Tampa, FL, is home to some of the best public golf courses, offering a range of options for all skill levels and budgets.
The top five courses are Rocky Point Golf Course, Fox Hollow Golf Club, TPC Tampa Bay, Westchase Golf Club, and Cove Cay Golf Club—each providing unique challenges and scenic views.
Keep reading for a more detailed explanation of what makes these courses stand out.
Rocky Point Golf Course
Rocky Point Golf Course, located near Tampa International Airport, is one of Tampa's oldest and most beloved public golf courses.
With a rich history dating back to 1911, this course offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern golfing challenges, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
History and Significance
Rocky Point Golf Course holds a special place in Tampa's golfing history as one of the city's earliest public courses.
Established in 1911, it has been a staple of the local golfing community for over a century.
As a part of the Florida Historic Golf Trail, the course not only provides a quality golfing experience but also serves as a living museum, preserving the rich heritage of golf in Florida.
This trail includes courses that have been integral to the state's golfing history, and Rocky Point’s inclusion highlights its importance and historical value.
Course Layout and Design
The layout of Rocky Point Golf Course offers a diverse and engaging experience for golfers of all levels.
The course features a mix of straightforward and more challenging holes, catering to both beginners and seasoned players.
One of the defining characteristics of Rocky Point is its extensive use of water hazards.
Nearly every hole incorporates some form of water feature, whether it be a pond, a lake, or a canal, adding a layer of strategy and challenge to the game.
Golfers need to carefully plan their shots to avoid these hazards, which are positioned to test both accuracy and nerve.
The variety in hole design keeps the game interesting and ensures that players must utilize a full range of skills to score well.
Playing Experience
Playing at Rocky Point Golf Course is a unique experience characterized by its blend of historical charm and golfing challenge.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it an excellent choice for players who enjoy a leisurely round of golf.
The course is well-maintained, with fairways and greens kept in good condition to provide a fair playing surface throughout the year.
Affordability is another key feature of Rocky Point.
It offers one of the most cost-effective golfing experiences in the Tampa area, with reasonable green fees that make it accessible to a wide range of players.
This accessibility extends to players of all skill levels, as the course provides a balanced challenge that is neither too intimidating for beginners nor too easy for experienced golfers.
Facilities and Amenities
Rocky Point Golf Course is equipped with a range of facilities and amenities to enhance the golfing experience.
The clubhouse serves as a central hub, offering a comfortable place to relax before or after a round.
It features a pro shop stocked with golf equipment, apparel, and accessories, as well as a snack bar where players can grab a quick bite or refreshment.
For those looking to hone their skills, the course provides practice areas, including a driving range and putting green.
These facilities are perfect for warming up before a game or working on specific aspects of your technique.
Additionally, Rocky Point offers golf lessons and clinics, catering to both newcomers looking to learn the basics and seasoned players aiming to refine their skills.
Who Should Play Here?
Rocky Point Golf Course is ideal for budget-conscious golfers and those interested in playing on a course steeped in history.
Its affordable rates make it accessible for frequent play without breaking the bank, which is particularly appealing for local golfers and visitors seeking a cost-effective option.
Moreover, the course's historical significance as part of the Florida Historic Golf Trail makes it a must-play for those interested in the heritage of the sport.
Whether you're a beginner looking for a friendly course to start your golfing journey or an experienced player interested in a relaxed yet engaging round, Rocky Point offers a well-rounded golfing experience that combines tradition, challenge, and value.
Fox Hollow Golf Club
Fox Hollow Golf Club, located in Trinity, FL, just outside of Tampa, is a premier public golf course known for its challenging design and picturesque setting.
Crafted by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course offers a unique blend of strategic play and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for golfers of all skill levels.
Course Design by Robert Trent Jones Sr.
Fox Hollow Golf Club was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., one of the most influential golf course architects in history.
Known for his philosophy that “every hole should be a hard par and an easy bogey,” Jones has left his mark on over 500 courses worldwide.
His designs are renowned for their strategic layout, demanding both precision and thoughtful play from golfers.
At Fox Hollow, his expertise is evident in the course's balanced blend of challenge and playability.
Jones's design approach focuses on using the natural landscape to shape the course, ensuring that each hole fits seamlessly into its surroundings while providing a fair yet demanding test of golf.
Course Features
Fox Hollow Golf Club is characterized by its five sets of tees, which cater to players of all abilities, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
This flexibility allows golfers to tailor their experience according to their skill level and preferences, making the course accessible while still offering a robust challenge.
The course features a varied landscape that includes rolling fairways, undulating greens, and strategically placed hazards.
Water hazards are a prominent feature, coming into play on several holes and adding a layer of difficulty that requires precise shot-making.
