Table of Contents
Looking for the best budget golf trips for seniors in 2023? Our golf expert covers his top picks. If you’re looking for the best golf getaways for couples for all budgets, you’ll want to click here.
After years of intensive travel restrictions, it is time to think about traveling our wonderful planet and exploring different golf courses along the way. It also helps that the US dollar is super strong. You can stretch your capital in the best affordable golf travel destinations for seniors.
Some golfers lack the time for a long-haul golf trip, so we have included domestic and international options. Besides, the United States has some of the best golf courses in the world.
The remaining budget golf trips on the list suggest international destinations which offer greater bang for your buck.
⛳️ Pro Tip: After booking your hotel, schedule your tee times immediately. This way, you won’t have difficulty accessing your desired courses on your golf trip.
1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach Golf Courses: 90+
Must-Play Myrtle Beach Golf Courses
Myrtle Beach has been nicknamed the “Golf Capital of the World” for a reason. With more than 60 miles of South Carolina coastline and 90+ stellar golf courses, you won’t run out of things to do!
Myrtle Beach boasts ninety golf courses in the area, offering a selection of affordable, mid-range, and premium layouts. One of the absolute must-plays is the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, designed by the legendary architect Robert Trent Jones Senior.
The course is not directly open to the public, but you can book a tee time through Myrtle Beach Golf. Myrtle Beach has many more affordable options, but this is a round worth treating yourself to.
Alternatively, the Myrtlewood Villas & Golf Resort features two courses on-site. You can pull off 18 holes on the PineHills or Palmetto tracks for less than $70, excluding tax.
Best Hotels
The Myrtlewood Villas & Golf Resort is centrally located, relative to the access of the majority of surrounding golf courses. You will also find that the two on-site golf courses save you the stress of traveling to another club for an early tee time.
Another possibility is to settle in at the Barefoot Resort Golf & Yacht Club Villas in North Myrtle Beach. You will find that they give you easy access to Oyster Bay Golf Links in the southern part of North Carolina.
Other Activities
When you are not traversing the finest layouts in Myrtle Beach, the Metropolis has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Try your hand at different watersports, such as guided kayaking tours. Or, charter a boat and head out to fish in the deep blue.
If you prefer relaxing in your off time, you can take a trip to the beach and catch some rays. Finally, cultured travelers can meander through a host of informative museums.
Best Time To Visit Myrtle Beach on a Budget
For golfers who are looking for budget-friendly prices and optimal weather, September to October (out of season), is the most ideal time to visit.
2. Orlando, Florida
Orlando Golf Courses: 170+
While primarily known for Disney World, Univeral Studios, SeaWorld, and other theme parks it is also one of the best golf destinations in the United States.
Orlando is one of the best vacation spots in the world, and it’s also a great place to tee off. With so many golf courses to choose from, it can be tough to decide which ones to play. Here are four of Orlando’s best golf courses to make your vacation memorable.
Grand Cypress Golf Club
If you’re looking for a challenge, the Grand Cypress Golf Club is for you. This award-winning course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and features 18 holes of championship golf. The course is located in the heart of Orlando, so you’ll be able to easily see Disney, SeaWorld, or visit downtown.
Make sure to book your room on the property, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort. Prices are reasonable, and you’ll truly get a vacation with the numerous resort amenities.
Walt Disney World Golf Courses
The Walt Disney Golf Courses are home to two championship golf courses: the Magnolia Course and the Palm Course. The Magnolia Course is known for its challenging layout, while the Palm Course is perfect for players of all skill levels. After a round or two, you can relax at a Disney hotel. There are plenty of affordable hotels in Orlando beyond Disney prices.
Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge
The Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge is one of the premier golf destinations in Orlando. It is considered at the best public golf course in Orlando.
The facility features two 18-hole championship courses, a golf school, and a 9-hole short course. Phil Ritson’s 19th Hole Restaurant at Orange County National Lodge is on property. The Lodge room rates tend to be very affordable for golfers.
Celebration Golf Club
The Celebration Golf Club is located just outside of Orlando in the town of Celebration. The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and pristinely manicured greens are a sight to behold. After your round, you can enjoy a meal at one of the on-site restaurants or take a stroll through downtown Celebration.
Read Next: Disney Golf Weekend: How I Finally Got My Husband to Disney
Best Time To Visit Orlando on a Budget
There are plenty of great golf courses to choose from when vacationing in Orlando. Off-season is during the hottest periods in Florida. For a more enjoyable round, the ideal time to book is September and October if you’re on a budget. The weather often tends to be slightly cooler and it’s still considered off season.
3. West Palm Beach, Florida
Golf Courses in West Palm Beach: 160+
Must-Play Golf Courses
West Palm Beach county is a mecca for golfers, with over 160 courses to play. You will find this offers something to every budget. For example, Abacoa Golf Club and Osprey Point are just a short drive from West Palm Beach. Ask for less than $50 per mid-week round if you are flexible on your dates. However, you can expect to spend double on a mid-week round at the North Palm Beach Country Club.
