Miami offers some incredible public golf courses that combine stunning scenery with challenging layouts.
Here are five of the best: Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne, Biltmore Golf Course, Miami Beach Golf Club, Normandy Shores Golf Club, and the Country Club of Miami (East Course).
Keep reading for more details on each course and why they’re worth playing.
Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne: Tropical Beauty Meets Challenge
Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne is known for its breathtaking scenery and demanding course design.
Located on a barrier island, it’s one of Miami’s most beautiful public courses, offering a blend of tropical landscapes and challenging holes.
For those who love combining great views with a tough round of golf, Crandon is a must-play destination.
Tropical Setting and Scenic Views
Crandon Golf is set against the stunning backdrop of Biscayne Bay, where golfers can enjoy lush tropical surroundings throughout their round.
The course is designed to take advantage of the island's natural beauty, with palm trees, mangroves, and panoramic views of the bay making every hole visually striking.
Beyond the scenery, the course is home to a variety of wildlife that adds to the experience.
It's not uncommon to spot iguanas sunning themselves on the fairways or herons wading near water hazards.
This rich wildlife enhances the unique, almost immersive feeling of playing in a natural tropical environment.
Challenging Course Design
What sets Crandon apart is not just its beauty, but its difficulty.
The course presents a formidable challenge with water hazards on 14 of its 18 holes, demanding precise shot-making from tee to green.
Narrow fairways are flanked by dense mangroves, leaving little room for error.
One misstep, and your ball could easily end up in the water or tangled in the vegetation.
For these reasons, Crandon is best suited for experienced golfers who enjoy testing their skills against a tough layout.
The constant presence of hazards and tight landing zones make it a course where strategy is crucial—this is not a place for reckless, aggressive play.
Tips for Playing Crandon Golf
To score well at Crandon, managing the course's numerous water hazards is key.
On approach shots, aim conservatively to avoid risky carries over water, especially on the back nine where hazards become more frequent.
When playing from the narrow fairways, choosing the right club is crucial; opt for accuracy over distance to avoid trouble off the tee.
Since wind from Biscayne Bay can come into play, particularly on exposed holes, golfers should bring a range of clubs to adjust for varying conditions.
Additionally, consider using a ball that’s designed for control rather than distance, as it will help keep shots from veering off target in narrow areas.
Managing the hazards and adapting your strategy to the course’s unique features will make your round more enjoyable and successful.
Biltmore Golf Course: A Historic Gem with Modern Playability
The Biltmore Golf Course is a perfect blend of history and modern golfing excellence.
Originally designed by the legendary Donald Ross in 1925, this course offers a timeless design that has been carefully updated to meet the needs of today’s golfers.
Its combination of classic architecture, lush surroundings, and challenging play makes it a standout in the Miami area.
Classic Donald Ross Design with Modern Upgrades
Biltmore Golf Course is steeped in history, having been designed by one of the most influential golf architects, Donald Ross.
His hallmark design features, such as strategic bunkering and challenging greens, are still very much a part of the course.
Over time, the course has undergone renovations to enhance the overall playing experience, with a major upgrade taking place recently.
The renovations introduced modern improvements, such as Bermuda grass throughout the course, ensuring that the playing surface remains in top condition year-round.
This upgrade enhances both the aesthetic appeal and the playability of the course, providing smooth, fast greens and consistent fairways.
Visual Appeal and Architecture
One of the most striking aspects of the Biltmore Golf Course is its stunning visual appeal.
The fairways are framed by towering trees, giving each hole a secluded and peaceful feel.
The elevated greens, typical of Donald Ross designs, not only add to the challenge but also contribute to the course's beauty.
The Biltmore Hotel, a historic luxury landmark, provides a picturesque and iconic backdrop, especially as you approach the final holes.
This blend of classic design and lush, well-maintained landscaping creates an unforgettable atmosphere for golfers who appreciate both history and beauty.
Challenges for Golfers
While the Biltmore Golf Course is undeniably beautiful, it also provides a solid challenge for golfers.
The elevated greens require precise approach shots, as missing them often results in tricky recovery shots from surrounding bunkers or chipping areas.
