Tessa Taylor
2024-10-24
6 min read
Most enthusiasts would agree that golf isn’t merely a game, it is a passion and a way of life. Whether you’re a keen amateur, seasoned pro or just a fan, there is nothing quite like seeing a golf tournament. The best golf tournaments don’t play on just any courses and they often have the best layouts in the world. Fans can get to see the best players on the best courses, which is a must for hardcore golf fans. So, here are the best golf tournaments to attend around the world to add to your bucket list.
The U.S Open takes place each year in June at various locations around the country. The Open is considered to have the most demanding courses and you can see the best golfers in the world tackle the challenges. As a spectator, you can feel the tensions as players use strategy and raw skill in decisions that could make or break the game. You can witness the drama as it unfolds right there in person for an exhilarating experience. If you love golf, experiencing the U.S Open is a must.
The Masters takes place in Augusta, Georgia each year in April. This is the place where Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, and Jack Nicklaus made history. In fact, this tournament is so in demand, tickets are awarded by lottery, making it even more of a bucket list event. As a spectator it is difficult not to feel immersed in the stunning scenery, which provides a stark contrast to the fierce competition on the greens. You can almost feel the air buzzing with anticipation and excitement. There is simply nothing like being part of the gallery at this tournament.
The PGA Championship changes venue every year in May, but it always provides a fantastic combination of strategy, skill and nerve. Some of the best golfers face off against incredibly challenging courses. As part of the crowd, you’ll get swept up in the thrill and tension of the final puts. You won’t simply be watching the tournament, you’ll become part of golfing tradition.
Pebble Beach, the Monterey Peninsula shore and Spyglass Hill combine to create what is considered the most picturesque setting for an athletic event. In fact, Robert Louis Stevenson once called the area “the most felicitous meeting of land and sea in creation.” Spyglass Hill is an inland course with its own unique challenges, while the short par 3 seventh hole at Pebble Beach is instantly recognizable as one of the most photographed holes in the golfing world. The Monterey Peninsula is becoming quite popular due to this tournament and you may be surprised at this relatively unknown jewel. All combine to make this tournament a must see.
The Open Championship or as it often known the British Open rotates around the U.K courses each year in July, providing visitors the experience of seeing the most authentic form of golf. The Open is the oldest of the Majors and is played on link style courses. These have their own challenges, but the temperamental British weather can be an even greater opponent. Golfers navigate the challenging terrain come rain, shine or wind, creating an unmissable experience.
The Memorial Tournament is played in June in Dublin, Ohio’s Muirfield Village Golf Club. This is the course built by Jack Nicklaus and it is considered one of the most spectacularly conditioned on the PGA Tour. Keen golfers may spot the true Nicklaus layout exemplified by the not too slide fades off the tee. However, while it is one of the prettiest, it is not the easiest to walk. Be prepared for the par 3 16th, which can feel like a brute, but the 18th is easily one of the greatest finishing holes. Overall, this tournament feels more elevated than many other tour events.
The Farmers Insurance Open takes place each year in January at Torrey Pines in San Diego, California. As a spectator, you’ll be able to appreciate the drama of the Pacific Ocean waves crashing against the cliffs providing a backdrop to some of the best golfers in the world competing. Every hole brings a new challenge, showcasing the best of the best golfing skills, as you feel the ocean breeze and get caught up in the excitement of the crowd. The Farmers Open is not merely a tournament, but a sensory, once in a lifetime experience.
Formerly the AT&T National, the Quicken Loans National takes place in July at different top tier courses throughout the U.S. This tournament exemplifies the true spirit of golf, showcasing the love of the game. There is a camaraderie among the fans, creating a community atmosphere as you watch the best golfers in the world take on a fresh challenge.
Each January, multiple courses in La Quinta, California host the American Express tournament. This tour brings together exceptional entertainment and world class golf. You can spend the day watching some spectacular golf and then enjoy an open air evening concert. If you want to enjoy a lifestyle experience combining the best of entertainment and sport, this is the tournament for you.
This tournament takes place in Kapalua, Hawaii, with a hilly Plantation Course that combines wide fairways and odd lies, allowing previous season winners to post some low numbers. The most familiar hole is the 18th, where the tee appears perched on a hill, allowing the ball a long distance drive down into a valley.
Whether you’re new to the sport or a lifelong fan, attending a golf tournament can provide an unforgettable experience. From the raw excitement of the crowd and beauty of the courses, you can see the best of the best playing the sport and there is nothing quite like it, so add one of two to your bucket list!