The Relationship Between Golf Courses and Cigar Culture
Not all golf courses permit cigar smoking, but certain destinations embrace it as part of tradition and hospitality. These courses integrate cigar lounges, patios, and smoking terraces into their design.
For cigar-loving golfers, destination selection becomes part of the lifestyle.
Scotland: The Birthplace of Tradition
Scottish golf courses maintain historical links between golf and smoking rituals. Many links courses allow cigar smoking in outdoor areas.
Clubhouses often include:
- Outdoor terraces
- Smoking rooms
- Whisky pairing
These preserve heritage.
The Caribbean: Sun, Sea, and Cigars
The Caribbean offers:
- Tropical climate
- Cuban cigar heritage
- Luxury resorts
Courses in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Cuba openly embrace cigar culture.
United States: Regional Differences
Florida
Florida courses combine:
- Golf
- Cigar bars
- Outdoor patios
California
High-end resorts provide cigar-friendly outdoor spaces.
Texas
Private clubs often integrate cigar lounges.
Mediterranean Resorts
Spain, Portugal, and Italy offer luxury golf resorts with cigar terraces overlooking fairways and sea views.
Asia and Emerging Markets
Japan and Southeast Asia increasingly adopt cigar lounges in golf resorts, merging Western and Eastern leisure rituals.
Architecture Designed for Smoking
Modern golf resorts design:
- Ventilated terraces
- Fire pits
- Wind barriers
These encourage outdoor cigar rituals without disrupting non-smokers.
Golf Tourism and Cigar Events
Some destinations host:
- Cigar festivals
- Golf tournaments with cigar sponsorship
- Tasting sessions
This strengthens cultural links.
Etiquette and Local Laws
Golfers must always respect:
- Club policies
- National smoking laws
- Fellow players
Cigar culture thrives where etiquette is observed.
The Business of Cigar-Friendly Courses
Courses that allow cigar culture:
- Attract premium clients
- Increase clubhouse revenue
- Build brand identity
This positions them as lifestyle destinations rather than mere sports facilities.
Conclusion
Cigar-friendly golf courses preserve the heritage of both traditions. They provide controlled environments where leisure, sport, and ritual coexist.
For cigar-loving golfers, these destinations represent the ideal fusion of performance and pleasure.
