Gliding with the new Sun Mountain ClubGlider3 travel bag
Are you about to head off on a dream golf vacation? You may be an experienced traveler and, understand what to pack. But to be a smart golf traveler, how your golf clubs will be transported is a must. After all, the goal is having them arrive at your destination and return home in the same condition as when you left.
As a long-time innovator producing golf gear to ensure every journey is exceptional, Sun Mountain Sports has not missed a beat after launching the new ClubGlider3 travel bag.
Travel smart and protect your dream golf vacation with the innovative Sun Mountain ClubGlider 3.
Built on the longstanding success of the ClubGlider line, the ClubGlider3 is designed for airports, parking lots, baggage claims and the realities of modern golf travel. Combining Sun Mountain’s patented retractable kickstand system with precision glide wheels, the bag delivers smooth, balanced movement from departure to arrival while reducing the strain of transporting fully loaded clubs.
The patented retractable kickstand delivers effortless, balanced movement throughout your travel journey.
Made from weather- and abrasion-resistant polyester ripstop for rugged durability, the ClubGlider3, weighing 12.8 lbs., introduces new and enhanced features focused on protection, durability and travel convenience, such as:
• Thermoform-molded casing and velour-lined interior shield and protect clubs
• Industrial-grade two-way zippers and heavy-duty clips keep gear secure
• Integrated TSA lock and internal AirTag pocket offer total protection and security
• External and internal pockets maximize storage and organization (four total)
Industrial-grade zippers, heavy-duty clips, and an integrated TSA lock keep your valuable golf gear fully secure.
“Golfers invest significant time and money into these trips, and protecting their equipment should not be an afterthought,” said Grant Lordan, senior director of marketing and brand strategy for Sun Mountain Sports. “With ClubGlider3, we focused on creating a more protective, secure and durable travel bag while maintaining the ease of use for navigating airports and travel destinations.”
A Fresh Look at Isle of Palms’ Premier Golf Destination.
A Warm Lowcountry Welcome
Pulling up to Wild Dunes Resort on the Isle of Palms immediately sets a relaxing tone for any traveling golfer. As the editor of Golf Tips Magazine, I have checked into my fair share of luxury properties, but the reception at the Sweetgrass Inn stands out for its seamless blend of efficiency and charm.
Upon my arrival at the newly updated welcome gates, I was received with a level of hospitality that was both deeply pleasant and impeccably professional. The bell staff and front desk team operate like a well-oiled machine, anticipating a golfer’s unique needs from the moment the trunk opens.
Check-in was a breeze at the Sweetgrass Inn, kicking off the perfect coastal stay.
Instead of the rigid, transactional check-in process found at many modern mega-resorts, the team at Wild Dunes exudes genuine Southern hospitality. They took care of my heavy travel gear, coordinated with the staging area at the golf clubs, and mapped out the expansive property with absolute clarity. Their sharp attention to detail made it clear that guest comfort and stress-free transitions are core pillars of the resort’s philosophy. It is precisely the kind of relaxed, prestigious welcome that sets the perfect baseline for a world-class weekend on the coast.
Forget rigid modern check-ins; Wild Dunes exudes genuine Southern hospitality at the Sweetgrass Inn lobby.
Amenities Beyond the Fairways
While the championship golf layouts are a massive pull for any sports enthusiast, the resort truly shines through its extensive, top-tier amenities. The property boasts a magnificent collection of sparkling, refreshing pools scattered across its distinct lodging zones, including the vibrant Sweetgrass Inn pool complex and the peaceful historic Boardwalk Inn decks. These spacious pool decks serve as the perfect oasis for a post-round cool down, offering pristine lounge chairs and dedicated poolside service.
Unwind at the massive Spa at Sweetgrass, a sanctuary offering therapeutic deep-tissue massages to fully restore.
For those looking to fully unwind after walking 18 holes, the massive, state-of-the-art Spa at Sweetgrass offers a sanctuary of relaxation. Spanning 10,000 square feet with 14 specialized treatment rooms, the spa features therapeutic deep-tissue massages designed specifically to soothe tired muscles and restore golf-swing flexibility.
Savor a culinary getaway with distinct dining options and fresh seafood caught straight from the Atlantic.
The resort’s dining scene is equally impressive, offering an array of distinct options that elevate the stay into a true culinary getaway. For a refined, upscale dinner, Coastal Provisions serves as the resort’s premier culinary venue, showcasing an exceptional menu filled with fresh, locally caught Atlantic seafood and perfectly seared steaks. If you are looking for a casual, lively atmosphere, The Nest Rooftop Bar provides panoramic Lowcountry views paired with expert mixology.
