The US state of Georgia has a deep golf tradition, a long playing season and a variety of landscapes: mountain courses in the north, lakeside resorts in the middle of the state, and marshland and island golf on the Atlantic coast. Add southern hospitality, historic cities and excellent food, and it's an appealing golf destination for much of the year.
The main golf areas
Atlanta
The Atlanta area has a wide range of public, municipal and resort courses, many among rolling hills and pine forests.
- Best for: a city break combined with golf.
- Good to know: traffic can be heavy; allow time for tee times.
Lake Oconee and central Georgia
About an hour and a half east of Atlanta, Lake Oconee has resort and lakeside courses, with water views and boating.
Savannah
The historic city of Savannah, with its squares and oak-lined streets, has courses on the surrounding marshlands and islands.
The Golden Isles
The barrier islands near Brunswick, including St Simons Island and Jekyll Island, offer coastal golf among marshes, live oaks and ocean breezes.
North Georgia mountains
The mountains around the north of the state offer cooler temperatures, elevation changes and autumn colour.
When to go
| Season | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | Warm, flowering trees, ideal golf |
| Summer (June to August) | Hot and humid with afternoon storms; best in the mountains |
| Autumn (September to November) | Warm days, cooler nights, excellent conditions |
| Winter (December to February) | Mild on the coast; occasional cold spells inland |
Playing tips
- Bermuda grass on many courses, often overseeded in winter. Read how to read greens.
- Pine straw under trees; take care removing loose impediments. Read golf trouble shots.
- Water: lakes and marshes come into play often. Read penalty areas and out of bounds.
- Wildlife: alligators live in coastal lagoons; keep away from the water's edge. Read golf courses and wildlife.
- Heat and storms: read hot weather golf.
Costs and booking
- Public courses around Atlanta offer good value.
- Resorts at Lake Oconee and on the coast offer packages.
- Spring is the busiest season; book early.
Read how to book tee times.
Practical tips
- Rent a car to move between regions.
- Combine with the Carolinas: Savannah is close to the South Carolina Lowcountry. Read golf in the Carolinas.
- Food and history: southern cooking, historic districts and coastal seafood.
Sample trip ideas
- Coastal week: Savannah and the Golden Isles, with marsh golf and historic walks.
- Lake resort break: a few days at Lake Oconee with golf and boating.
- Mountain summer escape: cooler golf with hiking and waterfalls.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for golf in Georgia?
Spring and autumn. Summer is hot except in the mountains.
Is Georgia good for a golf holiday?
Yes, with city, lake, mountain and coastal golf in one state.
Can I play golf in Georgia in winter?
Yes, especially on the coast, though cold spells are possible.
Are there alligators on Georgia golf courses?
On some coastal courses, yes. Keep your distance from water.
The bottom line
Georgia combines southern hospitality with golf in the mountains, by the lakes and along the coast. Visit in spring or autumn, mix city, lake and coastal courses, and enjoy the food and history. For more southern golf, read golf in Florida.