Swing in Paradise: 9 World’s Most Unique Golfing Destinations You Won’t Believe Exist

Introduction

There’s something profoundly magical about swinging a golf club with a backdrop that steals your breath. Gone are the days when golfing meant just another round at your local course. Now, adventurous golfers are packing their bags, chasing tee times in the most jaw-dropping corners of the planet. Welcome to the world of golfing destinations so surreal, they feel like something out of a movie.

The modern golfer isn’t just looking for a challenge; they want an experience—a story to tell, a moment that merges their love for the sport with the thrill of travel. These golfing destinations aren’t just about scoring under par; they’re about being surrounded by nature’s wonders, historical landmarks, or even wildlife on the fairways. From Arctic adventures to cliffside greens, the game of golf has expanded its horizons, and it’s never been more exciting.

This article dives into nine of the world’s most awe-inspiring golfing destinations that redefine what it means to tee off in paradise. Get ready to explore places where the game meets wonder, where a view matches every stroke, and where golf becomes more than just a game—it becomes an unforgettable journey.

Lofoten Links – Gimsøya, Norway

Imagine golfing under the glow of the midnight sun, with the sound of the ocean waves crashing nearby and rugged arctic peaks towering in the distance. Welcome to Lofoten Links, a mesmerizing golfing destination nestled on the remote island of Gimsøya in Norway. This course is as far from conventional as you can get, located well above the Arctic Circle and offering one of the most surreal golf experiences on Earth.

With its fairways and greens nestled amid granite cliffs and white sand beaches, Lofoten Links is renowned for its unadulterated natural beauty. During the summer months, the sun never sets, allowing golfers to play well into the early morning hours. There’s a mystical quality to it—watching the sky turn soft orange and purple while you line up your shot at 2 a.m.

A local once shared a story about playing a twilight round here while a herd of reindeer crossed the fairway. You won’t find that in Pebble Beach. Wildlife like sea eagles and seals are frequent visitors, too, adding to the wild and untamed charm of the place.

The layout itself is strategic and challenging. Wind off the Norwegian Sea adds a layer of complexity, but the views are worth every extra stroke. For travelers, the course also offers cozy accommodations in traditional Norwegian lodges with glass ceilings—perfect for catching the Northern Lights during the off-season.

With its natural drama, unique light, and remote allure, Lofoten Links is not just a course—it’s a memory in the making, truly one of the most unique golfing destinations you’ll ever visit.

Yas Links – Abu Dhabi, UAE

With everything from frigid beaches to desert luxury, Abu Dhabi’s Yas Links is a shining gem in the Middle Eastern golf scene. Designed by Kyle Phillips, the mastermind behind Kingsbarns in Scotland, this course brings the spirit of classic links golf to a place where camels and Ferraris can be seen in the same view.

Situated along the Arabian Gulf, Yas Links boasts undulating fairways, sea breeze obstacles, and rolling dunes, all of which are protected by cutting-edge amenities. What makes this golfing destination so fascinating is how it combines Scottish tradition with Arabian elegance. You’re as likely to hear the call to prayer as you are the swish of a well-struck iron.

Booking a round here is seamless. Simply visit their website, choose your tee time, and opt for any one of their luxurious stay-and-play packages that include five-star accommodations, spa access, and even personalized coaching sessions.

But what truly elevates this location is what surrounds it. Just minutes from the course, you can explore Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, or even the Yas Marina Formula 1 circuit. After a round of golf, you could be racing on the same track as Lewis Hamilton or dining in world-class restaurants along the waterfront.

Yas Links is a golf venue where innovation and tradition coexist. It’s for people who want their fairways, where the cool sea wind and the warm desert sun meet, to be adorned with flare.

Cape Kidnappers – Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand

Perched dramatically on coastal cliffs high above the Pacific Ocean, Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand is less of a golf course and more of a natural masterpiece. Designed by Tom Doak, this iconic course offers heart-racing visuals with holes that appear to dangle over the edge of the Earth.

Every step you take on this course feels like walking through a National Geographic photo shoot. The fairways are carved into rocky terrain, with infinite views of the sea and hills studded with sheep on either side. It’s hard to focus on your shot when the scenery is overpowering.

The arrangement isn’t simple, though, so don’t be fooled by the beauty of nature. Strategic bunkering and punishing rough and strong coastal winds demand attention. Golfers often find themselves humbled yet exhilarated by the challenge.

Sustainability is also a cornerstone here. The property doubles as a working sheep and cattle farm, and conservation projects are constantly underway to protect native flora and fauna. It’s a rare balance of environmental stewardship and luxury tourism.