Best Hotels in West Palm Beach
My recommendation for a comfortable stay in West Palm Beach is the PGA National Resort. Although green fees for the courses on-site cost a premium, you may consider treating yourself to a round at one of them.
Other Things to Do
When you are not working on your swing, take a walk along the beach, or swim in the warmer Florida waters. Alternatively, you can test your hand at various water sports ranging from kayaking to parasailing. Make time to go for a short drive to Palm Beach and see the fabulous homes, resorts, and golf courses including The Breakers. Whether you go for lunch or just drive around, it’s well worth seeing how mega-rich live.
Best Time To Visit West Palm Beach
Similar to Orlando, the off-season is during the hotter months. For the best time to visit, September and October tend to be excellent choices in the shoulder season.
4. Cape Town, South Africa
Golf Courses: 27
Must-Play Courses
The Cape Town metropolitan is home to 27 world-class golf courses, each posing a unique challenge to visiting golfers. I recommend booking a tee time at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Pearl Valley in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
Staying in the Winelands, I suggest testing the Gary Player-designed Erinvale, which is half the cost of Pearl Valley, and as enjoyable. Lastly, you could fit in a round at Royal Cape Golf Club, the oldest in South Africa. This historic round sets you back less than $35, and the course is still used for DP World Tour and Ladies European Tour events.
Best Hotels in Cape Town
The current strength of the dollar allows you to stay in quality accommodation for a fraction of the price. I suggest dividing your time between the City and the Winelands to enjoy the best of both worlds. The Cape Grace Hotel & Spa and Mount Nelson hotels are your best bet for 5-star luxury city stays. There are also budget or cheap hotels in Cape Town that won’t break the bank.
However, when you head out to the Winelands, you should stay at the Grande Roche in Paarl. This 5-star hidden gem is one of the most gorgeous places to stay – overlooking the vineyards and mountains. Relax at the pools or enjoy a round of golf or tennis, then head to the spa for a massage.
Things to Do in Cape Town
Cape Town offers plenty of cultural and outdoor activities when you are not on the golf course. These include hiking, beach days, whale watching, surfing, wine tours, and fine dining.
Best Time To Visit Cape Town
To get your dollar to stretch the furthest, February and March are prime months to travel to Cape Town, South Africa.
5. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Courses: 20 +
Must-Play Courses
The Greater Buenos Aires area is home to more than twenty golf courses, which are accessible to the public. There are many others in private neighborhoods that are closed to the public.
Nevertheless, the Paris of South America contains courses such as Buenos Aires, Pilar, and Pacheco Golf Club, which are affordable options. I suggest asking your hotel reception to call and book your tee time, as many courses prevent online bookings.
Alternatively, you can tackle top courses such as the Lujan Course at Las Praderas Club Campos de Golf or Nordelta Golf Club.
Best Hotels in Buenos Aires for Golfers
The Hilton Pilar is a popular destination for golf travelers, as the Pilar Golf Club is a short drive away. However, this will leave you out of the City and away from the tango dancing, theater shows, parrilla restaurants, and a wealth of bars.
If you wish to stay in the City closer to alternative activities, look no further than the Magnolia Hotel Boutique in the Palermo neighborhood. It is central and easy to access any part of the City, using public transport. Plus, you have a wealth of bars, restaurants, and museums to explore nearby.
Other Things to Do in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is an affordable golf travel destination for seniors who enjoy cultured journeys. The Metropolis is littered with Italian, French, and Spanish-inspired architecture, perfect for admiring as you walk the streets.
Otherwise, you can watch a tango show, visit the theater, or indulge in the best steak you have ever eaten.
Best Time To Visit
For golfers, March thru May is the best time to visit Buenos Aires. It is affordable and the weather is comfortable. This is considered shoulder season before prices increase during the peak summer months.
Final Thoughts: Budget Golf Trips for Seniors
There are your 5 best budget golf trips for seniors in 2023. What are you thinking? Will you travel closer to home for your golf vacation, or are you ready to explore and jet off to South Africa or Argentina?
Senior golfers with limited time and money this year should ponder on Myrtle Beach, Orlando, and West Palm Beach for the wealth of golf courses. This allows you to choose affordable, mid-range, or premium courses.
However, if you can deal with long-haul flights, I highly recommend taking advantage of the strong dollar. Your Benjamins will stretch further in Argentina and South Africa and offer the added bonus of a unique cultural experience. However, if I had to pick one, it would be Cape Town.
Cape Town offers world-class golf courses for affordable prices, and you cannot match the outdoor activities and wine and dining. Think about playing at Pearl Valley or Erinvale as your next affordable golf travel destination for seniors.
