For quite some time, golf resorts have been synonymous with fancy accommodation, stunning surroundings, and tough courses. But a new trend has been taking root lately: short golf courses. Here’s all you need to know about why short golf courses are popular and how they can stand out in such a competitive market for golf resorts.
Short Courses Are More Accessible
For beginners or players with little time, 18-hole traditional golf courses can be intimidating. To play more quickly, 43% of players choose short golf courses, according to the National Golf Foundation (NGF).
There are also “short courses,” often comprising just 9 or 12 holes, as a more accessible and time-friendly alternative. They enable golfers to play a round of golf in less time, which is great for golfers with busy schedules, exploring the benefits of short golf courses.
Great for Beginners and Families
In a 2025 Golf Digest survey, 67% of beginning golfers said they prefer short golf courses because they lessen frustration and let them concentrate on the basics.
The short layout keeps players from feeling overwhelmed by distance. This low-pressure distance enables younger and new golfers to practice their swings and strike the ball as it moves. Families can enjoy a wonderful time on the course, having fun without the intimidation of a traditional 18-hole setup.
Some short golf courses offer a more forgiving experience. These features have fewer challenging hazards and simpler greens, making them ideal for children to begin learning the game.
Increased Focus on Fun and Enjoyment
A lot of regular classes are boring, but short golf courses are fun. The holes tend to be more lenient, less about distance and more about having fun.
According to a PGA report from 2025, 55% of golfers playing short golf courses reported that their rounds were less stressful and more relaxing, making for a better overall experience.
This change in emphasis has opened golf to a broader market, attracting many who otherwise would have been put off by golf’s old challenges and encouraging more interest in golf resorts with short courses.
Enhanced Design and Unique Challenges
Even though they’re shorter, short golf courses can be brutally challenging. Currently, numerous golf resorts are designing courses, and the best ones incorporate imaginative obstacles, creative layouts, and strategically placed hazards. All these design elements help make the courses captivating and difficult enough, but not overwhelmingly so, even for the low-handicap golfer.
Cost-Effective for Golfers
Golf is widely known as being an expensive sport, and when you think about high green fees in long golf courses, it continues to make sense. Fees for short golf courses are generally 30–40% lower than fees for full-length courses, bringing costs within reach of more players. Less length leads to lower green fees, but the experience remains high quality.
For families or occasional golfers, short golf courses provide a less expensive entry to the game. More accessible pricing also enables resorts to appeal to a greater variety of players, stimulating foot traffic and play.
Enjoy Golf Through a Short Yet Enjoyable Setting
In the world of golf destinations, short golf courses are quickly becoming the norm. They are easy to get to, good for beginners, fun, and cheap, which makes them a good choice for golfers of all types.
You can take a short lesson, whether you’re an experienced player looking for a new challenge or a beginner wanting to take it easy while benefiting from the benefits of short golf courses.