Cape Kidnappers isn’t just a golfing destination; it’s an escape into one of Earth’s last great wild frontiers. Every round here is a spiritual journey, a reminder that golf can be both humbling and uplifting in the same breath.

Legend Golf & Safari Resort in the Limpopo region of South Africa

What happens when golf meets safari? You get Legend Golf & Safari Resort in South Africa—a golfing destination so wild, it includes zebras, giraffes, and the infamous “Extreme 19th Hole,” accessible only by helicopter.

This resort is legendary for a reason. Nestled within the Entabeni Safari Conservancy, the golf course is as much about nature as it is about the game. You might see antelope grazing near the bunkers or hear a lion’s roar in the distance as you line up your shot.

The highlight, of course, is the Extreme 19th. This par-3 sits atop Hanglip Mountain, and players must take a chopper to reach the tee box. 1,200 feet below is the green, which resembles the African continent. It’s a bucket list shot for any golfer, not just because of its thrill but because it turns golf into an aerial adventure.

And after your round? You’re in a safari park. Guests can hop into jeeps and set out to see the Big Five. It’s one of the few places where a birdie and a lion sighting can happen on the same day.

Legend isn’t just a resort—it’s an epic narrative where golf and wildlife coexist. For those craving a deep connection to the game and nature, there’s no better golfing destination on the continent.

Thracian Cliffs – Kavarna, Bulgaria

When you think of European golf, your mind might jump to Scotland or Spain, but Bulgaria? Thracian Cliffs proves the country belongs in the conversation. This course, designed by Gary Player, hugs the dramatic cliffs of the Black Sea and offers a visual punch unlike anything in Europe.

What sets Thracian Cliffs apart is its affordability combined with five-star beauty. It’s the rare golfing destination that caters to luxury-seekers without emptying your wallet. Imagine standing on a tee box 150 feet above sea level, waves crashing below, with nothing but ancient cliffs and sky ahead.

Every hole here feels like it was plucked from a painting. And yet, it’s accessible—not just financially but geographically, too. Bulgaria has emerged as an attractive destination for golf tourism thanks to improved infrastructure, visa-free travel for many countries, and an increasing focus on golf-centric resorts.

Off the course, visitors can explore the cultural charm of nearby Varna or indulge in spa treatments and authentic Balkan cuisine. Thracian Cliffs delivers a full package: scenic golf, historical excursions, and Mediterranean vibes all in one.

Nullarbor Links – Australia

Stretching across an astounding 1,365 kilometers, Nullarbor Links holds the title for the world’s longest golf course. It isn’t just long—it’s epic. Spanning from Kalgoorlie in Western Australia to Ceduna in South Australia, this is less of a golf course and more of a transcontinental adventure. Players play one hole at a time, sometimes hundreds of kilometers apart, as they travel along the Eyre Highway. If you’ve ever wanted to combine a golf trip with an Aussie road trip, this is the golfing destination you didn’t know you needed.

The beauty of Nullarbor Links lies in its absurdity and raw appeal. Every hole is set in a different town or roadhouse, each with its character and charm. One hole might have you teeing off next to a gas station with emus watching, while the next could be beside a dusty mining outpost or a salt flat. It’s like a golf-themed treasure hunt across the Outback.

What makes it so memorable, though, is the sense of isolation and camaraderie. Golfers share laughs, stories, and beers at each stop, creating an unmatched community vibe. It turns what could be a lonely desert journey into something deeply personal and unforgettable.

You don’t even need to be a great golfer to enjoy Nullarbor Links. It’s more about the experience than the score. Most players take several days—sometimes even a week—to complete the course, stopping for roadside attractions like the Great Australian Bight or the Head of the Bight whale-watching cliffs.

So, if you’re seeking an unconventional golfing destination, one that combines sport with travel and storytelling, pack your clubs and hit the highway. The Nullarbor adventure awaits.

Uummannaq Golf Course – Greenland

When you think of golf, Greenland probably isn’t the first country that comes to mind. But Uummannaq Golf Course turns that logic on its head by offering an experience so extreme, so unusual, it almost defies belief. Located on a frozen fjord near the remote town of Uummannaq, this ice golf course is the setting for the World Ice Golf Championship—a tournament like no other.

Golfing here is like stepping into another realm. Instead of lush greens and soft fairways, players navigate icy terrain, frozen water hazards, and Arctic winds. The balls are fluorescent to be visible against the snow, and instead of greens, you aim for “whites”—ice-packed areas that serve as putting zones.

