There's simply nothing quite like the remoteness and connection with the land offered by the golf courses of the Scottish islands, where windswept links create golf experiences that are both humbling and utterly unforgettable.
The Scottish Islands are golf's final frontier. The stunning landscapes and amazing settings create an atmosphere that beats ordinary golf tourism. Here's what makes these destinations special:
• Unrivalled Value: Green fees range from approximately £25 (€30/$35) for a full day at some courses to £185 (€220/$245) at premium venues, offering brilliant value compared to mainland championship courses
• Untouched Landscapes: The unspoilt nature of the landscapes creates a genuine escape from commercialised golf destinations
• Island Adventure: Ferry journeys and remote locations turn each round into a proper expedition, making the golf part of a bigger adventure
The Scottish Islands have several courses that rank among Britain's finest, each offering different challenges. These are the absolute best of island golf:
The Machrie Links, Islay - The crown jewel of Scottish island golf, this DJ Russell redesign opened in 2018 and immediately got into the UK's top 100 courses. Set on Laggan Bay's pristine dunes, the course has holes that play directly towards the Atlantic, including the magnificent 9th, where golfers tee off straight at the sea.
Ardfin, Jura - Scotland's most exclusive golf experience. This clifftop masterpiece sits on rugged terrain of peat and rocks around Jura House. Access is extremely limited, but for those who get a tee time, it's an unparalleled links adventure with views across to the Inner Hebrides.
Askernish Golf Club, South Uist - The jewel of the Outer Hebrides, originally laid out by Old Tom Morris and beautifully restored by some of the game's top architects. This rugged, pure links lets visitors experience golf as it was originally conceived, with natural hazards and no earth-moving machinery.
Isle of Harris Golf Club - Set on crystal-blue Atlantic waters with Scarista Mhor and Taransay Sound creating one of golf's most photogenic backdrops. This volunteer-maintained 9-hole links punches well above its weight, offering world-class scenery and authentic Highland golf culture.
Isle of Barra
A goat track on every sense of the word, and were saying that as a compliment. You don’t come this far for manicured links. If you did, you’d be disappointed. It is raw golf in its purest form.
Iona Golf Course
Iona Golf Course is accessible on foot after taking a short ferry from Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull. It’s free to play and one of the best natural golf courses in the world.
To read more about the West Coast of Scotland and island golf in Scotland, read the full travel blog from Jasper Miners.
Ferry travel with rental cars gives you the authentic Scottish island experience. The Scottish islands are best experienced by ferry in a rental car since public transport is limited and some courses, like Askernish, aren't particularly close to ferry ports or local airports like Benbecula.
Flight options exist to major islands, but ferry journeys are part of the island golf experience. CalMac ferries run regular services with car spaces you can book in advance. You will need to seriously plan this one to avoid major issues.
Weather patterns remain unpredictable year-round, though May to September typically offer drier conditions with July and August being when you're least likely to get soaked. However, you should prepare for four seasons in one day at any point in the year. Pack base layers, waterproofs, wind protection.
Waterproofs and wind protection are essential regardless of forecast. Island weather changes rapidly, and exposed coastal courses make wind conditions much stronger.
Most golfers travelling to the islands bring clubs personally due to remote locations and limited rental options.
Bring everything you need and more, especially balls. Despite having golf courses, there are few pro shops and no retailers. Selection is very limited and costs are high.
Caddies generally aren't available on the islands. You might be able to request one at The Machrie, but there isn't a ready supply and you're unlikely to find any elsewhere in the islands.
For comprehensive golf tours of the islands, you'll likely move each day to find the next course. Chains do not exist so B&B’s or independent hotels are a necessity. Vacancies are rare in high season.
A camper van is the most budget-friendly option for touring the Scottish islands, giving you flexibility and authentic adventure travel whilst keeping accommodation costs down.
It may seem odd but tables are very ahrd to find without prior booking. The area is so remote, the restaurants often order to cater only for reservations. The local supermarket is usually a Co-Op and is relied upon if one hasn’t booked a table ahead of time.
Very few golfers visit the Scottish islands outside of May to September, creating excellent availability during shoulder seasons for hardy golfers willing to accept potential issues with weather.
Most smaller courses accept walk-up bookings or need minimal advance notice. You’ll probably encounter an honesty box and envelope - bring cash and don’t rely upon card in more remote locations.
The Scottish Islands offer brilliant experiences beyond golf that showcase Highland culture and natural beauty. Many great beaches and historical sites await exploration. Must-see spots include The Old Man of Storr on Skye, Luskentyre Beach on Harris, and The Calanais Standing Stones on Lewis.
Wildlife watching opportunities abound, from seal colonies to golden eagles, whilst whisky enthusiasts can explore Islay's world-famous distilleries during downtime between rounds. Historic sites, dramatic coastlines, and traditional Highland villages add cultural depth to any golf-focused trip.
Flying in and out rather than taking time to explore via ferry is the most common mistake international golfers make. Ferry journeys provide essential transition time between mainland stress and island calm, while offering spectacular coastal scenery.
Golf experts advise against trying to pack too much in. Leave time to relax and enjoy a drink in a local pub. Island golf rewards unhurried exploration over checkbox tourism, with spontaneous discoveries often giving you the most memorable experiences.
Playing with locals is invaluable since they're excellent company and will guide you around without caddies. Local golfers offer course knowledge, weather insights, and cultural context that turns ordinary rounds into authentic Highland golf experiences.
The quality of turf at so many of these courses surprises many visitors expecting softer parkland conditions. The firm, fast-running surfaces make both good and bad shots more dramatic, so adjust your expectations and enjoy the golf and views.
The Scottish Islands are golf tourism's final frontier—destinations where the game returns to its elemental roots amidst landscapes of breathtaking beauty. From championship tests like The Machrie Links to charming 9-hole gems maintained by local volunteers, these courses offer experiences you can't get anywhere else.
