Did you know Florida has over 1,400 public golf courses? This is more than any other state in the US. In Panama City Beach, four championship courses are ready for you, thanks to 320 sunny days a year. Golf Digest named this place one of the top three golf towns in the country.
Panama City Beach’s golf scene is both challenging and welcoming. You can play at Bay Point Golf Club, the only Nicklaus Design course in Northwest Florida. Or try the historic Signal Hill Golf Course. Green fees are affordable, and you can play all year round.
Planning a golf trip or want to get better at golf? Panama City Beach has what you need. With practice facilities and lessons from pros, you can improve your game. Make sure to book your tee time and check the greens fees in advance.
Key Takeaways
- Panama City Beach features four championship golf courses
- The area enjoys 320 days of sunshine annually
- Bay Point Golf Club hosts the only Nicklaus Design course in Northwest Florida
- Signal Hill Golf Course, opened in 1962, is the oldest in Panama City Beach
- Courses cater to novice, leisure, and serious golfers
- Year-round play is available with competitive green fees
- Professional instruction is offered at several courses
Table of Contents
- 1 Understanding Panama City Beach’s Golf Landscape
- 2 Top 6 Public Golf Courses in Panama City Beach, Florida
- 3 Bay Point Golf Club: Nicklaus Design Excellence
- 4 Legacy Golf Club: Heart of Panama City Beach
- 5 Signal Hill Golf Course: A Time-Honored Tradition
- 6 Nature Walk Golf Club: A Beginner-Friendly Option
- 7 Panama Country Club: Recently Renovated Excellence
- 8 Watersound Club Origins Golf Club: Public Access to Luxury
- 9 Holiday Golf Club
- 10 Improving Your Game: Golf Instruction Options
- 11 Comparing Course Difficulties: From Easiest to Most Challenging
- 12 Comparing Panama City Beach’s Public Golf Scene to Other Florida Destinations
- 13 Planning Your Panama City Beach Golf Getaway
Understanding Panama City Beach’s Golf Landscape
Panama City Beach has four championship golf courses. The area’s golf scene is known for its challenges, unique features, and beautiful views. With 320 sunny days and an average temperature of 74 degrees, golfing here is great almost all year.
Each course has its own special challenges and standout holes. Bay Point Golf Club is the only Nicklaus Design course in Northwest Florida. Legacy Golf Club has nineteen greens covered in TifEagle Turf for fast and consistent play. Signal Hill Golf Course, the oldest, opened in 1962 and offers 5,617 yards from the longest tees.
Camp Creek Golf Club spans nearly 7,200 yards with undulated fairways and tiered greens. Shark’s Tooth Golf Club, surrounded by the coastal sanctuary of Wild Heron community and Lake Powell, provides a challenging 7,209-yard course.
| Golf Course | Unique Features | Yardage |
|---|---|---|
| Bay Point Golf Club | Nicklaus Design, US Open Local Qualifying Site | Not specified |
| Legacy Golf Club | TifEagle Turf greens, GPS-equipped carts | Not specified |
| Signal Hill Golf Course | Oldest course in the area | 5,617 yards |
| Camp Creek Golf Club | Undulated fairways, tiered greens | 7,200 yards |
| Shark’s Tooth Golf Club | Coastal sanctuary setting | 7,209 yards |
Whether you’re new to golf or have been playing for years, Panama City Beach has something for everyone. With 162 chances for a hole-in-one across its varied courses, you’ll find a course that matches your skill level and preferences.
Top 6 Public Golf Courses in Panama City Beach, Florida
Panama City Beach has many public golf courses. Each one offers something special, from seaside views to tree-lined paths. These courses are great for golfers of all levels.
Bay Point Golf Club is famous for its Nicklaus Resort Course, over 7,000 yards long. It’s known for its beautiful views and tough layout, with a course rating of 75.3.
Legacy Golf Club, opened in 1968, offers a classic golfing experience. It has a par-3 course since 1993, perfect for quick games or practice. Signal Hill Golf Course, from 1962, keeps the tradition of quality golf alive.
Nature Walk Golf Club, opened in 2020, is great for beginners. It has a course rating of 59.6, making it the easiest around. Panama Country Club, updated in 2019, blends modern features with history. Watersound Club Origins Golf Club also offers luxury golf for the public.
