Explore Iconic East Coast Golf Destinations for Your Next Escape
If you’ve been dreaming of a golf getaway filled with ocean views, legendary fairways, and memorable 18-hole challenges, it’s time to head east. The best east coast golf trips deliver everything—scenic backdrops, championship courses, historic clubs, and excellent après-golf experiences. Whether you're traveling with friends, planning a golf-centric honeymoon, or organizing a weekend retreat, the East Coast has something for every skill level and style.
Let’s dive into a curated list of the best golf trips the East Coast has to offer—each one promising unforgettable rounds and relaxing vibes.
Pinehurst, North Carolina
The Cradle of American Golf
No list of the best east coast golf trips would be complete without Pinehurst. Known as the "Home of American Golf," Pinehurst Resort boasts nine distinct courses, including the legendary No. 2, designed by Donald Ross. It's hosted U.S. Opens, PGA Championships, and is often referred to as a must-play for serious golfers.
Highlights:
Stay at the Carolina Hotel for old-school southern charm
Play “The Cradle,” a fun par-3 course ideal for short-game practice
Visit nearby breweries and barbecue joints post-round
This historic East Coast golf destination is perfect for players who appreciate tradition and world-class layouts.
Sea Island, Georgia
Southern Luxury with Championship Pedigree
Nestled between Savannah and Jacksonville, Sea Island is pure East Coast elegance. It’s a staple on lists of the best east coast golf trips thanks to its luxury accommodations and top-ranked courses like Seaside and Plantation, both featured in PGA Tour events.
Why It Stands Out:
Excellent golf schools and instruction programs
Five-star resorts and fine dining
Marshland views and well-maintained greens
If you're into polished service and top-shelf golf, Sea Island brings a five-star experience from first tee to final toast.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Family-Friendly with Serious Fairways
Hilton Head has long been a favorite golf destination on the East Coast—and for good reason. Harbour Town Golf Links, made famous by the RBC Heritage tournament, offers a tough but rewarding round. Beyond that, the island offers more than 20 golf courses and endless coastal activities.
Plan to Enjoy:
Harbour Town’s iconic red-and-white lighthouse backdrop
Palmetto Dunes and Oyster Reef for scenic and challenging layouts
Bike paths, seafood, and beachside lounging
This is one of the best golf trips East Coast vacationers can take when blending golf with family or group travel.
Looking for A Stay & Play Deal?
If you wish to enjoy scenic desert views in the Arizona-Nevada area, make sure to check out Laughlin Ranch Golf Club's stay and play partners for the one of the best accommodation and golf experiences.
Greenbrier Resort, West Virginia
Mountain Majesty Meets Historic Luxury
Though technically nestled in the Appalachian region, The Greenbrier is still considered an iconic east coast golf destination. Its mountain setting offers a cooler climate and stunning views. Courses like The Old White TPC have hosted PGA Tour events and offer a walk-through American golf history.
Features to Love:
Resort access to multiple high-quality courses
Casino, spa, and historic hotel architecture
A less-crowded alternative to coastal hotspots
Greenbrier is perfect for travelers who want to play incredible courses while enjoying a full resort-style escape.
Streamsong Resort, Florida
A Wild Card with Wide Fairways
Located in central Florida, Streamsong might feel off the typical coastal track—but it deserves a place on the list of best east coast golf trips. Why? Because of its modern design, minimalist courses, and sand dune-inspired layouts by golf architecture legends like Tom Doak and Gil Hanse.
Standout Aspects:
Three top-rated courses: Red, Blue, and Black
A remote, quiet setting free from big crowds
Luxury accommodations and a focus on pure golf
It’s the spot for golf purists who want something different and design-forward.
At-a-Glance: Where to Go for What
| Experience | Destination |
|---|---|
| Iconic American Golf | Pinehurst, NC |
| Beachfront Challenge | Kiawah Island, SC |
| Coastal Family Fun | Hilton Head, SC |
| Elegant Resort Vibes | Sea Island, GA |
| Old-School Scenic Courses | Cape Cod, MA |
| Mountain Golf Getaway | The Greenbrier, WV |
| Unique, Modern Layouts | Streamsong, FL |
Wrapping Up: Your East Coast Golf Bucket List
From windswept shorelines to pine-lined fairways, the best east coast golf trips bring more than great scores—they create lifelong memories. Whether you're hunting birdies along Cape Cod’s bluffs, battling wind on Kiawah’s Ocean Course, or enjoying five-star luxury in Sea Island, the East Coast has you covered.
Key Takeaways:
Pinehurst and Sea Island are perfect for classic, high-end experiences
Cape Cod and Hilton Head cater to multi-generational trips
Kiawah and Streamsong are for those chasing championship-caliber play
At Laughlin Ranch Golf Club, we appreciate a great golf journey—and we know a thing or two about incredible fairways. While we call the Arizona desert home, we celebrate golfers exploring coast-to-coast.
If you’re planning a bucket-list-worthy getaway, any of these east coast golf destinations will deliver rounds you'll never forget.