The Ultimate Retiree Golf Getaway Guide: Top USA Destinations for World-Class Golf & Luxurious Resort Living

Retirement offers the freedom to pursue passions with newfound vigor, and for many, that passion is golf. The ideal golf getaway involves more than just a great course; it’s about a lifestyle. It’s about waking up to sunshine, enjoying a leisurely pace, and connecting with a community of like-minded friends. For retirees, this means finding destinations that offer not just world-class fairways but also comfort, accessibility, and a vibrant social scene.

The destinations in this guide have been selected because they perfectly cater to the retiree lifestyle. They boast year-round or extended-season golf weather, ensuring you can play whenever the mood strikes. Many are home to resort communities designed for the 55+ demographic, offering walkable or golf-cart-friendly layouts that make getting around a breeze. Crucially, these locations provide access to first-class medical facilities, offering peace of mind. Beyond the greens, you’ll find lively social calendars, couple-friendly activities, and easy airport access, making them ideal for snowbirds or those planning a longer stay.

If you’re ready to trade your work boots for golf shoes and enjoy the best years of your life, this guide will introduce you to the top destinations in the U.S. where you can perfect your swing and build a fulfilling new chapter.

Top 7 Retiree-Friendly Golf Destinations

From sun-drenched deserts to charming coastal towns, these seven locations offer the perfect blend of championship golf and resort-style living for retirees.

Scottsdale & Paradise Valley, Arizona

Known as “The Golf Capital of the West,” Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix area boast over 300 days of sunshine a year. This desert oasis is home to more than 200 courses, including famous tracks like TPC Scottsdale, host of the WM Phoenix Open. The dry, warm climate is ideal for those seeking relief from colder, more humid regions. Many communities are designed around golf courses, making it easy to live a golf-cart-centric lifestyle.

• Notable Attractions: Explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home at Taliesin West, discover global instruments at the Musical Instrument Museum, or hike the scenic trails of the Sonoran Desert.
• Dining: Enjoy classic American fare with a view.
• Accommodations: The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, offers lavish rooms and a premier golf club.

Naples & Marco Island, Florida

On Florida’s Gulf Coast, Naples combines sophistication with an incredible density of golf. With over 90 courses in a 30-mile radius, it’s a paradise for players of all skill levels. The region is known for its elegant atmosphere, pristine beaches, and upscale amenities. Many communities are gated and offer a full suite of resort-style features, from tennis courts to private clubhouses.

• Notable Attractions: Take an airboat tour of the Everglades, shop on the luxurious 5th Avenue South, or walk the boardwalk at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary.
• Dining: Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar on 5th Avenue South is a retiree favorite for its relaxed vibe and tropical-inspired cuisine. For a different experience, visit the Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.
• Accommodations: The Inn on Fifth provides a chic, walkable base near the beach, while the Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, is home to two Greg Norman-designed courses.

Palm Springs & Palm Desert, California

Immerse yourself in the mid-century modern glamour of the Coachella Valley. With over 120 golf courses, Palm Springs has long been a playground for presidents and celebrities. The stunning mountain backdrops and perfectly manicured courses create an unforgettable golfing experience. The area is known for its relaxed, artistic vibe and an active social scene.

• Notable Attractions: Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views, take a mid-century architecture tour, or visit the animals at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
• Dining: Spencer’s Restaurant is a classic choice, offering elegant dining at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains.
• Accommodations: The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is a destination in itself, featuring two championship courses and sprawling waterways.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Experience the unique charm of South Carolina’s Lowcountry on Hilton Head Island. This barrier island is famous for its natural beauty, mild winters, and world-class golf, including the iconic Harbour Town Golf Links, home of the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage tournament. The community is bike-friendly, with miles of paths winding through maritime forests and past serene lagoons.

• Notable Attractions: Learn about local ecology at the Coastal Discovery Museum or take a dolphin-watching cruise.
• Dining: Coastal Provisions at Harbour Town offers fresh seafood with marina views, while the Sea Captain’s House in nearby Myrtle Beach is an oceanfront classic.
• Accommodations: The Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort provides direct beach access and multiple pools, creating a perfect base for a golf vacation.

The Villages, Florida

As America’s largest 55+ community, The Villages is a world unto itself. It’s a golf-centric universe with over 750 holes, where residents enjoy free golf for life on the executive courses. The entire community is connected by more than 100 miles of golf-cart paths, meaning you can drive your cart to grocery stores, restaurants, and medical appointments. It’s designed for an active, social retirement.

