Running a resort or golf course is about more than offering great views and amenities—it’s about crafting a seamless, memorable experience for every guest. With competition in hospitality and recreation rising, smart upgrades can help your venue stand out while boosting efficiency, guest satisfaction, and revenue.
Whether you’re managing a boutique golf club or a full-scale luxury resort, here are some worthwhile additions to consider that guests actually notice—and appreciate.
Why Strategic Upgrades Matter
In the hospitality industry, guest expectations are constantly evolving. According to Statista, global tourism spending on leisure travel is expected to exceed $5.8 trillion by 2027, up from $4.3 trillion in 2022.
This surge means more travelers, more competition—and higher expectations. Resorts and golf venues that invest in thoughtful improvements are more likely to win repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations.
Enhance Outdoor Comfort and Functionality
Whether it’s a round of golf or poolside lounging, outdoor spaces play a central role in guest satisfaction. Upgrading these areas can enhance both the aesthetic appeal and practical comfort of your property.
Here are a few impactful ideas:
- Shaded seating areas near the pool or walking trails
- Upgraded patio furniture with weather-resistant materials
- Pathway lighting for evening safety and ambiance
- Fire pits or outdoor heaters for seasonal comfort
- Covered walkways between key facilities to protect guests from rain or sun
Another often overlooked but highly appreciated touch? Golf cart covers. These protect your fleet from the elements and keep guests comfortable in sun or rain. Whether you’re offering them to guests directly or using them to extend the lifespan of your equipment, it’s a win-win.
Elevate the Dining and Social Experience
Dining areas and lounges are more than places to eat—they’re where guests gather, relax, and make memories. A few strategic upgrades can go a long way toward creating a more elevated experience.
Consider additions like:
- Outdoor dining patios with pergolas or retractable awnings
- Mobile drink or snack carts for on-the-course or poolside service
- Local ingredient-driven menus that give a sense of place
- Live music nights or themed events to boost evening attendance
- Private cabana rentals for VIP experiences
Adding layers of hospitality like these encourages guests to stay longer and spend more, without requiring massive infrastructure changes.
Add Wellness and Recreation Options
Guests today are more wellness-conscious than ever. Offering options that cater to relaxation, fitness, and mental clarity can set your resort or golf club apart from the rest.
Smart additions in this category include:
- On-site yoga or stretch classes, especially in scenic outdoor spots
- Spa or massage rooms, even if just one or two
- Bike or hiking trail access, with maps and suggested routes
- Healthy menu items and smoothies at the clubhouse
- Quiet zones or reading lounges for peaceful downtime
These additions align your venue with the growing trend of wellness tourism and offer added value without needing huge renovations.
Boost Tech and Guest Convenience
A luxury feel doesn’t always require physical expansion. Sometimes, it’s about convenience and seamless service. Integrating smart tech can elevate the guest experience and improve operational efficiency.
Here’s how to make things easier for both staff and visitors:
- Mobile check-in/check-out systems
- App-based reservations for tee times, spa treatments, or dinner
- Touchless payment options
- Digital signage for events, weather updates, or wayfinding
- Wi-Fi upgrades in guest rooms and outdoor areas
Today’s guests appreciate when things just work—especially when technology quietly makes their visit smoother.
Final Thought: Invest in the Experience
Every addition doesn’t need to be flashy or expensive to make a difference. What matters most is that upgrades enhance the overall guest experience. Whether it’s the comfort of covered carts, the luxury of a private cabana, or the ease of mobile booking, these small shifts add up to a more enjoyable, memorable stay.
In the end, resorts and golf venues that think strategically about comfort, convenience, and ambiance aren’t just providing a place to play or stay—they’re creating a place guests can’t wait to return to.