Transform your stay into a true culinary getaway with an array of impressive dining options.
Poolside venues like the Laughing Gull Restaurant & Bar offer Caribbean-infused dishes and frozen drinks, while Beachside Burgers & Bar allows you to enjoy an uncomplicated lunch while staring directly at the breaking ocean waves.
End the evening with a cozy fireside chat with family and friends under the stars.
From upscale dining to quick, high-quality grab-and-go bites at Hudson’s Market, the resort ensures that you never have to leave the island to satisfy a craving.
Indulge in an upscale dinner at Coastal Provisions, featuring fresh Atlantic seafood and perfectly seared steaks
At Wild Dunes, wind is a constant factor, often shifting directions from one day to the next. Meaning the golf courses rarely play the same twice.
The Harbor Course: A Precision-Testing Gem
The recently transformed Harbor Course, an intense exercise in target-style precision, reveals the magnificent results of an ambitious, multi-million-dollar enhancement project spearheaded by the Fazio Design team.
Enjoy incredible salt marsh and Intercoastal Waterway views along the stunning Harbor Course.
This tactical layout snakes its way directly along the Intracoastal Waterway, demanding smart strategy over brute power as it hugs tight salt marshes and tranquil tidal lagoons. The Harbor Course recently celebrated the completion of a massive overhaul that has completely revitalized its footprint. The agronomy teams expanded the putting greens drastically, essentially doubling their size to offer a vastly superior variety of pin placements and creative approach angles.
The revitalized Harbor Course, features massive new green expansions that double your pin placements.
The visual and strategic character of the Harbor Course has been elevated through meticulously reshaped bunkers and reinforced flood-mitigation barriers along the low-lying waterways. The signature standouts are the back-to-back par 3s on the back nine, most notably the stunning 11th hole. The 11th now features entirely new tee boxes, pristine cart paths, and refreshed greenside sand traps. These holes require a highly precise flight directly over the sensitive marshland ecosystems. They test a player’s nerve and control while providing unmatched, sweeping panoramic views of the water. The upgrades have successfully transformed a traditionally tight course into a fair, visually stunning, and memorable playing experience.
Test your nerve over sensitive marshlands on this newly transformed, memorable course.
If the Harbor known as a more traditional shot-maker’s test framed by tidal wetlands, its (older) sister course delivers oceanfront spectacle and risk-reward moments emblematic of Fazio’s style.
The Links Course: Dramatic Oceanfront Experience
The resort’s legendary Links Course, which holds historic significance as architect Tom Fazio’s very first solo design, continues to showcase the raw beauty of the Lowcountry coastline. The coast-hugging Links weaves through preserved dunes that create surprising elevation changes.
Conquer this challenging par-3 18th hole while taking in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean backdrop.
The signature finishing hole on the Links Course remains one of the absolute highlights of coastal American golf. The unforgettable par-3 18th hole plays directly along the raw, changing shoreline of the roaring Atlantic Ocean. Due to natural coastal erosion over the years, the hole was strategically redesigned from its original par-5 layout into a breathtaking, dramatic par-3.
Kick off the famous closing stretch on hole 16, a scenic par-3 over the marshlands.
Golfers are forced to battle unpredictable, swirling ocean breezes while executing a precise carry over the sandy coastal dunes. It provides a thrilling, high-stakes conclusion to a round that beautifully marries technical design with the stunning natural elements of the South Carolina coast.
Take on the blind downhill shot over native coastal dunes on the iconic par three 12th.
Historic Charleston Just Minutes Away
An often under appreciated benefit of booking a golf holiday at Wild Dunes is the property’s incredible proximity to downtown Charleston, South Carolina. While the resort itself feels like a private, secluded barrier island paradise completely detached from the stresses of daily life, it is remarkably accessible. A smooth, highly scenic 25-minute drive across the salt marshes and over the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge lands you right in the beating heart of the historic Holy City.
The iconic Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park, a historic Charleston symbol of pure Southern hospitality.
This geographical layout makes it incredibly simple to curate a balanced luxury itinerary.
Explore the timeless charm of Charleston’s Historic District, the French Quarter, and scenic Old Mt. Pleasant.
