7 Best and Remarkable Resorts With Must-Play 9-Hole Golf Courses

Whether you’re squeezing in a quick round before hitting the spa or looking for a scenic, laid-back golfing experience, these resorts offer top-tier golf with breathtaking surroundings. Here are seven stunning resorts with 9-hole courses that should be on every golfer’s bucket list.

1. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs – New Zealand

Perched on the dramatic coastline of New Zealand’s North Island, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is more than just a luxurious retreat—it’s a golfer’s paradise. While its championship 18-hole course, designed by David Harman, garners worldwide acclaim, its 9-hole layout remains a hidden gem, offering a more intimate yet equally breathtaking golfing experience.

A Golfer’s Dream with Stunning Views : The 9-hole course at Kauri Cliffs isn’t just a casual add-on—it’s a carefully designed layout that captures the essence of coastal golf. With stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and rolling farmland, every hole presents a unique challenge while immersing players in nature’s raw beauty. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a relaxed round or a seasoned golfer refining your short game, this course offers a perfect blend of strategic play and visual spectacle.

Whether you come for the world-class golf, the breathtaking scenery, or the ultimate in relaxation, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs delivers an unparalleled experience. It’s a destination where the love of the game meets the best of New Zealand’s natural beauty and hospitality.

2. The American Club – Wisconsin, USA

Unlike traditional short courses, The Baths is a walking-only layout, designed to immerse golfers in the purest form of the game. Set amidst rolling sand dunes and picturesque water features, this unique 10-hole setup allows for a flexible and dynamic 9-hole round, giving players the freedom to mix and match holes for a custom experience.

Each hole ranges from 60 to 160 yards, making it ideal for practicing iron play, shot-making creativity, and course management—all while enjoying the stunning scenery. With large, undulating greens, strategic bunkers, and natural hazards, the course offers enough bite to challenge seasoned players while remaining approachable for beginners and casual golfers.

For those looking to explore beyond the greens, Kohler offers fishing, hiking, and outdoor adventures, as well as guided tours of the iconic Kohler Design Center, showcasing the brand’s legendary craftsmanship in bath and kitchen design.

Whether you’re a serious golfer honing your short game or just looking for a laid-back, scenic round, The Baths of Blackwolf Run delivers a premium, one-of-a-kind golf experience in the heart of Wisconsin’s legendary golf country.

3. Bovey Castle – England

Nestled in the heart of Devon’s Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle is a destination where history, luxury, and nature seamlessly blend. This grand estate, dating back to the early 20th century, boasts a stunning 9-hole golf course that has been captivating players since the 1920s. Designed by the renowned J.F. Abercromby, the course offers rolling fairways, tree-lined greens, and charming stone bridges that cross the Bovey River, creating a truly timeless atmosphere.

With its picturesque yet challenging layout, the course appeals to golfers of all skill levels, whether you’re looking for a quick, enjoyable round or a relaxing game immersed in Dartmoor’s breathtaking landscapes. Each hole presents something unique—undulating fairways that demand strategic play, mature trees and water hazards that enhance both the beauty and difficulty of the course, and historic elements that give it a distinct old-world charm.

Though it’s a 9-hole layout, Bovey Castle’s course offers multiple tee positions, allowing golfers to experience an 18-hole round with a fresh perspective, making it a versatile and engaging place to play. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or simply enjoying a leisurely game, this historic course delivers a unique and unforgettable experience.

4. Hotel Hermitage – Italy

Nestled in the breathtaking Tuscan countryside on Elba Island, Hotel Hermitage offers a scenic 9-hole course that is as beautiful as it is challenging. With sweeping Mediterranean views and lush greenery, it’s perfect for golfers who enjoy a relaxed yet engaging game. Add in beachfront access and exquisite Italian cuisine, and you have the perfect golfing escape.

Designed to blend seamlessly with the island’s diverse landscape, the course features gently rolling fairways that follow the natural contours of the land, strategic bunkers and water hazards that test precision and skill, and sweeping ocean vistas that make every round unforgettable. Whether you're teeing off against the blue expanse of the Mediterranean or navigating a fairway lined with Tuscan greenery, every hole presents a new challenge and a stunning view.

