Naples, FL, is a golfer's dream, offering courses that cater to all skill levels with stunning landscapes and world-class designs.
The top five golf courses near Naples are Old Corkscrew Golf Club, Tiburon Golf Club, TPC Treviso Bay, Arrowhead Golf Club, and Valencia Golf & Country Club—each offering unique challenges and unforgettable experiences.
Keep reading for a detailed look at what makes these courses stand out.
Old Corkscrew Golf Club: A Natural Challenge in Estero
Nestled in Estero, FL, Old Corkscrew Golf Club offers a pure golfing experience away from the distractions of residential developments.
Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this course combines strategic challenges with the beauty of untouched Florida landscapes, making it a must-play for avid golfers.
Course Highlights
Old Corkscrew is a par-72 course stretching 7,393 yards, designed to test even the most seasoned players.
Jack Nicklaus' signature design philosophy shines here, blending risk-and-reward elements with carefully crafted holes that demand precision and strategy.
As a Certified Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary, the course is committed to preserving its natural environment, creating a serene and eco-friendly setting for players.
Each hole is unique, with natural contours, tree-lined fairways, and well-placed hazards.
This isn't a course for those seeking an easy round; it's designed to push your skills, particularly with its narrow fairways and fast, undulating greens.
Unique Features
One of the standout features of Old Corkscrew is its commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Florida.
The course is free from surrounding residential developments, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the lush landscapes.
Tall pines, wetlands, and native wildlife create a tranquil backdrop that enhances the overall experience.
The layout emphasizes strategy, with hazards that are not always visible from the tee, requiring thoughtful club selection and precise shot execution.
From bunkers guarding the greens to strategically placed water hazards, every detail is meant to challenge your decision-making.
What to Expect When Playing
To successfully navigate Old Corkscrew, you'll need a solid game plan.
The narrow fairways demand accuracy off the tee, so focus on consistent drives rather than power.
Approach shots require careful consideration of green slopes and pin placements, as the fast greens can quickly punish over-aggressive plays.
The best time to play is early in the morning, when the course is quieter, and conditions are cooler.
This is especially beneficial during Florida's hotter months.
Booking a tee time in advance is highly recommended, as this course is popular with both locals and visitors.
For a rewarding round, come prepared with extra balls (the natural setting makes it easy to lose them in the trees or wetlands) and a patient mindset.
Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply enjoying the challenge, Old Corkscrew Golf Club promises a memorable experience.
Tiburon Golf Club: Dual Championship-Caliber Courses
Located in the heart of Naples, Tiburon Golf Club offers an unparalleled golfing experience with its two 18-hole courses, the Gold and the Black.
Both designed by Greg Norman, these courses are celebrated for their meticulous design and challenging layouts, making Tiburon a favorite destination for both professionals and amateurs alike.
Course Overview
The Gold and Black courses at Tiburon are designed with distinct features that set them apart.
The Gold Course combines playability with sophistication, featuring generous fairways and pristine greens that reward precision.
Meanwhile, the Black Course challenges players with tighter fairways, coquina waste areas, and Greg Norman’s signature stacked sod-wall bunkers.
These bunkers not only demand accuracy but also add a striking visual element to the landscape.
The attention to detail in course maintenance is exceptional, with immaculate greens and fairways ensuring a high-quality experience year-round.
Both courses are known for their integration with the natural environment, providing a scenic and serene setting that complements the demanding play.
Tournament Spotlight
The Gold Course has earned a place in professional golf history as the host of the LPGA CME Group Tour Championship.
This annual event draws top players from around the world and highlights the course’s ability to challenge even the best in the sport.
Its reputation as a championship venue attracts golfers looking to test their skills on the same fairways as the pros.
For those inspired by tournament play, the Gold Course offers the chance to experience the same conditions faced by LPGA athletes.
The course setup during this time showcases its capacity for hosting elite-level competition while remaining accessible for amateur play.
Player Insights
Both courses cater to a wide range of playing styles, making Tiburon an excellent choice whether you’re a strategic player or someone who prefers a more aggressive approach.
The Gold Course, with its forgiving fairways, suits players who value precision and a steady short game.
Conversely, the Black Course appeals to those who enjoy a tougher challenge, with its more complex hazards and tighter approach shots.
When deciding between the two, consider your skill level and playing preferences.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed round with beautiful scenery and a touch of championship prestige, the Gold Course is a great option.
For a more technical and demanding experience, the Black Course will test every aspect of your game.
Regardless of your choice, both courses at Tiburon promise a memorable round filled with unique challenges and stunning vistas.
It’s advisable to book your tee time early, as Tiburon’s reputation and accessibility draw golfers from all over the world.
TPC Treviso Bay: Precision Play in a Semi-Private Setting
TPC Treviso Bay, located in Naples, FL, is a course that balances challenging design with aesthetic appeal, making it a premier destination for golfers seeking both test and beauty.
Crafted by Arthur Hills in collaboration with Hal Sutton, it offers a professional-level experience while providing seasonal accessibility for the public.
Design Features
The course spans over 7,300 yards, featuring contoured fairways that demand accuracy and water hazards strategically placed to test your precision.
Designed with an emphasis on natural beauty, Treviso Bay integrates Florida’s lush landscapes with a modern layout that appeals to players of all levels.
Arthur Hills’ design philosophy emphasizes strategic shot-making, while Hal Sutton’s influence adds elements that reward thoughtful play and penalize missteps.
Greens are expansive but feature subtle breaks, challenging players to focus on their putting game.
Fairways are flanked by bunkers and water, requiring calculated risk-taking to score well.
Whether you’re aiming for distance or finesse, the course layout will push your skills to new heights.
