Title: Where to Tee Off this Summer: A Golf Lover’s Chaotic Guide to Destination Dreaming
Alright, picture this. It’s summer, you’ve got a bag of clubs, a handful of vacation days, and that undeniable itch to swing a nine iron somewhere new. Why does golf call so irresistibly in the summer? I dunno, maybe it’s the promise of green fairways that stretch forever, like some kinda mystical realm where bogeys don’t exist. Anyway — wait, where was I? Ah yes, planning your next golfing getaway. Let’s wander through the map, plotting fairway fantasies from cool breezes to hot desert savings. Ready? Strap in.
Northern Michigan: Where Cherries Rule and Golf Courses Drool
Summer in Northern Michigan, folks. It’s like this pocket of serene coolness that’s practically begging for a golf trip. Temps float in the 70s, humidity takes a backseat, and the days reign long – perfect for squeezing in 36 holes. You start in Traverse City, greeted by cherries (which, honestly, I didn’t know were such a big deal until I got there). First stop: Grand Traverse Resort’s The Bear. Be ready. It’s a Jack Nicklaus course, which means it’ll test you like a final exam you forgot to study for.
Then, there’s Boyne Golf, boasting ten championship courses. Ever heard someone call Bay Harbor the “Pebble Beach of the Midwest”? Now you have. They’re not kidding; it clings to the cliffs like a dare. Arcadia Bluffs swoops you right up with its views of Lake Michigan and any sunset that might just blow your mind a little.
Wisconsin: Beyond Cheese and Famed Fairways
While we might wax poetic about Michigan, let’s not sleep on Wisconsin. Kohler is iconic, thanks to Whistling Straits—even if its name makes it sound like a sea shanty. Sprawling and windswept, it brings that intense “in the elements” vibe.
And let’s not forget Erin Hills. If it’s good enough for the U.S. Open, it’ll give you plenty of stories to take home. Then there’s Lawsonia Links, which, oh man, talk about quirky—there’s a buried boxcar under a green. Try focusing on your swing after learning that tidbit.
Oregon: Go West, Golf Young Man
Bandon Dunes — this place, lemme tell you, is like a bucket list erupted and spat out golf dreams. It’s hauntingly beautiful, all sea spray and breezy links. Plus, you’re practically in your own little Scotland here.
The rest of Oregon doesn’t slack, either. Drift towards Bend for Nicklaus’ pixie dust touch at Pronghorn or check out Crosswater at Sunriver. It’s golf and nature slapping high fives in perfect harmony.
Pebble Beach and Coastal California: Fairway Nirvana
Pebble Beach might as well be the holy grail of public courses. It’s historic, divine, and jaw-dropping with every ocean-clad hole. But don’t let Pebble steal all the spotlight. Break in Spyglass Hill, or if you’re further south, sample Torrey Pines, overlooking the Pacific like it owns the place.
Big Cedar Lodge: Extravagance Meets Eccentricity
Big Cedar Lodge is… well, I won’t lie, it’s a bit much, but in the most fabulous way. Founded by the guy behind Bass Pro Shops, it’s rich with character. Tiger Woods’ first public course, Payne’s Valley is here, among others. Trust me, a place where the 19th hole feels like a scene out of a fantasy movie is worth a visit.
Beach Vibes and Ocean Breezes: Myrtle Beach to Kiawah
Down south, Myrtle Beach flaunts its quantity and quality of courses — think mega! When you’re not teeing off, the Grand Strand keeps you entertained with more than sand and sun. And then there’s Kiawah Island with its Ocean Course, so epic it hosted the “War by the Shore.” Sounds fierce? Perfect.
Beat the Heat But Keep the Green
Lastly, embrace the swelter and save a buck. Arizona’s Scottsdale or Florida’s Streamsong offer savings under the sun, and if you play early, you might even avoid melting. Trust me, the hardiness is rewarding.
So, fellow golf wanderer, where will the flight gates take you? The choices are as vast as these landscapes you’ll soon explore. Maybe it’s time to pack those clubs and point your compass north, south, or wherever the wind whispers “golf.”