Accuracy is key when playing this course, particularly when navigating the tight approach shots to the greens.
The introduction of Bermuda grass across the course has also impacted playability.
Bermuda grass is known for its resilience in warm climates and provides an excellent surface for golf.
However, it can be a bit more challenging for those unfamiliar with it, as it tends to affect ball speed and break differently than other types of grass.
Golfers should practice reading putts carefully, as the greens can be faster than expected.
Why You Should Play Here
The Biltmore Golf Course is a must-play for anyone who appreciates classic golf architecture combined with modern amenities.
It’s ideal for golfers who love the charm and history of traditional courses but also want to enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained, modern playing surface.
The course’s balance of beauty, difficulty, and history makes it perfect for those seeking a memorable and rewarding round of golf in Miami.
Whether you're drawn by its rich heritage or its challenging design, the Biltmore Golf Course is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Miami Beach Golf Club: A Well-Rounded Course in the Heart of Miami Beach
Miami Beach Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience in a prime location, right in the heart of Miami Beach.
This course combines modern facilities with a rich history, offering a challenging yet accessible layout for golfers of all skill levels.
Whether you're a local or visiting the area, this course provides a perfect mix of convenience and great golf.
Location and Accessibility
Situated just minutes from the vibrant Miami Beach area, this course is easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Its central location makes it an ideal spot for a quick round during a visit to Miami Beach, whether you're staying nearby or just passing through.
The modern facilities add to the experience, offering a well-maintained clubhouse, pro shop, and practice areas.
This makes it a top choice for golfers looking for convenience without sacrificing quality.
Course Layout and Challenge
Miami Beach Golf Club’s layout is both scenic and demanding, with 17 of its 18 holes featuring water hazards.
These hazards come into play on nearly every hole, requiring precision and thoughtful shot planning.
Despite the prevalence of water, the course manages to cater to golfers of varying skill levels.
Beginners can enjoy the relatively straightforward fairways, while more advanced golfers will find plenty of challenge in avoiding the hazards and navigating the course's tighter areas.
The course offers a blend of easy-to-play holes and more difficult ones, which keeps it interesting throughout the round.
The par-3s, in particular, stand out for their beauty and difficulty, often requiring golfers to carry water to reach the green.
History and Appeal
The Miami Beach Golf Club has deep roots in the local area, having been a key part of Miami Beach’s development over the years.
Originally opened in the 1920s, the course has undergone various renovations to stay up-to-date with modern standards while preserving its historical charm.
It’s a must-visit for golfers who appreciate the legacy of a classic course that has grown alongside the city.
The combination of historical significance and contemporary playability makes it a unique destination.
Play Strategy Tips
To succeed at Miami Beach Golf Club, accuracy is crucial, particularly when navigating the numerous water hazards.
It's essential to play conservatively on holes where water is prominent, prioritizing controlled shots over distance.
Approaching the greens with caution is often better than attempting aggressive shots that could land in trouble.
Maintaining accuracy off the tee is key to avoiding penalty strokes.
For some holes, choosing a shorter club for a controlled drive is a smarter play than going for distance, especially on tighter fairways.
Lastly, pay attention to the wind, which can be a factor given the course’s proximity to the coast.
Adjusting your strategy to these conditions will help you score well and enjoy your round.
Normandy Shores Golf Club: Scenic Island Play with a Tough Layout
Normandy Shores Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience on a tranquil island in Biscayne Bay.
Known for its serene surroundings and challenging layout, this course provides both beautiful views and a tough test for golfers who enjoy a well-designed and demanding round.
Serene Location on Biscayne Bay
Located on a quiet island in Biscayne Bay, Normandy Shores offers a peaceful and picturesque setting that enhances the golfing experience.
The views of the bay and surrounding natural beauty create a calm atmosphere that lets golfers enjoy their game away from the hustle of Miami.
This serene environment is a key attraction for those looking to combine a relaxing day outdoors with a challenging round of golf.
Tough, Scenic Layout
The course layout at Normandy Shores is as challenging as it is beautiful. With water hazards on 12 of the 18 holes, precision is a must from start to finish.
