Come to the Maldives and master the short game.
Velaa Private Island
They may not be as noticeable as an 18-hole golf course, but the nine-hole layout offers many advantages. It's played in half the time, so the rather paced game lasts for 2 hours rather than the usual four. For those with busy schedules, a 9 hole course is ideal. Playing fewer holes is suitable for beginners, elderly people, children and those recovering from injuries, as they are physically less demanding.
New golfers can also practice short games to improve without having to go through the morning or afternoon. Plus, many 9 holes courses offer less traffic, leading to more relaxed play. Most courses offer the same perks as traditional 18 holes links. Great Outdoors gorgeous environment and many gorgeous touches beyond everyday life, as the Resort's next leaderboard shows.
The golf course is a bit difficult as the Maldives are located in the middle of the Indian Ocean. The exception is the 5-star Bella Private Island of Forbes Travel Guide, which has the only Troon Short Game Golf Academy in the Maldives and a 9-hole course.
Two-time Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal is a golfer known for his short match prowess and is behind a partnership focused on teaching him how to hit a better approach to the green. What's amazing about Velaa is that it's so relaxing that barefoot golf is encouraged and unique experience.
The resort has charming post-round amenities, including four dining destinations, high-tech water activities (think electric foil surfboards and hoverboards), a happy village with spa treatments and fitness classes, and a kids' club with a large water park.
A stunning oceanfront course at Terranea Resort.
Terranea Resort
The 4-star Terranea Resort is a vast oceanfront facility, perched on the cliffs of Rancho Palos Verdes. It is just a 30-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles, but thanks to the dramatic environment of the resort, it is beyond the world. Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean are the breathtaking backdrop of a round of golf here. Terranea Link is a brilliantly designed par-3 course with lush natural terrain and a golf academy with simulators, training equipment and on-site PGA experts.
The Todd Eckenrode from Origins Golf Design is behind the tee placement ranging from 104 to 173 yards. This course offers short and midrange layouts for beginners and experienced golfers.
If you need a break from golf, Terranea has plenty of resort amenities, including an oceanfront 4-star spa, beachside archery and a private falconry experience. There are also four pools and six or more dining options.
Even in the sea of fun pursuits, Sea Island golf stands out.
Sea Island Lodge
Southern Charm and golf excellence are found in two luxurious sister resorts, Sea Island Corridor and Lodge, on the Georgia coast. The 5-star hotel's beautiful surroundings include untouched beaches, lush marsh, and moss-adored oaks, creating a picturesque background for a round of golf. More devoted players will want to stay in the lodge given their proximity to the course and performance centre.
Although each of the three golf courses at Sea Island includes 18 holes, the resort invites players to enjoy a short 9-hole round in one of the three. With its classic design and ocean views, the seaside course is perfect for more casual games.
Sea Island encourages guests to participate in as many activities as they need, most of them outdoors. So, once you've finished putting and chipping, try your hand for fishing or riding.
After your round, gather at the American club of Kohler.
American Club/Coller
In a quaint village in Kohler, Wisconsin, the four-star American Club is a Tudor-style building originally built to house migrant workers at Kohler Barth Company. The American Club has four championship options. The Irish course is a homage to the traditional Irish link course with challenging terrain of the surrounding countryside, challenging bunkers and stunning views. The Whistle Strait is a walking-only course carved along the coastline of Michigan's rugged lakes. River and Meadow Valleys are technically two different 18 holes courses, but can be played as a separate 9 holes experience. The River Course declares changes in elevation, while the Meadow Valley offers strategic challenges and natural beauty.
But in a true short game, play the bus. This 10-hole par-3 course is a fun and family-friendly option for all skill levels and was designed by Pete Dye Protégé Chris Lutzke and Herb Kohler. The 27-acre course has four water features (and therefore called Bass) with holes ranging from 60 to 175 yards. It is only a walking course, and there is also a 2-acre putting practice course.
Beyond golf, the resort's other top perks include a 5-star spa with unique water-based treatments and a variety of dining options, from luxury 4-star immigrant restaurants to casual horse and plough pubs.
Take the swing step from the Pacific Ocean.
Ranches in Laguna Beach
The Laguna Beach Ranch is a secluded resort in Aliso Canyon, a staircase from the Pacific Ocean. The ranch's quiet background with lush greenery and dramatic rock formations create a unique and calm golf experience. I can't see the house. The nine-hole course is known for its challenging layout thanks to the changes in elevation of all fairways and integration with the natural landscape.
When you clean up your club at this eco-friendly Laguna Beach Resort, you can make time to hike, cycling and explore nearby tide pools. Perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Exquisite greenery from the Ritz-Carlton and Grand Cayman.
Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The 5-star Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, is one of the grand resorts in the Caribbean. Featuring multiple pools, a signature five-star restaurant and a sophisticated futuristic five-star spa, it's a great escape from the challenges of everyday life. Grand Cayman is located in the famous Ritz-Carlton, Seven Mile Beach, but also features an exquisite nine-hole course designed by Greg Norman. With its breathtaking look and challenging layout in the North Sound, it's the perfect place to tackle the game.
If you're in the mood for a more friendly competition, the hotel offers basketball, tennis and pickle balls. Another reason to visit: A program developed by Jean Michel Cousteau, who teaches adults and children how to care for the environment and enjoy the natural wonders and cultural traditions of the islands.
A religiously repeated hay course of Tiger Woods.
Martin Miller
Without mentioning Pebble Beach in Northern California, the golf roundup will not be completed. Golf Mecca has six courses, including a nine-hole par 3-hole setup known as hay. Originally created by Peter Hay in 1957, the short course debuted in 2021 with a new Tiger Woods-designed look. The second hole is a replica of the famous 7th hole in Pebble Beach Golf Link, with the other hole yards corresponding to a particular year in Pebble Beach history. For example, the ninth hole is 100 yards, representing the 2000 year period when Woods crushed the field at the 100th US Open Championship at Pebble Beach.
There is also a putting course and a new restaurant located away from the Golf Academy. Once you've finished your swing, stay at Pebble Beach's 4-star lodge for access to members' exclusive sports, fitness and beach clubs. Pool; Spa; Other restaurants.
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