Thanks to its stunning courses, beautiful weather, and welcoming atmosphere, Spain has long been a popular destination for golf enthusiasts. But beyond its appeal to golfers, Spain also offers a fantastic setting for family-friendly holidays. With many activities, cultural attractions, and family-oriented resorts, Spain is ideal for those looking to combine a love of golf with quality family time.
Yet, before planning your trip to Spain, you want to make sure that everyone feels comfortable with the basics of golf. Ultimately, your family is going to enjoy the golf holiday under the Spanish sun a lot more if they feel confident hitting the ball. So, if it is an option, you may want to take them to a few lessons at your local club, whether on a real course or using golf simulators. This simple tip can make a huge difference once you hit the Costa del Golf or Costa Blanca together.
- Choose the Right Location
The first step in planning a golf holiday in Spain is selecting the right location. While Spain boasts numerous golf courses and resorts, certain regions are better suited for families. The Costa Brava, Costa del Sol, and Costa Blanca are popular areas that combine world-class golf with family-friendly amenities.
- Costa Brava is known for its stunning coastline and beautiful Mediterranean beaches, offering plenty of opportunities for both golf and relaxation. The area is home to several family-friendly resorts and courses, with activities for children, such as water sports and cultural tours.
- Costa del Sol is often called the “Costa del Golf” because it has more than 70 golf courses, many of which are in family-friendly resorts. The region has attractions, from theme parks to animal sanctuaries, making it perfect for families who want variety.
- Costa Blanca is another excellent option, known for its sandy beaches, cultural sites, and temperate climate. Here, you’ll find numerous golf courses with less crowded environments and a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to families.
- Choose a Family-Friendly Resort
When planning a golf holiday with the family, choosing a resort that offers both golfing facilities and family-friendly amenities is essential. Many resorts in Spain cater specifically to families, offering child-friendly activities, entertainment, and childcare services. Look for resorts with dedicated kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and family entertainment so everyone can enjoy their time, whether they’re hitting the links or relaxing at the resort.
For example, La Cala Resort on the Costa del Sol offers three fantastic golf courses, a spa, swimming pools, and a kid’s club. Similarly, Marbella Golf & Country Club provides excellent golf facilities for adults while ensuring plenty of fun activities for younger guests.
Other family-friendly resorts to consider include:
- Finca Cortesin (Costa del Sol) – With excellent golf facilities and a beautiful spa, Finca Cortesin offers plenty of activities for children, including a kids’ club and family-friendly excursions.
- Meliá Villaitana (Costa Blanca) – This resort features a children’s club, kids’ pool, and playground, making it ideal for families. It also offers golf lessons for children and beginners.
- Book Golf Lessons for Beginners and Juniors
Not all family members may be seasoned golfers, and that’s perfectly fine! Spain offers excellent facilities for beginners and junior golfers. Many resorts and golf courses offer group or private lessons tailored to young golfers or those new to the sport. These lessons are designed to make golf fun, educational, and accessible for everyone.
For children, look for courses with junior golf academies. Many of these academies offer tailored coaching to help young golfers develop their skills in a supportive, enjoyable environment. For example, La Sella Golf in Denia has a junior golf programme that teaches kids the fundamentals of the game from a young age in a safe, engaging way.
Adults can also enjoy beginner golf lessons, allowing the entire family to learn and play together. Many Spanish resorts, such as PGA Catalunya Resort near Girona, offer tailored lessons catering to all skill levels, making it easy for parents and children to get involved.
- Mix Golf with Other Family Activities
While golf may be the main attraction, there’s much more to do in Spain to entertain the whole family. Spain has an incredible range of family-friendly activities, from cultural excursions to outdoor adventures.
- Theme Parks: Spain is home to several world-renowned theme parks, such as PortAventura World near Barcelona and Parque Warner Madrid, which features rides and attractions for all ages.
- Water Parks: The country boasts numerous water parks, perfect for cooling off after a round of golf. Aquopolis in Costa Dorada and Aqualand in Costa Brava are great choices for families seeking water-based fun.
- Beaches and Water Sports: Spain’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, many of which offer opportunities for water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling. Families can unwind after a round of golf by spending the day at the beach.
- Cultural Activities: Spain is rich in culture and history, making it an excellent destination for educational excursions. Visit the Alhambra in Granada and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, or take a family-friendly cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Spanish dishes.
- Consider Transportation and Accessibility
When planning a family-friendly golf holiday in Spain, it’s important to consider transportation and the ease of getting around. Many golf resorts are located a little further from major cities, so ensure that the resort you choose is easily accessible by car or public transport.
Some resorts offer shuttle services to and from airports and nearby attractions. If you plan to rent a car, ensure the resort has ample parking facilities. Additionally, check if the resort is near other amenities, such as supermarkets, pharmacies, or medical services, in case you need them during your stay.
- Plan Your Family’s Meals
Spain is a food lover’s paradise, and part of the enjoyment of a family holiday is exploring the local cuisine. Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages, which can be a great option for families, as it ensures everyone’s meals are taken care of. However, if you prefer to explore the local dining scene, Spain offers many family-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes and dietary requirements.
Many Spanish restaurants offer children’s menus and welcome families with young children. Don’t miss the chance to sample traditional dishes such as paella, tapas, churros, and fresh seafood from the Mediterranean.