MS has one of best golf destinations in the US for 2026, USA TODAY says. Here’s where
They don’t call it the Mississippi “Golf Coast” for nothing. The region is consistently recognized for having some of the best spots for golfers to play and relax, and that includes USA TODAY’s 2026 reader’s choice for the 10Best Golf Destinations.
The ranking, published April 1, includes locations that aren’t just great for golf but also have beautiful natural landscapes, luxurious accommodations, buzzing culinary scenes and additional outdoor activities, according to USA TODAY.
Here’s where the Gulf Coast landed on the ranking and what makes it such a prime spot for a golf getaway.
The Mississippi “Golf” Coast
The Mississippi Coast was named the fourth-best golf destination in the country in both 2025 and 2026, according to USA TODAY readers.
“Coastal Mississippi has become a premiere golf destination with nearly 20 top-tier courses that are open year-round,” according to USA TODAY.
These are some of the best courses in the area, according to the outlet:
- Fallen Oak Golf Course
- Grand Bear Golf Club
- The Preserve Golf Club
- The Bridges Golf Club
- Windance Country Club
Where are the best golf destinations in the US for 2026?
These are the 10 best spots for a golf getaway in the country, according to USA TODAY:
1. Upper Peninsula of Michigan
2. St. George, Utah
3. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
4. Coastal Mississippi
5. Petoskey Area, Michigan
6. Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama
7. French Lick, Indiana
8. Hilton Head, South Carolina
9. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
10. Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area, North Carolina
How did USA TODAY conduct ranking?
To come up with the ranking, expert panelists nominated 10 spots for readers to vote for, according to USA TODAY.
