The Apogee Club’s West Course is a private 18-hole layout in Hobe Sound, Florida, designed by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner, known for its natural design, wide fairways, and minimal water hazards.
It offers a playable yet strategic experience across 7,038 yards, with exclusive access for members and their guests—keep reading for a full breakdown of what makes this course stand out.
Course Overview: What Makes the West Course Different
Set within a sprawling 1,200-acre property in Hobe Sound, Florida, the West Course at the Apogee Club isn’t just another golf course—it’s part of a broader vision centered entirely around the game.
With its private access and no residential distractions, the course delivers a pure golf experience, shaped for those who prioritize play, design, and environment over everything else.
Location: A Hidden Gem in Hobe Sound
The West Course is tucked into one of Florida’s quieter coastal towns, Hobe Sound, located along the Treasure Coast.
While South Florida is no stranger to world-class golf, what sets this location apart is its scale and seclusion.
Unlike most courses in the region, the West Course isn’t built into a neighborhood or bordered by real estate.
Instead, it lives within a massive private footprint that’s purpose-built for golf.
The natural surroundings are an essential part of the course’s identity—mature Florida trees, sandy soil, and gentle terrain all shape the layout.
The designers worked with the land rather than against it, preserving much of the native character to create a seamless blend between design and environment.
Private Access: Member-Only Golf at Its Core
This course isn’t open to the public. Only Apogee Club members and their guests can play here, which makes a noticeable difference in the overall experience.
With no outside bookings or daily fee play, there’s a calm, unhurried pace.
Tee times aren’t stacked tightly, and the course can maintain pristine conditions throughout the day.
For members, this means a consistently high-quality round without the usual crowding or time pressure.
For guests, playing the West Course offers a rare opportunity to step into a setting that feels far more personal and well-managed than most resort or semi-private clubs.
No Homes, Just Golf: The Apogee Philosophy
One of the most defining elements of the Apogee Club is its commitment to being a golf-first environment.
There are no homes lining the fairways, no backyard fences bordering greens.
This was a deliberate decision—not just to preserve the landscape, but to eliminate the distractions that often come with residential developments.
Without houses in the mix, sightlines are clean, and the sense of space is uninterrupted.
Players aren’t navigating neighborhoods—they’re immersed in the game.
For many golfers, especially those who value architectural integrity and natural design, this kind of setting is increasingly rare and incredibly refreshing.
Together, these elements—location, access, and design philosophy—make the West Course more than a place to play a round.
It’s a golf environment built with purpose, offering a level of privacy, focus, and natural beauty that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
Course Designers: Gil Hanse & Jim Wagner’s Signature Touch
Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner have carved out a distinct identity in modern golf course design, often chosen for projects that demand more than just a playable layout—they’re brought in when the goal is to create something timeless.
At the Apogee Club’s West Course, their signature approach is front and center, blending architectural subtlety with strategic variety to craft a course that feels both fresh and rooted in tradition.
Background on Hanse and Wagner in Modern Golf Architecture
Over the past two decades, Gil Hanse and his longtime design partner Jim Wagner have become go-to names for high-profile restorations and original builds that favor nuance over spectacle.
Hanse is known for his work on courses like The Olympic Golf Course in Rio and the restoration of classics like The Country Club and Merion.
Together with Wagner under the banner of Hanse Golf Course Design, their portfolio consistently reflects a deep respect for the game's architectural history.
What makes their work stand out is a willingness to let the land lead the design, rather than imposing a vision that fights the natural terrain.
Their Design Style Reflected in the West Course
At the West Course, that design philosophy is fully realized. Instead of flashy features or forced drama, the course flows gently across the land, letting elevation changes, wind exposure, and natural vegetation drive much of the play strategy.
You’ll find wide landing areas off the tee, giving players options depending on the wind and how aggressive they want to be.
Greens are approachable from the ground, which encourages creativity and allows players of all skill levels to shape shots in different ways.
This flexibility is a hallmark of Hanse and Wagner’s work—it gives the course replay value without overwhelming newer golfers.
What also stands out is how hazards are used. Rather than overloading the course with bunkers or water, the designers focus on placement.
A single bunker in the right spot, or a ridge that changes how a ball releases, can dictate how a hole is played far more than an over-designed complex. It’s this kind of restraint that makes their layouts feel so considered.
Importance of Minimalism and Natural Flow
The minimalist approach isn’t about being plain—it’s about trusting the land.
On the West Course, minimalism shows up in the way contours guide play naturally, without forcing awkward angles or artificial features.
There's a seamless transition between holes, and the routing encourages walking, even if you're in a cart. It feels like the course has always been there.
This natural flow also helps preserve the native environment.
Instead of bulldozing the land to fit a preconceived idea, Hanse and Wagner worked around the mature Florida trees and natural sandy soils.
