Texas summer golf can be unforgettable—but also unforgiving. At Legends Golf Course in Kingsland, just west of Austin, staying cool and safe on the course is as critical as a solid short game. With temps climbing past 100°F and humidity levels that don’t quit, preparation is your best friend.
Here’s how to keep your game (and your body) sharp from tee to green.
Hydrate Before You Even Arrive
Hydration isn’t just something you start on the course—it starts the night before. Dehydration can sneak up on you quickly in Central Texas, and once it sets in, it's hard to recover mid-round. Drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of your round.
At Legends, the pro shop offers free cold water cups—grab one every time you pass it (after holes 6, 9, and 12). If you’re staying in our cabins or villas, hit up the laundry hut for free ice and fill up your cooler before you head to the first tee.
Dress Smart and Light
Avoid dark clothing that absorbs heat. Opt for lightweight, breathable performance fabrics in light colors. A wide-brimmed hat or performance golf cap with a sweatband goes a long way to keeping you cool and shaded. We have caps and towels in the pro shop for purchase, too!
Bonus Tip: Apply sunscreen before your round and reapply at the turn. The Hill Country sun does not mess around.
Bring Cooling Gear
When it’s 95°F and you’re just making the turn, you’ll wish you brought something more than an extra glove.
Top gear for staying cool:
- Cooling neck towels you can dip in water
- Neck fans or small handheld fans
- Cart umbrellas for extra shade
Keep Your Swing Loose, Not Lazy
Your swing should stay relaxed, but not sloppy. Heat makes it easy to lose tempo. Instead of gripping tighter or swinging harder, loosen your grip slightly and let your body stay fluid. Fatigue shows up in form, so listen to your swing—if it’s falling apart, it’s time to cool off and reset.
Sip, Don’t Slam, Alcohol
We know the appeal of a cold beer on the course—especially on vacation. But excessive alcohol in the heat can lead to fast dehydration, dizziness, or worse. Play smart: alternate every adult beverage with a bottle of water, or just save the alcohol for the 19th hole.
Prep Your Cooler Like a Pro
If you’re staying at the Legends Villas or Cabins, take full advantage of the free guest ice at the laundry hut. Fill up your cart cooler with:
- Electrolyte drinks (Gatorade, Liquid IV, etc.)
- Water bottles (freeze some for later)
- Cooling towels
- Light snacks (fruit, protein bars)
Avoid sugary sodas or heavy meals on the course. You’ll feel sluggish and drained.
Schedule Morning or Twilight Rounds
Midday rounds in July and August? Not ideal. Aim to book tee times early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Not only will it be cooler, but the Hill Country sunrises and sunsets at Legends are second to none.
Related Post: The Perfect Texas Hill Country Golf Getaway Weekend Itinerary
Don’t Wing It—Plan Your Round
When the heat’s on, decision fatigue hits fast. Have a plan:
- Club up or down based on wind and elevation.
- Know which holes to attack and which to play safe (check our hole-by-hole strategy guide)
- Use your rangefinder early and often (a huge time—and energy—saver).
Want to up your strategy game? Check out our guide:
Perfecting Your Short Game: Tips for Mastering Chip Shots Around the Green
Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
This isn’t just about golf—this is about safety.
Watch for:
- Dizziness
- Nausea or headaches
- Muscle cramps
- Lack of sweating (despite heat)
If you feel even a hint of these symptoms, stop playing immediately, get in the shade, and rehydrate. Don't try to finish fast. Let a group or two play through and take your time.
Golf is a game of stamina—but there's no shame in playing 9 instead of 18. At Legends, you can stop by the pro shop after 6, 9, or 12 and cool off or call it a day. And if you're staying on site with us, you can always hit the pool, grab a cold drink from your kitchen, or unwind on your villa’s patio with Hill Country views.
Practice With Purpose
In summer, long range sessions can drain you. Keep practice sessions short and targeted:
- Work on putting in the early morning or shaded practice areas
- Use alignment sticks and pre-shot routines for quick reps
- Practice lag putting and short chips to avoid time in the heat
Make It a Full Getaway, Not Just a Round
The best way to enjoy golf in the Texas summer is to stretch it out. Don’t just come for a round—make it a relaxing stay-and-play experience at Legends. That way, if its too hot for 18 holes in a single day, you can still get plenty of golf in by spreading it out.
Our villas and cabins are air-conditioned, fully furnished, and include:
- Private porches with sunset views
- Walking distance to the pool, pond, and course
- Full kitchens and plenty of space for families or golf groups
More on that here:
The Perks of Staying at a Golf Resort: Why It’s the Ultimate Getaway
Summer golf in Central Texas doesn’t have to be a grind. With a few smart adjustments—and some perks from the team at Legends Golf Course—you can beat the heat and enjoy the game all season long. Stay hydrated. Stay cool. Swing smart. We’ll see you out there!