Spain is one of the most complete golf destinations in the world. With over 400 courses spread across coastlines, mountains, islands, and historic cities, there’s something for every type of player. In this guide, we break down Spain’s key golf regions—what makes each one unique, when to go, and what kind of experience you can expect—so you can plan your trip with confidence and make the most of every round.
Where to Play Golf in Spain: Courses, Regions, Seasons & Travel Tips
Discover Each Region or Jump to the One That Calls You…
Andalusia / Costa del Sol
Andalusia’s Costa del Sol is one of Europe’s most established golf regions — a Mediterranean stretch known for its blend of iconic courses, coastal scenery, and year-round playability. With more than 70 courses, several of them bucket list venues, the area offers options for serious golfers, relaxed resort players, and everyone in between. It’s also a region rich in food, history, and culture, making it ideal for travelers looking to do more than just play.
Golf Courses to Play in Costa del Sol
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Spring (April through June) and Fall (September through November) offer the most comfortable playing conditions. Expect clear skies, soft spring fairways or golden fall light, and daytime highs in the mid 60s to high 70s °F (18–26°C).
Winter (January to March) is a popular escape from colder climates. Highs average 60–65°F (15–18°C), with mostly dry days. However, some courses use this quieter season for scheduled maintenance, may close briefly, or keep tee sheets light to preserve turf. Also, if you are planning on enjoying the beach or any kind of water activities, it might not be the perfect time.
Summer (July–August) brings long days and sunshine, with highs reaching 85–95°F (29–35°C). Courses near the coast, like those in Marbella and Sotogrande, benefit from ocean breezes — but it’s also peak vacation season in Spain, so expect crowds. Some private clubs limit visitor access, prioritizing member play.
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Most travelers from the U.S. and Canada arrive in Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN) before connecting to Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) — the main regional gateway.
From Madrid: High-speed AVE train (2h 45m) or short flight (1h 15m)
From Barcelona: Flights take about 1h 45m
Seasonal direct flights from Montreal (May–October) and occasional service from New York (EWR)
From Málaga, key destinations like Marbella, Sotogrande, Benahavís, and Estepona are all within 30 to 60 minutes by car.
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Couples looking to combine golf with food, spa, and heritage cities
Small groups or club members planning multi-round itineraries with mix-and-match styles
Corporate or incentive groups with access to event-friendly resorts and private venues
Active travelers who want to blend golf with hiking, cycling, or off-the-beaten-path exploring
Multi-stop travelers connecting this region with Madrid, Granada, or even the north of Spain
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Cultural Highlights
The Alhambra, in Granada — A hilltop palace complex and one of Spain’s most important architectural and historical landmarks, showcasing centuries of Moorish influence.
Málaga — A compact, walkable port city with museums, open-air markets, and vibrant tapas culture.
Seville — Known for flamenco, grand cathedrals, and shaded plazas; an easy two-hour drive inland.
For Active Travelers
Hike the Caminito del Rey, a cliffside path through El Chorro Gorge
Cycle between white villages like Ronda and Gaucín
Explore Andalusia’s natural parks, or paddleboard along the quiet Mediterranean coves
For a Slower Itinerary
Stay-and-play at Finca Cortesín, La Cala, or Anantara Villa Padierna for full-service experiences
Enjoy long lunches at beach clubs in Estepona or Cabopino
Plan day trips to nearby vineyards or book a private culinary workshop inland
Nightlife & Music:
Marbella is known for its vibrant nightlife, ranging from beach clubs and rooftop lounges to cocktail bars in the Old Town. A major annual highlight is the Starlite Festival, running from mid-June to early September. Set in an open-air amphitheater carved into a quarry, it features concerts by international artists, DJs, and orchestras in a truly spectacular setting.
[Explore the Starlite Experience] with our detailed suggested itinerary.
