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With its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and an abundance of sunshine, Central Texas offers a golfer’s paradise for enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting to explore the sport, the region boasts an array of top-notch golf courses set amidst stunning natural scenery. Embark on a golf vacation in Central Texas and indulge in the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.

Austin: Where Culture Meets the Fairway

Start your golfing adventure in Austin, the vibrant capital city known for its live music scene, eclectic culture, and outdoor activities. Here, you’ll find an assortment of golf courses catering to every skill level and preference. For a challenging round surrounded by Texas Hill Country views, head to the Falconhead Golf Club or Avery Ranch Golf Club.

After a rewarding day on the greens, explore Austin’s diverse culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions, from the historic State Capitol to the trendy South Congress Avenue.

San Antonio: Golfing Gems and Historic Charms

Just a short drive from Austin lies San Antonio, a city steeped in history and home to some of Central Texas’s most renowned golf courses. Tee off amidst centuries-old oak trees and lush fairways at the legendary La Cantera Resort & Spa, featuring a championship course designed by golfing great Tom Weiskopf.

For a taste of history alongside your golfing escapades, visit the historic Brackenridge Park Golf Course, the oldest municipal golf course in Texas, dating back to 1916. After perfecting your swing, explore San Antonio’s iconic attractions, including the historic Alamo, the scenic River Walk, and the vibrant Market Square.

Hill Country Retreats: Golfing Amidst Natural Beauty

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and retreat to the tranquil beauty of the Texas Hill Country. Nestled among rolling hills and pristine landscapes, the region offers an idyllic setting for golf enthusiasts seeking a serene getaway.

Experience luxury and leisure at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin, boasting four championship courses designed by legendary architects like Ben Crenshaw, Tom Fazio, and Arnold Palmer. Or, head to Horseshoe Bay Resort near Marble Falls, where three Robert Trent Jones, Sr. designed courses await, offering breathtaking views of Lake LBJ.

After a day of golfing bliss, unwind with a wine tasting at one of the many nearby vineyards or explore charming small towns like Fredericksburg, known for its German heritage and eclectic boutiques.

Conclusion:

Central Texas beckons golf aficionados with its diverse array of courses, stunning landscapes, and endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a challenging round amidst urban excitement or a tranquil retreat in the heart of nature, Central Texas has something to offer every golfer. Pack your clubs, embrace the Texas hospitality, and get ready for an unforgettable golf vacation in the heart of the Lone Star State.

Golf resorts in Texas are some of the best in the country, and Austin and San Antonio are no exception. These two cities are known for their beautiful landscapes, rich history, and world-class golf courses, making them the perfect destinations for golfers looking to experience the best that Texas has to offer.

In Austin, one of the best golf resorts in Texas is the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, which boasts four championship golf courses designed by some of the biggest names in the sport, including Tom Fazio, Ben Crenshaw, and Arnold Palmer. The resort also features luxury accommodations, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after an exciting day on the links.

In San Antonio, golfers should check out the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, home to two championship courses at TPC San Antonio. The Oaks course hosts the PGA Tour Valero Texas Open and was designed by Greg Norman. The Canyons course was designed by the legendary Pete Dye. The resort is located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The resort also features luxury accommodations, multiple pools and water attractions, a full-service spa, and numerous dining options, ensuring that guests have everything they need for an unforgettable golf vacation.

Whether you’re looking to play a round of golf or just relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, golf resorts in Texas offer something for everyone. So, book your trip today and experience the best of what Austin and San Antonio have to offer!

I had the good fortune to spend a few days with my family at one of Texas’ best luxury golf resorts, Horseshoe Bay Resort. We stayed in a 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom Palm Villa at the resort and we had a terrific time!  The Villa had a very spacious living area, a full kitchen, and comfy beds in each of the large bedrooms.  The fitness center is located with the Villas, and that’s where we picked up paddles and balls when we decided to play pickleball.  The Villas also have a pool, but it’s not heated, so we’d walk over to the heated pool at the resort tower when the kids wanted to swim.

The Horseshoe Bay Resort tower was only a stone’s throw away from the Villas, so it was very easy to enjoy all of the resort’s amenities.  Breakfast was delicious at J’s Restaurant and Bar, so much so that we went there for lunch too.  In the evening, we played a round of putt-putt on the Zoysia greens of the 18-hole Whitewater Putting Course.  This was a big hit with the kids and I could definitely see me and my friends settling some bets on this putting course if I were on a golf buddy trip. Afterwards, we had dinner at the Whitewater 360 Sports Club, where I had the best nachos I’ve ever had plus some outstanding pizza.

Our trip culminated with a round of golf on the Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed Slick Rock Golf Course.  The resort’s original course built in 1971, the course was in pristine condition thanks to a full renovation back in 2016.  The course played like I prefer all resort courses to, generous off the tee box while offering fun and challenging approach shots.  The tee shot over and then cart ride through the waterfall on the “Million Dollar” par-4 14^th hole did not disappoint.  I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how good the food was at the Slick Rock Grill & Bar when we made the turn.  My kids said they had the best fries in the world.

