For as long as golf has been played socially, alcohol has been part of the tradition. From beers at the turn to cocktails in the clubhouse, it’s almost expected that a round of golf involves some form of drinking. But as cannabis becomes more socially accepted and legally available, golfers are beginning to wonder: could cannabis fit into the same picture?
Alcohol and the Fairways
Surveys consistently show that golf and drinking are intertwined. A Golf Digest survey found that in some states, golfers average nearly five drinks per round—roughly one every few holes. While it may help take the edge off, alcohol’s impact on performance is far less flattering.
Sports science literature has long demonstrated that alcohol impairs coordination, slows reaction time, and increases dehydration—none of which benefit precision sports like golf. A systematic review published in the Journal of Sports Medicine also noted that post-exercise alcohol consumption can interfere with muscle recovery and hydration, both crucial for maintaining stamina over 18 holes. In short, alcohol might make the game more social, but it rarely makes you play better.
Cannabis on the Course
Cannabis, meanwhile, is emerging as a modern alternative. Unlike alcohol, cannabis doesn’t usually lead to hangovers, and products like CBD have been studied for their potential role in pain relief, inflammation reduction, and sleep improvement. This makes them attractive to golfers dealing with sore joints, back stiffness, or fatigue from long days on the course.
Research into cannabis and athletic performance, however, paints a mixed picture. Reviews suggest that THC—the psychoactive compound in cannabis—can impair coordination and reaction time, which may affect fine motor control needed for putting or short-game precision. Still, some golfers report that cannabis helps them feel relaxed, focused, or less anxious, which can translate to more enjoyable rounds, even if not objectively better performance.
CBD, on the other hand, is showing promise as a recovery aid without the psychoactive effects. While more studies are needed, early findings suggest CBD may help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort, making it a potential ally for older golfers or those with arthritis-related pain.
A Social Shift
Much like alcohol, cannabis has a social element. Golfers are increasingly treating cannabis as a shared experience—passing a vape pen instead of a flask, or comparing gummies instead of cocktails. Cannabis-friendly golf events and sponsorships are beginning to appear, showing that the overlap is gaining legitimacy.
That said, acceptance depends on where you play. Country clubs may be slower to adopt cannabis culture, while public courses or private groups may be more open to experimenting. As stigma fades and legalization expands, cannabis could become as normalized in golf as alcohol already is.
Striking Balance
Whether it’s alcohol or cannabis, the lesson for golfers is the same: moderation matters. Too many drinks can derail your swing, while too much cannabis can sap focus. But with careful use, cannabis offers golfers an alternative—one that emphasizes wellness, recovery, and social connection rather than just tradition.
Golf may always carry the legacy of alcohol, but cannabis is teeing up as the modern counterpart—fitting into the sport not by replacing drinks, but by offering a new way to enjoy the game.