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5 Pristine Public Courses To Start Your Florida Tour!
Warm up on these pristine public courses in the Sunshine State.
Florida is a favorite among golf lovers with 1,154 courses and 101 sunny days each year. The state also boasts the most rounds played, the most new courses opened, and the most courses under construction or in planning.
Several of its major cities offer top-notch golf experiences. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best public golf courses in Florida:
Orlando
Orange County National Golf Center
Features two championship courses, Panther Lake and Crooked Cat, and a 9-hole short course called “The Tooth.” Renowned for its exceptional practice facilities and hosting the PGA Merchandise Show Demo Day.
Tampa
Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Golf Resort
This Larry Packard-designed course is a favorite among PGA Tour players, known for its challenging layout and natural beauty. It hosts the Valspar Championship annually.
Naples
Old Corkscrew Golf Club
A Jack Nicklaus-designed championship course, it offers a scenic and challenging experience with firm greens and abundant wildlife. It consistently ranks among Florida’s top public courses.
Miami
Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne: Located just 10 minutes from downtown Miami, this unique public course offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It features challenging bunkering, mangrove thickets, and seven saltwater lakes.
Port St. Lucie
PGA Golf Club: Located in Port St. Lucie, about an hour north of West Palm Beach, this club offers three distinct 18-hole courses: the Dye, Ryder, and Wanamaker. It will host the 2025 PGA Professional Championship.
Why Play Florida?
Diverse and Exceptional Courses
Iconic Venues: Florida boasts several legendary golf courses that offer unforgettable experiences:
Unique Course Characteristics
Varied Landscapes: Florida golf courses offer remarkable diversity:
- Links-style experiences
- Coastal views with ocean breezes
- Courses with dramatic elevation changes
- Layouts featuring water hazards, strategic bunkers, and challenging greens
World-Class Amenities
Most top Florida courses provide:
- Luxury resort accommodations
- Professional-level practice facilities
- Top-tier caddies and service
- Stunning natural scenery
Pro Tip: Bring your best game and be prepared for challenging, memorable golf experiences across Florida’s diverse courses.
