Golf Tourism Market Size, Share Growth and Industry Report | 2034

Insight Pro Analytic
Jul 22
6 min read

Golf Tourism Market Outlook

The global golf tourism market attained a value of approximately USD 24.22 billion in 2024. Driven by the rising interest in golf as a leisure and professional activity, coupled with increasing international travel and tourism spending, the market is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 7.40% between 2025 and 2034. By 2034, the market is expected to reach a value of nearly USD 49.46 billion.

Golf tourism refers to travel undertaken for the primary purpose of playing golf. This segment of the travel industry includes domestic and international travel to golf destinations, encompassing golfing holidays, tournament attendance, and business-related travel that includes golf as a recreational activity. The market has grown significantly over the years, underpinned by a global rise in disposable incomes, the popularity of golf among affluent and senior consumers, and the increasing recognition of golf as a sport that combines recreation, networking, and wellness.

The expansion of luxury resorts, the development of world-class golf courses in emerging destinations, and marketing efforts by tourism boards and travel operators are further propelling the global golf tourism market. With more consumers seeking experiential travel options, golf tourism has emerged as an attractive niche, offering relaxation, sport, and high-end amenities in one package.

Golf Tourism Market Size

The global golf tourism market size stood at USD 24.22 billion in 2024, reflecting the growing contribution of sport and wellness-based travel to the global tourism sector. This market size is underpinned by a strong base of golf enthusiasts and a network of over 38,000 golf courses worldwide. Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Thailand, and the UAE are among the top destinations that contribute to the sizeable global market.

Golf tourism contributes significantly to the overall tourism economy by attracting high-spending tourists who tend to stay in premium accommodations and spend on other leisure activities such as spa treatments, gourmet dining, and local tours. Additionally, the year-round viability of golf in temperate and tropical regions allows for consistent revenue generation across seasons, further supporting market size growth.

International golf events and tournaments, such as the PGA Tour, The Open Championship, and the Ryder Cup, also contribute significantly to the golf tourism market by drawing large crowds, including international visitors. The availability of golf holiday packages tailored for individuals, families, and corporate groups supports the diverse structure of the market and its continuing expansion.

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Golf Tourism Market Share

The market share in the global golf tourism sector is primarily held by regions with established golf infrastructure and high tourism activity. Europe leads in market share due to its wide array of historical and scenic golf courses in destinations such as Scotland, Ireland, Spain, and Portugal. These regions attract both professional and amateur golfers from across the world, offering a combination of heritage, leisure, and top-tier golfing experiences.

North America also holds a substantial market share, with the United States being one of the largest golf tourism markets globally. The U.S. benefits from its extensive golf course network, renowned tournaments, and strong domestic tourism sector. Canada contributes through golf destinations in regions like British Columbia and Alberta, known for their natural beauty and luxury resorts.

The Asia Pacific region is gaining market share rapidly, led by Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and Australia. These countries are investing in golf tourism infrastructure and marketing to appeal to both regional and international travelers. Thailand, in particular, is emerging as a hub for affordable luxury golf vacations.

In terms of consumer demographics, male travelers aged 35 to 65 make up a significant portion of the golf tourism market. However, the inclusion of family packages, women’s golf programs, and junior golf camps is expanding the consumer base, gradually diversifying the market share distribution.

Golf Tourism Market Trends

A notable trend in the golf tourism market is the increasing integration of luxury and wellness into the overall golf experience. High-end resorts and golf clubs now offer comprehensive packages that include wellness treatments, yoga retreats, culinary experiences, and cultural immersion. These value-added services elevate the appeal of golf tourism beyond the sport itself.

Sustainable tourism is another emerging trend. Golf resorts are adopting eco-friendly practices such as water conservation, organic landscaping, and biodiversity protection. Consumers are increasingly drawn to destinations that align with their environmental values, encouraging golf courses and hotels to prioritise green certifications and responsible tourism standards.

The rise of digital booking platforms and travel technology is also transforming how consumers plan their golf trips. From virtual course tours to mobile tee-time reservations and AI-based itinerary planning, digital innovations are making golf tourism more accessible and personalised.

