Florida is home to some of the best golf resorts in the world, offering championship courses, luxurious accommodations, and top-tier amenities.
Here are the top five golf resorts in Florida: PGA National Resort & Spa, Trump National Doral Miami, Hammock Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort Naples, and Innisbrook Resort.
Keep reading for a detailed look at what makes each of these resorts a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
PGA National Resort & Spa, Palm Beach Gardens
PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens is a premier golf destination known for its rich history in the sport and world-class amenities.
Situated in the heart of Florida's golf paradise, this resort offers everything from championship courses to luxurious accommodations, making it a top choice for both serious golfers and those seeking a high-end resort experience.
Overview of PGA National Resort & Spa
PGA National Resort & Spa has been a cornerstone of Florida's golf scene since its opening.
Known for its prestigious standing in the golfing world, it has hosted numerous professional tournaments and events, including the Ryder Cup, the PGA Championship, and is a regular host of the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic.
Located in Palm Beach Gardens, the resort is easily accessible from major highways and nearby airports, making it a convenient destination for travelers from all over the country and abroad.
The resort is set on a sprawling 800-acre property, offering an immersive experience that combines the best of Florida's natural beauty with sophisticated design and high-end amenities.
Its location in Palm Beach Gardens places it in close proximity to various cultural, shopping, and dining venues, allowing guests to enjoy a well-rounded vacation experience beyond the golf course.
Detailed Description of the Golf Courses
PGA National Resort & Spa is renowned for its five championship golf courses, each offering a unique challenge and experience:
- The Champion Course: The crown jewel of PGA National, the Champion Course is famed for its challenging layout and is home to the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic. Designed by Tom and George Fazio and later redesigned by Jack Nicklaus, this course is best known for “The Bear Trap,” a notoriously difficult three-hole stretch (holes 15, 16, and 17) that tests even the most seasoned golfers with its strategic water hazards and demanding shot accuracy. The course's fast greens and tricky bunkers make it a favorite among professional golfers and amateurs looking to test their skills.
- The Palmer Course: Named after its designer, Arnold Palmer, this course is known for its bold design and scenic views. It features wide fairways, undulating greens, and numerous risk-reward opportunities, making it a fun and engaging course for players of all levels. The layout encourages strategic play, requiring golfers to think carefully about each shot.
- The Fazio Course: Originally designed by Tom and George Fazio and later updated by Tom Fazio II, this course offers a more traditional golf experience with its tree-lined fairways and smaller greens. It is a tribute to the classic style of golf, with a focus on shot-making and precision. The Fazio Course is ideal for golfers who appreciate a challenging yet fair test of their abilities.
- The Squire Course: Named after Gene Sarazen, “The Squire” is the shortest of the five courses but is considered one of the most challenging due to its tight fairways and strategically placed hazards. This course rewards accuracy and strategic play, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a tactical approach to the game.
- The Estate Course: Located five miles west of the main resort, the Estate Course offers a more relaxed golfing experience with its open fairways and large greens. Designed by Karl Litten, this course provides a nice contrast to the more demanding layouts on the main property and is perfect for a leisurely round.
Accommodations and Amenities
PGA National Resort & Spa offers a range of accommodations designed to meet the needs of every guest, from luxury seekers to families.
The resort features several types of rooms, including standard guest rooms, suites, and cottage-style accommodations, each furnished with high-end amenities and designed for comfort and relaxation.
Rooms are elegantly decorated and equipped with modern conveniences such as high-speed internet, flat-screen TVs, and luxurious bedding.
The resort's dining options cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, with several restaurants and bars on-site.
“Ironwood Steak & Seafood” offers a fine dining experience with a focus on premium steaks and fresh seafood. For a more casual atmosphere, “Bar 91” provides a relaxed setting with lighter fare and a variety of beverages, ideal for post-round relaxation.
The resort also offers a range of other culinary options, including poolside dining and room service, ensuring that all guests have access to their preferred dining experience.
For relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort's full-service spa provides an array of treatments, from massages and facials to body wraps and scrubs.
The spa also features a wellness center with fitness facilities, including a state-of-the-art gym, yoga and Pilates studios, and personal training services.
Other amenities at the resort include multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a golf shop stocked with the latest equipment and apparel.
Current Renovations and Future Improvements
PGA National Resort & Spa is currently undergoing significant renovations aimed at enhancing the guest experience and maintaining its status as a top golf destination.
These updates include improvements to the guest rooms, public spaces, and dining facilities, as well as upgrades to the golf courses to ensure they remain in pristine condition and challenging for all levels of play.