The Arthur Hills renovation in 2008 dramatically improved the course’s playability by upgrading the greens, tees, and bunkers, making it a more enjoyable experience while maintaining its difficulty.
The strategic placement of hazards requires golfers to think carefully about every shot, balancing risk and reward.
Tight fairways and large bunkers add to the complexity, making it a course where thoughtful play and careful shot selection are crucial.
Best for Experienced Golfers
Normandy Shores is best suited for experienced golfers looking for a tough yet rewarding challenge.
The water hazards, tricky greens, and demanding layout make it ideal for those with a higher skill level.
It’s not a course where you can simply hit long drives and hope for the best; instead, you’ll need to rely on accuracy, strategy, and solid course management to succeed.
Golfers who enjoy courses that test their abilities and require more than just power off the tee will find Normandy Shores to be a satisfying challenge.
Course-Specific Tips
To perform well at Normandy Shores, focusing on strategic play is essential.
With water hazards so prevalent, golfers should prioritize accuracy over distance, especially on holes where water lines both sides of the fairway.
For approach shots, aim to land on the safe side of the greens, as missing the green can often lead to tricky up-and-downs or difficult bunker shots.
When tackling the greens, which were improved during the renovation, pay close attention to speed and break, as the surface can be fast and deceptive.
Lastly, be mindful of wind conditions, which can affect shot selection, particularly on exposed holes along the bay.
Planning each shot carefully and avoiding unnecessary risks will help you navigate the course successfully.
Country Club of Miami (East Course): A Piece of Golfing History
The Country Club of Miami’s East Course is not just a great place to play golf, but also a slice of history.
Having hosted legendary players like Arnold Palmer, this Robert Trent Jones-designed course offers golfers a nostalgic yet challenging experience.
Its combination of historical significance and thoughtful design makes it a favorite for those looking to play where some of the game's greats once stood.
Rich History and Iconic Players
The Country Club of Miami’s East Course has a rich legacy that dates back to its association with some of golf’s most iconic players, including Arnold Palmer.
This history adds an element of prestige to every round, with golfers walking in the footsteps of legends.
The course was designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones, known for creating layouts that balance playability with a solid test of skill.
Jones’ design philosophy is evident throughout the course, where each hole demands strategy and careful shot selection, keeping golfers engaged from start to finish.
Course Features
The East Course at the Country Club of Miami is an 18-hole, par-70 layout that spans 6,473 yards.
While relatively short by modern standards, it’s far from easy.
Narrow fairways and multiple water hazards make accuracy key, demanding precise drives and thoughtful approach shots.
The course also features strategically placed bunkers, adding another layer of difficulty.
Players are required to navigate these hazards while managing the shorter length, making it a test of finesse rather than power.
Accessibility and Challenge
This course is particularly well-suited for mid-level golfers who want to experience a combination of challenge and accessibility.
Its shorter length makes it more approachable for those who may not hit the ball as far, but the narrow fairways and water hazards still require careful planning and precision.
The course’s history and connection to golfing legends add depth to the experience, giving golfers a sense of playing on hallowed ground.
For golfers who appreciate a course that blends tradition with a manageable challenge, the East Course offers a balanced and rewarding experience.
Playing Tips
When playing the East Course, focus on accuracy rather than distance.
The narrow fairways mean there’s little room for error, so choosing the right club off the tee is essential.
In many cases, it’s better to use a 3-wood or hybrid instead of a driver to keep the ball in play.
When approaching the greens, be mindful of the water hazards, which can easily come into play if you’re too aggressive.
Opt for safer, more conservative shots to avoid trouble, and pay attention to your club selection given the course’s shorter length.
Keeping your ball in play and staying patient will lead to a more successful round on this historic course.
Conclusion
Each of these five public golf courses near Miami offers a unique combination of scenic beauty and challenging play.
From the historic Biltmore and the tropical Crandon to the serene Normandy Shores, there's something for every golfer.
Whether you're seeking a relaxing round or a test of skill, these courses provide a fantastic golfing experience in Miami.
