Boat Safety Checklist & Safety Equipment: Guide until we meet in the next article.