Author: Chris Hartig

When to Book Your Golf Trip: A Group Leader’s Guide

When to Book Your Golf Trip: A Group Leader’s Guide

Group leader planning his golf buddies trip When you start planning your golf trip can make a big difference in the experience

Planning a golf trip is one of the most rewarding experiences for any group leader but timing is everything. Whether you’re organizing a buddies’ getaway, an annual golf outing, or a corporate retreat, knowing when to research, plan, and book makes all the difference. At Virginia Golf Vacations, we make that process simple so you can focus on what matters most: the golf and time together.

Why Booking Early Matters

In popular Virginia golf destinations like Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, and Charlottesville, spring and fall tee sheets fill up quickly. The most desirable morning tee times, between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., often sell out months in advance. The same goes for preferred lodging near top courses and attractions.

Booking early ensures you get:

  • Prime tee times and course rotations
  • Better room selections and rates
  • Time to collect payments and finalize details stress-free

For groups that plan ahead, the reward is simple — better golf, better prices, and less stress.

Ideal Timelines for Different Group Sizes

Groups of 4–12 Golfers

If your group falls in this range, start researching your golf trip 120 days in advance and try to book about 90 days out. At this point, most golf courses still have flexible tee sheet options, and hotels offer some of their best early-season rates.

Golfing in May or October? Those months are peak season in Virginia. Booking three months in advance almost guarantees the best mix of tee times and lodging rates.

Groups Larger Than 12 Golfers

Once your group grows beyond 12, getting tee times back to back gets more difficult. You’ll want to start planning at least 9 months in advance and book no later than 6 months out.

The same goes for lodging — villas, condos, and multi-bedroom rentals often sell out early. By booking ahead, you’ll have access to the best resort-style options before they’re gone.

How Virginia Golf Vacations Makes It Easy

Without help, coordinating golf trips for a group can feel like a full-time job, collecting quotes, managing payments, and keeping everyone informed. That’s where Virginia Golf Vacations steps in.

When you submit a trip request, your inquiry is automatically assigned to one of our experienced golf travel specialists. They’ll:

  1. Customize golf and lodging options for your group size, dates, and budget.
  2. Provide easy-to-share trip proposals and pricing options.
  3. Handle all booking details once your group decides.
  4. Set up individual payment links for each golfer — so you never have to chase payments again.

You’ll work with one point of contact from start to finish, making the process efficient, transparent, and stress-free.

The Smart Group Leader’s Checklist

✅Research destinations and preferred dates early
✅ Submit your trip inquiry 3–9 months in advance (depending on group size)
✅ Review options and finalize your package within 1–2 weeks
✅ Share the quote with your group and send the payment link
✅ Sit back and enjoy the anticipation — your golf trip is booked!

Final Thoughts

Booking your golf trip at the right time can mean the difference between a “good” getaway and a perfect golf experience. By planning early, you’ll secure prime tee times, ideal lodging, and the best overall value for your group.

At Virginia Golf Vacations, we’ve made it our mission to take the guesswork out of group golf planning. From small foursomes to full-scale tournaments, our local expertise and easy booking process ensure every trip runs smoothly.

Ready to start your next golf adventure?
Submit your trip request today at VirginiaGolfVacations.com or call 1-877-806-8163 to get started.

The Secret Golf Season – November Golf

The Secret Golf Season – November Golf

Devil's Knob Wintergreen Resort

Why Early November May Be the Best Time to Play Golf in Virginia

Most golfers plan their big trips in the spring or summer, but here’s a secret seasoned players already know: the first week of November—especially before the time change—might just be the best golf you’ll play all year in Virginia. From Williamsburg to Virginia Beach, the conditions, weather, and overall experience come together in a way that makes it one of the smartest choices for a golf getaway.

Perfect Weather for Golf

Early November in Virginia offers a sweet spot. Temperatures typically hover in the 60s during the day, which is ideal for golfing without breaking a sweat. The oppressive summer heat is long gone, and unlike the unpredictable winter months, you can count on crisp mornings that warm into comfortable afternoons. The air is clear, the humidity is low, and the sun still stretches long enough across the sky to give you plenty of daylight.

In short: it’s sweater-weather golf at its finest.

