Best golf resorts on the East Coast
Discover the best golf resorts on the East Coast
The East Coast is home to some of the most iconic golf destinations in the United States, offering everything from coastal charm to world-class championship layouts. Whether you’re teeing off in Georgia, soaking up the sun in Florida, or experiencing the legendary fairways of North and South Carolina, unforgettable golf experiences await.
With golf, accommodation, dining, and entertainment all in one place, these resorts make your trip effortless. Discover the very best golf resorts on the East Coast below.
Why book a golf trip to the East Coast
- Experience legendary golf destinations across Georgia, the Carolinas, and Florida
- Tee off on bucket-list courses and iconic PGA TOUR venues
- Stay & play at top-rated resorts with golf, relaxation, and recreation all-in-one
- Enjoy a perfect year-round golf climate in the Southeast’s sunny regions
- Combine golf with coastal towns, beaches, and historic Southern charm
- Choose from five-star resorts with top courses to self-catering stays with golf on-site
Top golf resorts on the East Coast
Here are our top golf resort packages on the East Coast. And remember, they are all fully customizable, call up one of our Golf Travel Experts and they'll help tailor your trip to your preferences!
Best golf resorts on the East Coast
Experience the ultimate in convenience and comfort with our handpicked selection of East Coast golf resorts, where everything you need is right on-site. From championship courses and luxury accommodations to restaurants, spas, and entertainment, these destinations make your golf getaway completely hassle-free with no need to leave the resort.
Whether you’re looking for a five-star escape with multiple world-class courses or a relaxed self-catering stay with golf steps from your door, there’s a resort to suit every golfer. Stay, play, and unwind all in one unforgettable location.
Golf: The Ocean Course, Turtle Point, Osprey Point, Cougar Point & Oak Point | Best for: Championship golf, ocean views & luxury coastal escapes
Why stay here? The Villas at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is one of America’s premier golf destinations, blending natural beauty, world-class design, and five-star hospitality. Set along 10 miles of pristine Atlantic beachfront just south of Charleston, this award-winning resort offers five incredible golf courses, luxurious accommodations, and a serene Lowcountry atmosphere.
Golf courses: The Ocean Course, by Pete Dye, is a legendary major-championship venue. Turtle Point, Osprey Point, Cougar Point, and Oak Point each bring unique design and scenic charm.
Resort highlights:
- Five championship golf courses, including the legendary Ocean Course
- Luxurious accommodations at The Sanctuary Hotel, villas, and private homes
- Award-winning spa, fine dining, and oceanfront pools
- Miles of beaches, bike trails, and nature excursions
- Convenient access to historic Charleston, just 45 minutes away
Fun fact: The Ocean Course was built for the 1991 Ryder Cup, famously known as the “War by the Shore.”
Golf: The Blue Monster, Golden Palm, Red Tiger & Silver Fox Courses | Best for: Luxury golf, iconic championship courses & resort-style indulgence
Why stay here? Just minutes from Miami’s beaches and nightlife, Trump National Doral offers classic golf heritage and modern luxury. With four premier courses, a stunning pool complex, and exceptional dining, it’s the ultimate South Florida golf getaway.
Golf courses: The iconic Blue Monster, redesigned by Gil Hanse, is a legendary test of accuracy and power. The Golden Palm, Red Tiger, and Silver Fox each provide unique challenges and beautiful tropical settings, creating a complete multi-course experience.
Resort highlights:
- Four championship golf courses, including the famous Blue Monster
- Lavish accommodations and suites with golf course views
- Signature spa, fitness center, and resort-style pool complex with private cabanas
- Close to Miami’s beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions
Fun fact: The Blue Monster got its name in the 1960s when pros began referring to its water hazards and length as “monstrous.”
Take a look at our Miami golf vacation FAQs here!
Golf: THE PLAYERS Stadium Course & Dye’s Valley Course | Best for: Iconic golf experiences, luxury stays & world-class amenities
Why stay here? Home to one of the most famous finishing holes in golf, Sawgrass Marriott offers a luxury base next to TPC Sawgrass, host of THE PLAYERS Championship. With fine dining, a full-service spa, and family-friendly recreation, it’s perfect for those seeking a five-star golf escape.