For more variety, St. Augustine’s golf scene is a great choice. It includes top courses like TPC Sawgrass.
| Golf Course | Green Fees | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Bay Point Golf Club | $89 – $129 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Legacy Golf Club | $55 – $85 | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Signal Hill Golf Course | $45 – $65 | 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Nature Walk Golf Club | $35 – $55 | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Panama Country Club | $75 – $110 | 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Watersound Club Origins | $95 – $145 | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
Bay Point Golf Club: Nicklaus Design Excellence
Bay Point Golf Club is the only Nicklaus Design course in Northwest Florida. It was built in 1986 and is a challenging yet rewarding place for golfers. With over 1,300 reviews, it has a 4.3 average rating. This shows why 89.7% of visitors recommend it.
Unique Water Hazards and Sand Traps
The course uses its natural surroundings to its advantage. Water plays a role in 16 out of 18 holes, making it exciting. The sand traps, made from the natural terrain, add complexity. Despite the challenges, golfers give the layout a 4.2 out of 5 rating.
Practice Facilities and Equipment Rentals
Bay Point Golf Club has great facilities to help improve your game. There’s a full-length driving range, practice putting green, and chipping area with bunkers. For those without clubs, TaylorMade Sim2 and Stealth rental clubs are available. These features earn the club a 4.0 rating for facilities.
Bar 72: Dining and Events
After playing, visit Bar 72 for a meal and drinks. This clubhouse hosts events and serves tasty food. The staff’s 4.7 rating makes sure you have a great time, both on and off the course.
| Feature | Rating | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Course Condition | 4.4/5 | Tif-Eagle Ultra-Dwarf Bermuda Grass greens |
| Value | 4.1/5 | Competitive pricing for the area |
| Pace of Play | 4.1/5 | 4 tee options for varied skill levels |
| Guest Policies | N/A | Public access, tee time bookings available |
Bay Point Golf Club offers a memorable experience with its challenging layout, excellent facilities, and friendly staff. Book your tee time today and test your skills on this Nicklaus-designed masterpiece.
Legacy Golf Club: Heart of Panama City Beach
Legacy Golf Club is a golfer’s dream in the heart of Panama City Beach. It was designed by Wes Burnham in 1989. This course is perfect for all skill levels, offering both challenge and fun.
The course is 6,797 yards long with a par of 72. It has a tough rating of 74.4 and a slope of 144. Beginners will find the wide fairways welcoming, while experienced golfers will enjoy the challenging layout.
It also has a unique lighted par 3 course. This 1,003-yard course is great for quick games, lasting about 60 minutes. It’s perfect for practicing or playing a round in the evening.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Green Fees (Weekday) | $59 |
| Green Fees (Weekend) | $69 |
| Tee Time Booking | Online or Phone |
| Club Rental | Available |
| Course Rating | 3.9/5 |
Legacy Golf Club features nineteen greens with TifEagle Turf. This ensures fast and consistent play. With a high rating of 4.3 and a value rating of 4.0, it’s no wonder 94% of reviews give it 5 stars.
Don’t forget to book your tee time early, especially during busy times. Legacy Golf Club is ideal for a challenging round or a quick game on the par 3 course. It offers a great golfing experience in the heart of Panama City Beach.
Signal Hill Golf Course: A Time-Honored Tradition
Signal Hill Golf Course is an important part of Panama City Beach’s golf history. It opened in 1962 and has 18 holes over 5,617 yards from the longest tees.
Challenging Greens and Precise Fairways
Signal Hill’s greens are tough and need precision. The course layout is strategic, with narrow fairways that test your accuracy. It’s fun and challenging for all skill levels.
Community Atmosphere
The course has a loyal local fan base for years. It’s great for both casual and competitive games. Signal Hill is known for its affordable prices and flexible tee times, showing its commitment to the community.
| Day | Greens Fees | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | $35 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Weekends | $45 | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Twilight (After 3 PM) | $25 | 3:00 PM – Close |
Signal Hill Golf Course offers a mix of tradition and accessibility. Its affordable rates make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors in Panama City Beach.
Nature Walk Golf Club: A Beginner-Friendly Option
Nature Walk Golf Club in Lynn Haven, Florida, is perfect for beginners. It was built in 1997 by Clifton, Ezell & Clifton. The course has a par 60 layout and is 3512 yards long.