Catalonia / Costa Brava
Most travelers are drawn to Catalonia by Barcelona — a city that blends world-class architecture, Mediterranean flair, and a strong culinary identity. But just an hour or two north lies the Costa Brava, a stretch of coastline and countryside offering some of Spain’s most scenic and sophisticated golf experiences. Here, world-ranked courses sit alongside Michelin-starred restaurants, medieval hill towns, and secluded coves. For travelers seeking a slower pace, a cooler climate, and exceptional dining and design, this region is a standout.
Golf Courses to Play in Costa Brava
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April through June and September to October are ideal. Days average 60–77°F (16–25°C), with long light, comfortable walking weather, and great course conditions.
July–August is warmer (80–90°F / 27–32°C), though still pleasant near the coast and quieter than Spain’s southern destinations.
Winter is cooler and more variable; some courses operate reduced schedules or undergo maintenance.
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Barcelona (BCN) is the gateway — a major international hub with direct flights from New York, Chicago, Toronto, Montreal, Miami, and more.
From Barcelona, Costa Brava is a 1–2 hour drive, or take the train north to Girona and transfer locally.
For those staying in the city, day trips to nearby courses are also feasible.
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Couples combining golf with design, gastronomy, and coastal relaxation
Small groups looking for scenic rounds in a quieter, less-touristed region
Corporate groups and business events taking advantage of Barcelona’s world-class infrastructure, conference venues, and nearby premium golf resorts
Travelers beginning or ending a multi-country European trip, using Barcelona as a launch point to France, Italy, or beyond
Active travelers who enjoy mixing golf with hiking, cycling, or water-based activities along the coast
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Barcelona Icons: Visit La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s towering masterpiece still under construction, and explore Park Güell, a surreal blend of architecture and landscape with panoramic city views.
Gothic Quarter: Wander the narrow, medieval streets of Barri Gòtic, where Roman ruins, tapas bars, and boutique shops create a quintessential Barcelona experience.
Girona: Just over an hour from the city, Girona’s walled old town and cathedral steps (as seen in Game of Thrones) are among Catalonia’s most photogenic spots.
Costa Brava Beaches: Swim or kayak in turquoise coves near Calella de Palafrugell, Tossa de Mar, and Llafranc — some of the most beloved beach towns among North American travelers.
Montserrat Monastery: Take a day trip into the mountains to visit this iconic Benedictine abbey, known for its cliffside views, hiking trails, and spiritual calm.
Dali Theatre-Museum: Explore the surreal world of Salvador Dalí in his hometown of Figueres — one of Spain’s most unique and popular art museums.
Dining: For serious food travelers, a reservation at El Celler de Can Roca in Girona — consistently ranked among the world’s top restaurants — is a pilgrimage in itself.
Soccer Nights: For fans of the game, catching a FC Barcelona (Barça) match at Camp Nou (or the temporary Olympic Stadium) is a thrilling way to end a day of golf — electric atmosphere, elite talent, and one of the most storied clubs in the world.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are among Europe’s most reliable year-round golf destinations, especially prized in the winter months. They are host of more than 20 golf courses across its islands, many of them set along dramatic coastlines, built into volcanic landscapes, and maintained to international standards.
Gran Canaria and Tenerife are the main hubs for golf, with strong resort infrastructure and a full range of stay-and-play experiences.
They also hold a special place in Spanish golf history: the sport was first introduced to Spain right here, with the founding of Las Palmas Golf Club in 1891, making it the country’s oldest golf club still in operation.
Golf Courses to Play in the Canary Islands
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Year-round: Temperatures stay between 65–75°F (18–24°C) with very low rainfall, even in winter.
Peak season: November through March, when the rest of Europe is off-season.
Summer (July–August): Slightly warmer (80–85°F / 27–29°C) but still comfortable due to the dry, breezy climate.
