How Destination Marketing Shapes the Golf Tourism Market Demand

The global golf tourism market was estimated at USD 27.04 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 60.18 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 11.0% from 2026 to 2033. The market’s strong growth is primarily driven by the rising number of international and domestic golf tournaments worldwide, which continue to attract both professional and recreational golfers across borders.

Golf tourism has witnessed significant development due to the global expansion of golf courses, along with an increasing frequency of professional and amateur tournaments. This expansion is expected to drive higher adoption of golf equipment and related services, thereby supporting overall market demand. Governments and tourism authorities in several countries are actively implementing initiatives to promote golf tourism and position their regions as premium golfing destinations.

For instance, in India, government-backed efforts aim to attract more international golfers to the country’s approximately 220 golf courses, highlighting golf as a niche tourism segment. Globally, travelers are drawn not only to iconic golf destinations such as St. Andrews, Costa Brava, and leading resort courses across the United States, but also to the broader experience of combining leisure travel with cultural exploration and participation in prestigious golfing events.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• North America accounted for a revenue share of around 41.0% in 2025, driven by a strong golfing culture and established infrastructure.
• The U.S. golf tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.1% from 2026 to 2033.
• By tourist type, the domestic segment dominated the market, accounting for 62.0% of total revenue in 2025.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2025 Market Size: USD 27.04 Billion
• 2033 Projected Market Size: USD 60.18 Billion
• CAGR (2026–2033): 11.0%
• Largest Regional Market: North America (2025)
• Fastest-Growing Region: Asia Pacific

Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape of the global golf tourism market is characterized by destination marketing initiatives, event-based tourism strategies, and partnerships between tour operators, golf courses, and hospitality providers. Key industry developments include:

• In November 2025, Golf Saudi announced its vision to position Saudi Arabia as a leading global golf destination. The initiative focuses on expanding golf events, enhancing player development programs, and strengthening tourism partnerships aligned with the Kingdom’s broader economic and social objectives.
• In September 2024, Elevate Golf, organized by industry veteran Tom Lovering, hosted a bespoke networking event at the Old Course Hotel. The event brought together international tour operators and premium suppliers, including Open Championship venues such as Royal Birkdale and Royal Troon.

Some of the key players operating in the global golf tourism market include:

• Golfasian Co., Ltd.
• Premier Golf Tours
• The Haversham and Baker Co.
• PerryGolf
• Carr Golf
• Celtic Golf
• SGH Golf
• Golfbreaks Ltd.
• Golf Tours International
• travelOsports

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Conclusion

The global golf tourism market is poised for robust growth through 2033, supported by rising tournament activity, expanding golf infrastructure, and growing interest in experiential and sports-based travel. As destinations increasingly integrate golf with luxury hospitality, cultural tourism, and major sporting events, the sector is expected to attract a broader audience of domestic and international travelers. Strategic investments, destination branding, and partnerships between tourism boards and tour operators will be critical in sustaining long-term market momentum.