The course is easy to play, with a rating of 59.6 and a slope of 93. It has Bermuda Grass fairways and Tifdwarf Grass greens. This makes it a great place for new golfers or those wanting to get better.
Booking tee times is simple, making it easy to plan your game. The prices at Nature Walk Golf Club are also good for those watching their budget.
The course welcomes guests, but opinions on conditions and facilities vary. Some think the amenities are excellent, while others find them just okay. This shows Nature Walk meets different needs and tastes.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Length | 3512 yards |
| Par | 60 |
| Course Rating | 59.6 |
| Slope Rating | 93 |
| Grass Type | Bermuda (Fairways), Tifdwarf (Greens) |
| Recommendation Rate | 71.2% (based on 448 reviews) |
Nature Walk Golf Club is a great place for beginners in Panama City Beach. It’s affordable and easy to play.
Panama Country Club: Recently Renovated Excellence
Panama Country Club is in Lynn Haven, FL, and reopened in 2019 after big renovations. It was built in 1927 and now has a mix of old and new design. The course has Bermuda Grass fairways and Tifdwarf Bermuda Grass greens for a classic feel.
Course Layout and Design Features
After Hurricane Michael, the course layout changed a lot. Many trees were lost, making the fairways more open. This change has made the course easier for beginners, with fewer hazards.
Even with these changes, the course still has its charm. It offers a nice golfing experience.
Membership Options and Guest Policies
Panama Country Club has different membership options and welcomes guests. The club likely has flexible packages for both members and visitors. You can get green fee details and booking info by asking.
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Conditions | 2.4 |
| Value | 1.9 |
| Layout | 3.3 |
| Friendliness | 2.7 |
| Pace | 4.0 |
| Amenities | 3.4 |
The course has its challenges, but it offers special golfing chances. The club has amenities like a beverage cart, swimming, and billiards. Fees change with the season and tee times, so it’s best to check with the club for current rates and booking info.
Watersound Club Origins Golf Club: Public Access to Luxury
Watersound Club Origins Golf Club in Panama City Beach offers luxury golfing for everyone. It has well-kept fairways and greens, welcoming locals and visitors alike. Here, you can enjoy top-notch golf.
Designed by Love Golf Design, Origins Golf at Watersound combines classic elements with a modern twist. It spans beautiful landscapes, offering golfers breathtaking views and unique features at each hole.
Players love the course’s peaceful setting and excellent service. The absence of nearby homes makes it feel exclusive. It lets golfers concentrate on their game without interruptions.
To plan your visit, here’s a quick look at the greens fees, rates, and tee times:
| Time of Day | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate | Tee Times Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning (Before 12 PM) | $125 | $145 | 7:00 AM – 11:50 AM |
| Afternoon (After 12 PM) | $95 | $115 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Twilight (After 3 PM) | $75 | $85 | 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM |
The course features undulating greens and lush fairways, requiring precision. Golfers need to be at their best, facing complex greens and dense vegetation along the fairways.
Watersound Club Origins Golf Club is a top choice for golf lovers in Panama City Beach. It offers luxury and accessibility, making it a must-visit.
Holiday Golf Club
Holiday Golf Club is the top golf spot in Panama City Beach. It has a Championship 18-hole course and a 9-hole Executive course for all skill levels. In 2014, the club spent a million dollars to upgrade 19 greens to TifEagle turf, known for its speed and consistency.
The Executive 9-hole course now has Zoysia grass greens for a special golfing experience. Holiday Golf Club also offers custom club fittings and a full practice facility. The driving range, chipping, and putting areas help you improve your game.
Booking tee times at Holiday Golf Club is easy. Public players can book up to five days in advance. This makes it convenient for both locals and visitors. The club’s location in Panama City Beach is easy to get to for everyone.
| Course | Holes | Green Fees (Weekday/Weekend) | Tee Time Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Championship Course | 18 | $75/$95 | 5 days in advance |
| Executive Course | 9 | $35/$45 | 5 days in advance |
The club offers more than just golf. The clubhouse has a Pro Shop and a Bar & Grill for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Whether you need new gear or a place to relax, Holiday Golf Club has it all. With its exciting 18 holes and great amenities, it’s a top golf spot in Panama City Beach.
Improving Your Game: Golf Instruction Options
Panama City Beach has top golf instruction to boost your game. You’ll get professional coaching and the latest tech. This helps you improve your skills and lower your scores.