That keeps the course grounded—both visually and in how it plays. It's not just good design; it’s design that respects where it is.
In the end, their touch on the West Course is less about one or two signature holes and more about the overall rhythm.
It’s the kind of layout where the subtleties reveal themselves over time, and where strategy is woven into the landscape, not layered on top of it.
If you’ve played other Hanse designs, you’ll recognize the DNA. If you haven’t, the West Course is a great introduction to why their work has become so respected in the golf world.
Design Philosophy and Playability
The West Course at the Apogee Club is more than a beautiful layout—it’s a masterclass in thoughtful, player-focused design.
Every element, from how the holes interact with the natural land to the way shots can be shaped on the ground or through the air, reflects a deep understanding of how golfers actually play, not just how courses should look.
Shaped by the Florida Terrain, Not Against It
Rather than forcing the land to fit a design concept, the West Course uses what was already there.
Florida terrain is often flat and water-heavy, but here, the routing finds subtle movement in the ground to create variety and challenge.
Fairways gently rise and fall, and natural sandy areas—common in this part of the state—are used as strategic features rather than obstacles to be cleared.
This approach gives the course rhythm. No hole feels out of place or artificially dramatic.
It all flows, both visually and underfoot.
Mature Trees and the Absence of Water Hazards
One of the most distinctive aspects of the course is its minimal use of water.
While many Florida courses lean heavily on lakes and ponds to create difficulty, the West Course avoids that route.
Instead, the challenge comes from how you navigate the ground.
Mature native trees frame several holes but don’t choke off options.
They’re part of the scenery and the strategy without becoming a burden.
The result is a course that feels open yet purposeful. You're not punished unfairly, but you're also not handed a free path.
Playing Through the Air or Along the Ground
A key feature of this design is that it welcomes both types of approach play.
Greens are often open in front, meaning you can bounce the ball in just as easily as you can fly it in.
That’s a big deal for players who don’t rely on high-spin wedge shots. It also means the course adapts well to different weather conditions.
On a windy day, you’re not stuck trying to hit towering shots into the breeze—you have options.
That kind of flexibility adds depth for better players while making the course more manageable for those with slower swing speeds.
Wide Fairways and Approachable Greens: Built for Everyone
Playability isn’t just about difficulty—it’s about fairness.
The West Course features wide fairways that offer room to breathe off the tee.
But don’t mistake width for ease; the best angles to the greens are still guarded by smartly placed bunkers or subtle contouring.
This gives confident players a reason to take risks while giving newer or more cautious golfers space to keep the ball in play.
The greens are another standout. They’re not overly tricked out, but they do feature internal contours that reward smart placement and punish lazy approach shots.
Because they’re accessible along the ground, even players who struggle with height or spin have a chance to score well if they think through their strategy.
In short, the course doesn’t favor one type of player—it supports all of them.
Whether you’re working the ball both ways, trying to break 90, or just enjoying the walk, the layout offers a satisfying mix of challenge and freedom.
That’s the kind of design that keeps people coming back.
Course Specifications and Yardage Options
While much of the West Course’s character comes from its design and natural setting, the numbers behind the layout tell their own story.
From the par and yardages to the slope and course rating, each detail is a cue to how the course plays and what kind of round you can expect, no matter your skill level.
Par 73: What That Means for the Layout
Most modern courses are par 72, so the West Course’s par 73 is a small but interesting departure.
This extra stroke comes from an additional par 5, which subtly shifts how you approach scoring and pacing.
More par 5s typically mean more birdie chances, especially for longer hitters—but they also ask for better course management.
At Apogee, the par 5s aren’t automatic scoring holes. They’re designed with layered strategy, so you need to pick your spots to be aggressive.
The par 73 format opens up opportunities, but only if you play smart.
Yardage Range: 4,240 to 7,038 Yards
The course offers a wide range of tee options, which makes it playable for just about anyone.
The back tees stretch to 7,038 yards—not overly long by today’s standards, but with the par 73 setup, it still plays with plenty of weight.
The front tees bring the course down to a very manageable 4,240 yards, ideal for newer golfers, juniors, or anyone looking to enjoy the game without feeling overmatched.
What’s notable here is how yardage influences the overall flow of the round.
With smart tee selection, you’re not just shortening or lengthening the course—you’re changing how it feels.
For example, a par 4 that plays as a long iron-wedge combo from the back may become a drive-and-run opportunity from the forward tees.
It’s not just about distance—it’s about experience. The course was clearly designed with that kind of adaptability in mind.
Slope 137 and Rating 76.0: Understanding the Numbers
For players who pay attention to handicaps and course difficulty, these two numbers matter.
A course rating of 76.0 means that a scratch golfer is expected to shoot 76—three strokes over par.
