Intro

The Golfers’ Choice Awards 2026 mark a milestone in the history of golf. For the first time, alongside the national rankings, the best golf courses by region and city are being recognized. This allows golf enthusiasts to discover and appreciate the best local golfing experiences.

Key takeaways

  • Golfers’ Choice Awards 2026 introduces regional and urban awards.
  • The awards provide a new way for golfers to discover local golf courses.
  • Results are based on ratings from golfers across the country.
  • This initiative strengthens engagement and pride within regional golf communities.
  • The awards will be presented annually and are a sign of quality improvement in the golf sector.

Context and background

The Golfers’ Choice Awards are an annual tradition that gives golfers the opportunity to rate their favorite golf courses on a national scale. Previously, these awards were only given at the national level, but with the growing interest in local golf experiences, it was decided to introduce regional and urban awards this year. This provides a platform for golf courses that stand out in specific areas.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in interest in golf, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people sought outdoor activities. This has led to greater engagement with local golf clubs and players, making it now more important than ever to highlight the best local golf courses.

Regional innovators under the spotlight

With the introduction of regional and urban awards in the Golfers’ Choice Awards, lesser-known golf courses have the chance to gain recognition. Golfing enthusiasts in the Netherlands can now vote for their favorite courses within their region, increasing competition among the golf courses. In the Amsterdam region, for example, golf courses like Golfbaan Amstelborch and De Hoge Dijk have impressed golfers, while clubs in the southern part of the country, such as Golfclub Het Woold, are also highly regarded.

Statistics show that in 2025, more than 50,000 golfers provided feedback on their golfing experience, and this number is likely to increase even further this year. This volume of votes will directly impact the results and the legitimacy of the awards, now based on actual experiences of golfers who regularly visit these courses.

In their own words

"It’s great to see that regional golf courses are now receiving the recognition they deserve. It can significantly improve the exposure of these courses."

— Jan de Vries, head of the Golfers’ Choice Awards

"As a local golfer, I’m excited that we can now support our favorite courses in our own city. This adds a whole new dimension to the awards."

— Lisa van Dijk, amateur golfer

What this means for golfers

For recreational golfers, the introduction of regional and urban awards means they can now look for the best golf courses in their own vicinity. This can help them discover new places to play, which is especially valuable for those seeking diversity in their golfing experiences.

The awards may also influence the choices golfers make when deciding where to play. Golf courses recognized in the Golfers’ Choice Awards are likely to see an increase in visitors, encouraging them to further enhance their facilities and services. This is a win-win situation for both golfers and golf courses.

What’s next

Looking ahead, the Golfers’ Choice Awards 2026 signal the ongoing evolution of the golfing world. The regional and urban awards will not only bring financial benefits to golf courses but also improve the quality of service and maintenance as they are encouraged to compete at the local level.

The awards will be held annually, adding excitement to the golf community and anticipation for new figures and news about local golf courses. Golfers can start sharing their experiences and voting for their favorite places, allowing them to make their voices heard and support the golf course of their choice.