Planning on spending some time in the Sunshine State soon? Well, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of the state’s great weather and get in a few rounds during your stay. Whether you are taking the kids to Disney World or taking your spouse on vacation, there are plenty of good courses throughout the state of Florida. Here at Where’s My Caddie we’ve made a list of the resort courses that we think make up the top five list of the best in the state. Keep in mind that there are also some great courses that are not part of a resort, but it sure is fun to stay right on property when you can.
1. World Golf Village
Location: 1 King & Bear Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32092
One of the best things about this resort is that it is also home to the World Golf Hall of Fame, which is the perfect place to wait out one of those brief summer rain showers that Florida is known for. Created by the PGA Tour, World Golf Village offers two championship golf courses and a massive practice facility, which includes a driving range, putting green, and chipping green. A fully stocked pro shop and full-service Champions Grill can be found inside the clubhouse. These courses will challenge the skilled golfer while providing player-friendly conditions for the novice.
Designed by pro golfers by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, the King & Bear course is among the favorites of golfers who visit the state. Also loved by golfers is the Slammer & Squire course, which was designed by Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen. Several televised events have taken place at these two courses, including Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf, a Champions Tour event, and Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf.
The The PGA TOUR Golf Academy is probably the best place in the United States to go improve your golf game. Staffed by experienced PGA and LPGA professionals, players of all ages can take part in clinics, schools, private lessons, development programs and camps.
2. LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort
Location: 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples, FL
The LaPlaya Golf Course is a favorite of many golfers. The 6,907-yard Naples golf course has 14 holes. Eight of the front nine and six of the back nine are surrounded by water. This course gives the golf enthusiast an opportunity to utilize every club in the bag. It is configured and built to provide a firm, solid surface, much like those on true links courses. The course boasts a number of unforgettable holes and. the chance to make every type of shot imaginable. The challenging golf course and the beautiful scenery will give you the ideal backdrop to practice your game. Tee off on lush greens that encircle more than a dozen 14 lakes and waterways. Naples Golf Resort offers a complete golf package and also offers golf club membership to its private club. The LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort is the ideal spot for a golf retreat.
3. Ritz-Carlton on Orlando Grande Lakes
Location: 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL 32837
This luxurious resort rests on more than 500 acres. Disney World and Universal Orlando are just a few miles away, which is perfect if you are traveling to Florida with kids. Surround yourself amongst 500 acres and let nature be the inspiration for golf as well as other outdoor adventures. Play 18 holes on the golf course created by Greg Norman. This championship golf course features the Golf Caddie-Concierge Program. Guests also have access to the facilities at the resort. Enjoy on-site eco-tours, kayaking, fishing, tennis courts, as well as a championship golf course.
4. The PGA National Resort and Spa
Location: 400 Avenue of Champions, Palm Beach Gardens FL
You can’t beat a golf course resort that is the home of the PGA, right? The PGA National Resort and Spa is a golf oriented, family friendly facility. It is equipped with five stunning golf courses, including:
- The Palmer Course
- The Estate
- The Squire
- The Champion
- The Blue Monster
As you might expect, a lot of great tournaments have been played here. In fact, in 2007 the Champion course became the home of the The Honda Classic. Other notable moments in history at this course include the 1987 PGA Championship, the 1983 Ryder Cup, and from 1982 to 2000 the Senior PGA Championship. Amenities include cleaning of clubs and balls, golf course information and help with choosing an appropriate club.
5. Doral Golf Resort and Spa
Location: 4400 Nw 87th Ave, Miami, FL
The Doral Golf Resort and Spa is one of the reasons South Florida is synonymous with golf. The Doral Golf Resort and Spa, home of the World Golf Championship is one of the country’s most spectacular golf resorts, featuring four brand new championship courses. This golf resort near Fort Lauderdale is home to four unique courses, including one of golf’s most famous – the new Blue Monster Course. The course, more than 7,000 yards, features distinct and exciting golf experiences, including an LED or lit practice facility and the Jim McLean Golf Schools. Just about every famous golfer has experienced a victory on this world-class course and The Doral Golf Resort and Spa is still home to the Cadillac Championship. The Doral Golf Resort and Spa is a destination that redefines the ambiance of golf resorts.
Final Thoughts on Florida Golf Resorts
Florida may be known for its beaches and theme parks, but it is also a hub of golfing. Just picture it– being in the bright sunlight, enjoying a drink, putting through some courses.
A great thing about these golf spots is that they are good for so much more. All of these resorts encompass everything Florida offers- from the beaches to the meals and restaurant experiences, to the limitless water activities and sports.
You can bring the whole family out here to enjoy whichever resort you choose, while also having fun golfing. These are full package deals where you go with the intention of appreciating one thing and end up having a 5-course vacation.
Gone are the days where you have to sell out and go alone to experience golfing. With a Florida Golf Resort, you are free to pair family time with golf.
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