When it comes to planning the perfect buddy golf trip, the right destination makes all the difference. You want a mix of world-class golf, great food, a fun nightlife scene, and maybe even a few non-golf activities for downtime. If you’re looking for all that (and more), Austin and San Antonio, Texas, should be right at the top of your list.
🏌️♂️ Golf for Every Kind of Golfer
Austin
Austin is home to some of the best public and semi-private courses in Texas. Whether you’re looking for a challenge or just a relaxing round with friends, you’ll find it here.
Lost Pines Golf Club: Tucked away just east of Austin at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort, this hidden gem features dramatic elevation changes and scenic Texas Hill Country views. Designed by Arthur Hills, it’s a must-play that offers resort-level service with a laid-back feel.
Avery Ranch Golf Club: One of Austin’s most popular daily-fee courses, Avery Ranch offers a challenging layout with stunning Hill Country backdrops, rolling fairways, and one of the best finishing holes in Texas. Ideal for a competitive round among friends.
Falconhead Golf Club: A beautifully sculpted course with PGA Tour-quality design, great for groups looking for a well-maintained, tournament-style experience.
San Antonio
Just down I-35, San Antonio offers equally impressive golfing, plus a slightly slower pace if you want a more relaxed trip.
TPC San Antonio: Home to the Valero Texas Open, this PGA Tour venue features two stunning courses designed by Pete Dye and Greg Norman.
La Cantera Resort: Offers scenic Hill Country golf with resort amenities and an upscale experience.
The Quarry Golf Course: A unique layout that literally winds through a former rock quarry—unforgettable.
🌮 Food That’ll Make You Stay an Extra Day
Tex-Mex, brisket, and breakfast tacos: these cities are food paradise.
Austin is legendary for BBQ—Franklin Barbecue and La Barbecue are worth the wait. It also has a booming food truck scene and killer tacos at spots like Veracruz All Natural.
San Antonio has deeper Mexican roots, so you’ll find incredible puffy tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas at places like Mi Tierra and Rosario’s.
🍻 Nightlife and Off-Course Fun
Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” After your round, hit Rainey Street or Sixth Street for live music, craft beer, and dancing.
San Antonio offers a more laid-back vibe with historic charm. The River Walk is perfect for bar-hopping and group dinners, and the Alamo gives you a cultural side trip.
✈️ Easy Travel
Both cities have major airports (Austin-Bergstrom and San Antonio International) and are less than 90 minutes apart. You could even split your trip between both cities for a two-in-one Texas golf experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether your group is all about serious competition on championship courses, bonding over BBQ and beers, or just relaxing in a vibrant city, Austin and San Antonio check all the boxes. With great weather nearly year-round, a warm Texas welcome, and no shortage of tee times or tacos, your buddy golf trip just found its perfect destination.