Additionally, the white sand bunkers are both visually striking and strategically placed, often guarding the greens or framing the fairways, demanding accuracy and skillful navigation.
The scenic elements of Fox Hollow are another highlight, with lush vegetation and mature trees lining the fairways and greens.
The natural beauty of the surroundings enhances the overall golfing experience, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop that complements the course's design.
Each hole offers a unique vista, making a round at Fox Hollow as visually enjoyable as it is challenging.
Golfing Experience
The golfing experience at Fox Hollow Golf Club is defined by a balance of challenge and beauty.
The course layout requires thoughtful play and strategic decision-making, with each hole presenting its own set of challenges that test a golfer’s full range of skills.
The water hazards and bunkers are strategically placed to encourage careful planning and precise execution, while the undulating greens require a deft touch with the putter.
Despite the challenges, Fox Hollow is suitable for all skill levels, thanks to its multiple tee options.
Beginners can choose shorter tees that reduce the overall length of the course, making it more manageable, while experienced golfers can take on the back tees, which offer a more rigorous test of skill.
This versatility makes Fox Hollow a popular choice for a wide range of golfers, from novices to veterans looking to hone their game.
Location and Accessibility
Situated in Trinity, FL, Fox Hollow Golf Club is conveniently located just a short drive from Tampa, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
The course's proximity to major highways and Tampa International Airport ensures that it is a convenient destination for those looking to enjoy a day of golf without venturing too far from the city.
The club's location also provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Tampa, offering a serene and relaxing environment where golfers can enjoy the game in a beautiful natural setting.
Who Should Play Here?
Fox Hollow Golf Club is ideal for players seeking a scenic, versatile, and well-maintained course.
It is especially recommended for those who appreciate a challenging yet fair test of golf, as well as those who value a course designed by one of the most respected architects in the sport's history.
The combination of strategic layout, varied landscape, and beautiful surroundings makes Fox Hollow a standout choice for golfers looking to enjoy a memorable round in the Tampa area.
Whether you're a beginner looking to develop your skills or an experienced golfer seeking a new challenge, Fox Hollow offers a rewarding golfing experience that caters to all.
TPC Tampa Bay
TPC Tampa Bay is one of the premier public golf courses in the Tampa area, known for its challenging design and prestigious reputation.
As a former host of PGA Tour Champions events, this course offers a world-class golfing experience that appeals to both amateurs and professionals alike.
Prestige and Recognition
TPC Tampa Bay has earned a reputation for excellence, partly due to its history of hosting PGA Tour Champions events.
This level of recognition places it among the top courses in Florida, attracting golfers who seek to play on the same grounds as some of the sport’s greatest players.
The course was designed by renowned architect Bobby Weed, with input from golf legend Chi Chi Rodriguez.
Their collaboration resulted in a layout that combines strategic design elements with natural beauty, creating a course that is both visually stunning and technically challenging.
The design philosophy behind TPC Tampa Bay focuses on providing a fair but rigorous test of golf, with each hole carefully crafted to reward skill and precision.
Course Layout and Challenges
The layout of TPC Tampa Bay is one of its most defining features, offering a challenging yet fair course that weaves through the natural landscape of wetlands and cypress groves.
The course spans a variety of terrains, with each hole presenting unique challenges that require thoughtful strategy and precise shot-making.
Wetlands play a significant role in the course's design, with several holes requiring shots over or around water, adding both beauty and difficulty to the game.
The presence of cypress groves further enhances the aesthetic appeal of the course while also providing natural obstacles that demand careful navigation.
One of the standout holes at TPC Tampa Bay is the par-3 15th, known for its intimidating water hazard that runs along the right side, requiring an accurate tee shot to avoid trouble.
Another notable hole is the par-4 16th, a dogleg right with water on both sides of the fairway, challenging golfers to make a well-placed drive and precise approach.
These holes, among others, exemplify the course’s ability to test a golfer's entire skill set, from driving accuracy to short game finesse.
Experience for Different Skill Levels
TPC Tampa Bay is designed to accommodate golfers of all skill levels, making it a versatile course that can be enjoyed by both amateurs and professionals.
The course offers multiple tee options, allowing players to choose a distance that matches their ability, ensuring a challenging yet enjoyable round for everyone.
The strategic placement of hazards, combined with the variety of hole designs, creates an experience that is both demanding and rewarding, encouraging players to think creatively and adapt their strategy throughout the round.
For serious golfers, TPC Tampa Bay provides a unique opportunity to play on a course that has hosted professional tournaments, offering insight into the challenges faced by the pros.
The quality of the course conditions, combined with the thoughtful design, makes it a must-play for those looking to test their skills on a prestigious and challenging layout.
Whether you are a beginner looking to experience a top-tier course or an experienced player seeking a rigorous test, TPC Tampa Bay offers an unparalleled golfing experience.