Drier Conditions and Firmer Fairways

Fall in Virginia also means drier conditions. Summer thunderstorms are behind us, and the soil has firmed up from late-season maintenance. That translates into fairways that play firm and fast—giving you a little extra roll off the tee. For many golfers, this adds distance to drives and more consistent lies in the fairway, making the game that much more fun.

Course Conditions at Their Peak

One of the biggest reasons to plan a Virginia golf trip in early November is course conditions. In both Williamsburg and Virginia Beach, many courses feature bent grass greens, and this is the time of year when they truly shine. Cooler nights keep the turf healthy and stress-free, while the milder days allow superintendents to maintain smooth, fast putting surfaces without the disease pressures of summer.

If you love rolling putts on greens that feel tournament-ready, this is your time of year. Ask any local pro or superintendent and they’ll tell you: November greens are often the best greens.

Why Williamsburg and Virginia Beach Stand Out

Williamsburg is home to some of Virginia’s most historic and scenic golf courses, including layouts at Golden Horseshoe, Ford’s Colony, Kingsmill, and Williamsburg National. In November, the fall foliage creates a colorful backdrop that enhances the experience—every hole feels like a postcard. With courses in peak condition and lodging options ranging from resort hotels to vacation rentals, Williamsburg is a perfect base for a late-season trip.

Just an hour down the road, Virginia Beach offers a coastal twist on fall golf. Courses like Bay Creek, Heron Ridge, and Virginia Beach National benefit from the moderating effect of the ocean, which keeps conditions mild and comfortable. Add in vibrant nightlife, oceanfront dining, and plenty of lodging options, and you’ve got a golf trip that combines great rounds with a lively atmosphere.

More Value, Less Crowds

Another advantage to booking in early November is availability. The busy spring and summer tourist seasons have passed, meaning tee times are easier to come by and rates are often more favorable. Many courses and lodging partners drop their prices after October, so you’ll find some of the best deals of the year. Your group can secure prime tee times, stay in great accommodations, and stretch your budget further without sacrificing quality.

Don’t Wait Too Long

The window is small—that’s what makes it special. Once the clocks turn back and daylight shrinks, your afternoon tee times get tight. But if you plan for that first week of November, you’ll catch Virginia’s golf scene at one of its absolute peaks: ideal weather, drier fairways, perfect greens, better rates, and fewer players competing for tee times.

If you’re looking for a smart, affordable, and memorable golf trip, circle that first week of November. Williamsburg and Virginia Beach are waiting with their best golf of the year.

Where Should I Take a Golf Trip in Virginia—And How Do I Plan It?

Where Should I Take a Golf Trip in Virginia—And How Do I Plan It?

Where Should I Take a Golf Trip in Virginia—And How Do I Plan It?

Introduction

Looking for a weekend golf trip in Virginia that checks all the boxes—great courses, scenic views, easy planning, and great value? You’re not alone. Golfers from across the Mid-Atlantic ask the same thing: Where should I go—and how do I actually put a trip together that my group will love? This guide breaks it all down for you, from top destinations to easy planning tips that make your trip seamless.

Yorktown course at Williamsburg National The Top 4 Virginia Golf Destinations for a Weekend Getaway

  1. Williamsburg, VA – History, Convenience & Championship Golf

Sixteen great options including stay and play at Kingsmill Resort and Golden Horseshoe both with courses listed in the top 100 you can play. Also stay at nearby Greenspring’s Resort and pair inexpensive condos with great courses for one of the east coasts best value golf trips

  1. Shenandoah Valley / Blue Ridge Mountains – Fall Colors & Mountain Vibes

Play Blue Ridge Shadows and Shenandoah Valley GC. Ideal for fall foliage trips and scenic views. Stay at DoubleTree or book a VRBO cabin.

  1. Virginia Beach – Golf by the Ocean, Year-Round

Courses like Virginia Beach National, Heron Ridge, and Cypress Creek offer warm-weather golf late into fall. Stay at the oceanfront and enjoy one of the best after-golf experiences along the Virginia beach Boardwalk.

  1. Charlottesville – Wine Country Meets Great Golf

Courses: Spring Creek, Old Trail, Wintergreen. Stay downtown or book a group VRBO. Excellent for couples’ golf trips or those who like breweries and vineyards with their birdies.