You can easily spend your morning testing your skills against Tom Fazio’s coastal designs, and spend your afternoon walking the famous cobblestones of the French Quarter. Golf groups can smoothly transition from the 18th green to a world-class dinner at Charleston’s award-winning culinary institutions, exploring its celebrated historic architecture and bustling waterfront districts. Wild Dunes provides the ultimate Lowcountry experience, seamlessly pairing a peaceful beachside golf retreat with immediate access to one of the most culturally rich cities in America.
The Verdict: A Premier Lowcountry Destination
Ultimately, Wild Dunes Resort has masterfully elevated its game. By pairing world-class, modernized championship golf with an unparalleled array of luxury amenities, top-tier dining, and unmatched proximity to historic Charleston, it stands as a premier crown jewel of South Carolina’s coast. Whether you are hunting for the perfect coastal drive on the 18th hole of the Links Course, relaxing under the care of the Spa at Sweetgrass, or indulging in fresh Lowcountry seafood, this property delivers a complete, unforgettable escape.
“Do not just take my word for it—experience this coastal masterpiece for yourself.”
Plan your next unforgettable golf getaway or luxury family vacation today by visiting the official website at https://www.wilddunesresort.com. Book your stay, pack your clubs, and sample the timeless southern charm and seaside sophistication of the Isle of Palms firsthand.
From Georgia’s hidden lakes to the wild coasts of New Zealand, these are the year’s premier pairings of championship turf and five-star sanctuary.
In 2026, the elite golf getaway has shed its “check-the-box” reputation in favor of something far more soulful. It is no longer enough to simply play eighteen holes; the modern traveler demands a total sensory immersion where architectural masterpieces meet hyper-personalized hospitality. From the dramatic, salt-sprayed cliffs of Los Cabos to the storied, mist-covered manor houses of the Scottish Highlands, this year’s premier retreats are defined by their ability to weave local culture and cutting-edge luxury into the fabric of the game.
These destinations represent the new gold standard of “Stay & Play,” where the transition from the final green to a world-class spa or a Michelin-starred table is seamless. Whether you are chasing the high-tech precision of next-gen practice facilities or the quiet solitude of a remote coastal links, these hotspots offer more than just a tee time. They provide a curated sanctuary for those who view golf not just as a sport, but as a gateway to the world’s most exclusive landscapes.
The Domestic Titans: U.S. Icons
Reynolds Lake Oconee (Greensboro, Georgia)
Reynolds Lake Oconee
Reynolds Lake Oconee has emerged as a premier 2026 destination, blending elite golf with a refined, active lifestyle centered around The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. The experience features the recently restored Great Waters course and the “Kingdom of Golf” for high-tech fitting, seamlessly pairing championship-level play with lakeside relaxation.
Long overshadowed by the shadow of Augusta, Reynolds Lake Oconee has emerged as 2026’s most sophisticated golf sanctuary. It’s a place where the Georgia pines meet a sprawling, tranquil shoreline, offering a laid-back elegance that feels both expansive and intimate.
The Play: While the community is home to seven world-class championship courses (with an eighth, Fenmoor, arriving in late 2026), the crown jewel remains Great Waters. This Jack Nicklaus Signature course was meticulously restored to highlight its stunning lakefront views, demanding precision while offering some of the most scenic greens in the Southeast
The Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee perfectly captures the “lakeside luxury” aesthetic. You can spend your mornings at the Kingdom of Golf for a data-driven, high-tech club fitting, and your evenings unwinding with artisanal s’mores by the fire pit as the sun dips below the water.
The 2026 Vibe: This is the ultimate “sport-and-splash” lifestyle. The trend here is the seamless transition from turf to surf—completing a brisk morning round on the links just in time to spend the afternoon wakesurfing or paddleboarding across the glass-calm lake.
No American golf bucket list is complete without this purist’s pilgrimage to the rugged Oregon coast. In 2026, Bandon remains the ultimate “off-the-grid” destination, where the connection between the player and the raw, untamed elements of the Pacific Northwest is absolute.
The Play:While Sheep Ranch and Bandon Trails are the year’s must-score tee times, Pacific Dunes remains the heavy hitter, constantly rivaling Pebble Beach for the top public ranking in the country. It is a masterpiece of coastal dunes and emerald fairways that feels less like a manicured course and more like a gift from the landscape.
The Stay: The Lodge at Bandon Dunes offers an elegantly understated retreat designed specifically for the dedicated player. There are no distractions here—just cozy, refined accommodations positioned so you can wake up, walk straight to the first tee, and lose yourself in the game.