But Elba Island is more than just a golfer’s paradise—it’s a haven for relaxation and adventure. The resort offers luxurious accommodations, world-class dining with fresh Tuscan flavors, and a spa that provides rejuvenating treatments inspired by the sea. 

Beyond the greens, guests can explore wine tastings, boat excursions, and historic sites, including landmarks tied to Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile in 1814. The island’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm Mediterranean charm make it the perfect destination for those looking to unwind in style.

What truly sets Elba Island apart is its unique blend of sport, nature, and history. Where else can you tee off in the heart of Tuscany with the Mediterranean as your backdrop? Whether you're seeking a relaxing round in a serene setting or an exciting game surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the golf course on Elba Island delivers an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and travelers alike.

5. The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links – Scotland

The Machrie Hotel is famous for its legendary links course, but its hidden gem is the charming 9-hole "Wee Course". Designed for golfers of all skill levels, this compact yet strategic layout captures the true essence of Scottish golf. With rolling dunes, fast greens, and breathtaking ocean views, every hole offers a mix of fun and challenge, making it the perfect spot for a quick yet rewarding round.

After a day on the course, there’s no better way to unwind than by indulging in a dram of Islay’s finest whisky at the hotel’s renowned bar. Known as the "Whisky Isle," Islay is home to some of Scotland’s most famous distilleries, and The Machrie provides the perfect setting to savor a smoky single malt while soaking in the stunning coastal scenery. Whether you come for the golf, the whisky, or the warm Scottish hospitality, The Machrie offers an unforgettable experience that blends sport, tradition, and relaxation in the most spectacular way.

6. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers – New Zealand

A sister property to Kauri Cliffs, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers offers another incredible 9-hole experience, this time perched high above Hawke’s Bay. With jaw-dropping clifftop views and precision-demanding play, it’s a golfer’s paradise. The resort itself is pure luxury, featuring farm-to-table dining, scenic nature walks, and serene accommodations that make every moment unforgettable.

Set against a backdrop of rolling farmland and sweeping ocean views, every hole is designed to blend seamlessly with the rugged coastal landscape, making for an unforgettable round.

Beyond golf, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is a haven of relaxation and adventure. Guests can explore luxurious lodge accommodations, farm-to-table dining featuring the finest local produce, and rejuvenating spa treatments inspired by the surrounding natural beauty. 

For those seeking outdoor exploration, the property boasts hiking trails, wildlife encounters, and even a chance to see the world’s largest mainland gannet colony up close. Whether you come for the golf, the scenery, or the warm Kiwi hospitality, a stay at Cape Kidnappers is a truly remarkable experience—one that perfectly captures the magic of New Zealand’s North Island.

7. Post Ranch Inn – California, USA

Post Ranch Inn offers a golf experience unlike any other. While it may not feature a traditional championship layout, its picturesque 9-hole course delivers an unforgettable blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and casual play. 

Designed for golfers who appreciate a slower, more scenic round, the course is set against the jaw-dropping backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, where rolling fairways weave through ancient redwoods and dramatic coastal cliffs. Each hole is a feast for the senses, inviting players to breathe in the fresh ocean air and soak in the tranquility of one of California’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Beyond golf, Post Ranch Inn is an eco-conscious retreat that prioritizes wellness, sustainability, and serenity. Guests can indulge in holistic spa treatments, guided meditation sessions, and farm-to-table dining that highlights fresh, organic ingredients from local sources. 

The resort’s cliffside infinity pools, stargazing experiences, and hiking trails offer endless opportunities to reconnect with nature and oneself. Whether you come for the golf, the stunning coastal views, or simply to unwind in a place of pure tranquility, Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur provides a one-of-a-kind escape where sport and serenity exist in perfect harmony.

These resorts prove that a 9-hole golf course can be just as fulfilling—if not more—than a full 18-hole round, especially when paired with five-star luxury, stunning landscapes, and exceptional hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned golfer looking for a quick but challenging round or a leisure traveler seeking the perfect mix of sport and relaxation, these destinations offer an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the game.