Between rounds of golf in Florida, you can typically enjoy a variety of activities such as relaxing on beautiful beaches, exploring historic sites like St. Augustine, dining on fresh local seafood, visiting vibrant cultural spots like Miami’s Wynwood Walls, or experiencing thrilling theme parks in Orlando. These options generally balance sport and leisure, making Florida an ideal destination for golfers and non-golfers alike.
Florida is truly a golfer’s dream destination, celebrated worldwide for its world-class courses, year-round sunshine, and stunning coastal vistas. However, even the most avid golfers need a break from the greens. Whether you’re seeking an exhilarating adventure in the Everglades, craving fresh seafood caught just hours ago, or simply wanting to unwind with a perfect sunset over the ocean, Florida offers endless options to enhance your golf trip. Below is a comprehensive guide to some of the best activities near Florida’s premier golf courses, ensuring you find the perfect balance between sport and leisure.
Home of the iconic island green on the 17th hole, TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach is a bucket-list course for golfers worldwide. Known for its strategic challenges and PGA Tour events, this venue demands skill and focus. After you’ve tested your skills here, unwind at nearby Jacksonville Beach, where you can enjoy soft sandy shores and spectacular ocean views.
Palm Beach and Miami are synonymous with luxury golf experiences. PGA National is famous for its “Bear Trap”—a notoriously challenging stretch of holes—while Trump National Doral blends historic prestige with upscale resort facilities. After your rounds, Miami’s dynamic culture, nightlife, and beachfront make for unforgettable evenings.
The upscale golf courses of Naples and Marco Island are set against stunning Gulf Coast scenery. Tiburón boasts two PGA Tour-quality courses, while The Rookery offers a challenging layout nestled within natural landscapes, making both ideal for players seeking a blend of difficulty and beauty.
Orlando’s reputation extends beyond theme parks to include premier golf venues. Bay Hill Club & Lodge, designed by Arnold Palmer himself, hosts the prestigious Arnold Palmer Invitational. Disney’s own golf courses offer fun-themed layouts, blending challenge with family-friendly entertainment.
The Tampa and Sarasota regions are home to some of Florida’s most scenic and skill-testing courses. Innisbrook features the famous Copperhead Course, a site of the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship, known for demanding shot-making. The Concession Golf Club draws inspiration from iconic courses and offers a meticulously crafted experience for serious golfers.
A: Thanks to Florida’s subtropical climate, golfing is possible year-round. The ideal months are from October through April, when cooler temperatures and lower humidity prevail, creating comfortable playing conditions. In contrast, summer months tend to be hot, humid, and prone to afternoon thunderstorms, which may disrupt play.
A: Absolutely. While Florida is home to many championship-level courses, it also boasts numerous beginner-friendly options. Many golf venues feature forgiving fairways, shorter layouts, and practice facilities designed to help new golfers learn and enjoy the game without frustration.
A: Definitely. Florida caters to visitors of all ages and interests. From pristine beaches and cultural landmarks to shopping districts, nature parks, and vibrant nightlife, non-golfers will have plenty to explore and enjoy while others play their rounds.
A: Yes, many resorts offer family-friendly amenities such as swimming pools, kids’ activity centers, and organized children’s programs. Many are also located near attractions like theme parks, zoos, and nature preserves, allowing families to create well-rounded vacation itineraries that include golf and entertainment for younger guests.
A: Absolutely! Florida’s diverse landscapes provide opportunities for kayaking, deep-sea fishing, wildlife tours, hiking in state parks, and airboat rides through the Everglades. These activities make perfect day trips or half-day excursions to complement your golf itinerary and enrich your overall experience.
Florida is much more than just a golf destination; it’s a vibrant playground for adventure, relaxation, and world-class dining. Whether you want to incorporate beach time, thrilling theme park visits, or cultural excursions between your rounds, the Sunshine State delivers. From historic cities and pristine beaches to lively nightlife and tranquil natural parks, each golfer can craft the perfect trip blending sport with leisure.
So pack your clubs, soak up the sun, and prepare to make your golf trip to Florida an unforgettable adventure filled with unforgettable memories!
| Region | Premier Golf Courses | Key Leisure Activities | Unique Dining Spots | Notable Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ponte Vedra Beach & Jacksonville | TPC Sawgrass | Beach at Jacksonville, Kayaking Intracoastal Waterway | Safe Harbor Seafood Market (Mayport Shrimp) | Historic St. Augustine |
| Palm Beach & Miami | PGA National Resort, Trump National Doral | Explore Wynwood Walls, Ocean Drive Cruise | Joe’s Stone Crab | Vibrant Nightlife & Art Deco Architecture |
| Naples & Marco Island | Tiburón Golf Club, The Rookery | Sunset at Naples Pier, Deep-Sea Fishing | The Turtle Club | Gulf Coast Beaches & Natural Landscapes |
| Orlando | Walt Disney World Golf Courses, Bay Hill Club & Lodge | Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Disney Springs | Victoria & Albert’s | Theme Parks & Family Entertainment |
| Tampa & Sarasota | Innisbrook Resort, The Concession Golf Club | Busch Gardens, Craft Beer Tasting | Cigar City Brewing | The Ringling Museum & Cultural Scene |
| All areas offer excellent golf, year-round activities, and unique dining experiences tailored to the region’s culture and landscape. | ||||
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