Seasonal Access
TPC Treviso Bay operates as a semi-private facility, with public access typically available during the summer months.
This seasonal approach provides an excellent opportunity for non-members to enjoy its world-class design without committing to a full membership.
For those considering a more exclusive experience, memberships offer year-round access, along with additional perks such as advanced tee time reservations and member-only events.
Summer visitors should plan ahead, as public availability can fill quickly during peak times.
Booking your round early ensures you’ll have the chance to play this sought-after course.
Course Tips
Navigating Treviso Bay requires a strategic mindset.
Water hazards are prevalent throughout the course, so precise shot placement is key.
When approaching contoured fairways, aim for the most forgiving landing areas, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the layout.
For first-time visitors, it’s helpful to study the course map beforehand or consider hiring a caddie.
The greens can be deceptive, so take your time to read the slopes carefully before putting.
Bringing extra balls is advisable, as the water hazards can be unforgiving to errant shots.
The best approach to Treviso Bay is to focus on consistency rather than aggressive play.
A conservative strategy can often lead to better scores, particularly for those encountering the course for the first time.
Whether you’re a member or visiting during public access periods, TPC Treviso Bay delivers an experience that combines challenge, beauty, and the satisfaction of a well-earned round.
Arrowhead Golf Club: Beauty Meets Playability
Arrowhead Golf Club in Naples, FL, offers a harmonious blend of challenge and accessibility, making it a top choice for golfers of all levels.
With its well-maintained course, scenic design, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for a fun yet rewarding round of golf.
Course Profile
Opened in 1997, Arrowhead Golf Club is a par-72 course spanning 6,927 yards.
Its design incorporates large, contoured greens that provide ample opportunities for creative play while testing putting precision.
The course is dotted with 16 picturesque lakes, which not only add to the visual appeal but also bring a strategic element to many of the holes.
The fairways are carefully sculpted, offering generous landing zones that cater to a wide range of skill levels.
Players will appreciate the balance of open spaces and well-placed hazards, making it a course that rewards both beginners and experienced golfers alike.
Why It's Special
What sets Arrowhead apart is its ability to offer a challenge without feeling intimidating.
The layout is forgiving enough for newer players to enjoy, yet it includes thoughtful elements that keep even seasoned golfers engaged.
The 16 lakes, for instance, are strategically positioned to encourage careful shot planning without overwhelming the experience.
The course’s scenic beauty enhances the overall enjoyment.
The combination of water features, lush greenery, and Florida’s natural landscapes creates a serene and visually pleasing backdrop.
This attention to aesthetics, coupled with excellent maintenance, ensures a high-quality round every time.
Playing Experience
To make the most of your round at Arrowhead, it’s important to account for the course’s water features.
While the fairways are generous, errant shots can easily find their way into one of the lakes, so accuracy off the tee is key.
Use clubs that prioritize control over distance when water hazards come into play.
The greens are large and contoured, meaning you’ll need to carefully assess your approach shots.
Pay close attention to pin placements and take time to read the slopes before putting, as the green speed can vary depending on weather and maintenance schedules.
For players looking to improve their game, Arrowhead’s layout provides plenty of opportunities to practice strategic play.
It’s a course that encourages thoughtful decision-making while still allowing for an enjoyable, stress-free round.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, Arrowhead Golf Club delivers a golfing experience that balances playability, challenge, and natural beauty.
Valencia Golf & Country Club: Redesigned for Modern Golfers
Valencia Golf & Country Club in Naples, FL, combines classic design with modern upgrades to provide a welcoming and versatile golfing experience.
Following a significant renovation in 2018, this course offers something for every golfer, from beginners to seasoned players.
Renovation Insights
Originally designed by Gordon Lewis, Valencia underwent a comprehensive redesign in 2018 to enhance playability and improve its overall appeal.
The course features a par-72 layout with five sets of tees, accommodating a wide range of skill levels.
Stretching up to 7,145 yards from the back tees, it offers a challenge for advanced players, while the forward tees provide a friendlier experience for novices and families.
The renovation included upgrades to the greens, bunkers, and fairways, ensuring top-notch conditions year-round.
These updates have made Valencia a standout choice for golfers seeking a well-maintained and modernized course.
Player Appeal
Valencia’s generous fairways and high-quality greens make it both accessible and enjoyable for all players.
The wide landing zones are forgiving enough for casual golfers, while the strategic placement of bunkers and hazards keeps things interesting for more competitive rounds.
The course’s family-friendly design makes it an excellent option for groups, whether you’re planning a casual outing or introducing someone to the game.
Solo golfers will also appreciate the pace of play and the opportunity to hone their skills on the carefully crafted greens.
Course Recommendations
Choosing the right set of tees is essential to maximizing your enjoyment at Valencia.
Beginners and those looking for a more relaxed game should opt for the forward tees, which offer shorter distances and fewer hazards.
Intermediate and advanced players can take on the challenge of the back tees, where precise shot placement becomes critical.
Managing the greens at Valencia is key to a successful round.
The greens are known for their speed, so approach shots should aim to leave uphill putts whenever possible.
Taking the time to assess the contours and break of each green will greatly improve your scoring opportunities.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back round or a competitive test, Valencia Golf & Country Club provides an enjoyable and adaptable experience.
Its thoughtful design and top-tier maintenance make it a must-visit destination for golfers in Naples.
Conclusion
Naples, FL, offers a variety of exceptional golf courses, each with unique features to suit different playing styles and skill levels.
From the challenging layouts of Old Corkscrew and TPC Treviso Bay to the versatile designs of Valencia and Tiburon, there’s a course for everyone.
Plan your visit, choose your favorite, and enjoy a memorable round on some of Florida’s finest fairways.
