Must-Play Golf Courses, Clubs, and Resorts in Florida

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Every state in the US is famous for something: Arizona for The Grand Canyon, New York for Broadway, and Alaska for Northern Lights.

Florida is no different. In fact, Florida is famous for a couple of obvious things like the beaches, sunny weather, and theme parks. But there are many more amazing things The Sunshine State is known for than you realize, including world-class golf courses and resorts, most of which are LGBTQ-friendly.

Top Golf Courses in Florida

Boasting over 1,100 golf courses and the World Golf Hall of Fame in St. Augustine, it’s no wonder that a trip to a golf destination in Florida should be a priority on the list for an ideal golf vacation. With that in mind, we rounded up the five must-play golf courses in Florida for novice and experienced golfers alike.

Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa

Situated next to the world-class TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach is The Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, a stay and play resort offering access to world-class amenities and privileges. Essential amenities include golf, swimming pools, a fitness center, exclusive beach access, and a full-service spa. The TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course offers golf lessons and a program for juniors too.

Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge

Planning a trip to Orlando? Add Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge to your itinerary. It is home to three well-maintained Florida golf courses: The Champion, Challenger, and Charger, all in all featuring 27 holes, strategic natural hazards, and well-manicured greens to test the ability of both amateur and pro golfers.

Innisbrook Golf Resort

There are so many things to love about Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbour. Let’s start with the ritzy lodging and amenities—The Salamander Spa, beach, swimming pools, tennis courts, bike rentals, vacation home rentals, and other amenities that kids will enjoy exploring. This resort is home to four Larry Packard-designed courses, including the acclaimed Copperhead Course, home of the PGA Tour’s annual Valspar Championship.

Lost Key Golf Club

If you’re looking for a scenic golf course offering gorgeous natural backdrops and landscapes, look further—Lost Key Golf Club should be your destination. This 18-hole public golf course in Pensacola sits on a narrow, barrier island, exuding an exotic island vibe. In addition, this is the first golf course in Florida to be certified as an Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary, ensuring to protect natural resources within its perimeter while offering a world-class golf experience to non-members and resort guests.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club

Around 10 miles from the airport in Orlando lies The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club. Its luxurious suites and guest rooms, spa, salon, pools, a wide range of restaurants, and children’s activities make it a fantastic family reunion destination. Golfers can revel in the greatness of the Greg Norman-designed course and the natural wonders of the Central Florida landscape, including live oaks, wetlands, and ponds.

Reunion Resort & Golf Club

Another ideal family-friendly destination is the Reunion Resort & Golf Club, situated just a few miles from Walt Disney World and the theme parks in Orlando. From championship golf courses to the Water Park, magnificent villas in the Grande Tower, and luxurious restaurants, this resort & golf club has got everything for all generations to explore. PGA legends Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Watson designed the three golf courses, making these destinations a must-play for experienced golfers.

Bottom Line

The state of Florida is teeming with marvelous golf courses. Make sure to play in any of the destinations mentioned in this article to have an unforgettable world-class golf experience! For additional info on where to golf, check out our regional Golfing in Florida guide.

Author Bio

Jordan Fuller is a passionate traveler, golf coach, and writer from Nebraska. He enjoys discovering golf courses around the country, coaching golfers, and providing free professional golf advice and equipment reviews on his website, Golf Influence.