There is also growing interest in golf as a component of business travel and corporate events. Golf resorts are becoming preferred venues for conferences, executive retreats, and networking events, creating a synergy between business and leisure travel. Additionally, partnerships between airlines, hospitality providers, and golf course operators are resulting in bundled offerings that improve cost-effectiveness and convenience for travelers.

Drivers of Growth

Several key factors are driving the growth of the global golf tourism market. One of the foremost drivers is the rising disposable income and willingness of consumers to spend on leisure and lifestyle experiences. As more people seek out high-quality travel that combines sport, relaxation, and exclusivity, golf tourism continues to see increased participation.

The global expansion of the golfing population, supported by promotional campaigns and grassroots development programs, is also contributing to market growth. Initiatives by international organisations such as the International Golf Federation and national golf associations are bringing the sport to new audiences, particularly in Asia and Latin America.

The ageing global population is another positive driver. Golf is widely considered a lifetime sport, appealing to older adults who are more likely to have both the time and financial resources to travel for leisure. These consumers often prefer golf-centric holidays that offer physical activity in a relaxing, scenic environment.

Government support and public-private partnerships are encouraging infrastructure development and international tourism promotion. Countries with high tourism potential are recognising golf as a tool for regional development, leading to increased investments in golf courses, accommodation facilities, and transportation networks.

Golf Tourism Market Segmentation

The market can be divided based on type, service type, and region.

Market Breakup by Type

Domestic
International

Market Breakup by Service Type

Personal Tours
Professional Tours

Market Breakup by Region

North America
Europe
Asia Pacific
Latin America
Middle East and Africa

Competitive Landscape

Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:

Golf Tours International Ltd
GruppeCosta Rica’s Golf Vacation
GolfinSouthAfrica Ltd
EFR Leisure Travel
travelOsports
My Golf Tours
Golf Tourism England
Golf International
International Golf Specialists
Golftripz
Others

Golf Tourism Industry Analysis

The global golf tourism industry is a dynamic segment of the broader travel and leisure sector. It comprises tour operators, golf resorts, hospitality providers, transport services, and equipment rental companies, all working together to deliver a comprehensive customer experience. The industry benefits from the relatively high average spending per tourist and the tendency of golf tourists to travel in groups or for extended stays.

While the industry is highly fragmented in terms of service providers, certain luxury resorts and renowned golf destinations have established strong brand equity and customer loyalty. The presence of signature golf courses designed by famous architects or associated with legendary players adds a level of prestige that attracts high-income travelers.

The industry is also supported by professional golfing events that generate significant tourism revenue through ticket sales, accommodation, sponsorships, and merchandise. These events create seasonal spikes in tourism demand and offer opportunities for destination marketing.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its growth potential, the golf tourism market faces several challenges. One significant issue is the perception of golf as an elitist or expensive activity, which can deter wider participation. The high cost of golf equipment, course access, and travel-related expenses can limit the market to affluent consumers.

Weather dependency and seasonality are other concerns, especially in regions where climate conditions restrict year-round play. Furthermore, economic downturns and global travel disruptions—such as those caused by pandemics or geopolitical tensions—can have a disproportionate impact on tourism sectors, including golf.

However, there are numerous opportunities within the market. The growing popularity of short-haul, regional golf tourism presents a way to reduce dependency on international travel. Similarly, the development of junior and beginner-friendly programs can help cultivate a new generation of golfers and expand the consumer base.

Customised packages that integrate wellness, culture, and adventure activities with golf can enhance the appeal to non-golfing travel companions and families, thus widening market opportunities. Additionally, the incorporation of smart technologies into course design, booking, and customer engagement can modernise the golf tourism experience and appeal to younger demographics.

Golf Tourism Market Forecast

The global golf tourism market is expected to experience robust and sustained growth over the next decade. From a valuation of USD 24.22 billion in 2024, the market is projected to reach USD 49.46 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.40% during the forecast period. Rising income levels, expanding tourism infrastructure, and increased consumer interest in lifestyle and experience-based travel will continue to drive market expansion.

As the industry evolves to embrace sustainability, inclusivity, and digitalisation, it will unlock new avenues for growth and innovation. Companies and destinations that adapt to changing consumer expectations, invest in quality experiences, and promote accessibility will be well-positioned to lead the global golf tourism market into its next phase of development.