Fort Lauderdale offers several exceptional public golf courses that cater to all skill levels, from challenging tournament venues to scenic, beginner-friendly layouts.
Here are the top five you should consider: Plantation Preserve, The Club at Emerald Hills, Pompano Beach Municipal, Davie Golf Club, and Jacaranda Golf Club.
Keep reading for a detailed look at each course’s unique features and what makes them stand out.
Plantation Preserve Golf Course & Club
Plantation Preserve Golf Course & Club stands out as a top golfing destination near Fort Lauderdale, blending a beautifully designed course with a range of amenities and scenic views.
It’s known for its thoughtful layout, advanced facilities, and a unique design that appeals to both serious golfers and those looking to enjoy a day surrounded by natural beauty.
Location & Contact Information
Located at 7050 W Broward Blvd, Plantation, FL 33317, Plantation Preserve is conveniently accessible from Fort Lauderdale and surrounding areas.
Open daily from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM, it provides flexible hours for early birds and late afternoon golfers alike.
For further inquiries or bookings, you can contact the course directly at 954-585-5020.
Course Design & Layout
The Plantation Preserve course was crafted by renowned designers Robert von Hagge, Michael Smelek, and Rick Baril.
This 18-hole, par-72 course spans 7,148 yards and offers a variety of challenges for golfers of all levels.
Known for its “linear park” style, the course is laid out with a 1.5-mile walking trail that winds around its perimeter, allowing for both a leisurely stroll and a scenic backdrop to your game.
The course balances open fairways with tighter spots that require precision, and the natural water features add a refreshing yet challenging element.
Facilities & Amenities
Plantation Preserve provides top-tier facilities designed to enhance every part of the golfing experience.
The practice facility is equipped with the latest technology to help golfers fine-tune their swings, including a spacious driving range and dedicated practice greens.
A full-service clubhouse offers comfort and convenience before and after rounds, with amenities such as locker rooms, a pro shop stocked with gear, and an on-site restaurant serving a variety of food and drink options.
What Golfers Say
Golfers frequently commend Plantation Preserve for its impressive facilities, from the modern clubhouse to the well-maintained greens that provide a consistently smooth playing experience.
Visitors also appreciate the attentive, friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.
Many reviews highlight the pristine condition of the course and the well-kept fairways and greens, which ensure an enjoyable round.
Why Choose Plantation Preserve?
Plantation Preserve Golf Course & Club is an ideal choice for golfers who appreciate a comprehensive and well-rounded experience.
With its unique combination of challenging design, scenic surroundings, and full suite of amenities, it appeals to both dedicated golfers and those seeking a leisurely day on the course.
The 1.5-mile walking trail adds a distinctive feature, perfect for players who value both the game and the natural setting.
Whether you’re looking to improve your skills at the practice facility or simply enjoy a beautiful round of golf, Plantation Preserve has something to offer.
The Club at Emerald Hills
The Club at Emerald Hills is a premier golfing destination in Hollywood, FL, known for its challenging layout and tournament-ready conditions.
Designed to test even the most experienced golfers, this course combines strategic elements with scenic landscapes, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Location & Contact Information
Situated at 4100 N Hills Dr, Hollywood, FL 33021, The Club at Emerald Hills is conveniently accessible to Fort Lauderdale and surrounding areas.
The course operates daily, though hours vary: it’s open from 6:30 AM to 6 PM on Sundays, Mondays, and Saturdays, and from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM on Tuesdays through Fridays.
To reserve a tee time or learn more about the club’s offerings, call 954-961-4000.
Course Highlights & Design
This 18-hole, par-72 course was crafted by renowned designers Bruce Devlin and Robert von Hagge, known for creating layouts that are as visually appealing as they are challenging.
Stretching 7,785 yards, it’s one of the longer courses in the area, designed with significant elevation changes and meticulously placed hazards that keep golfers engaged from the first tee to the final hole.
The course’s varied topography requires players to carefully select their clubs and shots, adding an extra layer of strategy.
Fairways wind through beautiful landscapes, with well-maintained greens that provide a smooth roll, making it a true test of precision and skill.
Tournament Hosting
The Club at Emerald Hills has earned its reputation as a tournament-ready course, hosting both local and international events, including U.S. Open qualifiers.