Dewsweepers Golf Instruction at Bay Point
Bay Point Golf Club offers Dewsweepers Golf Instruction for all skill levels. You can book lessons by the hour or day, fitting your schedule and budget. The cost depends on the lesson’s length and type.
Video Analysis and Personalized Lessons
Instructors use video analysis to show you your swing. This gives you visual feedback to improve. Personalized lessons focus on your specific needs, like driving distance or putting accuracy.
Professional instruction does more than just improve your game. It boosts your confidence and helps you use course amenities better. Many clubs have practice facilities for you to hone your skills between rounds.
| Instruction Type | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Single Lesson | 1 hour | $75 |
| Package (3 lessons) | 3 hours | $200 |
| Full Day Clinic | 6 hours | $350 |
Book your instruction sessions early to get the best instructors and times. Investing in your golf skills makes your trip to Panama City Beach even better.
Comparing Course Difficulties: From Easiest to Most Challenging
Panama City Beach has many golf courses with different challenges. Nature Walk Golf Club is the easiest, with a course rating of 59.6. It’s perfect for beginners, offering a soft start to golf.
At the other end, Bay Point Golf Club’s Nicklaus Resort Course is very hard, with a rating of 75.3. It needs skill and precision, with water hazards and tricky bunkers. The views from its coastal holes are stunning, making the game even better.
Signal Hill and Legacy Golf Club offer a middle level of challenge. Signal Hill has tight fairways that require accurate shots. Legacy’s greens are bumpy, testing your putting skills. These courses are great for improving your game.
The variety of golf courses in Panama City Beach suits all players. From easy Nature Walk to tough Bay Point, each course has its own design and views. Golfing here is truly special.
| Course | Difficulty Rating | Standout Features | Green Fees (Weekday/Weekend) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature Walk Golf Club | 59.6 | Beginner-friendly layout | $35/$45 |
| Holiday Golf Club | 68.2 | Well-maintained greens | $49/$59 |
| Signal Hill Golf Course | 70.5 | Tight fairways | $45/$55 |
| Legacy Golf Club | 72.1 | Undulating greens | $55/$65 |
| Bay Point Golf Club (Nicklaus Course) | 75.3 | Coastal views, water hazards | $89/$109 |
Comparing Panama City Beach’s Public Golf Scene to Other Florida Destinations
Panama City Beach is a top spot for golf in Florida. It has many courses, low green fees, and golf all year. Golf Digest named it one of the top three golf towns in the country.
Let’s compare Panama City Beach’s golf scene with other popular Florida destinations:
| Destination | Green Fee Details | Rates | Amenities | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panama City Beach | $50 – $150 | Affordable year-round | Championship courses, practice facilities | Variety of courses, beach access |
| Fort Myers | $70 – $200 | Higher in peak season | Historical landmarks, botanical gardens | Cultural experiences, kayaking trails |
| Destin | $60 – $180 | Seasonal variations | Resort-style courses, water sports | Pristine beaches, fishing opportunities |
Fort Myers has historical charm, and Destin offers resort-style golf. But Panama City Beach combines championship golf with beach fun. Its 27 miles of Gulf Coast beaches add to the golf experience, making it perfect for both sport and relaxation.
Panama City Beach’s golf courses have everything from water hazards to precise fairways. The low prices and great amenities make it a favorite among golfers. Whether you play at Bay Point Golf Club or Signal Hill Golf Course, you’ll find a golfing experience that suits you.
Planning Your Panama City Beach Golf Getaway
Panama City Beach is a golfer’s dream with five top-notch courses and golf all year. You can play at the challenging Nicklaus Design at Bay Point or the easy Nature Walk Golf Club. With 320 sunny days and an average of 74 degrees, your golfing weather is always great.
Booking times vary by course. Bay Point Golf Club has two amazing courses. Holiday Golf Club has an 18-hole par 72 Championship Course. Try the Holiday Greens for a unique lighted nine-hole, par-3 course and driving range.
After golf, there’s lots to do in Panama City Beach. You should visit St. Andrews State Park to do some hiking or kayaking, or enjoy the beaches. For dinner, Sharks’ Tooth Grill and Dusty’s Oyster Bar are great choices. For nightlife, Club La Vela is a top spot with dance scenes and live music. For a great golf trip, Panama City Beach has it all.