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From North America:
Seasonal direct flights from New York (JFK) to Tenerife South (TFS) with United and JetBlue (April–October)
One-stop year-round flights via Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN) on Iberia, Air Europa, and others
Local travel: Flights between islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote) are short (30–45 mins) and frequent
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Golfers escaping winter and looking for consistent sunshine
Couples and groups wanting a relaxed, scenic golf escape with strong hospitality
Resort-style travelers seeking stay-and-play comfort
Golfers who enjoy unique terrain — lava rock, cliffs, and panoramic views
Multi-region visitors capping off a mainland Spain itinerary with an island leg
Long-stay guests and expats — easy lifestyle, English-friendly, and well serviced
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Natural Parks & Hiking: Hike or take the cable car up Mount Teide (Tenerife) — the highest peak in Spain and a UNESCO site. Teide National Park offers otherworldly volcanic landscapes and panoramic viewpoints.
Stargazing Capital: The Canaries are among the world’s top stargazing destinations, thanks to their clear skies, high altitudes, and light pollution controls. The Roque de los Muchachos Observatory (La Palma) and Teide Observatory (Tenerife) have supported global astronomy and even NASA calibration missions. Night tours and guided experiences are available.
Island Culture: Wander historic towns like La Laguna (Tenerife) or Teror (Gran Canaria) to get a feel for the islands’ Spanish colonial past.
Visit the Casa de Colón (Columbus House) in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria — a beautifully preserved building whereChristopher Columbus stayed before his first voyage to the Americas. His stop in the Canaries was his last port before crossing the Atlantic in 1492.
Carnival: Visit during February or early March to experience Carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife — second only to Rio de Janeiro in global reputation. Expect parades, costumes, and cultural festivities across the islands.
Motor Sports & Rally: The Canaries are a stop on both the World Rally Championship (WRC) and European Rally Championship (ERC) circuits, attracting top-tier drivers and fans to the island’s dramatic, winding mountain roads.
Endurance Sports & Trail Running: The Transgrancanaria ultra-trail race attracts elite runners and adventure travelers for a dramatic cross-island route through volcanic peaks and pine forests. Other top events include Ironman Lanzarote — known as one of the most challenging in the Ironman circuit — and the Tenerife Bluetrail, which takes runners up to Mount Teide at over 3,500 meters, making it the highest-altitude race in Spain. These events draw international athletes year after year and are a major attraction for active travelers and endurance sports fans
Sailing & Regattas: Every November, the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) — also known as the Santa Lucía Regatta — departs from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and crosses the Atlantic to Saint Lucia in the Caribbean. It’s the largest transatlantic sailing event in the world, drawing hundreds of yachts and crews in a festival-like atmosphere that’s spectacular to witness or participate in.
Beaches & Relaxation(year-round): Enjoy white sand beaches like Playa del Duque (Tenerife), volcanic shores at El Médano, or calm waters at Amadores Beach in Gran Canaria — all swimmable year-round.
Island Hopping: Add time in Lanzarote, La Palma, or La Gomera — each island offers distinct terrain, nature, and smaller-scale golf or hiking opportunities. Flights and ferries between islands are fast and frequent.
Dining: Savor the flavor of Canarian cuisine, from papas arrugadas with mojo sauces to local seafood, goat cheeses, and wines grown in volcanic soil. For fine dining, several resorts host Michelin-starred restaurants blending tradition with modern technique.
Balearic Islands (Mallorca)
The Balearic Islands — and especially Mallorca — offer a distinctive island setting for golf in Spain. With direct sea views, well-maintained courses, and a relaxed Mediterranean rhythm, the island is ideal for travelers who want a mix of quality play, beach time, and culture. Mallorca has become a favorite among European golfers, and it’s an increasingly appealing option for visitors from the U.S. and Canada who want warm weather golf in a resort setting.
Golf Courses to Play in the Balearic Islands
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April to June and September to October are best for weather and course conditions: 65–78°F (18–26°C), with minimal rain and long days.
Summer (July–August) is very warm (85–95°F / 29–35°C), but manageable with early tee times and a resort base.
Winter (November–March) is cooler (55–65°F / 13–18°C), but still playable — perfect for off-season travel with fewer crowds.
