Ah, summer golf – those long days, the sweet sound of a crisp drive, and basking in the sunshine with a cool drink post-round. But all too soon, October rolls around, and we’re trading polos for waterproofs and perfect greens for soggy fairways.

If the thought of another dreary winter on muddy courses makes you shiver, it’s time to think ahead, with the help of Golf Planet Holidays. A winter sunshine golf break not only keeps your game sharp but also gives your spirits – and your tan – a much-needed boost.

Whether you’re after short-haul convenience or long-haul adventure, here are our top destinations for chasing the sun with your clubs in tow.

Short-Haul Escapes: The Canary Islands With their ideal year-round climate, the Canary Islands are a go-to destination for winter golf. And with direct flights and no time differences, they’re easy on both your schedule and your swing.

Gran Canaria

Leading the pack is Gran Canaria, where golf meets luxury. The Lopesan hotels – Costa Meloneras and Villa del Conde are our team’s favourites offering five-star comfort along the scenic seaside promenade. Meloneras Golf Course, owned by the hotels, is a gem. With ocean views, challenging holes, and gusts from the Atlantic to test your accuracy, it’s a challenge every time. Plus, you get access to nearby courses like Maspalomas, Anfi Tauro, and Salobre – each with its own character.

Stay at Lopesan Villa del Conde between November and April with four rounds of golf and private airport transfers for just £1350pp – but book by end July 2025.

Tenerife Over on Tenerife, our golfers love Hotel Las Madrigueras, a boutique hotel where convenience meets class. Your buggy is parked in the hotel garage and takes you straight to the first tee at Las Americas Golf Course via a private road.

This course is a holiday classic – meticulously kept and rewarding for repeat players as you master its undulating greens and subtle fairway contours.

A week here between November and March 22, 2026, including four rounds at Las Americas, starts from £2150pp.

Fuerteventura Looking for a budget friendly option? Try the Elba Palace Golf and Vital Hotel in Fuerteventura. A half-board week-long stay with unlimited golf from just £1195pp makes this a brilliant winter getaway.

Pro Tip: For even better value, travel to the Canary Islands May to September. The courses are quieter, and prices drop as mainland Spain heats up.

Long-Haul Luxury: South Africa

If you’re dreaming bigger, we wholeheartedly recommend South Africa. The time difference is minimal (just one hour), but the experiences are anything but ordinary.

Explore Cape Town and the stunning Garden Route, home to top-notch golf courses, world-class hospitality, breathtaking wildlife, and award-winning vineyards.

Escorted Golf Tours Join one of our 2026 escorted tours led by PGA professional Nigel Burch, who will guide you on and off the course. From swing tweaks to sampling the region’s finest cuisine, Nigel ensures your golf holiday is both relaxing and enriching.

Our 10-day tours in 2026 include 9 nights’ accommodation, 6 rounds of golf, and 6 hosted dinners for just £2795pp.

Prefer a tailor-made experience? We’re happy to arrange a personalised golf itinerary, including safaris, wine tours, and self-drive routes. Just make sure to book early, especially for safaris!

Pro Tip: A self-drive journey along the Garden Route, ending with a Big Five safari, is the ultimate winter golf getaway.

Closer to Home: Spain and Portugal

If you’d rather stay closer to the UK, Southern Spain and Portugal offer milder options – with a caveat. Weather is less reliable in December to February, but November and mid-March onwards can be perfect.

Costa del Sol, Spain Try La Zambra, nestled in the Mijas Hills. Two excellent courses are just a short walk away, and the on-site spa makes non-golf days a pleasure, not a compromise.

Eastern Algarve, Portugal Discover the charm of Tavira, a traditional town in Portugal’s Eastern Algarve. With Quinta de Cima and Ria golf courses nearby, this destination offers beautiful golf year-round in a tranquil setting.

Ready to Chase the Sun?

Booking your winter golf holiday early ensures you get

· the best availability

· top value

· something exciting to look forward to as the temperatures drop.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing short break or an adventurous escape, there’s a perfect winter golf holiday waiting for you at Golf Planet Holidays

Don’t let winter put your game – or your mood – on ice. Swing into sunshine now.