Golf courses: The Stadium Course by Pete Dye is a masterpiece of strategy and spectacle, highlighted by the iconic island green 17th. Dye’s Valley Course offers a more forgiving yet beautifully designed alternative, ideal for all levels.
Resort highlights:
- Exclusive access to TPC Sawgrass courses
- Luxurious rooms, suites, and private villas with lagoon or garden views
- Award-winning spa and multiple dining options, including Vernon’s and the American Gator Club
- Expansive pools, cabanas, and family-friendly recreation
- Prime location near Ponte Vedra Beach and historic St. Augustine
Fun fact: TPC Sawgrass’s 17th hole island green is one of the most photographed holes in golf, and rumor has it, it was created by accident when a sand excavation pit was left filled with water during construction.
To find out more, discover our Florida golf vacation FAQs article here
Golf: Norman, Love, Fazio & Dye Courses | Best for: Championship variety, luxury comfort & vibrant coastal atmosphere
Why stay here? Barefoot Golf Resort is a crown jewel of Myrtle Beach golf, offering four premier courses designed by some of the biggest names in the game: Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye. Set along the Intracoastal Waterway, the resort combines upscale accommodations with easy access to the lively Barefoot Landing entertainment district.
Golf courses: Play four championship layouts from legends of the game: Norman’s course showcases stunning waterway views, Love’s course blends generous fairways with plantation ruins, Fazio’s is a strategic masterpiece, and Dye’s layout offers a tough, tournament-level test.
Resort highlights:
- Four world-class courses designed by legendary architects
- Luxury villas and condos with modern amenities
- Convenient location near restaurants, shopping, and nightlife at Barefoot Landing
- Top-tier practice facilities and on-site golf academy
Fun fact: Barefoot Golf Resort opened all four of its courses on the very same day in 2000, an unprecedented feat in golf resort history.
Golf: Robert Trent Jones, George Fazio, and Arthur Hills Courses | Best for: Oceanfront golf escapes, biking and kayaking adventures, and relaxing beach vacations
Why stay here? Set along three miles of pristine Atlantic shoreline, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort blends Lowcountry charm with world-class golf and laid-back beach living. Guests can enjoy villa-style accommodation, abundant outdoor activities, and easy access to Hilton Head’s award-winning beaches, dining, and bike paths.
Golf courses: The Robert Trent Jones Course is famous for its sweeping fairways, coastal breezes, and the iconic par-5 10th hole that opens directly to the ocean. The George Fazio Course, Hilton Head’s only par 70 layout, is the most challenging of the trio, rewarding accuracy, strategy, and confident putting. The Arthur Hills Course winds through lagoons and palmettos with natural elevation changes and stunning wildlife, offering a scenic yet demanding test.
Resort highlights:
- Three highly rated championship courses with diverse layouts
- Spacious villa and vacation home accommodation ideal for families and groups
- Miles of bike trails connecting to Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina
- World-renowned tennis and pickleball center with over 20 courts
- Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on an 11-mile lagoon system
- Oceanfront dining, shopping, and easy beach access throughout the resort
Fun fact: Palmetto Dunes is home to one of the largest outdoor pickleball complexes on the East Coast and was named one of the world’s top beach resorts by Condé Nast Traveler.
Golf: Nicklaus, Palmer & Watson Courses | Best for: Family-friendly golf getaways, luxury villas & theme park proximity
Why stay here? Just minutes from Orlando’s world-famous attractions, Reunion Resort is a golfer’s paradise with three signature courses designed by legends Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Watson. The resort perfectly balances championship golf with family fun, offering spacious multi-bedroom villas, endless amenities, and easy access to Walt Disney World.
Golf courses: The Nicklaus Course is a strategic, parkland-style design that rewards precision and patience. The Palmer Course features rolling fairways, elevation changes, and dramatic risk-reward holes, while the Watson Course focuses on creativity and shot-making around undulating greens.