How to Plan Your Virginia Golf Trip the Smart Way

  • Choose Sunday–Wednesday dates for better rates and tee time availability.
  • Start with a twilight round on arrival day to save money.
  • Bundle golf and lodging with a single provider (like Virginia Golf Vacations) for simplicity and savings.
  • Pick lodging that suits your group size (condo, villa, hotel, or rental home).
  • Book 60–90 days out—use a provider that has advanced access like Virginia Golf Vacations to book earlier and lock in prime tee times and best rates

Sample 3-Day Itinerary (Williamsburg)

  • Day 1: Drive in, play twilight at Kiskiack
  • Day 2: Morning tee time at Golden Horseshoe, optional replay
  • Day 3: Final round at Williamsburg Natonal, grab lunch in the 1607 Grill and head home
    Lodging: 2 nights in a 4-bedroom condo at Greensprings Resort adjacent to Williamsburg National Golf Club.

Pro Tips for a Seamless Golf Getaway

  • Meet with your group to coordinate availability and preferences.
  • Let one person lead booking—simpler for communication.
  • Use trip provider with payment system that will collect and manage payments
  • Consider off-peak dates for even deeper discounts.

Final Thoughts: Virginia Has the Perfect Trip for Every Group

Whether you’re chasing mountain views, ocean breezes, or historic vibes, Virginia has a golf destination (and price point) for you. With the right planning, you can tee it up at world-class courses, stay somewhere great, and often keep it all under $500 per golfer.

Ready to plan your Virginia golf trip? Let us build a custom itinerary for your group—fill out the quote form on this page and let us getting started on putting together a fun and affordable golf trip for you and your golf buddies

Why Take a Golf Trip to Charlottesville?

Why Take a Golf Trip to Charlottesville?

Spring Creek Hole 8 Why Take a Golf Trip to Charlottesville?

Great golf. Gorgeous views. A downtown that delivers.

When most people think of Charlottesville, they picture rolling vineyards, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, and the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. But here’s the secret locals and savvy travelers already know: Charlottesville is also one of Virginia’s most underrated — and unforgettable — golf destinations.

Whether you’re planning a buddies’ trip, a father-son weekend, or a couples’ escape with golf on the agenda, Charlottesville offers a rare blend of championship courses, vibrant downtown energy, and relaxed lodging options that make trip planning easy and the experience even better.

Where to Play Golf in the Charlottesville Area?

Start your trip at Spring Creek Golf Club, a consistent top-100 public course in the U.S. just 20 minutes east of town. With its rolling zoysia fairways, tour-level greens, and country-club feel, it sets the tone for the trip. It’s a must-play that balances playability with shot-making demands — and the finishing stretch is unforgettable.

Next up: Lake Monticello Golf Course, a local favorite known for its fun layout and value. Tucked beside a picturesque lake community, this course is a hidden gem that provides a more relaxed vibe while still delivering plenty of challenge.

Aerial view of old trail golf club In nearby Crozet, Old Trail Golf Club is a stunning mountain-view track at the foothills of the Blue Ridge. With wide fairways and panoramic backdrops, it’s both welcoming and visually inspiring. You’ll want your phone ready for hole after hole of beauty.

Wrap up your trip with a day at Wintergreen Resort’s Stoney Creek Course, designed by Rees Jones. Located just south of Charlottesville in the valley, Stoney Creek mixes water features, elevation changes, and incredible conditioning — all within an easy drive from downtown.

Where to Stay on a Golf Trip to Charlottesville?

For groups that want to stay close to the action, The Residence Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites in downtown Charlottesville are ideal. Walkable to restaurants, clean and comfortable, and with free breakfast to fuel those early tee times — these are reliable group-friendly picks with everything you need.

Prefer more space or that cozy “home base” feel? Vacation rentals through VRBO or Airbnb offer everything from stylish downtown lofts to spacious homes with decks, grills, and mountain views. They’re perfect for post-round hangouts, late-night laughs, or just spreading out in style.

Looking for a trip with less planning stress? Many packages can bundle lodging with tee times across multiple courses — saving you time and money.

Where Are the Best Restaurants in Downtown Charlottesville?

No golf trip to Charlottesville is complete without spending an evening (or two) on Water Street, the culinary heartbeat of the city. Just steps from the Downtown Mall, this area is packed with chef-owned restaurants, craft cocktail spots, and patios made for storytelling after 18 holes.