• Notable Attractions: The Spanish Springs and Brownwood Paddock town squares offer nightly live music, shopping, and dining, creating a festive atmosphere every evening.
• Accommodations: The community offers a wide range of long-term rentals and properties for sale, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the lifestyle.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Often called the “Golf Capital of the World,” Myrtle Beach offers an unbeatable combination of quantity, quality, and value. With around 90 courses along its 60-mile Grand Strand, there’s a new challenge around every corner. This destination is particularly budget-friendly, making it a popular choice for extended stays. The oceanfront setting adds another layer of appeal.

• Notable Attractions: Explore the entertainment complexes of Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing, or dine at one of the many fresh seafood shacks.
• Accommodations: A vast array of oceanfront condos and resorts are available for long-term rental, providing stunning views and easy access to the fairways.

Pinehurst & Southern Pines, North Carolina

Step into the “Cradle of American Golf” in the Sandhills of North Carolina. Pinehurst Resort alone features nine championship courses, including the legendary Pinehurst No. 2, a frequent host of the U.S. Open. The historic, walkable village, charming traditions, and four-season appeal make it a timeless destination. The area has a more traditional, refined feel compared to the flashier resort towns.

• Notable Attractions: Wander through the historic Village of Pinehurst, explore the local pottery trail, or visit the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities.
• Dining: The Grill Room at the Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst Resort offers a quintessential fine-dining experience steeped in golf history.
• Accommodations: Pinehurst Resort offers multiple hotels and private cottages, while fractional ownership and long-term rentals are widely available in the surrounding area.

Life Beyond the Fairways

A great retirement is about more than just golf. These destinations offer a wealth of activities to keep you active, engaged, and entertained.

• Fitness and Wellness: Start your day with morning yoga or aqua aerobics classes, often included in resort amenities. Indulge in couples’ spa days, sometimes featuring unique offerings like wine-paired massages.
• Active Pursuits: Join the craze for pickleball, the fastest-growing sport among retirees. Explore the natural beauty of your surroundings with guided birding, hiking, or electric-bike tours.
• Social Connections: Keep your mind sharp and your social calendar full with bridge clubs, mahjong tournaments, and dance nights.
• Lifelong Learning: Give back to the community through volunteer opportunities or expand your horizons with lifelong-learning classes offered at local colleges or community centers.

Planning Your Perfect Golf Getaway

Best Times to Visit

Timing is everything when planning your trip.

• Arizona & Palm Springs: The best weather is from October to May. This is the peak season, so book well in advance.
• Florida Gulf Coast: The prime season runs from November through April, offering a perfect escape from northern winters.
• South Carolina (Hilton Head & Myrtle Beach): While playable year-round, the shoulder seasons of March–May and September–November offer the most pleasant weather.
• North Carolina Sandhills: This area is also a year-round destination, with spring and fall providing beautiful conditions for golf.
• Summer Deals: If you can handle the heat, many resorts in desert and southern locations drop their rates by 40–60% in July and August, offering incredible value.

Travel & Practical Tips

A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Fly Direct: Choose non-stop flights when possible to minimize travel stress. Key airports include Phoenix (PHX), Southwest Florida (RSW), Palm Springs (PSP), Myrtle Beach (MYR), and Raleigh-Durham (RDU).
• Get Around: Renting a car provides flexibility, but in communities like The Villages or many resorts in Arizona and Palm Springs, embracing the golf-cart life is part of the fun.
• Book in Advance: For trophy courses like Pinehurst No. 2 or TPC Scottsdale, book your tee times 90–120 days out to secure a spot.
• Find Deals: Always ask about “Stay & Play” packages and senior rates, which often apply to those 55 and older.
• Protect Your Gear: Consider travel insurance that includes coverage for your golf clubs to protect your investment.
• Pack Smart: In desert locations, be prepared for significant temperature swings. A cool 40°F morning can easily turn into a warm 80°F afternoon, so packing layers is essential.

Your Next Chapter Awaits

These world-class destinations offer more than just a place to play golf—they provide a blueprint for a vibrant and fulfilling retirement. They are communities where you can build lasting friendships, stay active, and enjoy life at your own pace. Whether you’re planning a long weekend trip or looking for a new place to call home for the winter, America’s best golf resorts are ready to welcome you.