Resort highlights:
- Three signature courses by golf’s “Big Three”
- Spacious condos and vacation homes with private pools
- Seven restaurants and bars, including rooftop dining at Eleven
- Expansive water park with slides, lazy river, and cabanas
- Award-winning spa, tennis courts, and fitness center
- Convenient location near Orlando’s top theme parks and attractions
Fun fact: Reunion Resort is the only destination in the world where you can play courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Watson
More of the best golf courses on the East Coast
Golf: Champion, Palmer, Fazio, The Match & The Staple Courses | Best for: Championship golf, resort luxury & winter-sun getaways
Why stay here? A true icon of American golf, PGA National Resort is home to five championship courses, including the legendary Champion Course, host of the PGA TOUR’s Cognizant Classic and the infamous Bear Trap. Blending modern luxury with a rich golfing legacy, the resort delivers everything golfers love: world-class courses, stylish accommodation, superb dining, and year-round Florida sunshine.
Golf courses: The Champion Course is the headline act, with its demanding closing stretch designed by Jack Nicklaus. The Palmer Course offers a more forgiving, scenic layout with wide fairways and water views, while the Fazio Course provides a classic, enjoyable test for all golfers. For something different, The Match Course introduces match-play strategy and creativity, and The Staple is a fun, short-course perfect for warm-ups or evening loops.
Resort highlights:
- Five championship golf courses, including the famed Champion Course
- Newly renovated rooms, suites, and cottages with modern, boutique styling
- A world-class spa, wellness centre, and tropical resort pools
- Multiple dining options, from elevated American cuisine to poolside favourites
- Ideal Palm Beach Gardens location near beaches, shopping, and nightlife
Fun fact: The Champion Course’s Bear Trap (holes 15–17) is considered one of the most intimidating three-hole stretches on the PGA TOUR.
- Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, Florida Golf: International, National & Champions 9 Courses | Best for: Championship golf, resort luxury & family-friendly fun
Why stay here? Located just outside Orlando, Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate is a world-class golf and leisure destination that combines luxury accommodations with premier golfing experiences. Surrounded by 36 holes of Greg Norman-designed championship golf, this resort is perfect for everyone from serious golfers to families seeking a relaxing Florida escape.
Golf courses: The International Course offers a true links-style challenge with firm fairways, deep bunkers, and open winds reminiscent of British and Australian designs. The National Course is more traditional, featuring lush parkland fairways, water features, and scenic tree-lined holes. For a quick warm-up or a family-friendly round, the Champions 9 short course delivers fast, enjoyable fun.
Resort highlights:
- Two championship Greg Norman-designed courses plus a 9-hole par-3 course
- Spacious guest rooms, suites, and villas perfect for couples or groups
- Resort-style pools, lazy river, wave pool, and private cabanas
- Full-service Mokara Spa and multiple on-site dining options
- Close proximity to Orlando’s major attractions and theme parks
- Excellent practice facilities, golf academy, and on-site pro shop
Fun fact: Omni ChampionsGate is home to the headquarters of the David Leadbetter Golf Academy, where countless PGA and LPGA pros have honed their skills. So when you tee it up here, you’re literally walking in the footsteps of golf’s elite!
Golf: Copperhead, Island, North & South Courses | Best for: PGA TOUR golf, spacious suites & relaxed Florida living
Why stay here? Set across 900 acres of rolling woodland and lakes just north of Tampa, Innisbrook Golf Resort is one of America’s premier stay-and-play destinations. Best known for the Copperhead Course, host of the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship, the resort offers championship-calibre golf, multi-bedroom suites, and a laid-back Florida atmosphere perfect for golf groups, families, and winter-sun escapes.
Golf courses: The Copperhead Course is the star attraction, celebrated for its tree-lined fairways, elevation changes, and the demanding “Snake Pit” finish. The Island Course delivers a scenic and strategic challenge with water on almost every hole, while the North and South Courses offer enjoyable, classic Florida layouts ideal for warm-up rounds or relaxed post-tournament play.
Resort highlights:
- Four championship courses, including Copperhead, a PGA TOUR venue
- Spacious suites with full kitchens and living areas, perfect for groups
- Six pools, including the popular Loch Ness water complex
- A full-service spa, fitness centre, and tennis & pickleball courts
- Multiple dining options from clubhouse favourites to relaxed resort restaurants
- Peaceful, nature-filled setting just minutes from Gulf Coast beaches
Fun fact: The Copperhead Course’s closing stretch, known as the Snake Pit, is one of the most feared three-hole finishes on the PGA TOUR.