Amenities and Services
TPC Tampa Bay is equipped with a range of top-tier facilities and services designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The clubhouse is a centerpiece of the property, offering a welcoming space with a full-service restaurant and bar, providing a perfect spot to relax before or after a round.
The pro shop is well-stocked with a wide selection of golf equipment, apparel, and accessories, ensuring players have everything they need for a great day on the course.
In addition to the clubhouse amenities, TPC Tampa Bay features excellent practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and short game area.
These areas are maintained to the same high standards as the course itself, providing an ideal environment for golfers to warm up or work on their game.
The club also offers professional instruction and clinics for players looking to improve their skills, catering to golfers of all levels.
Who Should Play Here?
TPC Tampa Bay is best suited for golfers seeking a challenging and prestigious course that offers a true test of skill.
Its reputation as a former host of PGA Tour Champions events makes it a destination for those looking to experience a top-tier course that is both demanding and fair.
The course's design, combining strategic elements with natural beauty, ensures a memorable round that will appeal to serious golfers who appreciate a high-quality golfing experience.
Whether you are a local looking to play one of Tampa’s finest courses or a visitor seeking to add a memorable round to your golfing repertoire, TPC Tampa Bay offers a premier golfing experience that is sure to impress.
Westchase Golf Club
Westchase Golf Club is a popular public golf course in Tampa, FL, known for its beautiful natural surroundings and challenging layout.
Designed by Lloyd Clifton, the course provides a unique golfing experience that blends strategic play with a serene environment, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Course Design and Natural Beauty
Westchase Golf Club was designed by Lloyd Clifton, a respected golf course architect known for his ability to create courses that are both challenging and enjoyable.
Clifton's design philosophy emphasizes the natural landscape, integrating the course seamlessly with its surroundings to create a harmonious and visually appealing experience.
The course is set amidst lush wetlands, and its layout is enhanced by wooden bridges and mature trees that add to the scenic beauty.
These elements not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal but also play a strategic role in the course's design, requiring players to navigate carefully through a variety of natural obstacles.
The use of natural features, such as wetlands and dense vegetation, creates a tranquil setting that provides a peaceful escape from the urban environment of Tampa.
The course winds through this natural terrain, offering golfers stunning views and a sense of immersion in the environment.
This design approach ensures that each hole offers a unique challenge, with the natural beauty of the surroundings serving as both a visual treat and a strategic element that must be considered during play.
Playing Conditions and Challenges
Westchase Golf Club is known for its well-maintained playing conditions and thoughtfully designed challenges.
The course features a variety of strategically placed bunkers and water hazards that require precise shot-making and careful planning.
Bunkers are positioned to guard the greens and fairways, making accuracy essential for a good score.
The water hazards, which come into play on several holes, add an additional layer of difficulty, requiring players to be both bold and strategic in their approach.
The layout of Westchase Golf Club flows naturally through the landscape, with each hole offering a different set of challenges that test a golfer's full range of skills.
The fairways are generally forgiving, but the approach shots demand precision due to the placement of hazards and the contouring of the greens.
The course's design encourages a thoughtful approach to each shot, rewarding players who can effectively manage their game and navigate the challenges presented by the layout.
Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty
Westchase Golf Club consistently receives high ratings from players, reflecting its reputation for providing a quality golfing experience.
Several factors contribute to the high level of customer satisfaction and loyalty the club enjoys.
The course is well-maintained, with lush fairways and smooth greens that offer excellent playing conditions throughout the year.
The staff at Westchase is known for their friendliness and professionalism, creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes golfers feel at home.
Beyond the quality of the course itself, Westchase Golf Club fosters a strong sense of community among its members and visitors.
The clubhouse serves as a hub for socializing and relaxation, offering a comfortable space where golfers can unwind after a round.
The club also hosts a variety of community events and tournaments, promoting engagement and camaraderie among players.
This emphasis on community and customer service has helped Westchase build a loyal following, with many players returning regularly to enjoy the course and the friendly environment.
Facilities and Community
Westchase Golf Club is equipped with a range of facilities designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The clubhouse provides a welcoming environment with amenities such as a pro shop, a bar and grill, and spacious locker rooms.
The pro shop offers a selection of golf equipment, apparel, and accessories, ensuring that players have everything they need for a great day on the course.
The bar and grill is a popular spot for golfers to relax and enjoy a meal or drink, providing a perfect setting for post-round socializing.
The club's commitment to fostering a sense of community is evident in the variety of events and activities it hosts.
From local tournaments and charity events to social gatherings and clinics, Westchase Golf Club offers numerous opportunities for golfers to connect and engage with one another.