This history of high-level competitions is a testament to the course’s challenging layout and professional upkeep.
Playing here offers golfers a chance to experience conditions similar to those faced by tournament participants, making it an exciting choice for those looking to test their skills on a championship-level course.
What Golfers Say
Reviews consistently highlight the course’s well-kept greens and fairways, which make for an enjoyable and challenging round.
Golfers praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who contribute to a welcoming atmosphere and help with any needs on the course or at the clubhouse.
Many players appreciate the unique challenges posed by the course’s elevation changes and strategic layout, describing it as both rewarding and demanding.
Why Choose The Club at Emerald Hills?
The Club at Emerald Hills is an excellent choice for experienced golfers seeking a challenging round on a professionally maintained course.
With its reputation for hosting tournaments and providing championship-quality conditions, it offers a unique experience for those who want to play in an environment that tests their game.
The combination of strategic design and scenic beauty makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to take their golfing skills to the next level.
Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course
Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course is a popular choice for golfers seeking an affordable, well-maintained, and scenic golfing experience.
With two 18-hole courses to choose from, it offers variety and value, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Location & Contact Information
Located at 1101 N Federal Hwy, Pompano Beach, FL 33062, this municipal course is easily accessible from Fort Lauderdale and nearby cities.
Open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM, it provides ample hours for golfers looking to fit in a round during the day.
For more information or to book a tee time, you can reach the course at 954-781-0426.
Dual Course Layout: Palms and Pines
The Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course offers two distinct 18-hole courses, the Palms and the Pines, each with unique characteristics.
The Palms Course, redesigned by golf legend Greg Norman, combines aesthetic appeal with strategic play, featuring updated fairways, water hazards, and challenging greens that enhance its playability.
The Pines Course presents its own challenges, with a more traditional layout that requires thoughtful shot placement and careful club selection.
Together, these two courses offer options for golfers looking to switch up their experience or try a different type of course without leaving the same facility.
Amenities & Facilities
In addition to its diverse courses, Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course offers a range of facilities to make every visit enjoyable and convenient.
The on-site driving range and practice greens provide ample space for golfers to work on their swing and short game before heading out onto the course.
The clubhouse includes a pro shop with a selection of golf gear and apparel, along with a dining area that serves meals and snacks to keep players energized.
These amenities make it easy for golfers to spend an entire day at the course, whether honing skills or relaxing with a meal after a round.
What Golfers Say
Golfers appreciate the course’s commitment to quality and affordability, often noting the well-maintained greens and scenic layout as standout features.
Many players enjoy the option to choose between two distinct courses, which adds variety and keeps the golfing experience fresh.
The staff receives positive feedback for their friendly and accommodating approach, which contributes to the welcoming atmosphere of the course.
Reviews also highlight the affordability of the course, making it a fantastic option for golfers on a budget.
Why Choose Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course?
Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course is ideal for golfers looking for variety, value, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
With its two distinct courses, it provides an excellent experience for players of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned golfers seeking a more affordable round.
The combination of thoughtfully designed courses, comprehensive facilities, and reasonable rates makes it a top choice for anyone wanting a versatile and enjoyable day on the links without breaking the bank.
Davie Golf Club
Davie Golf Club offers a scenic and thoughtfully designed golfing experience that immerses players in the natural beauty of South Florida.
Known for its distinct layout and native landscaping, it’s a relaxing yet challenging choice for those who enjoy a course that emphasizes both playability and aesthetics.
Location & Contact Information
Davie Golf Club is located at 8201 SW 24th St, Davie, FL 33324, making it easily accessible from Fort Lauderdale and surrounding areas.
The club operates daily from 7 AM to 7 PM, providing flexibility for early morning or late afternoon rounds.
For more details or to make a reservation, you can contact the club at 954-797-4653.
Course Layout & Features
The 18-hole, par-70 course at Davie Golf Club was redesigned in 2011, introducing a layout with rolling fairways and multi-tiered greens that challenge players with both elevation and precision.
The course is also marked by extensive planting of native trees, which adds a serene, nature-focused atmosphere and provides natural shading and wind breaks.
The strategic placement of bunkers and water hazards requires golfers to think carefully about each shot, making it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy thoughtful play.