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Fly into Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) — Spain’s third-busiest airport, especially in spring and summer.
No direct flights from the U.S. or Canada, but easy connections from Madrid or Barcelona (45–50 mins by air).
Barcelona–Mallorca is one of Europe’s most frequent short-haul routes; perfect for combining island golf with city time.
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Couples looking for a balance of beach, golf, and wellness
Groups wanting a resort-style trip with varied courses and laid-back evenings
Stay-and-play travelers focused on one or two base resorts
Multi-stop Spain visitors ending their trip with a relaxing island leg
Corporate incentives in a destination that feels exclusive yet accessible
Casual golfers who want beautiful views and smooth rounds over elite challenge
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Old Town Palma: Explore the Gothic cathedral, local markets, and quiet courtyards of Mallorca’s historic capital — perfect for a relaxed afternoon after a morning round.
Wine Country: Tour boutique vineyards around Binissalem or Santa Maria del Camí, ideal for easy day trips between rounds.
Serra de Tramuntana: Drive or hike through this UNESCO-listed mountain range — home to cliffside villages like Deià and panoramic roads ideal for cyclists and photographers.
Beaches & Coves (late spring through early fall only): Swim or paddle in turquoise waters at Caló des Moro, Cala Deià, or Es Trenc in Mallorca; the best time for water activities is May through September.
Island Hopping: Take a boat to the nearby island of Cabrera or ferry to Ibiza for a day or two of contrast — Ibiza adds a different energy and experience to the itinerary.
Ibiza Vibe: Known for its iconic nightlife, Ibiza also offers a quieter side: artisan markets, coastal yoga retreats, and beach clubs that reflect its bohemian roots. Spend the day exploring coves or hilltop towns, and the evening enjoying music under the stars.
Dining: Enjoy long lunches by the sea or reserve a table at one of the island’s standout restaurants — like Marc Fosh in Palma or Es Torrent in Ibiza — where local ingredients meet Mediterranean creativity.
Madrid and Inland Spain
Madrid may not be a traditional golf destination, but it offers some of Spain’s most prestigious inland courses, many of them within 30–40 minutes of the city center. As Spain’s capital, it’s a natural entry point for international travelers, with world-class museums, restaurants, and vibrant neighborhoods that give depth to any golf itinerary. The region is also ideal for travelers planning a multi-region trip, or those combining business and leisure with time on the course.
Golf Courses to Play in Madrid
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April through June and September to October are ideal: 65–80°F (18–27°C), low rain, and great playing conditions.
July–August is hot (85–95°F / 29–35°C), but early tee times work well, especially at courses with shade and breeze.
Winter (November to March) is cool but playable, with temperatures in the high 40s to low 60s °F (8–17°C), though conditions vary.
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Fly into Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) — Spain’s main international hub with daily direct flights from most major U.S. and Canadian cities.
All featured golf courses are within 30–60 minutes by car from the city center, making Madrid an easy single-base golf destination.
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Business travelers adding golf to a trip with meetings or conferences
Couples or groups combining city life with a few rounds at elite inland courses
Golfers focused on championship-level play in a metropolitan setting
Club members and league travelers looking to play private-style layouts with European flair
Multi-region visitors using Madrid as a base to connect with Seville, Málaga, or Barcelona
Cultural travelers who prioritize museums, architecture, and food as much as golf
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World-Class Museums: Madrid is home to one of the most prestigious art collections in the world. The Prado Museum consistently ranks among the top five art museums globally, with masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. The Reina Sofía houses Picasso’s famous Guernica, while the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum bridges classical and modern art in a collection often described as one of the most comprehensive private collections ever assembled.
Historic Neighborhoods: Spend time in La Latina for tapas and local atmosphere, Malasaña for creative energy and boutique shopping, or Salamanca for luxury shopping and refined dining. Madrid’s Royal Palace and El Retiro Park add depth and green space to the city’s rhythm.
