Move over, baseball, because golfing might be America’s new favorite pastime. There is something soothing about strolling along the rolling green fairways as you courteously, albeit aggressively, compete with your closest pals. But admit it; you can only drive so many golf balls down the same course before you start to want a change of pace. So why not plan your next getaway around your love for the sport by visiting some of the world’s best golfing destinations? Pack up your golf bags and preppiest polos, ladies and gentlemen — you’ll need to look good playing on these courses!

The Royal Melbourne Golf Club

If your idea of a relaxing vacation is taking in the beauty that nature has freely provided, consider a week down under at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club. Both the East and West Courses at the club are world-renowned, and the club itself is steeped in rich history that is more than 100 years old. And because the club is located just outside of Melbourne, you’ll have plenty to do when you aren’t on the courses, such as hiking in the Dandenong Ranges or taking in the stunning architecture at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Noordwijkse Golf Club

Looking for a European seaside holiday that will accommodate your need to navigate the links? Zip off to the Netherlands to check out the Noordwijkse Golf Club. Established in 1915, the greens at Noordwijkse Golf Club have been played by some of the most prestigious names in golf and have also hosted the Dutch Open on multiple occasions. Furthermore, in addition to begin known for excellent golf, Noordwijkse itself is a popular tourist destination in its own right. If you go, be sure to visit the European Space Research and Technology Centre, as well as the Museum of Oud Noordwijkse.

Cabo del Sol

Perhaps you are looking for a sunnier locale with a resort atmosphere. In that case, jet set to Cabo del Sol in Los Cabos, Mexico. Just an hour south of California, Cabo del Sol features an ocean side course and a desert course – each of which are forgiving enough to make beginners comfortable, but difficult enough to challenge even the most experienced players. And there’s no better way to unwind after a day on the links than lounging beachside with a frozen margarita. When you aren’t practicing your game, Los Cabos is the perfect place to pick up new hobbies, like snorkeling or deep-sea fishing.

Pebble Beach

If you prefer to stay stateside or simply haven’t updated your passport in the past decade, hop on a plane to Pebble Beach. Hot off of playing host to the U.S. Open Championship Tournament in 2010, the Pebble Beach Golf Links offer an unforgettable experience that is completely open to the public. Pebble Beach has been ranked the number one course in America by Golf Digest, and its on-site resorts are as luxurious as the fairways themselves. Off the course, you can relax with a massage in the spa, feast on Hawaiian fusion cuisine at Roy’s or browse the quaint storefronts at the nearby Shops at Pebble Beach.

Pack your gear and head to these golfing hotspots. Be sure to schedule in time to relax, visit the spa and check out the local eateries. Hello, vacation.

Author: Megan Brown /megan@slingshotseo.com