Despite the course’s par-70 rating, its variety and strategic features make it engaging for golfers of all skill levels.
Amenities
Davie Golf Club offers a range of amenities to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The pro shop is well-stocked with essentials, from clubs to apparel, allowing golfers to pick up any last-minute items or upgrades.
After a round, players can relax at the on-site restaurant and bar, which serve a selection of meals and refreshments in a comfortable setting.
These amenities make it easy for golfers to spend a full day at the club, enjoying both the game and some post-round relaxation.
What Golfers Say
Golfers frequently praise Davie Golf Club for its unique layout and scenic setting.
Many enjoy the course’s natural beauty, with lush surroundings and native plantings creating a picturesque backdrop for each hole.
The design of the fairways and greens is another highlight, with players noting the mix of challenging and visually appealing holes.
Reviews also commend the friendly and attentive staff, who contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that keeps golfers coming back.
Why Choose Davie Golf Club?
Davie Golf Club is an excellent choice for golfers who value a scenic and nature-inspired setting, with a course design that rewards strategic play.
Its thoughtful layout and commitment to maintaining a natural environment make it ideal for those who want a break from urban courses and prefer a more tranquil atmosphere.
With its variety of challenges and inviting amenities, Davie Golf Club provides a well-rounded experience that suits players looking for a relaxing yet engaging round of golf.
Jacaranda Golf Club
Jacaranda Golf Club offers a premium golfing experience just outside Fort Lauderdale, featuring two well-maintained courses with distinctive designs and top-tier facilities.
With a strong reputation for quality and variety, Jacaranda is a preferred destination for golfers seeking both challenge and luxury in one location.
Location & Contact Information
Located at 9200 W Broward Blvd, Plantation, FL 33324, Jacaranda Golf Club is easily accessible for players from Fort Lauderdale and surrounding areas.
The club operates daily from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM, providing ample opportunity for early morning and afternoon rounds.
For reservations or more information, you can contact the club directly at 954-472-5836.
Course Highlights
Jacaranda Golf Club boasts two 18-hole courses, the East and the West, each known for its unique layout and well-kept conditions.
The East Course recently underwent a $10 million renovation, elevating both its aesthetics and playability with enhanced landscaping, updated bunkers, and improved drainage, which ensures smooth play even after rain.
Both courses are meticulously maintained, with lush fairways and fast, true greens that offer a consistent and challenging experience.
The East Course has a more modern feel, while the West Course maintains a classic layout, allowing golfers to enjoy different styles of play in one visit.
Facilities & Amenities
Jacaranda’s facilities cater to golfers looking for a comprehensive experience.
The club features a large driving range and multiple practice greens for warm-up or skill development.
Inside the clubhouse, the pro shop is well-stocked with quality gear and apparel, while the dining area provides a range of meal and drink options to suit any palate.
The clubhouse’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to relax before or after a round, whether you’re gearing up for a game or winding down with a meal.
These amenities make Jacaranda a full-service destination that suits both serious players and those enjoying a day on the greens.
What Golfers Say
Reviews highlight Jacaranda’s consistent quality, with golfers frequently praising the well-kept conditions of both courses and the high standard of the facilities.
Players enjoy the challenges each course presents, from well-placed water hazards to creatively designed fairways that require precision.
The friendly and professional staff add to the positive experience, ensuring that golfers feel welcomed and supported throughout their visit.
Why Choose Jacaranda Golf Club?
Jacaranda Golf Club is an ideal choice for golfers who value high-quality facilities, varied course options, and a professional atmosphere.
Its two-course setup allows players to experience different styles of play without needing to change locations, making it perfect for golfers who appreciate variety.
The recent renovations on the East Course reflect Jacaranda’s commitment to maintaining top-tier conditions, making it an attractive choice for those seeking both a challenging round and a luxurious environment.
Whether you’re looking for a competitive game or a relaxed day with excellent amenities, Jacaranda Golf Club provides an exceptional golfing experience.
Conclusion
Each of these Fort Lauderdale-area golf courses offers a unique experience, combining quality design with excellent facilities and beautiful surroundings.
Whether you're looking for a challenging layout or a relaxed round, there's something for every golfer on this list. Plan a visit to explore these top courses and elevate your golfing experience.