One of the biggest mistakes golf groups make when planning a getaway is choosing the wrong destination at the wrong time of year. Sure, you can technically golf year-round in many parts of the U.S.—but conditions, costs, and availability can swing wildly depending on the season and region.
As a rule of thumb, the sweet spot for a golf trip is when the courses are in peak condition, weather is reliable, and availability matches your group’s budget. To help you align your calendar with your clubs, here’s a great U.S. golf destination for each season, and what to watch out for when booking.
Winter Region: Scottsdale, Arizona
This one is a bit of a layup, but Scottsdale (and the broader Phoenix metro) is arguably the best winter golf destination in the U.S. Between December and March, daytime highs average 65 – 75 F with near-zero rainfall—ideal for golf when most of the country is snowed in. The area offers more than 200 courses, including high-end layouts like Troon North, Grayhawk, and TPC Scottsdale, along with mid-tier courses that balance quality and affordability.
Climate advantage: Stable desert weather means virtually no rainouts. Courses overseed in the fall, so by December the ryegrass is lush and green, giving you those tour-level fairways we all love to dream about.
Availability & cost: Winter is peak season. Tee sheets fill quickly, and rates reflect demand. Expect $200–$400 for premium tee times at the top resorts, though strong-value options exist if you’re willing to drive 20–30 minutes out of Scottsdale proper. Lodging—from resorts to rental villas—also books up months in advance, which is why my 9-month recommendation is so important.
What to watch out for:
- High season pricing: If you’re budget-sensitive, target early December or late March to avoid peak February/March rates.
- Events: The WM Phoenix Open (late January/early February) draws huge crowds and drives prices sky-high. If you want to avoid chaos, pick another week. If you want the party atmosphere, book early and embrace it.
- Dry climate: Hydration is key—don’t underestimate desert conditions.
Planning window: 9–12 months out for prime February–March trips.
Spring Region: Hilton Head, South Carolina
Spring is when the Lowcountry comes alive, and Hilton Head is one of the most balanced golf destinations in the U.S. From March through May, temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s—warm but not oppressively humid. The island offers more than 30 courses, including Harbour Town Golf Links (a PGA Tour stop), Palmetto Dunes, and Sea Pines, plus dozens of villa, condo options, and vacation rentals ideal for groups.
Climate advantage: Moderate spring temps mean you can comfortably play 36 in a day if you want. Coastal breezes add variety to your rounds without the punishing summer heat.
Availability & cost: Spring is shoulder season for Hilton Head. Lodging and tee times are more affordable than in the peak summer tourist months, and crowds are lighter. Expect $125–$300 for premium courses. Villas split across four golfers can make accommodations surprisingly budget-friendly.
What to watch out for:
- Pollen season: March/April can be heavy for allergy sufferers.
- Harbour Town availability: It books quickly around the RBC Heritage (April). Plan outside that week unless you’re attending.
- Travel logistics: Savannah’s airport is close, but flights can be limited; factor in drive time if flying into Charleston.
Planning window: 6–9 months out. Book earlier if your group wants Harbour Town or oceanfront lodging.
Summer Region: Northern Michigan
Summer transforms Northern Michigan into one of the best-value golf destinations in the country. Resorts like Boyne Highlands, Forest Dunes, and Arcadia Bluffs deliver championship-caliber golf in perfect 70 – 80 F weather, with 15+ hours of daylight. Combine that with lakefront settings and you’ve got an unmatched summer golf destination.
Climate advantage: Long summer days mean you can squeeze in extra holes without rushing. The region avoids the oppressive humidity of the South, and courses are in their absolute best condition.
Availability & cost: This is peak season for Michigan resorts, but pricing is still significantly lower than comparable resorts in Arizona or California. Expect $100–$200 for top courses, and strong value on stay-and-play packages. Because the season is short (roughly June–September), demand is concentrated—book early if you want prime weekend slots.
What to watch out for:
- Short season: Try to avoid early May or late September, when weather becomes unpredictable.
- Travel access: Many courses are several hours from major airports. Build in drive time from Detroit or Traverse City.
- Mosquitoes: Evening rounds near water can get buggy—pack repellent.
Planning window: 6–8 months for July/August trips, especially if aiming for Arcadia Bluffs or larger group villas.
Fall Region: Las Vegas, Nevada
Fall is when Vegas golf is at its most comfortable—and often most affordable. By late September, the scorching summer heat breaks, with highs in the 70s – 80s through November. The city offers a wide range of courses, from ultra-exclusive Shadow Creek to mid-tier gems like Bali Hai and Revere. Add in endless lodging options, dining, and entertainment, and you’ve got a fall trip that appeals to golfers and non-golfers alike.
Climate advantage: Predictably dry weather means minimal risk of rainouts. Overseeded courses transition into lush conditions by October, giving you green fairways framed by desert backdrops.
Availability & cost: Unlike winter destinations, Vegas is actually more budget-friendly in the fall. You can often find strong package deals that bundle golf and hotel stays. Premium courses will still command $250+, but second-tier layouts can be had for under $150. Flights into Vegas are abundant and typically inexpensive compared to smaller destinations.
What to watch out for:
- Convention season: October/November conferences drive up hotel rates—watch the calendar.
- Course maintenance: Overseeding schedules can close courses for 1–2 weeks. Check ahead to avoid disappointment.
- Evening chill: Desert temps drop quickly after sunset—pack a layer.
Planning window: 4–6 months out. Groups seeking premium villas or Shadow Creek access should book earlier.
FGG’s Golf Destination Takeaway
Each region earns its season for clear reasons:
- Scottsdale in winter: Best-in-class weather and course conditions, worth the premium.
- Hilton Head in spring: Ideal balance of climate, cost, and availability before the summer crowds.
- Northern Michigan in summer: Incredible value, long days, and peak course conditions in a short season.
- Las Vegas in fall: Comfortable weather, broad lodging options, and lower costs than winter hotspots.
The bottom line: no matter the season for your group’s golf trip, there is a golf destination that will provide you with an elite golf experience. While some prices may be high during these regional peak seasons, there is value if you plan ahead and do your research. Remember, Fairway Golf Getaways is here to do that research and planning – all you need to do is ask (and purchase a package).