This focus on community engagement not only enhances the overall experience but also helps create a welcoming atmosphere that attracts golfers of all ages and skill levels.
Who Should Play Here?
Westchase Golf Club is ideal for golfers who appreciate natural beauty and a community atmosphere.
The course's design, which integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, offers a serene and picturesque setting that enhances the enjoyment of the game.
The variety of challenges presented by the layout ensures that players of all skill levels can find something to test their abilities, while the well-maintained conditions make every round a pleasure.
For those looking for more than just a round of golf, Westchase Golf Club offers a strong sense of community and numerous opportunities for social engagement.
Whether you're a local looking for a welcoming club to join or a visitor seeking a memorable golfing experience in Tampa, Westchase Golf Club provides a perfect blend of quality golf and community spirit.
Cove Cay Golf Club
Cove Cay Golf Club, located along the western shores of Old Tampa Bay, is a picturesque public golf course known for its stunning waterfront views and strategic design.
With a mix of challenging doglegs, well-placed bunkers, and water hazards, Cove Cay offers a unique golfing experience that appeals to both novice and experienced players.
Scenic Location and Design
Nestled along the western shores of Old Tampa Bay, Cove Cay Golf Club is celebrated for its scenic beauty and waterfront views.
The course is designed to take full advantage of its location, offering golfers breathtaking vistas of the bay from several holes.
The tranquil setting provides a relaxing backdrop for a round of golf, with the shimmering water and abundant wildlife adding to the course’s natural charm.
The layout of Cove Cay Golf Club is thoughtfully designed to incorporate the natural landscape, featuring a series of doglegs, bunkers, and water hazards that challenge players of all skill levels.
The doglegs require precise shot placement to navigate successfully, while the strategically placed bunkers and water hazards add an element of risk and reward to each hole.
This combination of natural beauty and strategic design makes Cove Cay a memorable place to play, offering a course that is both visually stunning and technically challenging.
Playing Experience
Golfers at Cove Cay can expect a playing experience that balances relaxation with a fair amount of challenge.
The course’s setting along the bay creates a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those who enjoy a leisurely round of golf surrounded by nature.
The layout, however, ensures that the game remains engaging and requires careful thought and strategy.
The fairways at Cove Cay are well-maintained and provide generous landing areas, but the presence of water hazards on nearly every hole means that accuracy is essential.
The greens are moderately undulating and well-guarded by bunkers, requiring skillful approach shots and a good touch with the putter.
This blend of relaxing scenery and demanding golf creates an experience that is both enjoyable and rewarding, encouraging players to focus on their game while appreciating the stunning surroundings.
Strategic Layout
Cove Cay Golf Club is known for its strategic layout, which requires golfers to think carefully about each shot.
One of the standout holes is the par-4 9th, a challenging dogleg left that wraps around a large water hazard.
Players must choose between taking a safe route down the fairway or attempting a riskier shot over the water to reach the green in regulation.
This hole exemplifies the risk-reward nature of the course, where bold decisions can lead to great rewards or significant penalties.
Another notable hole is the par-3 17th, which plays directly over a stretch of water with a well-bunkered green.
The wind coming off the bay can add an extra layer of difficulty, requiring players to judge their shots carefully to avoid ending up in the water or one of the surrounding bunkers.
These holes, among others, highlight the strategic elements of Cove Cay’s design, making it a course that rewards thoughtful play and precision.
Facilities and Additional Offerings
Cove Cay Golf Club offers a range of facilities and amenities designed to enhance the golfing experience.
The clubhouse serves as a welcoming space for golfers to relax before or after their round, featuring a pro shop stocked with the latest golf equipment, apparel, and accessories.
The clubhouse also includes dining options, providing a comfortable place to enjoy a meal or drink while overlooking the course and bay.
For those looking to improve their game, Cove Cay provides excellent practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and short game area.
These facilities are well-maintained and provide a great environment for golfers to warm up or work on specific aspects of their game.
The club also offers golf lessons and clinics for players of all levels, making it a great place for beginners to learn the game or for more experienced players to refine their skills.
Who Should Play Here?
Cove Cay Golf Club is perfect for golfers seeking a course that combines scenic views with strategic challenges.
Its location along Old Tampa Bay provides a beautiful and tranquil setting that enhances the enjoyment of the game, while the course’s design ensures a challenging and engaging round for players of all skill levels.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the greens with stunning waterfront views or a course that tests your strategic thinking and shot-making abilities, Cove Cay offers a golfing experience that is sure to satisfy.
Conclusion
These five public golf courses in the Tampa, FL area each offer unique experiences, from historic layouts to challenging designs and stunning scenic views.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned golfer, there’s a course that fits your skill level and preferences.
Explore these top courses to enjoy the best of what Tampa's golfing scene has to offer.
