Night golf in Florida is a popular way to play golf after dark, typically using illuminated courses, glowing balls, or artificial lighting to enhance visibility. It offers cooler temperatures, a unique ambiance, and a fresh perspective on the game, with popular spots including Lake Worth Golf Club, Fort Myers Golf Range, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course, and Orlando’s Drive Shack. Players should prepare by adjusting their eyes and using bright equipment for the best experience.
In Florida, where the sun dominates the day with intense heat and bright light, golf takes on a unique and enchanting atmosphere under the cover of night. As the humid heat dissipates and the daylight fades, golf courses transform into luminous playgrounds—glowing with artificial lights, alive with the gentle hum of nighttime nature, and punctuated by the calming sounds of crickets and distant ocean waves. Night golf in the Sunshine State is far more than a novelty; it’s an immersive experience that elevates the sport, turning ordinary rounds into extraordinary memories.
From illuminated fairways to glowing golf balls, playing golf after dark in Florida offers thrill, challenge, and ambiance, blending athletic focus with sensory delight. This article will explore some of Florida’s best night golf venues, the unique appeal of playing under the stars, and actionable tips to help you enjoy your evening round to the fullest.
Night golf is not simply a practical alternative to daytime play—it’s an entirely different way to experience the sport. While escaping Florida’s scorching daytime heat is a major draw, the magic of night golf lies in how it transforms your perception of the course.
Under artificial lighting, familiar fairways and greens take on an almost surreal quality. Shadows stretch and shift, distances feel compressed, and every shot demands heightened concentration because visual cues differ from the day. You’re not just playing golf; you’re stepping into a serene, dreamlike version of the course, surrounded by the quiet intimacy of the night sky illuminated by stars.
For many, night golf offers both a physical and mental refresh. Cooler temperatures reduce fatigue and discomfort, while the calm atmosphere promotes focus, creativity, and simply a joyful escape from everyday stress.
Located near West Palm Beach, Lake Worth Golf Club is considered one of Florida’s premier night golf venues. The course features select holes brilliantly lit with high-quality, focused lighting, allowing for a realistic and challenging night round on a full-length course. The clubhouse offers a welcoming atmosphere where players can relax and socialize after their rounds.
What Makes It Unique: Night golf here uses traditional clubs and balls on an authentically lit course, preserving the integrity and competitive spirit of the game.
Pro Tip: Arrive just before sunset for a twilight round. This allows you to witness the magical transition of the course from daylight to dazzling nighttime glow, a highlight of the experience.
Designed with night owls in mind, the Fort Myers Golf Range stays open late into the night, featuring fully illuminated tees and targets. This range emphasizes casual play and practice opportunities, making it an ideal spot for beginners, families, or anyone looking to unwind with a relaxed night out on the course.
What Makes It Unique: Affordable rates combined with a family-friendly, welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent choice for social and accessible golf fun.
Pro Tip: Bring a group of friends and enjoy snacks and refreshments from the on-site café to turn your visit into a memorable social event.
Nestled within the Walt Disney World Resort, Oak Trail Golf Course takes night golf to a whimsical level with its Glow Golf Nights events. During these special occasions, players use fluorescent golf balls and navigate holes outlined by vibrant neon lights. The setting evokes a magical wonderland, perfect for families and groups seeking a fun, visually stunning round.
What Makes It Unique: Disney’s signature enchantment adds a playful, fairy-tale atmosphere, making it more than just golf — it’s a memorable entertainment experience for all ages.
Pro Tip: These events are very popular and spots fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve your tee time well in advance to secure your place.
While not a traditional golf course, Drive Shack in Orlando offers an engaging and modern alternative for night golf enthusiasts. This high-tech driving range is equipped with interactive games and advanced technology, making it a perfect destination for fun, social evenings out with friends or colleagues.
What Makes It Unique: Combines competitive golf with entertainment, great food, and drinks, offering a vibrant nightlife atmosphere that appeals to casual and serious players alike.
Pro Tip: To avoid crowds and enjoy more uninterrupted play, book your hitting bay during off-peak evening hours, such as early weeknights.
Absolutely. Many night golf venues offer a more relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for beginners. Additionally, the cooler temperatures and reduced sun exposure can make playing more comfortable for those still learning the game.
While not always required, many players prefer glow-in-the-dark or brightly colored golf balls during night rounds to improve visibility and tracking. Some courses provide these balls for special events, but it’s always good to check beforehand.
Courses equipped for night golf use professional-grade lighting systems designed to illuminate fairways, greens, hazards, and walkways clearly. Staff also monitor play closely to ensure safety, and players are generally instructed on night-specific rules such as slower play and caution around illuminated obstacles.
Yes, some courses like Lake Worth Golf Club offer full-length 18-hole night golf experiences. However, many venues may offer shorter, 9-hole rounds or specific illuminated holes to suit different preferences and daylight hours.
Bring standard golf gear including your clubs, tees, and appropriate footwear, but also consider adding a headlamp or flashlight, insect repellent, and extra brightly colored or glow-in-the-dark golf balls. Also, dressing in layers helps adjust to nighttime temperature changes.
Playing golf at night in Florida is an opportunity to rediscover the game through a fresh lens. More than just escaping the heat, it’s embracing a peaceful, captivating environment where traditional skills meet extraordinary ambiance. From practicing your swing under bright lights to playing enchanting rounds surrounded by neon glows and starry skies, night golf invites you to experience this beloved sport in a whole new way.
So, whether you’re a serious golfer craving a unique challenge or a casual player seeking fun, grab your clubs, book your tee time under the stars, and let Florida’s glowing fairways and balmy nights show you what night golf is truly all about.
Read our latest stories about everything golf, from travel tips to equipment reviews.
Planning a weekend getaway in Miami is a dream for many golf enthusiasts. With its beautiful weather, scenic courses, and vibrant city vibe, Miami offers an unbeatable golfing experience. But...
Read more →
Why Florida is a mini-golf paradise Florida is famous for its world-class golf courses, but it's also a hotspot for mini-golf enthusiasts of all ages. Thanks to its warm climate...
Read more →
Understanding the yips in golf Every golfer, from weekend warriors to seasoned pros, dreads the yips. This sudden, involuntary loss of fine motor skills during putting or short shots can...
Read more →