Women drive shift in golf tourism toward luxury and social travel

A survey of 2,500 golfers by Golfbreaks indicates a shift in golf tourism trends, driven by an increase in female participants. For women, golf trips are increasingly focused on social connection and luxury experiences rather than competition. Approximately 44 percent of women surveyed identified playing with friends as their ideal trip, while 28 percent prioritized family.

Key considerations for female travelers include hotel quality, wellness, dining, and community. Data shows that female customers spend an average of £105 more per passenger than men and book 7.3 percent more mid- and long-haul trips.

In Canada, Cabot Cape Breton has emerged as a premier destination, with Cabot Cliffs and Cabot Links ranking as the top two courses in SCOREGolf’s 2026 rankings. The resort is actively supporting the women’s game through a partnership with LPGA champion Brooke Henderson and by providing women’s rental clubs at all locations.