At GertieBlu, we explore the best of lifestyle, adventure, and sports with fresh perspectives and exciting insights. Today, we’re focusing on golf—a game that blends skill, strategy, and the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, golf offers something unique for everyone. In this post, we’ll break down how to play the game and highlight five of the world’s greatest golf courses, complete with the best times to visit. Let’s tee off!
How to Play Golf: A Beginner’s Guide
Golf is a game of precision and patience. The objective is simple: use as few strokes as possible to get your ball into a series of holes, typically over 18 holes in a full round. Here’s a breakdown of the basic steps to get you started:
1. Understand the Course Layout
Each course consists of a series of holes, ranging in difficulty. A standard course includes 18 holes, but you can also play on a 9-hole course. Each hole has a par, the expected number of strokes to complete it. Holes range from par 3 (shorter) to par 5 (longer).
2. Know the Equipment
- Clubs: You’ll need a set of golf clubs, typically including drivers (for long shots), irons (for mid-range shots), wedges (for close-range), and putters (for the green). The maximum number of clubs allowed in your bag is 14.
- Ball: A small, dimpled golf ball is used, and you’ll need to master the art of striking it cleanly.
- Tees: These are small pegs used to elevate the ball when starting from the tee box (the first shot of each hole).
3. Master the Basics of Swinging
A good swing combines balance, control, and power. Follow these simple steps:
- Grip: Use a strong, comfortable grip with both hands working in unison. Many beginners start with an “overlap” grip.
- Posture: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your body aligned with the ball.
- Backswing: Rotate your body as you bring the club back, keeping your eye on the ball.
- Follow-Through: After impact, allow your body and club to complete the swing smoothly. The key is to remain balanced.
4. Navigating the Course
Golf is as much about strategy as it is skill. Choose the right club for the distance and conditions (wind, hazards like water or bunkers), and play cautiously when needed. Mastering the short game (putting and chipping) is just as important as powerful drives.
5. Scoring
Scoring in golf is simple: count the number of strokes it takes to get the ball into the hole. Fewer strokes = better score. Common terms include:
- Birdie: One stroke under par.
- Par: Exactly on par.
- Bogey: One stroke over par.
Now that you’ve got the basics of how to play, let’s take a look at some of the most incredible golf courses in the world and when to plan your visit!
5 of the Great Golf Courses in the World
Golf courses are known for their stunning landscapes and unique challenges. From iconic links courses to breathtaking coastal layouts, here are five of the world’s most celebrated courses:
1. St. Andrews Links – Scotland
Best Time to Play: May to September
Often referred to as “The Home of Golf,” St. Andrews is steeped in history. The Old Course, in particular, is one of the most famous golf courses in the world, dating back to the 15th century. Known for its vast, rugged fairways and unpredictable winds, playing at St. Andrews is a must for any golf enthusiast. Summer months (May to September) offer the best weather, but be prepared for fast greens and changeable conditions.
2. Pebble Beach Golf Links – California, USA
Best Time to Play: April to October
Perched along California’s dramatic Pacific coastline, Pebble Beach offers golfers jaw-dropping ocean views at almost every hole. This course has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging in the world. The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is warm and less foggy. However, the cool breeze adds to the allure year-round.
3. Augusta National Golf Club – Georgia, USA
Best Time to Play: April (if you can get in!)
Home to the prestigious Masters Tournament, Augusta National is one of the most exclusive courses on the planet. Its lush fairways, perfectly manicured greens, and blooming azaleas in the spring make it a golf lover’s paradise. The best time to experience Augusta is during the Masters in April, but unless you’re a member or guest, gaining access is a challenge in itself.
4. Royal Melbourne Golf Club – Melbourne, Australia
Best Time to Play: December to March
As one of the oldest and most respected courses in the Southern Hemisphere, Royal Melbourne offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tough playing conditions. The fairways are fast, and the greens are firm, making it a course that rewards strategic play. Visit during the Australian summer from December to March for the best conditions.
5. Banff Springs Golf Course – Alberta, Canada
Best Time to Play: June to September
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff Springs Golf Course offers a truly magical experience with its stunning mountain backdrop, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests. Designed by the legendary Stanley Thompson, this course is known for its picturesque holes, including the iconic “Devil’s Cauldron,” which features a breathtaking tee shot over a glacial lake. The best time to play is during the summer months from June to September, when the weather is warm and the natural surroundings are in full bloom, providing an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Final Thoughts
Golf is a sport of refinement, requiring both mental and physical skill. Whether you’re just starting or have a few rounds under your belt, mastering golf is a journey that brings relaxation, camaraderie, and a sense of achievement.
Once you feel confident on the course, why not take your game to some of the world’s most stunning golf destinations? Whether it’s the legendary fairways of St. Andrews or the breathtaking mountain views at Banff Springs, each of these courses promises an unforgettable experience for golfers of all levels.
Happy golfing, and until next time, keep swinging!
— GertieBlu