Day Trips: UNESCO cities like Toledo, Segovia, and Ávila are all under two hours away. Explore Gothic cathedrals, Roman aqueducts, and medieval walled towns — perfect additions to a longer stay.
Performing Arts & Nightlife: Madrid’s cultural calendar is full year-round.
Opera at Teatro Real runs from September to July, attracting international talent and staging both classics and contemporary works.
Musicals and Broadway-style productions light up Gran Vía, often compared to New York’s theater district.
The city also hosts international music and ballet tours, with performances at Teatro de la Zarzuela, Auditorio Nacional, and WiZink Center — where major global artists regularly stop on European tours.
Evening Energy: Whether you're winding down or heading out, Madrid’s evenings can go in any direction. Sip cocktails on a rooftop terrace near Plaza de Santa Ana, enjoy a quiet jazz set in Barrio de las Letras, or stay out late with locals over wine and vermouth in a tucked-away plaza.
Soccer at Santiago Bernabéu: Watching a Real Madrid game is a must for sports fans. Whether it’s La Liga or Champions League, the stadium atmosphere is unmatched — and it's an unforgettable way to end a day on the course.
Northern Spain (Cantabria, Basque Country, Galicia)
If you’ve traveled to Ireland or Scotland for golf, Northern Spain will feel surprisingly familiar — with its lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and courses that blend into nature rather than dominate it. This is also the birthplace of Seve Ballesteros, and his legacy is still deeply woven into the region’s golf identity.
Expect cooler temperatures, walkable courses, and a more local, soulful rhythm. It’s ideal for golfers who value authenticity, cultural depth, and the kind of trip that lingers well beyond the last round.
Golf Courses to Play in Northern Spain
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May through October is ideal — temperatures range from 60–78°F (16–26°C), with long days and minimal heat
Spring and early fall are especially scenic with fewer crowds and lush conditions
Winter is rainy and not ideal for golf, though some courses remain open year-round
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One stop flights through Madrid (MAD), Barcelona (BCN), or other major European hubs such as London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Frankfurt (FRA), and Amsterdam (AMS) — all offering regular service to the region. Landing at:
Bilbao Airport (BIO) is the largest and best-connected, serving the Basque Country with flights from Spain and across Europe.
Santander Airport (SDR) is ideal for accessing Cantabria and Seve Ballesteros’ hometown.
Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) connects Galicia to major Spanish and European cities.
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Golfers seeking authenticity, away from the more touristed regions
Fans of Seve Ballesteros, looking to play where his career began and where his legacy lives
Cultural travelers combining golf with food, architecture, and scenic driving
Cool-climate golfers who prefer temperate conditions and walkable courses
Couples or small groups interested in slower travel, great meals, and off-the-beaten-path experiences
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Santander & Pedreña: Visit the elegant seaside town of Santander, then take the short ferry across the bay to Pedreña, Seve’s hometown — quiet, picturesque, and proud of its place in golf history.
The Basque Coast: Drive the coastal route through Getxo, Mundaka, and Zumaia, or stop in San Sebastián — one of Europe’s top gastronomic cities with more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere else in the world.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: A must-visit for art and architecture lovers. Designed by Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim put Bilbao on the global cultural map when it opened in 1997. Its bold titanium curves and rotating contemporary art exhibitions have made it one of the most internationally recognized museums of the 21st century — a symbol of how art can transform a city.
Galician Heritage: Explore the old town of Santiago de Compostela, the final stop of the Camino pilgrimage and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Galicia’s Celtic roots, seafood traditions, and green landscapes feel completely distinct from southern Spain.
Seve’s Footsteps: Visit his statue in Pedreña, stop by the local course where he practiced as a child, and play Santa Marina — a moving experience for anyone inspired by his story.
Wines & Coastal Cuisine: Pair golf with Albariño wine tastings in Rías Baixas or enjoy seafood straight from the Bay of Biscay. Anchovies from Santoña, grilled turbot, and cider houses in the Basque hills are all part of the flavor of the north.