Bachelor party golf trip: the best man's playbook
A bachelor party golf trip has every problem a normal golf trip has, plus mixed skill levels, non-golfers, a groom who shouldn't pay, and a hard date that can't move.
1. Lock the date and the guest list first
Get the groom's must-invite list and a date window from him (and his fiancée). Pick the weekend before you pick the destination. Everything else is easier to change.
2. Set the per-person number, including the groom's share
Total the lodging, golf, transport and the big dinner, then divide by the paying guests (everyone but the groom). Send that one number to the group before anyone commits. Use the cost calculator →
3. Collect deposits early
Bachelor parties have the most dropouts. Take a non-refundable deposit the week the date is set, and set the balance due 45–60 days out. Track deposits →
4. Plan golf for mixed abilities
- Round 1: Scramble. Everyone can contribute, including the 30-handicap.
- Round 2: Groom's team vs. the field. The groom picks his side.
- Optional third round for the real golfers only. Non-golfers get pool or spa time.
- Skip formats that punish beginners, like stroke play or alternate shot.
5. Pick a destination where the nights work
Scottsdale
Dozens of desert courses, easy nonstop flights from most U.S. cities, and Old Town nightlife. The default winter golf trip.
Las Vegas
Nonstops from almost everywhere, world-class nightlife and a few genuinely great courses. Bachelor parties and big birthdays.
Myrtle Beach
More than 80 courses, condo packages and a deep bench of package operators.
Turning Stone
Three championship courses, including a former PGA Tour venue, plus a casino and resort under one roof.
Hilton Head
Harbour Town, home of the PGA Tour's RBC Heritage, plus more than 20 courses on and around the island.
Los Cabos
Desert-meets-ocean golf, all-inclusive resorts and nonstops from many U.S. cities. An international trip without the long flight.
Bachelor party extras
- Custom team shirts or hats for the scramble.
- A trophy for the groom's team.
- One planned group dinner. Book it the day you book the trip.
- A ride plan for every night: shuttle, rideshare or a designated driver.
FAQ
Who pays for the groom on a bachelor party golf trip?
Most groups split the groom's share of lodging, golf and dinners evenly among everyone else. Add it to the per-person number up front so nobody is surprised. The cost calculator handles this if you set the paying headcount one lower than the total.
What are the best bachelor party golf destinations?
Scottsdale and Las Vegas for golf plus nightlife, Myrtle Beach for value and big groups, Turning Stone for a Northeast drive-to with a casino, and Los Cabos for an international option with easy nonstops.
What if some of the guys don't golf?
Pick a destination with something else to do (pools, a casino, a downtown), book one scramble that a non-golfer can enjoy, and plan the nights as the main group event.
How far ahead should we book a bachelor party golf trip?
Four to six months for groups of 8–12. Collect deposits as soon as the date is set. Bachelor parties have the highest dropout risk of any golf trip.