That’s a signal that the course has enough length, complexity, and design elements to challenge even strong players.
The slope of 137 indicates how much more difficult the course plays for a bogey golfer compared to a scratch golfer.
On the USGA scale, 113 is average, so 137 is definitely above that.
But it’s not extreme—many players will find it demanding but not punishing, especially with smart tee choices.
Choosing the Right Tees for Your Game
One of the easiest ways to enjoy your round—and keep it moving—is to start from the right set of tees.
With multiple yardage options available, the course encourages players to match their ability with the right setup.
If you typically hit your driver around 220 yards or less, you’ll likely enjoy the middle or forward tees much more than pushing back to the tips.
On the other hand, if you’re a lower-handicap player who likes to hit a mix of long irons and mid-irons into greens, the back tees offer a solid challenge without being overly stretched.
Because of the course’s thoughtful layout, choosing shorter tees doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on strategy or variety.
The design ensures that each tee box gives a complete experience, not just a watered-down version of the back tee layout.
Altogether, these specs shape how the West Course plays across all levels.
It’s challenging, but never unfair. It demands good thinking but doesn’t penalize players for not hitting it 300 yards.
And with the right tee choice, everyone can find the balance between fun and test that makes for a memorable round.
Practice Facilities: Where to Hone Your Game
Great practice facilities don’t just give you a place to warm up—they give you tools to actually improve your game.
At the Apogee Club, the West Course is paired with a full-scale training environment that goes well beyond a standard driving range, offering a thoughtful space for every type of practice session.
A 55-Acre Circular Practice Range
The centerpiece of the practice setup is a massive 55-acre range designed in a circular layout.
That’s not just for aesthetics—it serves a real purpose.
With a full circle of teeing grounds, players can practice in any wind condition, at any time of day.
Wind direction is a huge variable in golf, and most ranges don’t account for it. Here, if the wind’s in your face, you can position yourself to work on holding shots up.
If it’s behind you, you can practice flighting wedges or controlling roll.
It’s a rare and valuable feature, especially for serious players trying to fine-tune ball flight or shot shape under different conditions.
Multi-Directional Wind Practice in Action
What makes this concept so useful is how it mimics on-course challenges.
During a round, the wind isn’t always helping or hurting—you have to adjust constantly.
The circular range lets you simulate those real-time decisions.
Whether you're dialing in your distances, working on shot shaping, or prepping for a windy tournament, this setup allows for practical, real-world reps.
For anyone who struggles with consistency in crosswinds or into-the-wind shots, this type of targeted practice can make a noticeable difference.
Short-Game Areas and Performance Center
Beyond full-swing work, the club offers dedicated short-game zones that are just as dialed in.
Members have access to multiple chipping and pitching greens, bunkers, and tight-mow surrounds that replicate on-course conditions.
These aren't generic practice greens—they're crafted to reflect the same turf and contours you’ll see out on the West Course.
That means you can practice bump-and-runs, flop shots, and sand saves in a way that transfers directly to your round.
The performance center takes things a step further.
It’s built for detailed swing work, club fitting, and physical training.
Think launch monitors, video analysis bays, and all the data a player could want.
Whether you're working with a coach, getting fitted for new gear, or simply checking your numbers, this space is designed for serious game improvement.
But it’s not just for low handicaps—newer players can benefit from this too, especially if they want help building solid fundamentals or tracking progress.
Structuring a Practice Session at Apogee
With so many tools available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
The best way to approach a practice day is to break it into focused segments.
Start with full-swing work on the circular range, ideally in different wind directions.
Then shift to the short-game area to hit from a variety of lies and distances.
Use the performance center for feedback, drills, or swing checks if needed.
The idea is to blend technique work with on-course simulation—something this facility setup is uniquely suited to provide.
Whether you’re preparing for a competitive round or just trying to tighten up a few parts of your game, the practice environment at the Apogee Club supports structured improvement, not just repetition.
It’s one of the rare spots where training feels just as enjoyable as playing.
Amenities Beyond the Course
While golf is the main focus at the Apogee Club, the experience doesn’t stop when you walk off the 18th green.
The club’s amenities are designed to complement the game, offering recovery, recreation, and comfort in a setting that feels elevated but never overdone.
Whether you're looking to unwind, stay active, or enjoy time with guests, there's a full lifestyle built around the golf experience.
Recovery and Relaxation: Spa, Pools, and Wellness
After a round—especially in the Florida heat—having recovery options onsite is more than just a nice-to-have.
The club’s wellness amenities include a full-service spa with treatments tailored to golfers, from sports massages and muscle recovery work to general relaxation therapies.
It’s the kind of place you can visit for quick post-round relief or full recovery sessions.
The pool areas offer a more casual unwind option.
Designed with both leisure and recovery in mind, they provide shaded lounge areas, comfortable seating, and calm surroundings.
