While most travelers book their bucket list golf trips 12 to 18 months in advance, booking a last minute package offers a unique set of benefits, most notably the ability to secure deep discounts and valuable upgrades. Resorts and courses prefer to fill open slots rather than let them go empty, giving savvy, flexible travelers the power to play high quality golf for a fraction of the regular price. This is the perfect option for spontaneous groups, couples seeking a quick getaway, or anyone who simply loves the thrill of a last minute adventure.

Destinations with Best Availability

Certain regions and resort models are better structured for last minute bookings than others. The all inclusive resorts in Turkey (Belek) and the Caribbean are often excellent sources for late deals, as they prefer to fill their high volume of rooms and tee times. Look for packages in the Canary Islands, Morocco, and the Algarve in Portugal, which thrive on late season bookings from travelers seeking guaranteed winter sun. Domestically, resort destinations in Florida and Arizona often offer lower off peak rates, especially during the summer, making a last minute trip to the sunshine states highly appealing.

The Secret to Scoring Tee Times

The key to a successful last minute booking is flexibility and speed. While premier courses like Pebble Beach require advance booking, you can often secure a round at high end resorts by booking a full package very close to your date of travel. Many resort affiliated courses, such as those in the Algarve or Spain, offer last minute tee times directly to hotel guests. For spontaneous tee times on their own, utilize dedicated online booking engines that specialize in liquidating inventory, often offering significant discounts on the day of play or 48 hours in advance. Always be flexible with your playing time, opting for late morning or early afternoon slots.