While the renovations have caused some temporary disruptions, such as limited availability of certain amenities, the resort has taken measures to minimize the impact on guests.
The management has communicated clearly about which areas are under renovation and has offered alternative options where possible.
Future enhancements promise to elevate the resort's offerings even further, ensuring it continues to attract golf enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.
Trump National Doral Miami
Trump National Doral Miami is a world-renowned golf resort located in the vibrant city of Miami, Florida.
Known for its rich history and exceptional golfing facilities, this iconic resort has been a staple in the golfing community for over 50 years, offering a luxurious experience that attracts both professional golfers and leisure guests from around the globe.
Overview of Trump National Doral Miami
Trump National Doral Miami has a storied history that dates back to its founding in 1962.
Over the decades, it has built a reputation as one of the premier golf destinations in the United States, frequently hosting PGA Tour events and major championships.
The resort is strategically located just minutes from Miami International Airport, making it highly accessible for both domestic and international travelers.
Nestled amidst the energetic city of Miami, the resort offers guests a unique blend of urban excitement and serene golfing landscapes.
The resort's iconic status in the golfing community is largely due to its commitment to excellence in course design and maintenance, as well as its luxurious amenities.
It has been a hub for golf enthusiasts who seek a challenging yet rewarding experience.
The resort's legacy is further cemented by its continuous efforts to enhance its facilities and uphold the highest standards of hospitality and service.
In-Depth Look at the Golf Courses
Trump National Doral Miami boasts four championship golf courses, each designed to offer a unique challenge and cater to different skill levels.
The courses are meticulously maintained to ensure optimal playing conditions year-round.
- The Blue Monster Course: The crown jewel of Trump National Doral Miami is the legendary Blue Monster Course. Known for its long history of hosting PGA Tour events, this course has become synonymous with the resort itself. Originally designed by Dick Wilson, the course underwent a significant redesign by renowned golf architect Gil Hanse. The Blue Monster is famous for its challenging layout, characterized by long fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and numerous water hazards. The 18th hole, in particular, is one of the most difficult finishing holes on the PGA Tour, featuring a daunting water hazard that runs along the entire left side of the fairway.
- The Golden Palm Course: Named after the indigenous palm trees that line its fairways, the Golden Palm Course offers a distinct challenge with its unique design. The course features narrow fairways, undulating greens, and strategically placed bunkers that require precise shot-making and thoughtful course management. Its design emphasizes strategic play, making it a favorite among skilled golfers who enjoy a test of accuracy and finesse.
- The Red Tiger Course: This course is known for its versatility and playability, making it suitable for golfers of all levels. It features a mix of long and short holes, with several doglegs and water hazards that require careful planning and execution. The Red Tiger Course is designed to provide an enjoyable yet challenging experience, balancing risk and reward throughout its layout.
- The Silver Fox Course: The most recent addition to Trump National Doral Miami, the Silver Fox Course is known for its modern design and contemporary features. It incorporates a variety of hole layouts, including elevated greens, water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers that challenge even the most experienced golfers. The course is designed to offer a blend of excitement and difficulty, making it a popular choice for tournaments and casual play alike.
Luxury Accommodations and Guest Experiences
Trump National Doral Miami provides a range of luxurious accommodations designed to cater to the diverse needs of its guests.
The resort offers a selection of guest rooms, suites, and villas, each meticulously decorated with elegant furnishings and equipped with modern amenities such as high-speed internet, flat-screen TVs, and luxurious bedding.
The rooms feature views of the golf courses or the resort's lush gardens, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation.
Dining at Trump National Doral Miami is an exceptional experience, with a variety of options that cater to different tastes and preferences.
The resort's signature restaurant, BLT Prime, offers a fine dining experience featuring premium steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list.
For more casual dining, guests can enjoy a meal at Champions Bar & Grill, which provides a relaxed atmosphere with a menu of classic American favorites.
Other dining options include poolside dining, a coffee shop, and in-room dining, ensuring that all guests have access to a wide range of culinary experiences.
The resort's spa and fitness center are designed to provide guests with a comprehensive wellness experience.
The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies, all aimed at promoting relaxation and rejuvenation.
The fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and offers personal training services, yoga classes, and other fitness programs.
Together, these amenities provide a well-rounded experience that caters to both relaxation and active lifestyles.
Unique Selling Points of Trump National Doral Miami
What sets Trump National Doral Miami apart from other golf resorts is its commitment to providing an unparalleled luxury experience combined with exceptional golf facilities.
The resort's attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the immaculate condition of the golf courses to the elegant design of its accommodations.
Guests frequently praise the resort's customer service, noting the staff's dedication to making every stay memorable and enjoyable.