Golf: El Campeón & Las Colinas Courses | Best for: Historic charm, rolling terrain & classic Florida golf
Why stay here? Nestled among the citrus groves and hills of Central Florida, Mission Resort + Club is a timeless getaway offering a peaceful blend of Old-World Spanish architecture and warm Florida hospitality. With two acclaimed championship courses, charming hacienda-style accommodation, and a serene lakeside setting, it’s the perfect escape for golfers seeking something more characterful than the typical Florida resort.
Golf courses: El Campeón, built in 1917, is one of the oldest and most storied courses in the South. Known for its dramatic elevation changes, undulating fairways, and demanding approach shots, it’s consistently ranked among Florida’s top layouts. Las Colinas, a Gary Koch design, is more forgiving but equally scenic, offering wide fairways, rolling terrain, and a true resort-style experience. Together, they provide a memorable and varied golf challenge.
Resort highlights:
- Two championship courses including El Campeón, a Florida classic dating back over a century
- Spanish Mission-style rooms, suites, and villas surrounded by lush gardens
- A tranquil lakeside setting with walking trails, tennis courts, and a fitness centre
- On-site restaurants serving American and Latin-inspired cuisine
- Easy access to Orlando’s attractions while offering a peaceful countryside retreat
Fun fact: El Campeón is one of the few courses in Florida with over 85 feet of elevation changes, a rarity in the state’s typically flat landscape.
- Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Orlando, Florida Golf: Championship Course | Best for: Iconic golf history, classic charm & luxury hospitality
Why stay here? Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge is a true icon in the world of golf. Set on the shores of the Butler Chain of Lakes, this legendary resort offers guests the chance to walk the same fairways as the pros who compete each year in the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Golf course: The Championship Course, originally designed by Dick Wilson and later refined by Arnold Palmer himself, is a demanding and beautiful layout featuring tree-lined fairways, strategic water hazards, and immaculate greens. It’s a true test of skill and nerve, capped off by one of the most exciting finishing stretches in golf.
Resort highlights:
- Exclusive access to the famous Bay Hill Championship Course
- Elegant lodge-style accommodations with a private club atmosphere
- Fine dining at the Grill and casual bites at Bay Window
- Full-service spa, fitness center, and tennis courts
- Lakeside pool and easy access to downtown Orlando attractions
- Steeped in golf history and Palmer’s enduring legacy
Fun fact: Arnold Palmer loved Bay Hill so much that he made it his home, and even used to greet guests personally around the clubhouse.
- Wild Dunes, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina Golf: Robert Trent Jones, George Fazio & Arthur Hills Courses | Best for: Oceanfront golf, family vacations & Lowcountry charm
Why stay here? Nestled on the sun-soaked shores of Hilton Head Island, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort offers a perfect blend of world-class golf and relaxed coastal living. With three championship courses designed by some of the game’s greatest architects, stunning beachfront views, and endless recreation options, it’s an ideal destination for golfers.
Golf courses: The Robert Trent Jones Course is famous for its sweeping oceanfront 10th hole, one of the most scenic in the Southeast. The George Fazio Course is Hilton Head’s only par-70 layout, offering a fun yet challenging test, while the Arthur Hills Course winds through rolling dunes and lagoons, rewarding precision and creativity.
Resort highlights:
- Three renowned golf courses designed by top architects
- Oceanfront villas, vacation homes, and luxury resort accommodations
- 11-mile lagoon system ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding
- Beachfront dining, bike rentals, and tennis & pickleball facilities
- Centrally located near Hilton Head’s shops, restaurants, and marina
Fun fact: The Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes was one of the first in the region to feature an oceanfront hole open to the public.
Check out our Hilton Head golf vacation FAQs here
Top golf states on the East Coast
Top resort courses on the East Coast
Here are some of our favorite golf courses on the East Coast. All of which can be added to your golf trip, call up one of our Golf Travel Experts, and they'll help build your dream itinerary.
Planning a golf trip to the East Coast
Travel tips for the East Coast
- Best time to visit: The East Coast offers fantastic golf almost year-round, but the prime seasons are March to May and September to November. Spring brings warm temperatures and blooming scenery, while fall offers cooler days and colourful backdrops. Florida enjoys sunshine throughout the winter, while the Carolinas and Georgia shine in spring and fall.