Start with cocktails at Common House or The Whiskey Jar, then head to dinner at The Fitzroy or Tavola, where Italian small plates and wine flow freely. If you’re in the mood for upscale southern fare, Hamiltons’ delivers. For something more relaxed, South and Central is a steak and Latin grill hybrid that’s perfect for a group craving bold flavor and big portions.

Final Thoughts: Why Plan a Golf Trip to Charlottesville?

Charlottesville is more than just a college town or a scenic stop on a wine trail — it’s a golf destination with depth, character, and variety. Add in great dining, cozy lodging, and a walkable downtown, and you’ve got a trip that checks every box.

Ready to plan your Charlottesville golf trip? Let us handle all the details. You just show up and play.

Great Fall Golf Trips Under $500

Great Fall Golf Trips Under $500

Fall Golf Trips Fall Golf Trips Under $500: Peak Conditions, Bold Colors, and Big Savings

Crisp mornings, fast greens, and technicolor trees—fall is the best time to sneak in a budget-friendly golf getaway. Demand dips once football kicks off, courses are in peak shape, and room rates slide just enough to unlock 2- or 3-night golf packages for under $500 per golfer.

The secret sauce? Travel Thursday -Saturday or better yet Sunday – Wednesday, open with a twilight round, travel close to home. You’ll play Virginia’s top tracks during its prettiest season—without blowing your budget.


Quick, Affordable Fall Options

Williamsburg Getaway – 3 Nights / 3 Rounds – from $450

Escape this fall to the historic charm of Williamsburg, VA, with 3 nights at Greensprings Resort, featuring massive 4-bedroom, 4-bath condos—ideal for groups. You’ll tee it up at Royal New Kent, Golden Horseshoe Green, and Williamsburg National—three of the region’s most scenic and challenging layouts.
Why it’s a steal: Premium lodging + elite golf + fall foliage = unmatched value under $500.

Virginia Beach Oceanfront – 2 Nights / 3 Rounds – from $425

Ocean views, cool coastal breezes, and three standout courses for less than $500. Stay at the Holiday Inn Express Oceanfront, where every room overlooks the beach and breakfast is included. Play Virginia Beach National, Cypress Point, and Heron Ridge—each offering a unique test of your game.
Why it’s a steal: Oceanfront lodging + sunrise golf = beachside bliss at a fall discount.

Blue Ridge Mountain Escape – 3 Nights / 3 Rounds – from $449

Soak in autumn colors from the fairways of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stay at the DoubleTree Inn at Blue Ridge Shadows, with views of the surrounding hills. Golf includes a round at Blue Ridge Shadows GC and two rounds at Shenandoah Valley GC (Titus & Old Courses).
Why it’s a steal: Mountain golf + peak foliage + cozy lodging under $450.

Williamsburg Midweek Special – 2 Nights / 3 Rounds – from $399

For the ultimate value, go midweek and stay two nights in Williamsburg, playing three rounds at top regional courses. Travel Sunday–Tuesday or Monday–Wednesday to take advantage of lower rates and lighter crowds.
Why it’s a steal: Smart scheduling saves you over $100—same golf, better pricing.


How to Keep Fall Golf Trips Under $500: 5 Smart Moves

  1. Start with a twilight round. Your arrival day round is cheaper and still scenic—save prime AM tee times for Day 2.

  2. Book 60–90 days in advance. Lock in your dates before fall demand picks up.

  3. Replay for the cart fee. Want a 36-hole day? Ask us which courses offer cheap afternoon replays.

  4. Split a condo or villa. Traveling with buddies? Multi-bedroom units cut per-person costs dramatically.

  5. Be flexible with your rotation. Let us build your itinerary around the best fall values.


A Sample Under-$500 Itinerary (2 Nights / 3 Rounds)

  • Day 1: Arrive, play a twilight round, check in, and dinner at a popular local restaurant

  • Day 2: Middle Day – Morning round, lunch at the club, Replay 9? dinner at your condo or hotel

  • Day 3: Final Day, check out, AM round, lunch and head home


Ready to Book?

Fall’s the sweet spot—top-tier conditions, lower prices, and epic views. These fall golf trips move quickly, especially for October prime weeks. Book now to lock in your trip under $500. Your golf group will thank you.

Submit your groups information on the quote request form to the left and we will get right back to you.  We look forward to playing golf with us soon.