Uummannaq is not a place for the timid. The course conditions change daily, shaped by the environment. Safety is paramount, as players dress in insulated layers and carry emergency supplies. The landscape is constantly shifting, and holes must be mapped anew each year depending on the ice formation.

But for those who make the journey, it’s a spiritual and unforgettable experience. Surrounded by jagged icebergs, under skies painted with Northern Lights, or soft winter sun, you feel like you’re at the edge of the world. It’s silent except for the crackling of ice and your heartbeat as you cross a glacial landscape.

This is the ultimate golfing destination for thrill-seekers, bucket-listers, and those who want to test their game—and grit—in conditions unlike anything else on Earth.

Coeur d’Alene Resort – Idaho, USA

Now, let’s dial the intensity down a bit and head to Idaho, where innovation meets luxury at the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course. While the rest of this list boasts ice, cliffs, or deserts, Coeur d’Alene offers a whole new gimmick: the world’s only floating green.

That’s right—hole 14 at this lakeside resort features a movable, man-made island green on Lake Coeur d’Alene. The distance to the green can vary daily thanks to an underwater cable system that allows the green to “float” up to 220 yards from the tee. Your ball will vanish into the glistening waters of the lake if you miss your shot. Nail it? You use a boat called the “Putter” to finish the hole.

The course itself is lush and beautifully maintained, surrounded by forested mountains and glittering water. But it’s not just about the novelty. A premier golf location, Coeur d’Alene offers first-rate service, opulent lodging, and fine dining. The fairways are wide but strategic, and the greens are fast and true.

After your round, you can unwind in the resort’s spa, explore the charming town of Coeur d’Alene, or go boating and fishing on the lake. It’s a relaxing retreat for golfers who appreciate unique experiences but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.

What makes this place magical isn’t just the floating green—it’s the sense of peace. A round here feels like a vacation within a vacation. So, if you’re looking for a blend of novelty, nature, and indulgence, Coeur d’Alene is your dream golfing destination.

Furnace Creek Golf Course – Death Valley, USA

Last on our list, but by no means least, is Furnace Creek Golf Course—the hottest golfing destination on the planet. Situated 214 feet below sea level in Death Valley National Park, this course will have you sweating just walking to the first tee. But it’s not just about heat; it’s about the surreal experience of playing golf in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.

Built in 1931, Furnace Creek is surprisingly lush, with palm trees, grass, and even water features maintained through a careful irrigation system. Temperatures regularly soar above 120°F (49°C) in the summer, so most rounds are played early in the morning or during cooler winter months.

But even in winter, there’s a sense of extremity that makes every hole feel like a feat of endurance. The high heat affects ball flight, club selection, and stamina. You’ll likely use one club less than usual because the ball travels further in thin, hot air.

What keeps people coming back? The bragging rights. Very few golfers can say they’ve teed it up at the lowest, driest, and hottest golf course on the planet. Plus, the desert views are otherworldly—rugged mountains, dunes, and vibrant sunsets make for an Instagram-worthy backdrop.

Staying at the nearby Oasis at Death Valley provides creature comforts, including pools, fine dining, and cool, air-conditioned rooms. You’ll need them after playing on what feels like the surface of Mars.

If you want your golf game to include tales of survival and adventure, Furnace Creek is the golfing destination that will leave a lasting impression—and probably a serious tan.

Conclusion

There has always been more to golf than just the game itself. For many, it’s therapy, competition, and a connection to nature rolled into one. But as the world becomes smaller through travel, golfers are starting to crave more than just a pretty fairway. They want adventure. They want something unforgettable. They want golfing destinations that tell a story.

Each of these nine unique spots offers something far beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re teeing off beneath the midnight sun in Norway, chipping onto a floating green in Idaho, or swinging above cliffs in Bulgaria, you’re creating memories that will outlast any scorecard.

What’s even more exciting is how accessible many of these places are becoming. International golf tourism is rising because of the internet. You can now plan an Arctic adventure or a Middle Eastern golf vacation with just a few clicks. Airlines, resorts, and tour companies are catching on, too, creating special packages and experiences tailored to golf lovers.

But beyond the bucket list appeal, there’s something deeper happening. Golf is evolving. It’s becoming a global passport to the most astonishing places on Earth. It’s a way for players to connect with different cultures, environments, and even themselves. Every golfing destination listed here is proof that the game doesn’t have to be confined to manicured parks or local clubs. Instead, it can lead you to the wild, the luxurious, the extreme, and the unforgettable.

So, where will you swing next? The world’s most breathtaking courses are out there—waiting for you to bring your A-game and your sense of adventure.