Best Golf Vacation? Northeast Florida, Hands Down.

Florida is one of the world's top golf destinations...and for good reason. The state is home to the most golf courses in the country (over 1,100!) and offers visitors affordable, laid-back luxury and plenty of sunshine.

Home to 100 miles of world-class golf courses and resorts, Florida's First Coast has World Golf Village, the PGA TOUR National Headquarters, and THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass with its famed 17th Island Green, to name a few.

Throw in nearby attractions like the Atlantic shoreline, craft breweries, fresh seafood and coastal cuisine, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate golf getaway.

Still need convincing? Here are five solid reasons:

1. Florida Doesn’t Skimp on Golf Courses

There are tons of golf course styles, terrains and skill levels to choose from.

For coastal golf, Oak Marsh at Omni Amelia Island Resort and Ocean Course at Hammock Beach Resort are must-play courses with views of the Atlantic. TPC Sawgrass should be on the top of any golfer’s bucket list. THE PLAYERS Stadium Course is world-renowned and open to the public. Golf Digest recently ranked the Stadium Course No. 2 “Best Course You Can Play in the State of Florida.”

The World Golf Village Resort has two remarkable golf courses. The King and Bear, designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, opened in 2000 with tee boxes ranging from 7,279 to 5,119 yards. The Slammer & Squire was built around the idea of preserving the area’s natural beauty and displays the unspoiled wooded areas of North Florida.

Check out our list of Northeast Florida's best golf clubs and courses for players of every skill level.

2. Affordable Play Options

Here are some courses that won’t break the bank but will still feel like you did.

St. John’s Golf & Country Club St. Johns Golf & Country Club is an extraordinary place located between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Florida. The 18-hole Clyde Johnston-designed course is the community's centerpiece with just the right amount of challenge for novice and avid golfers alike. A picturesque place to hone your skills, St. Johns is known for its consistent quality of service and conditions, being nationally ranked for customer satisfaction and loyalty by the National Golf Foundation.
The Golf Club at South Hampton The family-owned and operated experience that awaits you on one of Northeast Florida’s most player-friendly, signature Mark McCumber-designed golf courses is surely going to fulfill your recreational enjoyment of the game.
Windsor Parke Golf Club is a Semi-Private, 18-hole Championship Golf Course designed by Arthur Hills. The course has hosted qualifying events including; the US Open, US Amateur, US Publinks, and US Senior Amateur events. Windsor Parke Golf Club is also recognized by the NGCOA as a “Beginner Friendly” golf course – the first certified club in Jacksonville. Just Minutes away from the beach, this course is a great option if you aren't trying to break the bank but are still looking for a quality experience.

3. Golf Tournaments

Jacksonville hosts some of the best golf tournaments on the PGA TOUR. During the middle of March, TPC Sawgrass’ Stadium Course hosts THE PLAYERS Championship which is considered by many to have the best field all year round. You can also check out the PGA TOUR Superstore for all your golf tournament needs (and whims!).

4. Outdoor Recreation

Florida is called the Sunshine State for a reason. There are plenty of activities that will satisfy any person or group. Go explore the beaches this state is known for. Jacksonville and St. Augustine are two beautiful cities that have long beaches with plenty of room to set up a beach chair and take in the views. Clay County is also home to tons of outdoor recreation, such as camping, boating, hiking and more.

5. Warm Weather

Florida offers a year-round golf season (even in winter; and check out ‘Easy Season’ here). Although any time of the year is a good time to travel here, March to May are the peak months to visit. The flowers will be blooming while the high is usually in the mid-80s with lows in the 60s. September is the wettest part of the year, so plan accordingly with this list of must-have accessories for golfing in the rain.

Ready to book your trip? Check out our exclusive golf packages to find the perfect place to stay, and review our 2019 Visitor's Guide to start planning your sunny Florida golf vacation.