- Top tip: For coastal golf in the Carolinas or Georgia, pack light layers; early mornings can be breezy near the Atlantic. In Florida, stay hydrated and aim for morning or twilight tee times during summer to avoid peak heat.
- Travel time: The East Coast’s top golf regions are well connected via major airports, including Orlando (MCO), Myrtle Beach (MYX), Jacksonville (JAX), Charleston (CHS), Savannah (SAV), and Atlanta (ATL). Many of the best resorts are within a short drive of these hubs.
- Transport: Car rental is highly recommended, as it gives you the flexibility to explore multiple courses and nearby attractions. Scenic drives between the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida make for an unforgettable golf road trip.
- Booking tip: Big name venues like TPC Sawgrass, Sea Island, and Kiawah Island often book out months in advance, secure tee times early, especially during spring and fall peak seasons.
Beyond the fairways on the East Coast
- Charleston, South Carolina: Rich in history, architecture, and southern charm, Charleston is a must-visit for foodies and culture lovers. Explore cobblestone streets, enjoy Lowcountry cuisine, or take a sunset stroll along The Battery.
- Savannah, Georgia: Known for its tree-lined squares and Spanish moss-draped oaks, Savannah combines history with hospitality. After a round, relax with riverfront dining or a horse-drawn carriage tour through its historic district.
- Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Beyond its world-class golf, Hilton Head offers pristine beaches, cycling trails, and dolphin-watching cruises, perfect for mixing relaxation with recreation.
- Kiawah Island, South Carolina: Home to the legendary Ocean Course, Kiawah also delivers miles of beaches, spa retreats, and nature trails surrounded by salt marshes and wildlife.
- Amelia Island, Florida: This barrier island north of Jacksonville blends championship golf with laid-back coastal charm. Visit quaint Fernandina Beach, explore state parks, or unwind at luxury oceanfront resorts.
- Orlando, Florida: A golfer’s paradise with dozens of top courses, plus theme parks, shopping, and nightlife that make it perfect for groups and families alike.
- Sea Island, Georgia: This five-star resort destination combines world-class golf with refined southern elegance. Off the course, enjoy fine dining, spa treatments, or a stroll along the island’s golden beaches.
- Miami & The Florida Keys: If you’re chasing sun and style, head south for ocean-view golf, vibrant nightlife, and endless coastal beauty. Round out your trip with a drive along the iconic Overseas Highway to Key West.
Stay, play & watch
One of the best things about staying at golf resorts on the East Coast is the incredible proximity to world-class tournaments. Nowhere is this more true than Florida, home to some of the PGA TOUR’s most iconic events, legendary venues, and unforgettable fan experiences.
From championship courses you can play to tournaments you can watch live, it’s the perfect destination for golf lovers.
THE PLAYERS Championship
Hosted annually at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, THE PLAYERS is often called the “fifth major” for good reason. It boasts one of the strongest fields of the season, an electric stadium-style setting, and unforgettable drama on every hole.
- Don’t miss: The iconic island-green 17th, where championships are won and lost.
- Why go: Incredible fan atmosphere, top-tier golf, and easy access from many Florida resorts.
Learn more about THE PLAYERS Championship here.
Arnold Palmer Invitational
Held at the legendary Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, the Arnold Palmer Invitational celebrates the spirit and legacy of The King, Arnold Palmer. This event blends championship-calibre golf with a warm, family-friendly vibe unlike any other stop on the PGA TOUR.
- Highlights: A demanding course, rich tradition, and one of the tour’s most loyal fan followings.
- Why go: Get close to the action at a venue beloved by players and spectators alike.
Learn more about the Arnold Palmer Invitational here.
Whether you’re planning a golf getaway or simply want to catch the action up close, Florida’s East Coast resorts offer the perfect base to enjoy championship-level golf both on and off the fairways.
Bucket list East Coast golf tours
Want more variety? Why not make the most of our fully customizable golf tours? Choose from one of our sample itineraries or speak to your Golf Travel Expert and create your own!
View a more detailed breakdown of the best golf resorts on the East Coast with these articles!
