How to pick a winter golf spot for 2026

Golfing Bible · 2026-10-06

You can find solid winter golf in Europe and the U.S. for 2026, ranging from warm spots like the Canary Islands to varied U.S. regions. The right pick depends on how much heat you need, whether you prefer specific course designers, and if you want extra activities like dining or beaches.

What you need

Winter travel dates
Golf bag
Weather preference notes

Steps

The Canary Islands average 22°C in winter, and Murcia, Spain, hits 20°C in February. Mallorca stays around 18°C. In the U.S., Scottsdale and Tucson offer warm weather, while Northern California has a milder coastal climate.
The Canary Islands feature layouts by Severiano Ballesteros and Jose María Olazabal. Mallorca includes Robert Trent Jones Jr. designs. U.S. options include Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus courses in the Coachella Valley and Tucson, plus Rees Jones and Donald Ross work in Miami and Palm Beach.
The Algarve has over 40 courses plus historic spots like Vale Do Lobo. Orlando works well for families with theme parks. The U.S. Gulf Coast and Naples combine rounds with beaches. Murcia and Coachella Valley both have dining and nightlife.
Belek, Turkey, is known for great value in winter. Sotogrande, Spain, offers first-class service. If you want course choice, the Algarve has the highest volume. Hilton Head provides Lowcountry landscapes and mild winter weather.

Why it works

Why this matters

Matching the spot to your needs keeps the trip solid. Some places focus on heat, others on course volume or family features. Checking temps and designers first helps you avoid a location that feels too cool or misses the golf style you're after.

If it goes wrong

Too warm or not enough courses?

If 22°C feels too hot, Mallorca's 18°C offers a cooler option. If you need more courses than a single resort provides, the Algarve covers you with over 40 choices. For a mix of golf and beach time, Naples and the Gulf Coast deliver public and private rounds alongside waterfront access.