Top 5 Destinations to Play Golf in Florida

Florida, often referred to as the Sunshine State, stands as a prime destination for golf in the United States. With its warm weather and picturesque scenery, it offers a perfect haven for golfers of all levels. Florida is renowned for its stunning and challenging golf courses, attracting golf enthusiasts from far and wide. From luxury resorts to meticulously designed fairways, it has become a top choice for golf lovers. Let’s explore the top 5 places in Florida where you can tee off and enjoy an exceptional game.

World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine Resort, St. Augustine

The World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine Resort is a standout golf destination in Florida, deserving its place among the top 5. Boasting a prestigious location in the historic city of St. Augustine, this resort stands out with its proximity to the revered World Golf Hall of Fame, a must-visit attraction and unique experience for any golf enthusiast. The resort offers two championship courses: the King & Bear, a collaboration between Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, and the Slammer & Squire, designed by Bobby Weed and Sam Snead. These courses provide a blend of challenging layouts and scenic beauty, ensuring an enjoyable golfing experience. The resort’s dedication to preserving golf history and offering exceptional courses makes it an ideal choice for players of all skill levels.

Omni Amelia Island Resort, Fernandina Beach

Omni Amelia Island Resort is a standout choice to play golf in Florida, offering a golfing experience like no other. The resort boasts two incredible championship golf courses, the Oak Marsh Golf Course designed by Pete Dye, and the exclusive members-only Long Point Golf Course crafted by Tom Fazio. The Oak Marsh course presents challenges suitable for players of all levels, from novices to professionals. Meanwhile, the Long Point course offers a captivating layout with 18 holes set amidst lush marshes and dramatic sand dunes, promising an exceptional golfing adventure. Omni Amelia Island Golf Resort goes the extra mile by providing private junior lessons for kids aged 6-15, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere and enhancing young golfers’ skills and knowledge. Situated on picturesque Amelia Island, renowned for its beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, the resort delivers a tranquil and luxurious golfing experience in Florida’s northeastern region.

PGA National Resort and Spa, Palm Beach Gardens

For those seeking an unparalleled golfing experience, the PGA National Resort and Spa in Palm Beach Gardens Florida is the place to be. This premier golf destination is home to the famous Champion Course, which hosts the Honda Classic – a PGA TOUR event. Redesigned by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, the Champion Course is celebrated for the infamous “Bear Trap,” a trio of challenging holes that push players’ skills and nerves to the limit. The resort further excels with five additional outstanding courses: The Estate, The Fazio, The Palmer, The Match, and The Staple courses, providing a variety of golfing experiences to cater to every golfer’s preferences and skill levels.

Beyond golf, the resort offers a state-of-the-art Sports & Racquet Club with an impressive 19 tennis courts, ideal for tennis enthusiasts looking to perfect their game. Additionally, the resort’s 40,000-square-foot spa offers the exclusive Waters of the World outdoor mineral pools, providing guests with a serene and rejuvenating escape after a day on the course.

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, stands as an exceptional golf resort to play golf in Florida. The resort’s 18-hole golf course, skillfully designed by two-time British Open champion Greg Norman, offers golfers a captivating experience amidst the natural beauty of Central Florida, featuring serene ponds, lush wetlands, and majestic live oaks. The resort’s upscale and full-service clubhouse offers a pro shop and the inviting Fairways Pub restaurant and bar, ensuring golfers have everything they need to relax and unwind after a rewarding round on the course.

One of the resort’s most distinctive features is the Caddie Concierge Program, where every group of golfers is paired with a knowledgeable professional attendant, providing expert assistance with course navigation, detailed hole descriptions, target lines, yardage stats, golf club cleaning, course strategy tips, and even tending to the flagsticks. This personalized and attentive service enhances the golfing experience, making every round truly memorable and enjoyable.

TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra

TPC Sawgrass, nestled in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, earns its well-deserved spot among the top 5 destinations to play golf in the state. Situated between the vibrant cities of Jacksonville and St. Augustine, the area offers the perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city sophistication, creating an inviting golfing paradise. The resort is renowned for its two championship courses, both masterfully designed by the legendary Pete Dye.

The crown jewel of TPC Sawgrass is The Players Stadium Course, famously hosting The Players Championship and featuring the iconic 17th island hole. Known for its challenging layout and strategic design, this course provides an unforgettable golfing experience for players of all levels. Additionally, the Dye’s Valley Course, located adjacent to the Players Stadium Course, has hosted several professional tournaments, offering its own unique challenges and scenic beauty.