- Tuesday 05 May 2026
There are golf events, and then there’s Augusta. Our golf expert Michael went to experience the iconic tournament for himself.
Read his blog for an overview of his impression and recommendations:
Click here to view information on our Masters Competition and VIP Hospitality packages. Our experience and contacts means you can book your trip with confidence with us.
"The Masters is a unique and thoroughly enjoyable experience. I attended it last year, on the Thursday and Friday. I flew home on Saturday and sat down on Sunday with a bottle of wine to watch Rory's shenanigans with my blood pressure soaring .
The atmosphere, once you go through the ticket gates is unique- no phones, no cameras, no running around. You must wear your ticket badge at all times, and no unruly behaviour is tolerated. Break any of the above and you will be escorted out of the golf course; you're not a spectator - you're a patron. There are banks of public phones around the course where you can make free calls. Dress code is smart golf wear- your club polo shirt wouldn't be out of place. Dress inappropriately and you're out. This all may sound fussy and conservative- but it's not, and it adds to the unique enjoyable atmosphere of The Masters .
It's a long ,hilly course in places, so good shoes are necessary. You can buy a chair at the main shopping facility and take it around with you, or place it in one spot and safely leave it there- it will not be stolen. Alternatively, if you only wanted to sit down on occasion you can sit on any of the chairs that others have purchased and placed. On their return they will politely say in a respectful way that it is their chair; you thank them and off you go. Only in Augusta.
There is no shortage of food outlets around the course. The main facility area before you go to the first tee is where patrons gather to purchase food, drinks [aplenty] and souvenirs. The food and drinks are cheap; try the famous cheese and egg sandwich- it's only $1.50. Beers or wines will cost you $6, and you get a branded beer mug that you're free to take away (mine's pictured above). It's when you shop in the souvenirs shop that prices are high.
I stayed in our favourite hotel in Augusta (it's more like an aparthotel), which was 15 to 30 minutes from the course, depending on traffic. There are continuous free transfers back and forth all day. I flew to Atlanta and changed there for a short flight to Augusta; and I highly recommend book your transfer to the hotel with us in advance.
Ticket prices vary by the days that you choose attend. Practice days are cheapest, but you get to travel around with the players in a relaxed way. Tickets get more expensive on the Thursday and Friday, and again on Saturday and Sunday .
There are some great golf courses nearby if you're inspired to play a few rounds yourself. I played Bartram Trail, just a short taxi from the hotel. My top tip is to bring plenty of balls. Buggies are available- take one. It's owned by a lovely couple, and they are continuing to develop it yearly.
All in all, attending The Masters was a unique most enjoyable experience; packages are pricy but worth it. It's a trip I'll never forget."
Book early with us at golf @shandontravel.ie. You can also call us on 021 4277094 or 01 6965135- Michael is here to answer any questions.
Click here to view information on our Masters Competition and VIP Hospitality packages.
Click here to visit our Golfing Holidays page.
