South Florida Golf — Golf Travel Guide (2026)
South Florida combines world-class resort golf with year-round tropical weather, vibrant nightlife, and stunning Atlantic coastline — making it one of America's top golf destinations.
Overview
From the iconic Blue Monster at Trump National Doral to the exclusive private clubs of Palm Beach, South Florida offers a diverse golf landscape that satisfies every taste. The region's flat terrain is offset by creative routing, extensive water features, and immaculate tropical landscaping. January through April brings perfect weather and the return of Northern snowbirds, creating a festive golf atmosphere. Beyond the courses, South Florida delivers world-class dining in Miami's Wynwood and South Beach, luxury shopping on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, and the Everglades for eco-adventures.
Best Time to Visit
November through April is prime season with low humidity and temperatures in the 70s-80s°F. This is also peak pricing season. May, June, and early July offer great value with slightly higher humidity. August through October is hurricane season with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
Getting There
Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) are the primary gateways. Palm Beach International (PBI) serves the northern Gold Coast. All three have direct flights from major U.S. cities. A rental car is recommended for course-hopping.
Where to Stay
Trump National Doral offers four on-site courses and convenient Miami access. The Breakers Palm Beach provides ultra-luxury with an Ocean Course. For a central base, Fort Lauderdale puts you within 45 minutes of both Miami and Palm Beach courses.
Top Courses to Play
Miami, Florida · Donald Ross (1929) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,079 yards
Widely regarded as the finest Donald Ross design in Florida and one of the top 10 courses in America, Seminole in Juno Beach is an oceanside masterpiece. The 2021 Walker Cup was the first competitive event held at the course in decades, bringing global attention to this ultra-exclusive layout.
Miami, Florida · Gil Hanse (renovation) (1962) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,692 yards
The iconic Blue Monster at Doral has been a South Florida landmark for over 60 years. Gil Hanse's comprehensive renovation modernized this classic layout while preserving its championship pedigree and the famous 18th hole.
Miami, Florida · Michael Hurdzan & Dana Fry (2001) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,182 yards
Hidden in Naples, Calusa Pines has quietly earned a reputation as one of Florida's finest private courses. The Hurdzan-Fry design routes through mature slash pines and wetlands, offering a surprisingly natural and strategic golf experience for Southwest Florida.
Miami, Florida · Gil Hanse (2023) · 9 holes · Par 36 · 3,200 yards
The newest addition to Miami's elite golf scene, Gil Hanse designed this intimate 9-hole course at the Four Seasons Surf Club in Surfside. The seaside layout offers a refined, exclusive experience steps from the Atlantic.
Miami, Florida · Tom Fazio & Jack Nicklaus (1981) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,048 yards
Home of The Honda Classic on the PGA Tour, PGA National's Champion Course features the infamous "Bear Trap" — three consecutive holes (15-17) considered among the most demanding stretches on Tour. The Fazio/Nicklaus design balances resort playability with championship teeth.
Miami, Florida · Robert von Hagge & Bruce Devlin (1972) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,301 yards
Set on the barrier island of Key Biscayne with Biscayne Bay and Atlantic Ocean views, Crandon is one of America's most scenic municipal courses. Saltwater lagoons, mangrove-lined fairways, and ocean breezes create a truly tropical golf experience.
Miami, Florida · Donald Ross (restored) (1925) · 18 holes · Par 71 · 6,803 yards
A Donald Ross original at the legendary Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, this historic course has hosted presidents, celebrities, and the Miami Open. The 1925 design has been carefully restored to showcase Ross's strategic genius.
Miami, Florida · Brian Silva (2000) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 6,017 yards
Part of the iconic Breakers Palm Beach resort, the Ocean Course was redesigned by Brian Silva in 2000 to create a playable yet strategic layout steps from the Atlantic. While shorter than most resort courses, the creative green complexes and coastal winds provide ample challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
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