Another unique feature of the resort is its comprehensive range of amenities, which extends beyond golf to include tennis courts, a pool complex with cabanas and waterslides, and a variety of recreational activities for both adults and children.
This makes Trump National Doral Miami an ideal destination for families, groups, and individuals seeking a diverse range of experiences in addition to world-class golf.
Hammock Beach Resort, Palm Coast
Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Florida, is a luxurious oceanfront resort that combines stunning natural beauty with world-class amenities and golf.
Nestled along Florida's northeast coast, this resort offers a unique blend of coastal charm and top-tier golfing experiences, making it an ideal destination for both avid golfers and those looking to relax by the beach.
Introduction to Hammock Beach Resort
Located in the picturesque Palm Coast, Hammock Beach Resort provides guests with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and easy access to pristine beaches.
The resort's location offers a perfect balance between seclusion and convenience, as it is just a short drive from historic St. Augustine and Daytona Beach.
This prime location allows guests to enjoy a tranquil, private retreat while still having the option to explore nearby attractions and cultural sites.
The resort is known for its unique setting, characterized by its sprawling grounds, lush landscapes, and close proximity to the ocean.
Hammock Beach Resort's design emphasizes harmony with its natural surroundings, featuring a coastal aesthetic that blends seamlessly with the environment.
Guests are greeted with expansive views of the ocean, golden beaches, and beautifully manicured golf courses, all of which contribute to the resort's tranquil and inviting atmosphere.
Course Highlights: Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson Designs
Hammock Beach Resort is home to two championship golf courses designed by legendary golfers Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson, each offering a distinctive playing experience that caters to different styles and skill levels.
- The Ocean Course: Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the Ocean Course is a true masterpiece that combines challenging play with stunning scenery. This course features six holes that run directly along the Atlantic Ocean, providing golfers with spectacular views and a memorable golfing experience. The Ocean Course is known for its challenging layout, with narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens that test precision and strategy. The signature hole, the par-3 17th, is particularly notable for its seaside location and the challenge it presents with the wind coming off the ocean. Golfers playing this course will enjoy both the technical challenge and the breathtaking coastal views.
- The Conservatory Course: In contrast, the Conservatory Course, designed by Tom Watson, offers a different type of challenge. This inland course is set amidst lush landscapes and is characterized by its intricate design elements, including rolling fairways, multiple water features, and strategically placed bunkers. The Conservatory Course is known for its length and its variety of hole layouts, which require players to use every club in their bag. It features one of the longest par-5s in Florida, the 8th hole, which challenges even the most experienced golfers with its length and water hazards. The course is also visually stunning, with meticulously maintained greens and fairways that add to its appeal.
Both courses have been meticulously designed to provide a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual player, the courses at Hammock Beach Resort offer a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class golf in a spectacular coastal setting.
Resort Amenities Beyond Golf
Beyond its exceptional golf courses, Hammock Beach Resort offers a wide range of amenities and activities that cater to all types of guests.
The resort features a variety of accommodations designed to suit different needs, from spacious suites and villas to multi-bedroom condominiums.
Each accommodation option is elegantly furnished and includes modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes.
Many rooms also feature private balconies with stunning views of the ocean or golf courses, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the resort from the comfort of their rooms.
The resort's spa provides a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies.
The spa also features a full-service salon and a fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, yoga, and Pilates studios, providing guests with a comprehensive wellness experience.
For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, Hammock Beach Resort offers a range of recreational activities.
The resort has several swimming pools, including a multi-level water pavilion with a waterslide and lazy river, perfect for families.
Additionally, guests have direct access to the beach, where they can relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, or participate in various water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Dining at Hammock Beach Resort is a highlight, with several on-site restaurants offering a variety of culinary experiences.
“Atlantic Grille” is the resort's signature restaurant, offering fresh seafood and coastal cuisine with panoramic ocean views.
“Delfinos” provides an Italian dining experience with a focus on traditional dishes and fine wines, while “The Sushi Bar” offers a selection of sushi and Japanese specialties.
For more casual dining, “Ocean Bar & Café” serves light fare and cocktails by the pool, and “Loggerheads Lounge” offers a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying drinks and appetizers.
Perfect for Golfers and Non-Golfers Alike
Hammock Beach Resort is an ideal destination for both golfers and non-golfers, offering a diverse range of activities and amenities that cater to various interests.
For golf enthusiasts, the resort's two championship courses provide a challenging and rewarding experience, while the luxurious accommodations and comprehensive amenities ensure a comfortable stay.
Non-golfers will find plenty to enjoy at Hammock Beach Resort as well.