If you’re looking for an outstanding Texas golf resort vacation, whether it’s a fun family outing, a couple’s getaway, or a golf buddy trip, you won’t go wrong when you visit Horseshoe Bay Resort.  Don’t just take it from me – GOLF Magazine named Horseshoe Bay Resort a Top 100 Resort in North America!

This has been a year like no other.  Covid, Coronavirus, Wuhan Virus, whatever you want to call it, has affected every aspect of our lives.  For us here at Texas Golf Trails, we know it has ruined plenty of golf trips.  For those who had their annual buddy trip cancelled, we’re ready to help you get back out there.

If you’re wondering where to go, look no further than the ultimate luxury golf resort in Texas, the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin.  Yes, the same resort you see on those MasterCard commercials.  The resort has three courses on-site, the Tom Fazio designed Canyons and Foothills courses, and the Ben Crenshaw-Bill Coore designed Cliffside course.  About 40 minutes away, the resort features the Arnold Palmer designed Lakeside course perched along the shores of Lake Travis.  We can help arrange shuttle transportation to this course, which is definitely worth the trip.  If you want to play 36 holes while you’re out there, Lakecliff Country Club, which also features an Arnold Palmer course, is just 5 minutes from Lakeside.  In addition to world-class golf, the food, service, spa, and amenities at Barton Creek are sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.

Another destination to consider is Horseshoe Bay Resort in Horseshoe Bay, TX, about 45 minutes northwest of Austin.  Named a Top 100 Golf Resort by GOLF magazine, the resort is home to three Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed courses.  The Slick Rock course is the original of the three and features the world-famous “Million Dollar Hole,” a par-4 that has you tee off over a waterfall and then drive under the same waterfall from the tee box to the fairway.  The Apple Rock and Ram Rock courses are co-located and share a clubhouse.  Both courses will take you from the highest points on the resort grounds all the way down to the shores of Lake LBJ.  Ram Rock is the more challenging of the two and features a par-3 with an island green.  The resort also has an 18-hole all grass putting course, a great place to settle those un-finished bets.  The resort offers plenty more than just golf, with pontoon boats, ski boats, jet-skis, kayaks, and canoes available for you to take out and enjoy the lake.

Finally, San Antonio should definitely be considered for your next golf trip.  The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa and La Cantera Resort & Spa are both great stay-and-play choices; however, unlike the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa and Horseshoe Bay Resort, you don’t have to be a guest at either of these resorts to enjoy their courses.  Through our relationships, we can book tee times at the Greg Norman designed Oaks course and the Pete Dye designed Canyons course at TPC San Antonio even if you don’t stay at the JW Marriott.  Also, you don’t have to stay at La Cantera to enjoy the Tom Weiskopf designed Resort course and the Arnold Palmer designed Palmer course.  San Antonio is also home to The Quarry Golf Course, a truly unique track with a back 9 that meanders through the remains of an old limestone quarry.  History also abounds in the Alamo City at Brackenridge Park Golf Course, a rare A.W. Tillinghast design that is open to the public.  Originally built in 1916 and restored in 2008, “Old Brack” is the original host of the PGA Tour Texas Open, with players such as Byron Nelson and Sam Snead strolling its grounds.  The course is now home to the Texas Golf Hall of Fame.

When considering your trip, here are two resources to refer to:

https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/about/covid-open/

https://www.austintexas.org/plan-a-trip/covid-19-resources/

We’re here to help and are happy to answer any of your questions.  During these unprecedented times, we are committed to helping you have the best Texas golf trip experience possible.

“Let’s play two” is a phrase usually associated with double headers in baseball, but when you’re with friends and playing well, there are few things better than playing 36 holes.  San Antonio is a terrific golf vacation destination for those who want to go around again.  In addition to great food, unbelievable margaritas, and the world-famous Riverwalk, San Antonio is also home to some of the best golf courses in Texas.

There are few better places to play 36 than TPC San Antonio, which features the AT&T Oaks Course and the AT&T Canyons Course.  Greg Norman, with player consultant Sergio Garcia, designed the Oaks Course, which is the home of the PGA Tour Valero Texas Open.  Relatively flat with only 100 feet of fall from the highest point on the course to the lowest, the course has a traditional design with tree lined fairways.  The late, great Pete Dye designed the Canyons Course, which is a fantastic compliment to the Oaks Course.  The Canyons Course challenges golfers with dramatic elevation changes and was the host of the PGA Tour Champions San Antonio Championship from 2011 to 2015.

Another top Texas golf vacation spot for those looking to play 36 is La Cantera Resort & Spa.  The resort has two well renowned courses, the Resort course and the Palmer course.  The Resort Course at La Cantera hosted the PGA Tour Valero Texas Open for 15 years and was designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish.  Six holes have amazing views of San Antonio and the surrounding hill country, including the par-4 7^th that has an 80 foot drop from the tee box to the fairway.  The Palmer course is aptly named after its designer, Arnold Palmer.  The clubhouse is about 10 minutes from the rest of the resort and the course is immersed in its natural surroundings.  Majestic oaks line the fairways, and waterfalls, lakes, and white sand bunkers demand skill from tee to green on this picturesque course.

