News Summary
Florida is a golfer’s paradise, boasting over 1,450 golf courses catering to everyone from beginners to pros. Despite criticism for its flat landscapes, the state has numerous notable courses, including TPC Sawgrass and the newly renovated Jacksonville Golf and Country Club. With exciting developments like The Park golf course opening and renovations across various locations, Florida is enhancing its golf offerings. The Jacksonville area features diverse resorts and historical sites, showcasing a rich golfing experience for enthusiasts and newbies alike.
Golfing Gems in Florida: A Swing Through Sunshine State’s Best Courses
Welcome to sunny Florida, where the greens are lush and the fairways are calling! Did you know Florida is home to over 1,450 golf courses? That’s right! The Sunshine State is a golfer’s paradise, boasting a range of options that cater to everyone from eager beginners to experienced pros.
The Course Critics
Despite its numerous offerings, some critics claim that Florida’s golf courses lack the dramatic elevations found in other regions and are often deemed flat and less exciting. However, those folks might want to take a closer look! Golf Digest recently rolled out its rankings, showcasing Florida’s best courses, and the notable spots on their list may just change some minds.
Top Picks in the Sunshine State
Among the highlighted 30 courses, many are already famous haunts. For instance, TPC Sawgrass isn’t just your average golf course; it’s a prestigious destination where major tournaments unfold, including the celebrated Players Championship. Think of it as the heart and soul of Florida golf!
Emerging on the scene in 2023 is The Park golf course, a remarkable creation born from a collaboration between public and private sectors. Situated where the old Dick Wilson-designed West Palm Beach Golf Course once stood, The Park had an invigorating revival, thanks to fundraising efforts led by local champions, bringing in a whopping $56 million for its redevelopment.
Cabot Citrus Farms: A Hidden Treasure
Meanwhile, golfers are buzzing about Cabot Citrus Farms, which recently welcomed the newly opened Karoo course. Once famous for its remarkable public offerings at World Woods, this course has undergone a dramatic conversion after a protracted purchase that culminated amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under the design wizardry of Kyle Franz, the Pine Barrens course has been transformed, and locals couldn’t be more excited. But that’s not all—there’s also the captivating Ocean Course at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, which offers exhilarating options even if it doesn’t quite deliver on ocean views.
Renovation Season
In Jacksonville, the prime Jacksonville Golf and Country Club is giving itself a makeover, with a significant $30 million renovation underway. Golfers can expect a redesigned course that includes removing the iconic double greens on holes 9 and 18, and transforming 18 into a driveable par-4 to mix things up a bit. With industry expert Andy Staples at the helm, exciting changes are definitely on the horizon!
Adding to the list of renovation successes is the Oak Marsh Golf Course at Omni Amelia Island Resort, which is preparing to reopen on May 16 following an impressive $7.4 million overhaul. Expect sparkling new greens, improved drainage and irrigation, and upgraded practice facilities!
Honoring Legends and Fostering Future Stars
Sadly, the golf community is mourning the loss of Emily Brown, a treasured figure in First Coast golf who recently passed at the age of 89. Her legacy in the sport will surely inspire future generations. However, it’s not all somber news as young golfer Taylor Funk recently advanced to sectional play in the U.S. Open local qualifier, showing just how bright the future can be!
Economy Meets Recreation
The Jacksonville area boasts a diverse golfing landscape that caters to all abilities and budgets. Golf aficionados can explore various resorts offering dazzling packages that combine accommodation and tee times. Swing by luxurious spots like The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island or Omni Amelia Island Resort, both featuring golf courses alongside top-notch amenities and stunning beach access. With options like the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa providing easy access to TPC Sawgrass and its iconic Stadium course, the opportunities for a tee time are endless!
For those looking for some golf history, the World Golf Village features two courses and the fascinating World Golf Hall of Fame, offering an enriching peek into the sport’s storied past. Up the road lies Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, an upscale haven that has maintained its stature in golf history, with its Ocean Course and Lagoon Course both recently undergoing renovations for enhanced play.
So, whether you’re packing your clubs for a visit or planning an adventurous staycation, Florida’s golf courses have something for everyone. Grab your gear and hit the greens—your perfect round awaits!
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Additional Resources
- Golf Digest: Best Public Golf Courses in Florida
- Wikipedia: Golf in the United States
- Jacksonville.com: Jacksonville Golf and Country Club News
- Google Search: Florida Golf Courses
- Visit Jacksonville: Golf Activities
- Google Scholar: Florida Golf History
- Miami Herald: Best Hotels in Jacksonville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Golf Monthly: Best Florida Golf Vacation Packages
- Google News: Golf in Florida
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