The resort's beautiful beaches, multiple pools, and extensive recreational facilities provide endless opportunities for relaxation and fun.
Guests can indulge in spa treatments, take part in fitness classes, or explore the surrounding area through guided tours and excursions.
Families will also find the resort to be an excellent choice, with a range of activities designed to entertain guests of all ages.
The resort offers a kids' club with supervised activities, a game room, and a children's pool area, making it a family-friendly destination where everyone can find something to enjoy.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, is a premier destination for luxury golf and relaxation on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Known for its sophisticated ambiance and exceptional amenities, this resort provides an exquisite blend of world-class golfing, fine dining, and elegant accommodations, making it a favored choice for discerning travelers and golf enthusiasts.
Overview of The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, has built a reputation for luxury and excellence since its establishment.
Situated in the prestigious community of Naples, Florida, the resort is known for its impeccable service, luxurious accommodations, and top-tier golf facilities.
This property is one of the two Ritz-Carlton resorts in Naples, with its sister beachfront property located just a few miles away.
This prime location offers guests easy access to both world-class golf courses and the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.
The resort’s location is a significant benefit, providing a tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle, yet still close enough to Naples’ vibrant downtown area.
This allows guests to enjoy a peaceful retreat while having the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
The resort is also easily accessible from Southwest Florida International Airport, making it a convenient choice for both domestic and international travelers.
Focus on the Gold and Black Courses
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, features two championship golf courses designed by renowned golfer Greg Norman: the Gold Course and the Black Course.
Both courses reflect Norman’s design philosophy, emphasizing strategy, precision, and the natural beauty of the landscape.
The Gold Course is the more famous of the two, known for hosting the PGA Tour’s QBE Shootout.
This course is designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels with its large, fast greens and strategically placed hazards.
The layout requires thoughtful play and precise shot-making, with several water hazards and bunkers strategically positioned to test accuracy and strategy.
The course’s signature hole, the par-5 18th, features a challenging water hazard that requires a precise approach to avoid the water and reach the green.
The Black Course offers a different kind of challenge, with a layout that emphasizes shot placement and course management.
The course features narrow fairways, smaller greens, and numerous bunkers that require accurate driving and approach shots.
The design of the Black Course makes it a favorite for golfers who enjoy a tactical game, as it rewards careful planning and precise execution.
Both courses are meticulously maintained to ensure top playing conditions year-round, making them a joy to play regardless of the season.
Luxury Beyond the Greens
Beyond its exceptional golf courses, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, offers a wide range of luxury accommodations and premium services that cater to every need.
The resort features elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each designed with comfort and sophistication in mind.
Rooms are spacious and include high-end amenities such as marble bathrooms, plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies with views of the golf courses or the resort’s lush grounds.
Guests at the golf resort also have access to the amenities of its sister beachfront property, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, which is located just a short shuttle ride away.
This beachfront property offers additional luxury amenities, including direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, multiple swimming pools, and a variety of water sports and recreational activities.
This access allows guests to enjoy both the serene golf environment and the lively beachfront atmosphere, providing a well-rounded resort experience.
Dining at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, is a high-end affair, with several restaurants offering a variety of culinary experiences.
Lemonía, the resort’s signature restaurant, serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting, while Bella Vista offers a more casual dining experience with a menu of light bites and cocktails overlooking the golf courses.
The resort also features a full-service spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate.
The spa includes massage therapies, facials, and body treatments, all using premium products and techniques to ensure a luxurious experience.
Target Audience: Who Will Enjoy This Resort?
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, is ideal for a variety of guests, particularly those who appreciate luxury, high-end service, and world-class golf.
The typical guest profile includes affluent travelers, golf enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic getaway, and families looking for a luxurious vacation experience.
The resort’s amenities cater to these diverse needs, offering everything from challenging golf courses to serene spa services and fine dining.
Golf enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the resort’s two championship courses, while those looking for relaxation can take advantage of the resort’s spa services and access to the sister beachfront property.
The resort’s family-friendly amenities, including kids’ programs and activities, also make it a great choice for families seeking a high-end vacation destination.
Innisbrook, A Salamander Golf & Spa Resort, Palm Harbor
Innisbrook, A Salamander Golf & Spa Resort, is a renowned golf destination located in Palm Harbor, Florida.
Known for its beautiful natural setting and extensive amenities, this resort offers a comprehensive experience for golfers and non-golfers alike, with a range of activities, accommodations, and services that cater to every guest's needs.
Introduction to Innisbrook Resort
Innisbrook Resort is situated in Palm Harbor, just a short drive from Tampa on Florida’s west coast.