Hill Country Golf Club at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa is a fun option to play 36 holes during your golf trip to San Antonio.  This 27-hole facility was designed by nationally acclaimed Arthur Hills and Associates on 200 acres of rolling meadows and lush hillsides.   Hill Country GC offers golfers 3 unique and balanced 9-hole loops, The Oaks, The Creeks, and The Lakes.  Each 9-hole course is par-36.

The Club at Sonterra just north of downtown San Antonio, is home to two 18-hole championship courses, each with their own unique settings and challenges.  The South Course, built in 1954, was designed by Press Maxwell.  It offers golfers a traditional layout with large oaks lining the fairways and Emerald Bermuda greens.  The club’s North Course rates as a Top 100 course in Texas per the Dallas Morning News and was built in 1985.  The course has notably few trees, but an abundance of fairway bunkers penalizes wayward shots off the tee.

About 30 to 45 minutes northwest of downtown San Antonio resides Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club, home to two Gary Player signature courses.  Gary Player and Denis Griffith designed the Blackjack Oak course while Player and Ron Kirby designed the Live Oak course.  Both courses run along hilly terrain and have large, undulating greens.  The tree lined fairways strategically narrow in the landing areas, rewarding good course management and club selection.

One more option to play two different courses while playing 36 holes in one day is pairing up Brackenridge Park Golf Course with The Quarry Golf Course.  Both courses are just outside of downtown San Antonio and only 10 minutes apart from each other, so playing both courses in one day is no problem.  Brackenridge Park is a historical gem and one of the few public A.W. Tillinghast designed courses in the country.  Home to the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, “Ol’ Brack” is a must play when you visit San Antonio.  World Traveler Magazine ranked The Quarry as the #7 Most Unique Golf Course in the U.S.  Designed by Keith Foster, the back nine sits in a 100-year-old quarry pit.  You’ll find yourself taking pictures throughout your round while enjoying a one-of-a-kind Texas golf experience.

What makes for a great golf vacation? First and foremost, it’s the people. The guys and gals you’ve invited along on your trip, obviously, but also the people you’ll meet along the way. During a Texas golf vacation, you’re sure to get plenty of “howdy’s” from warm, smiling faces. Some genuine Texas hospitality will have you in a great frame of mind once you step into the first tee box!

When planning a golf weekend getaway or even a longer golf trip package, the quality of your accommodations can play a huge role in how much you enjoy yourself as well. Austin and San Antonio are home to some of the best hotels in the country, boasting fantastic properties like JW Marriott, Hotel Granduca, Hotel Van Zandt, Hotel Emma, and Hotel Contessa, just to name a few. Utilizing a golf concierge service like Texas Golf Trails will ensure you get the most out of your budget, and we’ll also take into account your desired nightlife scene and convenience to the courses you’re playing when putting together our custom Texas golf specials.

Speaking of nightlife, good food and drink is a staple for any vacation. Austin is home to world-famous BBQ joints like The Salt Lick and Franklin Barbecue. Get some Texas ranch eats and enjoy them outdoors at Contigo. Odd Duck, Fixe, Uchi, and a host of other first-class restaurants will delight those looking for an inspired dinner out. Looking for something unique and casual? Check out the food trucks that are scattered throughout town. In San Antonio, get the meat sweats at Cured in the restaurant-rich Pearl Brewery district. If you’re on the River Walk and looking for a 5-star meal, check out Biga on the Banks. If you’d like to experience some authentic Tex-Mex, San Antonio is the undisputed champion.

Last and certainly not least, you have to have great golf courses. Austin and San Antonio are home to 19 of the top 50 courses you can play in Texas (according to SportsDayDFW.com), and 5 of the Top 10. We’ll make sure you play the best during your Texas golf vacation, optimize your experience, and maximize your value!

If you’re interested in a golf buddy trip and want to learn about golfing in Texas, you’ve come to the right place. Once you arrive at TexasGolfTrails.com and fill out our Get A Quote form, that’s when you start to receive the value of our service.

We build custom golf vacation packages based on the info you provide. Nothing we offer is cookie-cutter. We choose the accommodations and golf courses that optimize your Texas golf vacation based on your budget and specific requests. That could include a golf resort package or a hotel and golf package or even just a golf package if you already have accommodations. It all depends on what YOU want!

If you’d like to stay at Barton Creek Resort, Horseshoe Bay Resort, La Cantera Resort, or one of the other fantastic golf resorts in San Antonio, BUT you want to play more than just the courses at that resort, we can make that happen for you. We’re headquartered in Austin, so you can rely on our local knowledge and be assured that we’re choosing the right courses for your Texas golf vacation and developing the best golf package for your money.

If nightlife is a key component of your Texas golf vacation, we can book you a hotel in downtown Austin or on the Riverwalk in San Antonio, and still get you on the best golf courses in Texas. We also ensure our Texas golf packages are convenient. We know you don’t want to spend half your day in a car, so we make sure the golf courses in your itinerary make sense with the accommodations in your package as well as any day-of-arrival and day-of-departure requests.

Bottom line, Texas Golf Trails is the surest way to the best Texas golf vacation to Austin or San Antonio.