There’s something truly magical about spending a weekend outdoors, surrounded by greenery, with a golf club in hand and your family by your side. But let’s be real—getting everyone in the family excited about a full day on the golf course can be a bit of a challenge, especially when you’ve got little ones or non-golfers in the mix. Luckily, with a bit of creativity, you can turn your family golf weekend into an adventure that everyone will love. Whether your crew is a mix of seasoned golfers, enthusiastic beginners, or those just along for the ride, there are plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained and involved.

In this guide, we’ll dive into how you can plan a family-friendly golf weekend, packed with fun activities on and off the course. From introducing golf in a way that’s engaging for kids, to planning games that keep things light-hearted, and even exploring alternative activities for those who might need a break from the greens, we’ve got you covered. Let’s make sure your next weekend golfing with the family is one that everyone remembers!

Making Golf Fun for the Whole Family

1. Start with the Basics: Family-Friendly Golf Courses

First things first, it’s crucial to choose a golf course that’s family-friendly. Some courses are more welcoming to families than others, offering shorter holes, easier terrain, and even programs specifically designed for kids and beginners. Look for a course that provides rental clubs in smaller sizes for children and has tee times set aside for families. Some courses even offer reduced rates for juniors or package deals for families.

Pro Tip: Call ahead and ask if the course has any special programs or if they offer tee times that are less busy, so you won’t feel rushed or pressured by other players.

2. Simplify the Game for Beginners

For those new to golf, especially younger children, the game can seem daunting. Rather than diving straight into a full round, start with some basics. Set up a mini practice session on the driving range where you can teach them how to grip the club, take a proper stance, and swing. Keep it light and encouraging—remember, the goal is to make sure they’re having fun, not to perfect their swing right away.

You can even create a mini-game on the putting green, where the focus is more on having fun than on keeping score. Shorter holes and simpler rules can go a long way in making the game more accessible and enjoyable for beginners.

Fun Activity: Create a point system based on how close their ball gets to the hole. The closer the ball, the more points they get—turn it into a friendly competition!

3. Engage Kids with Golf-Themed Games

To keep the younger ones engaged, mix things up with some golf-themed games. These can be played on the course or during breaks, and they’ll add an element of fun that can break up the more serious aspects of the game.

Scavenger Hunt: Before heading out, create a list of items for kids to find on the course—a bird’s feather, a certain type of tree, a unique rock, etc. Whoever finds the most items wins a small prize!

Golf Bingo: Make a bingo card with different golfing-related tasks (e.g., hit a ball into a bunker, sink a putt from 10 feet, or spot a certain type of bird). The first one to complete a row wins.

Mini-Golf Challenge: Set up a mini-golf course in your backyard or in an open area of the course if allowed. Use cups for holes, and let the kids design their own challenging mini-golf setup.

4. Explore Alternative Formats: Scramble or Best Ball

If you’re playing with a mix of skill levels, consider switching to a more inclusive format like a scramble or best ball. In a scramble, each player hits a tee shot, but everyone plays from the spot of the best shot, continuing this way until the hole is completed. This takes the pressure off less experienced players and keeps the game moving quickly.

Best ball is another great option where each player plays their own ball, but only the best score on each hole is counted toward the team’s total. Both formats are team-oriented and keep everyone involved, making the game more enjoyable for all.

5. Encourage Team Play and Light Competition

Nothing spices up a family game like a bit of friendly competition. Divide the family into teams and play a match. This could be parents versus kids, boys versus girls, or any other combination that keeps things fair and fun. You could even create a small family trophy to be awarded at the end of the day.

Fun Twist: Introduce small challenges on each hole, like putting with your non-dominant hand or teeing off with your eyes closed. It’s a surefire way to bring laughter and lighten the mood.

6. Plan for Breaks and Snacks

A full round of golf can be a long day, especially for kids or those who aren’t used to being on the course. Plan for regular breaks where everyone can relax and recharge. Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks to enjoy between holes, and maybe even bring along a picnic to have at the turn (the point halfway through the course, usually after the 9th hole).

Healthy snacks like fruit, granola bars, and sandwiches can keep everyone’s energy up without weighing them down. And don’t forget plenty of water—staying hydrated is key, especially on a warm day.

Pro Tip: Make the 9th hole a mini-celebration with a favorite treat or snack as a reward for everyone’s efforts so far.

Off-the-Green Fun: Activities Beyond the Golf Course

1. Visit a Nearby Driving Range or Mini-Golf Course

If you’re looking to mix up your weekend, consider spending some time at a driving range or a local mini-golf course. These are great options if you want to practice your swing in a more relaxed setting or if some members of the family are too young for a full round of golf.

Mini-golf, in particular, is a hit with kids and can be a fun way to introduce them to the concept of putting without the pressure of a traditional golf course. Plus, many mini-golf courses are designed with creative themes and obstacles that add an extra layer of fun.

2. Explore Nature Trails or Picnic Areas

Many golf courses are located in beautiful natural settings, often with trails, lakes, or picnic areas nearby. After a few hours on the green, consider taking a break to explore the surrounding area. A short hike or a relaxing walk can be a nice way to unwind, especially for those who might need a break from the game.

Bring along a picnic and set up in a scenic spot to enjoy the outdoors. This is also a great time to pull out some fun outdoor games like frisbee or bocce ball, which can be enjoyed by all ages.

Fun Idea: If you’re near a body of water, bring along some fishing poles or a small boat for an afternoon of fishing or paddling.

