I've been to over 200 high-end golf courses around the globe. Here are 8 mistakes I always see first-timers make.

13.08.2024 - 09:15 / insider.com

I've written about golf for the past 30 years, though I've been playing since I was about 10.

I've also been privileged to visit over 200 courses around the world, including legendary spots like Pebble Beach, Cypress Point, and Southern Hills — home to many PGA tournaments over the years.

But I know very well that the game can frustrate and frazzle even the best players.

Think strategically before booking your next golf outing or extended vacation, and avoid these mistakes I often see first-timers make when visiting high-end courses.

Golf courses are like fingerprints: Each has its unique identity and characteristics. Try to choose the right one.

For those new to the game, the average public municipal course is a good place to start, followed by user-friendly resort courses. Championship layouts are typically meant for competitive play.

It's also crucial to play from the proper tee. Most courses have up to five different starting points on each hole for different skill levels.

The back tees are for experienced players who can hit far. Choosing them can add hundreds of yards to a round, so pick your starting point carefully and with realistic expectations.

When you're jetting off for a weekend of golf, pack light.

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Not only do most airlines charge hefty fees for bulky golf travel bags, but also hauling them around can be hernia-inducing.

Fortunately, it's often not necessary to pack so much. Most courses are well-stocked with high-end rental clubs and sell everything from golf balls to Gatorade.

Or you can even have your own gear shipped ahead to your golf course through services like Ship Sticks.

Higher-end country clubs and resorts typically have a dress code, so look into it ahead of time.

The codes often suggest collared shirts tucked into belted trousers or athletic skirts and golf shoes — no denim or tank tops.

If you're traveling with people who prefer biking and beaching to flailing away at a tiny dimpled ball, skip the super-serious golf resorts.

Instead, find a spot that has excellent courses and something for the rest of your group, too.

There are tons of options. Bandon Dunes Resort in coastal Oregon has seven glorious courses plus miles of hiking trails. An hour outside Atlanta, Reynolds Lake Oconee has seven championship golf courses and also hiking trails and courts for pickleball and tennis.

Omni Barton Creek has multiple championship golf courses and is only a short drive from the live music, barbecue, and whiskey in downtown Austin.

Getting a tee time at popular courses can feel like a Herculean task these days.

Places like the aforementioned Bandon Dunes are booked out over a year in advance. The same is true for legendary locations like Pebble Beach (its greens fees