Golf holidays are enjoying a resurgence, not just among seasoned players but across a broader set of travellers. They’re now appealing to people seeking fresh air and value for money after a period of uncertainty.
Recent industry insights show that travellers increasingly want holidays that feel restorative and active, making golf resorts (especially those with spas, gyms, beaches, and cultural experiences) highly attractive.
The Rebound of Golf Tourism After the Pandemic
Many travellers postponed major trips for long stretches during COVID-19, leading to a wave of pent-up demand that is driving renewed interest in golf breaks. Confidence in international travel has returned; with social distancing no longer a constraint, golfers are eager to explore courses abroad once again.
What also gives golf holidays an advantage is their built-in outdoor nature. Spending time in spacious, scenic environments became especially desirable post-pandemic, and this preference has been carried through into current booking patterns. The global golf tourism sector is on a clear upward trajectory, supported by tourists seeking outdoor activities and structured leisure.
Couples, Younger Players and Women Are the New Golfers
Older men no longer dominate golf travel; instead, the demographic is expanding to include younger players, women, and, most significantly, couples. Growing numbers of partners are booking golf breaks together, attracted by the combination of socialising and high-quality leisure facilities.
Resorts are responding by offering shorter stays and flexible tee times. Many are promoting packages that combine golf with spas, dining experiences, pools, and fitness amenities. The shift mirrors a cultural change in the sport itself: golf is becoming more inclusive and aligned with wellness.
Wellness and the “Stay and Play” Mindset
Modern travellers want more from a golf holiday than time on the course. Increasingly, people are choosing breaks that combine a few rounds with spa access, quality dining, cultural trips, and downtime by the pool.
It aligns with broader travel trends for “active escapes,” such as those offered at resorts like the Titanic Belek in Turkey, where guests can enjoy championship golf alongside luxurious wellness facilities and family-friendly amenities.
Booking Trends and Emerging Hotspots
Tourists are opting for shorter but more frequent golf breaks, choosing destinations that offer flexibility and reliable weather. Alongside classic favourites in Spain and Portugal, emerging hotspots are gaining interest, such as the Lofoten Islands and Vietnam.
UK golf tourism is expected to grow steadily over the next decade, reflecting not only rising enthusiasm for sport but also a broader appetite for holidays rich in activity and memorable experiences.