Life is all about discovering new experiences—and for many travelers, sports and adventure go hand in hand. If you’ve always pictured golf as a serious game played on manicured green hills, think again. These destinations are breaking the mold and reshaping what it means to play golf. From frozen tundras to private island escapes, here are four unique places that will change how you see the sport.
The Els Club, Dubai
Where the desert meets the fairway. Designed by Ernie Els, this 18-hole championship course feels like an oasis nestled among the dunes. Located in the heart of Dubai, The Els Club redefines luxury golfing with perfectly groomed greens surrounded by golden sands.
It’s best to plan your visit during the cooler winter months, as summer temperatures can rise above 113°F (45°C). After the game, enjoy the clubhouse amenities, including world-class restaurants and breathtaking views that rival any luxury resort.
Instagram: the_els_club_dubai
Website: https://www.elsclubdubai.com/
Uummannaq Golf Course, Greenland
You’ve heard of desert golf—now meet ice golf. Home to the Ice Golf World Championship, this Arctic course offers one of the most extreme golfing experiences on Earth.
Forget green fairways. Here, the snow is your course, and brightly colored balls are used so they don’t get lost in the endless white. Each year, the layout changes depending on how the icebergs and frozen fjords shift. As you play, you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped mountains, eerie silence, and a true sense of otherworldly isolation.
Laucala Island, Fiji
Welcome to golfing paradise. Designed by David McLay Kidd, this ultra-exclusive 18-hole course is carved into a private island surrounded by tropical jungle, white-sand beaches, and the Pacific Ocean.
Access is strictly limited to guests of the Laucala Island Resort, where each villa comes with its own pool and direct beach access. No tee times. No crowds. Just pure island calm. Want to do more after your game? Explore the reef with a dive, go horseback riding, or unwind at a hidden spa tucked into the lush landscape.
Instagram: @comolaucalaisland
Legend Golf & Safari Resort, South Africa
This is not your average 19th hole. Known as “The Extreme 19th”, this legendary par 3 is located on top of a mountain, and the only way to reach the tee is by helicopter.
At 1,300 feet (400 meters) above the ground, players take their shot from dizzying heights toward a green shaped like the African continent, surrounded by the South African savanna. It takes nearly 30 seconds for the ball to reach the ground. And if you’re lucky enough to land a hole-in-one? There’s a $1 million prize waiting for you.
Website: https://www.seastargolfsafari.co.za/
