News Summary
In Florida, golfers are discovering the charm of short golf courses, which measure under 6,000 yards and provide unique experiences. With over 344 short courses available, players can enjoy quick rounds in the sun. This article explores the top ten short golf courses in Florida, provides notable exclusions and honorable mentions, and discusses exciting future developments in the state’s golf scene.
Florida’s Golf Landscape: Discovering the Charm of Short Courses
As I sit back and reflect on my decade-long journey in the sunny state of Florida, it’s fascinating to think about how my perspective on golf has transformed. Initially, I was all about those long, challenging championship courses—essentially, the ones that boasted impressive ratings and a rather intimidating length. However, as time went on, I began to discover the unique joys sprinkled throughout Florida’s diverse golf offerings, particularly in the realm of short courses.
So, what exactly are short courses? They’re defined as courses that deliver a unique golfing experience, measuring under 6,000 yards or with a par of 69 for an 18-hole layout, or they can be under 3,000 yards with a par of 36 for a nine-hole layout. With over 1,000 golf courses to explore in Florida, an impressive 344 of them fall under this delightful category. That means golfers like me can enjoy a plethora of quick rounds in the sunshine!
In my adventures across Florida’s golf landscape, I have played a whopping 168 different courses. It seemed only fair to curate my very own list of the top ten favorite short golf courses that have caught my eye, each offering its own unique flavor of fun and challenges. Keep in mind that while many courses competed for a coveted mention, a few were left on the cutting room floor for not meeting the defined criteria.
Notable Exclusions
One notable course, Riomar Country Club, found itself out of the mix because it stretches over 6,000 yards with a par of 70. The Ocean Course at The Breakers in Palm Beach fared similarly, clocking in at less than 6,000 yards but still rated a par 70. As for The Squeeze at Cabot Citrus Farms, while it offers a delightful experience under 3,000 yards at a par 38, it just didn’t quite fit the criteria.
Honorable Mentions
Before we dive into the top ten, I must mention two courses that made quite an impression: the Mount Dora Golf Club and The Leaf at Saltleaf Golf Preserve. Both are cherished features of the local golfing community, and they’re well worth a visit!
Top 10 Short Golf Courses in Florida
Now, without further ado, here are my top ten picks for short golf courses in Florida, presented in alphabetical order:
- 18 holes, Par 60, 3,689 yards: An executive course featuring an astounding 12 par-threes that range from 89 to 186 yards, making for an exciting test of precision.
- 11 holes, Par 33, 1,000 yards: A par-3 loop designed by Mike Nuzzo, known for its audaciously shaped greens that are sure to thrill.
- 18 holes, Par 63, 4,434 yards: Crafted by the renowned Pete Dye, this course emphasizes fun short holes that highlight your precision skills.
- 9 holes, Par 27, 759 yards: Despite its smaller size, this course comes loaded with wild greens and sand bunkers that keep things interesting.
- 18 holes, No par, 5,841 yards: A re-imagined layout that encourages player freedom—say goodbye to traditional par and hello to adventure!
- 9 holes, Par 27, 802 yards: This par-3 loop is designed for maximum enjoyment, making it especially popular with families.
- 18 holes, Par 54, 3,056 yards: A true gem that challenges players to use every club in their bag for a complete test of skill.
- 19 holes, No par, 2,916 yards: This course encourages friendly competition, seamlessly blending concepts from par 3 holes.
- 18 holes, Par 62, 3,697 yards: A creatively designed course nestled within a condo complex, providing both charm and challenge.
- 9 holes, Par 35, 2,470 yards: A neighborhood favorite that has recently undergone renovations, enhancing its appeal.
What’s on the Horizon?
The excitement around golf in Florida extends beyond these fabulous courses, with several new developments underway! Public and resort courses are set to open, with many expected to take their first swings in 2025. One particularly promising public course designed by Art Schaupeter is expected to open between Denver and Fort Collins in the summer of 2025.
Renowned architects like Gil Hanse and Coore & Crenshaw are working on remarkable designs that promise to elevate the golfing experience even further. Among the notable projects is the rehabilitation of The Golf Club at Crown Colony, which will undergo a $12 million renovation courtesy of architect Bill Bergin. This renovation will significantly enhance the clubhouse and practice areas, making it accessible and enjoyable for both beginners and seasoned golfers.
And let’s not forget Chester Valley Golf Club, which is opening a delightful six-hole short course designed by Jim Nagle just outside PA. Internationally, Al Badia in Dubai has unveiled a reversible eight-hole short course created by Robert Trent Jones II, making for a unique twist in the golfing world.
The vibrant golf development scene in Florida continues to flourish, ensuring that our beloved sport remains as exciting and engaging as ever. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, the future of golf in this sunny state looks incredibly promising!
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Additional Resources
- GolfPass: Best Florida Golf Short Courses
- Golf Course Industry: The Clutch – South Seas Golf Florida
- New York Times: Secret Service & Trump
- GolfPass: Brand New Golf Courses Expected to Open in 2025
- The Golf Wire: GBN Search for New Director
- Wikipedia: Golf in Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Google Search: Florida Golf Courses
- Google News: Florida Golf News