Spanning over 900 acres of rolling terrain and lush woodlands, the resort offers a serene and secluded environment that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The property is designed to blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings, featuring mature pine trees, sparkling lakes, and carefully manicured landscapes that provide a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing getaway.
The resort’s ambiance is one of tranquility and comfort, with an emphasis on preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Guests can enjoy peaceful strolls along tree-lined paths, take in the scenic views from their balconies, or relax by the pool while being surrounded by nature.
Innisbrook’s commitment to maintaining its natural setting enhances the overall experience, offering a refreshing escape for those seeking a break from their routine.
Exploring the Four Golf Courses
Innisbrook Resort is home to four championship golf courses, each offering a unique challenge and experience that caters to golfers of all skill levels.
The courses are known for their diversity in layout and design, providing a variety of playing conditions and settings that keep golfers engaged and challenged.
- Copperhead Course: The most famous of Innisbrook’s courses, the Copperhead Course is renowned for its challenging layout and has long been a favorite on the PGA Tour, hosting the Valspar Championship each year. Designed by Larry Packard, the course is known for its rolling terrain, tree-lined fairways, and numerous elevation changes, which are uncommon in Florida. The course’s most notable stretch, known as “The Snake Pit,” consists of the final three holes (16, 17, and 18) and is considered one of the toughest closing sequences on the PGA Tour. Golfers face tight fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that require precision and strategy, making Copperhead a true test of skill and nerve.
- Island Course: The Island Course is another gem at Innisbrook, offering a distinct experience with its combination of tight fairways, water hazards, and elevation changes. This course is particularly known for its scenic beauty, with several holes running alongside lakes and wetlands, providing a challenging yet visually stunning round of golf. The layout demands accuracy and thoughtful shot-making, with narrow landing areas and well-protected greens.
- North Course: The North Course, often referred to as “Baby Copperhead,” shares many characteristics with its more famous sibling, including rolling terrain and tree-lined fairways. This course offers a more forgiving layout but still provides plenty of challenges, with well-placed bunkers and doglegs that require careful planning. It is a favorite among those looking for a slightly less demanding round without sacrificing the quality of the golfing experience.
- South Course: The South Course at Innisbrook is known for its links-style design, featuring wide fairways, fewer trees, and large greens. This course provides a different kind of challenge, focusing more on shot placement and course management. The layout encourages aggressive play, with several holes offering risk-reward opportunities that can lead to low scores if navigated successfully. The South Course is a great option for those looking to enjoy a more relaxed round while still facing a variety of golf challenges.
Accommodations and Activities for All Ages
Innisbrook Resort offers a range of accommodations designed to meet the needs of every guest, from solo travelers and couples to families and groups.
The resort features spacious guest rooms, suites, and condos, all equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and kitchenettes or full kitchens.
Many accommodations also include private balconies or patios with views of the golf courses, gardens, or lakes, providing a peaceful setting to relax after a day on the greens.
Beyond golf, Innisbrook provides a wealth of amenities and activities for guests of all ages.
The resort boasts six swimming pools, including the Loch Ness Monster Pool, which features two water slides, a sandy beach area, and a water play area, making it a favorite for families.
The resort also has a full-service spa, offering a range of treatments and services designed to relax and rejuvenate, from massages and facials to body wraps and aromatherapy.
For those interested in staying active, Innisbrook offers 11 tennis courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and miles of nature trails for jogging, walking, or biking.
The resort also features a variety of dining options, from casual fare at Market Salamander Grille to fine dining at Packard’s Steakhouse, ensuring that all guests can find something to suit their tastes.
Golf-Centric Vacation Experience
Innisbrook is particularly well-suited for serious golfers seeking a golf-centric vacation.
The resort’s four championship courses provide a diverse range of challenges and experiences that cater to all levels of play, making it an ideal destination for those looking to improve their game or simply enjoy a variety of high-quality golf.
In addition to its exceptional courses, Innisbrook offers a range of programs and events designed to enhance the golfing experience.
These include golf clinics and lessons with PGA professionals, junior golf programs, and special events such as tournaments and golf outings.
The resort also features a well-equipped golf shop, where guests can purchase the latest equipment, apparel, and accessories, as well as a practice facility with a driving range, putting greens, and a chipping area.
Conclusion
Florida's top golf resorts offer a unique combination of world-class golf courses, luxurious accommodations, and diverse amenities.
Whether you're a seasoned golfer or seeking a relaxing getaway, each resort provides an exceptional experience tailored to your needs.
Choose from these premier destinations to create your perfect Florida golf vacation.