The 2026 Vibe: This is “soul of the game” territory—unplugged, walking-only, and beautifully rugged. The trend for 2026 is a return to simplicity, where the only things that matter are the wind in your face, the firm turf under your feet, and the company of your group.
Perched at the true “Land’s End” of the Baja Peninsula, Quivira has solidified its status as the most dramatic tee time of 2026. It is a high-altitude adrenaline rush where the desert meets the deep blue of the Pacific in a way that feels almost otherworldly.
The Play: The Jack Nicklaus Signature course is a masterclass in cliffside engineering. You’ll navigate massive dunes and granite cliffs, but the real showstoppers are the par-3s hanging over the ocean. In 2026, the mid-round comfort stations remain legendary, serving up gourmet sliders and tequila shots with a side of breaching whales in the distance.
The Stay: Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort offers a sophisticated, adults-only sanctuary. The 2026 luxury standard here is defined by The Towers, featuring 24-hour butler service and private terraces that allow the sound of the crashing surf to be your constant soundtrack.
The 2026 Vibe: This is “High-Octane Hospitality.” The trend is moving toward the ultimate multi-sensory experience—where the thrill of a world-class shot is immediately followed by a five-star culinary moment. It’s golf at its most glamorous and visually spectacular.
In 2026, a pilgrimage to the “Home of Golf” is no longer just about the history books; it is a masterclass in balancing ancient tradition with a vibrant, modern energy. The town of St Andrews continues to serve as the beating heart of the game, offering an unmatched atmospheric blend of medieval ruins, cobblestone charm, and the world’s most iconic linksland.
The Play: The Old Course remains the ultimate bucket-list target, with the daily ballot still the most thrilling lottery in sports. However, 2026 sees the Old Course Reversed—an annual three-day event in April where the links are played in their original 15th-century clockwise routing—becoming one of the most coveted experiences in golf travel. For those looking beyond the town, the Kingdom of Fife offers coastal gems like Kingsbarns and the dramatic Dumbarnie Links, which provide a world-class “pure links” alternative.
The Stay: The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa offers the quintessential five-star experience, complete with views overlooking the infamous 17th “Road Hole” and the award-winning Kohler Waters Spa for post-round recovery. For a more boutique, high-energy vibe, Rusacks St Andrews occupies an iconic 1800s building literally steps from the 18th green, featuring the rooftop restaurant 18—led by Michelin-starred talent—which serves up the best views in the village.
The 2026 Vibe: “Heritage with a Pulse.” The trend this year is the extended stay-and-play, where golfers base themselves in St Andrews for a week to soak in the local culture—think post-round drams at the Jigger Inn and evening walks across the Swilcan Bridge. It’s an immersive dive into the game’s roots, enhanced by 2026’s focus on high-end culinary scenes and luxurious “wellness-first” accommodations.
Set along the pristine coastline of the North Island, Te Arai Links has rapidly ascended to the top of the global “must-play” list for 2026. This isn’t just a golf resort; it’s a breathtaking conservation project that offers a pure, sand-based links experience that many are calling the “Bandon Dunes of the Southern Hemisphere.”
The Play: The resort boasts two modern masterpieces: the South Course, a Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw design characterized by its wide fairways and dramatic ocean views, and the newer North Course by Tom Doak, which weaves through towering dunes and coastal forest. Both courses are designed to be played along the ground, celebrating the firm, fast, and windy conditions of traditional links golf.
The Stay: The accommodations at Te Arai are a masterclass in “Coastal Minimalism.” The Luxury Cottages and Suites are tucked into the landscape to ensure privacy and unobstructed views of the Pacific. Expect a refined, quiet luxury where the focus is on natural materials, deep soaking tubs, and floor-to-ceiling glass that blurs the line between the indoors and the wild outdoors.
The 2026 Vibe: “Remote Refinement.” The 2026 trend here is the ultimate escape—a journey to the edge of the world where the Wi-Fi is ignored in favor of the stars. It’s about the “apres-golf” culture at the Ricochet bar, where players gather to recount their rounds over local Northland wines as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Pro Traveler Tip for 2026: Book the “Shoulder Season.” With golf’s popularity at an all-time high, the “sweet spots” are now late May or early October. You’ll find better tee time availability and significantly lower room rates at these five-star properties. For more great travel destinations be sure to visit our travel section at golftipsmag.com.
