How Golf Is Quietly Powering South Africa’s Tourism and Local Economy

South Africa’s golf courses are doing more than just hosting weekend games — they’re quietly playing a major role in boosting the country’s tourism and economy. Industry leaders and tourism experts are now urging the country to harness this powerful, yet often overlooked, opportunity more strategically.

At the heart of the conversation is the global appeal of golf — a sport with year-round playability, deep pockets, and a strong link to business networking. In destinations like KwaZulu-Natal and the Garden Route, golf isn’t just a leisure activity — it’s an economic asset.

“Golf is more than a sport — it’s a driver of tourism, hospitality, and even diplomacy,” says Rosemary Anderson, national chairperson of Fedhasa (Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa). “Our championship-standard courses come at a fraction of the cost of those in Europe or North America. That’s an untapped global opportunity.”

With scenic courses stretching from the coastlines of the Western Cape to the green hills of the Highveld, South Africa offers some of the most picturesque and affordable golf experiences in the world. Yet, Anderson says the country has not capitalized enough on this potential.

The recent inclusion of golfing icons Ernie Els and Retief Goosen in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s delegation to the White House was more than symbolic. It showed how golf can open diplomatic and business doors, especially with golf-loving figures like former US President Donald Trump.

“Golf connects people — whether at a boardroom level or at global summits,” Anderson adds. “We need to be marketing South Africa as a top-tier golf destination more aggressively.”

Durban’s Untapped Potential

Jeannie Sarno, chair of Umhlanga Tourism, agrees that golf should be central in tourism planning. “Durban enjoys perfect weather year-round. That alone makes it ideal for golf tourism. We’d be foolish not to take advantage of it,” she says.

KZN South Coast: The ‘Golf Coast’ of South Africa

On the KZN South Coast, the link between golf and tourism is already paying off. Dubbed ‘The Golf Coast’, the region is home to 11 scenic golf courses, many set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean and lush coastal forests.

“Visitors come for a golf weekend and end up enjoying everything from our beaches to local experiences,” says Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Golf draws them in, and the rest of the region keeps them coming back.”

Sibiya says the area is also growing as a MICE destination (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events). Corporate golf days, fundraising events, and professional competitions like The Wild Coast Classic and SA Women’s Masters are giving the region a competitive edge.

A Missed Opportunity No More?

Sport tourism — and golf in particular — has a ripple effect on many other sectors: accommodation, dining, transport, and even local crafts and activities. And because golf doesn’t rely on a particular season, it keeps businesses thriving even during traditional tourism lulls.

It’s a sector that offers high value with relatively low investment. Yet, industry players say that without a coordinated effort by national tourism agencies, South Africa risks falling behind competitors in the global golf travel market.

“Golf is not just about the game,” Anderson concludes. “It’s about building relationships, boosting revenue, and showing the world what South Africa has to offer.”

{Source: IOL}

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