For players coming off a long day of golf or training, it's an easy transition from physical focus to laid-back recovery.
Fitness and Golf-Specific Training
Staying in playing shape is part of the culture at Apogee, and the fitness center is built with that goal in mind.
It’s not just a generic gym—it includes strength and mobility equipment that supports golf-specific movement.
You’ll find space for dynamic warmups, stretching, and targeted conditioning, all laid out in a way that encourages preparation before your round and recovery after it.
For those working with a coach or on a training plan, the facility supports it.
Members can integrate fitness work with what they’re doing on the practice range or in the performance center.
This synergy between golf and physical health is ideal for anyone looking to keep their swing efficient, their body injury-free, and their game sharp over time.
Recreation Off the Course: Tennis, Padel, and Pickleball
When you’re not swinging a club, there’s still plenty to do.
The club includes multiple racquet sport options—tennis, padel, and pickleball—giving members and guests a variety of ways to stay active.
Whether you're looking for a competitive match or just something more social, these courts add a fresh energy to the club environment.
Padel, in particular, continues to gain popularity, and Apogee leans into that with modern, well-maintained courts.
For players who enjoy fast-paced games that don’t take all day, it's a perfect fit.
Pickleball, with its more casual vibe and easy learning curve, rounds out the mix and adds accessibility for all ages.
Private Villas and Member Hospitality
Accommodations at the Apogee Club are built with intention.
Instead of hotel-style lodging or residential real estate, the club offers private villas exclusively for members and their guests.
These spaces are designed to blend comfort with privacy—perfect for extended stays, buddy trips, or quiet weekend escapes.
Each villa gives members the ability to stay on property without sacrificing the feeling of retreat.
There's no need to leave the grounds to relax or recharge, which helps maintain the immersive, all-in experience that defines the Apogee philosophy.
In short, the amenities beyond the course aren’t just extras—they’re part of a bigger vision.
Everything is designed to support the way golfers live, train, recover, and enjoy time with others.
Whether you're playing hard or taking it easy, the club has something built around how you want to spend your day.
Membership: What to Know
Membership at the Apogee Club is intentionally limited, designed for those who value golf not just as a sport, but as a full experience.
With no public access and no residential development, the club focuses entirely on providing a pure, private golf environment—and that’s reflected in how membership is structured and what it offers.
Who Can Join and What Access Looks Like
Apogee is a private, invitation-only club.
That means you can’t just apply online or walk in hoping to sign up.
Membership is offered selectively, with the goal of building a community of players who share a common appreciation for great course design, quality facilities, and the overall golf lifestyle.
This curated approach helps protect the atmosphere—rounds are unhurried, the facilities aren’t crowded, and the experience remains consistent.
Once you’re in, access is unrestricted across the club’s offerings.
That includes the West Course, all practice and training facilities, fitness and wellness amenities, and the on-site accommodations.
Future courses—the South and North—will also be open to members as they come online, creating a multi-course rotation within a single private setting.
Guests and Invitations: How Exclusive Play Works
While the club is private, members can host guests.
This gives friends, family, or colleagues the chance to experience the course, but only under a member’s invitation.
Guest play is treated with the same level of quality and care—tee times remain spaced, and the environment is kept quiet and respectful.
For members who enjoy sharing their golf experiences but still want a sense of exclusivity, it strikes the right balance.
If you’re hoping to play the course but aren’t a member, getting an invitation from one is the only way in.
There are no public play days, no tournaments open to outsiders, and no stay-and-play packages.
This tight control over access is what allows the course to stay in top condition and ensures that every round feels like a privilege, not a transaction.
The Appeal of a Golf-Only, Non-Residential Environment
Perhaps one of the most defining parts of membership at Apogee is what’s not included: real estate.
Unlike many private clubs that use golf to sell homes, Apogee separates the game from the market.
There are no houses on the course, no home sales driving development decisions, and no distractions from the playing experience.
That’s a major selling point for members who want golf without the noise.
This focus on pure golf attracts a particular kind of player—someone who doesn’t just want access, but wants immersion.
The absence of real estate allows the club to use its land entirely for golf, amenities, and natural space.
The result is a clean, unspoiled feel that’s becoming harder to find as clubs expand or monetize their surroundings.
In the end, joining the Apogee Club isn’t just about where you play—it’s about how you play, who you play with, and what kind of setting you value.
It’s private, intentional, and centered entirely around golf. For those who want to be part of something purpose-built and low-key exclusive, it’s a compelling option.
Conclusion
The West Course at the Apogee Club offers a rare blend of thoughtful design, natural beauty, and playability for all levels.
With exclusive access, world-class practice facilities, and no residential distractions, it’s built for golfers who value substance over flash.
As the club continues to grow, the full experience is only just beginning to take shape.