3. Organize a Golf Cart Scavenger Hunt

Golf carts are often a highlight for kids (and let’s be honest, adults too). Turn this into an activity by organizing a golf cart scavenger hunt. Create a list of items or landmarks to find around the course, and let the kids help navigate as you search for each one. It’s a great way to break up the day and add some adventure to your golfing experience.

4. Hold a Family Golf Clinic

If you have a mix of experienced golfers and beginners, why not hold a mini golf clinic? The more experienced players can share tips and techniques with the newbies, making it a learning experience as well as a fun one. You could focus on different aspects of the game—like driving, putting, or course management—and make it interactive with drills and challenges.

To keep things interesting, mix up the clinic with some fun, hands-on activities. For instance, set up a target practice area with hoops or markers and see who can hit the closest. Or hold a putting contest with increasingly difficult shots.

5. Capture the Memories: Golf Course Photography

Don’t forget to capture the memories! Bring along a camera or use your phone to snap photos throughout the day. Whether it’s a shot of your youngest teeing off for the first time or a candid moment of laughter during a tricky putt, these photos will be cherished for years to come.

You can even turn this into an activity in itself—create a family golf photo scavenger hunt where everyone has to capture specific moments or objects (like a golf ball in mid-air, or a scenic shot of the course).

Creative Idea: At the end of the weekend, create a scrapbook or a digital album of your family’s golfing adventure, complete with captions and funny memories.

Golfing Etiquette and Safety: Teaching the Next Generation

1. Keep It Safe

Safety is key, especially when you’ve got younger kids on the course. Make sure everyone understands basic golf safety rules, like standing clear of someone’s swing, paying attention to where others are hitting, and being careful when riding in golf carts.

It’s also important to teach kids about respecting the course—things like replacing divots, not running on the greens, and being mindful of other players are all part of golfing etiquette that they can carry with them as they grow.

2. Teach Golfing Etiquette Early On

Golf is a sport with a long tradition of etiquette and respect, both for other players and for the course itself. Use this weekend as an opportunity to teach your kids about these traditions. Simple things like knowing when to be quiet, understanding the order of play, and learning how to fix ball marks can go a long way in making them more confident and respectful players.

Pro Tip: Turn this into a game by awarding points for good etiquette, like being quiet during someone’s swing or properly raking a bunker after hitting out of it.

3. Lead by Example

Kids learn by watching, so make sure you’re setting a good example. Whether it’s showing patience, maintaining a positive attitude, or demonstrating proper etiquette, your actions will have a big impact on how they view the game. Encourage sportsmanship, celebrate everyone’s successes (no matter how small), and keep the focus on fun.

Wrapping Up the Weekend: Making It Memorable

1. Hold a Mini Award Ceremony

At the end of your weekend, hold a mini award ceremony to celebrate everyone’s achievements. You can hand out awards for things like “Best Putt,” “Longest Drive,” “Most Improved,” or even fun categories like “Best Golf Cart Driver” or “Funniest Moment.” It’s a great way to end the weekend on a high note and ensures that everyone goes home feeling like a winner.

2. Plan a Post-Golf Meal

Finish off the day with a special meal, whether it’s a barbecue at home or dinner at a nearby restaurant. Use this time to chat about the day, share stories, and reflect on the highlights. It’s also a great opportunity to plan your next family golf outing!

Fun Idea: If you’re at home, consider making golf-themed snacks or desserts. Cupcakes with green frosting and mini flag sticks, or cookies shaped like golf balls, can add a fun touch to the meal.

3. Create a Family Golf Tradition

Why not make family golf weekends a regular tradition? Whether it’s once a month, during the summer, or just on special occasions, having a regular family golf outing can be something everyone looks forward to. Over time, it can become a cherished family tradition that brings everyone closer together.

Pro Tip: Keep track of each outing in a family golf journal where you can note scores, funny moments, and lessons learned. It’s a great way to look back and see how everyone’s skills—and the fun—have grown over time.

FAQs

1. What age is appropriate for kids to start playing golf?

Kids can start learning basic golf skills as early as 3-4 years old with plastic clubs and balls. However, most formal lessons and playing on a course typically start around age 6-7, depending on the child’s interest and ability to follow instructions.

2. How can I keep non-golfers entertained during a golf outing?

Consider including non-golf activities like a golf cart scavenger hunt, visiting a mini-golf course, or exploring nearby nature trails. Breaks with snacks, games, and fun challenges can also keep non-golfers engaged.

3. What should I pack for a family golf outing?

Essentials include water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, comfortable clothing, and golf clubs (including junior-sized ones if needed). A camera or smartphone for photos, and some outdoor games or activities for breaks, can also be great additions.

4. How do I make golf fun for young children?

Simplify the game with shorter holes, fewer rules, and a focus on fun. Incorporate golf-themed games like a scavenger hunt or mini-golf challenge, and be sure to celebrate their successes, no matter how small.

5. Are there any golf courses that cater specifically to families?

Yes, many golf courses offer family-friendly tee times, shorter courses, or even family golf programs. It’s worth researching or calling ahead to find a course that best suits your family’s needs.

Final Thoughts

A weekend golfing with the family is about so much more than just the game—it’s about spending quality time together, enjoying the outdoors, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. By incorporating a mix of activities that cater to everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, you can ensure that your family golf outing is a hit with everyone involved.

So, next time you’re planning a weekend on the green, remember these tips and ideas to make it a fun, engaging, and unforgettable experience for all. Happy golfing!