The global golf tourism market is growing rapidly, with forecasts suggesting it will increase from USD 69.10 billion in 2024 to USD 71.37 billion by 2025. This number should reach USD 95.53 billion in 2034: These increases reflect a significant rise in golf tourism. The increase in golf tourism is due to a number of factors. These include the popularization of golf as a form of leisure, the increased potential for international travel, and the fact that among the major tourist destinations in the world, there are many first-rate golf resorts and courses.
Golf tourism in different countries around the world has invested huge amount of energy, both in courses, luxury resorts, and office cloth close to nature. New players in the industry, including new golf courses and providers of alternative options for travelers whose main interest is not playing games but rather eco-tourism or health tours. As we head towards 2025, many countries, resorts, and fresh golf courses introduced that year are sure to have a marked impact on this industry attracting golfers from every corner of the earth also. Here’s a look at some countries and hotels into which golf tourism is expanding and where exciting new golf courses have been installed.
Golf Tourism Market Segmentation
Golf tourism actually has two main categories: domestic and international. These have driven the development of the market.
In countries with solid infrastructure for golf, the sport is very popular domestically. Nation’s like the US, the UK, Australia and Japan began playing in roles that local golfers might otherwise have fulfilled. These resorts tend to cater for short stays with swift get-away golf clubs or courses nearby, local tournaments and weekend retreats where one can enjoy some challenging golf.
International Golf Tourism however is beginning to grab attention as people from all around the world plan their vacations based entirely around golf. Countries such as Scotland, Spain, Portugal, South Africa and Thailand are emerging as important destinations for international golf tourists to visit which feature not only breathtaking natural scenery but luxury resorts and golf courses that are internationally famous. There you find both challenging circuits suitable for seasoned golfers and “leisure golf” for people who do not consider the game their main pursuit.
Popular Golf Destinations in 2025
Several countries and new golf course developments are driving the growth of golf tourism in 2025. These destinations offer an exceptional golfing experience, attracting both avid players and tourists seeking luxury getaways.
- Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is emerging as a new golfing hotspot with the development of luxury resorts and golf courses. The Shura Island in The Red Sea Project has introduced Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first 18-hole golf course, set to open in 2025. The course is part of a massive $196 billion development that includes several luxury resorts and is expected to make Saudi Arabia a top golf tourism destination. - Cambodia
Cambodia is rapidly gaining popularity in the golf tourism sector. The Chunn On Golf Resort (Palms) in Phnom Penh, which unveiled its Lakes Course in 2024, is now attracting international golfers. Designed by Brian Curley, this course offers beautiful views and challenging layouts, adding to Cambodia’s appeal as a golfing destination. - Vietnam
Vietnam’s golfing infrastructure is also growing with the opening of the Golden Sands Golf Resort (North) in Hue. Set to open in 2025, this new course promises to attract international golfers with its luxury offerings and stunning views.
Golf Tourism Types and Purpose of Travel
The golf tourism market is segmented by the purpose of travel, with the primary categories being recreational, competitive, business, and educational golf tourism.
- Recreational Golf Tourism remains the largest segment. This type of tourism is driven by leisure travelers looking to combine golf with vacation activities. Luxury resorts that offer integrated golfing experiences are the most popular choice in this category.
- Competitive Golf Tourism includes professional golfers and fans traveling to attend major events such as The Masters, Ryder Cup, or national-level tournaments. Packages typically include exclusive access, tournament tickets, and guided tours to golf landmarks.
- Business Golf Tourism has been expanding, particularly among corporate groups. Companies are increasingly using golf retreats as a way to combine business meetings with leisure activities. This segment includes golf retreats, networking events, and incentive-based travel.
- Educational Golf Tourism caters to those seeking to improve their golfing skills. This niche market includes professional coaching, golf clinics, and junior training programs offered by golf academies and sporting institutions.
Accommodations for Golf Tourists
Golf tourists have a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, each catering to different preferences and budgets.
- Hotels near golf courses are perfect for tourists who prefer a more city-centric stay while still having easy access to golfing facilities. These options are especially popular for short stays or business trips.
- Golf Resorts offer an all-in-one experience, combining luxury accommodations with exclusive access to golf courses, wellness centers, fine dining, and professional pro shops. These resorts are ideal for international and luxury travelers who wish to combine relaxation with world-class golfing.
- Bed and Breakfasts provide affordable, homely accommodations for domestic tourists or golfers seeking a quieter and more personalized experience.
- Private Homes or vacation rentals are increasingly popular, particularly for long stays or group travel. These options, often located within golf estates, offer privacy, premium amenities, and direct access to exclusive courses.
Transportation for Golf Tourists
Golf tourism also involves various transportation modes, from air travel to car rentals, tailored to meet the needs of travelers.
- Air Travel remains critical for international golf tourism. Many golf destinations with high-end resorts or remote courses are accessible only by air. Well-connected airports near popular golf locations attract international tourists.
- Car Rentals are common in golf tourism, with many travelers opting to rent cars to explore nearby attractions or other courses. Car rental services are often bundled with golf packages to provide more flexibility.
- Private Vehicles are popular in domestic tourism, especially in regions with well-developed infrastructure. Tourists can drive between various golf courses and resorts with ease.
- Public Transportation is less frequently used but plays a role in urban golf destinations where courses are easily accessible by metro or shuttle services.
Emerging Golf Resorts and Courses
Several new golf resorts and courses are expected to gain popularity in 2025. Some of the standout properties include:
- Trump International Golf Links, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Trump International Golf Links has introduced the MacLeod Course in 2025, adding to the already impressive portfolio of golf courses in Scotland. This course is expected to attract high-end golf tourists, offering luxury amenities alongside world-class golfing experiences. - Gamble Sands Resort, Washington, USA
Gamble Sands Resort in Washington has introduced the Scarecrow Course, a stunning new layout designed by David McLay Kidd. This course offers panoramic views and challenging play, making it a sought-after destination for golf enthusiasts. - Fox Harb’r Resort, Nova Scotia, Canada
Fox Harb’r Resort has added new holes to its existing course, designed by Doug Carrick. The addition of nine new links-style holes is set to elevate the resort’s appeal, attracting golfers looking for a unique and scenic golfing experience.
Conclusion
Golf tourism continues to develop and innovate, the additon of new countries, resorts With new courses, golf opportunities representing all corners of this earth for the avid player. From emerging destinations in Tebessa and Cambodia to mature golf resorts in Scotland and the U.S., the industry is changing to cope with demands from both pleasure and professional golfers. The future of golf tourism looks good: thanks to the addition of deluxe resorts with international access, private business packages, and more opportunities for overseas travel, we can expect a steady overall rise in visitors up until at least 2034. Whether the game is to meet the demands of both leisure golfers and professional players, the variety of destinations, courses, and experiences on offer to golf lovers will grow and grow. Oyed for pleasure or as a competitive sport, golf tourism is destined to become an inseparable part of world travel.
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