Women make up 28% of U.S. golfers—for planners, it’s a fresh chance to revamp this traditional activity option
According to the National Golf Foundation (NGF), the number of women playing on-course golf in the U.S. rose by 41% from 2019 to 2023, reaching a record 7.9 million players. Women now account for 28% of all on-course golfers—the highest share ever recorded.
This growth isn’t just happening on the greens—it’s reshaping leisure travel and corporate retreats alike. The NGF reports that women and girls have driven 60% of the net growth in on-course participation since 2019. Many new players are entering the sport via casual formats like Topgolf and virtual simulators, which lowers the intimidation factor and expands the appeal.
Resorts have taken notice. Many destinations are crafting women-focused golf programs that offer more than just tee times. Think beginner-friendly clinics, fashion-forward apparel, and social events with wellness baked in.
From Spa Vibes to Sand Traps—Wellness Has a New Venue
Women’s golf offers an ideal blend of light movement, fresh air, and social connection—perfect for offsite agendas increasingly shaped by wellness trends. A mid-morning group clinic followed by a casual lunch and some green-side networking delivers far more emotional ROI than another fluorescent-lit panel discussion.
Venues like Monarch Beach Resort and Fiji’s InterContinental are pairing on-course experiences with restorative programming, offering everything from sunrise stretching to oceanfront dinners that encourage real conversation.
Bond Over Birdies
One of the greatest benefits of women’s golf programming is its power to build genuine connections. Because many players are relatively new to the game, the atmosphere tends to be collaborative, low-pressure, and fun—ideal conditions for strengthening team dynamics or sparking creative conversations with clients.
The sport’s social side is also getting a makeover. Out are stuffy, silent foursomes; in are curated events designed to celebrate community. These experiences aren’t just enjoyable—they’re memorable in ways that standard networking mixers rarely achieve.
Gear That Gets It—and Makes a Statement
The rise in women’s participation has inspired manufacturers to rethink everything from swing design to style. Brands like Callaway have introduced the REVA Rise line, created specifically for women’s comfort, performance, and swing dynamics. These gear innovations lower barriers to entry and increase the odds that every participant, regardless of experience, feels equipped and empowered.
How to Plan a Tee-rific Offsite
You don’t need to overhaul your entire event to incorporate the golf trend. Start by offering a casual group clinic, a putting competition, or even a “learn the basics” happy hour with a local pro.
When choosing destinations, look for properties that offer inclusive programming and understand the value of hospitality tailored to female groups. The right venue will have instructors who are as welcoming as they are knowledgeable—and the infrastructure to support group coordination and gear rentals with ease.
For extra impact, blend the golf with regionally inspired experiences. Think a wine tasting after the front nine, a farm-to-table dinner near the course, or a cultural excursion that turns a simple activity into a destination-driven memory.
FURTHER READING: HOW TO PLAN A WELLNESS-MINDED MEETING
Stats That Score Big with Stakeholders
Need to make the case internally? The numbers are compelling:
41% growth in U.S. women golfers since 2019
28% of all on-course golfers are now women
7.9 million female players nationwide
60% of recent growth in golf participation is being driven by women and girls
All data from the National Golf Foundation, 2024
It’s Time to Rethink the Fairway
Golf is no longer the exclusive domain of business bros and C-suite execs. It’s now a versatile, wellness-rich, and highly social experience with mass appeal—and women are leading that charge.
For meeting and incentive planners looking to differentiate their programs, boost engagement, and design something genuinely refreshing, a day on the greens might be your best move yet.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
Photo by Kawê Rodrigues on Unsplash
