Are you ready to play golf on some amazing, challenging courses in the Sunshine State? Clearwater, Florida, has top-rated public golf courses for every golfer. These courses are known for their beauty and difficulty levels.
Clearwater has 28 public and 26 private courses within 15 miles. You can choose from historic to modern course designs. Most have stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The greens are always well-kept.
Locals and visitors love golfing here to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. So, pack your clubs. Let’s find the best public golf courses in Clearwater, Florida!
Key Takeaways
- Clearwater offers 28 public golf courses and 26 private courses within a 15-mile radius
- Courses range from historic layouts to modern designs, catering to golfers of all skill levels
- Many courses feature stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and well-maintained greens
- Clearwater’s public golf courses provide an excellent opportunity for locals and visitors to enjoy the sport amidst breathtaking scenery
- With a diverse range of golfing experiences, Clearwater is a top destination for golf enthusiasts in Florida
Discover the Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in Clearwater
Looking for the best public golf courses in Clearwater, Florida? Golf Digest’s Places to Play guide is a great help. It shows the top-rated places, thanks to 1,900 experts who gave their opinions. When you join Golf Digest+, you can share your own ratings. This helps others pick the right course for their next game.
Clearwater has many public golf courses. In fact, 28 out of 54 are open for everyone within 15 miles. These offer everything from old-fashioned to new looks. They’re made for all kinds of players. The best ones have amazing views of the Gulf and greens that are taken care of very well. This makes playing enjoyable for both locals and people just visiting.
| Course Name | Year Opened | Course Type | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clearwater Country Club | 1920 | 18-hole, par 72 | Oldest public golf course in the area |
| Cove Cay Golf Club | 1970 | Public | Water on 12 holes, wildlife |
| Lansbrook Golf Club | 1975 | Public | Cypress trees, water on 16 holes |
| Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Course | 1989 | Public, par 69 | Over 70 sand traps, several water hazards |
The best public golf courses in Clearwater mix old with new. The Clearwater Country Club, from 1920, is the oldest. It has 18 holes for you to play and enjoy. Cove Cay Golf Club, which started in 1970, has water on 12 holes and a lot of wildlife. Lansbrook Golf Club, from 1975, is surrounded by lovely Cypress trees. It has water near 16 holes, making it look really nice. The Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Course is a par 69 place from 1989. It’s quite challenging with 70 sand traps and lots of water to avoid.
Use Golf Digest’s advice to find the best public golf spots in Clearwater for you. They’re great for both locals wanting something new and visitors looking to enjoy Clearwater’s golf. These top-rated courses will give you a round to remember.
Clearwater Country Club: A Historic Golfing Destination
Located in Clearwater, Florida, the Clearwater Country Club has been a top choice for golfers since it began. It’s known for its rich history and top-notch golfing experience. The course mixes tough challenges with beautiful sights perfectly.
When you set foot on the fairways of the Clearwater Country Club, you enter a golfer’s dream. It’s designed for all levels, with bunkers, rolling fairways, and perfect greens that need precise shots.
Challenging Course Layout for Golfers of All Skill Levels
Clearwater Country Club stands out for its tough design. It’s great for both experienced golfers and newcomers wanting to get better. The design includes various challenges like water hazards and sand traps for a fun game.
But, don’t worry, the course is fair too. There are multiple tee options on every hole to fit your play level. Each hole is a new adventure, thanks to the smartly placed bunkers and tricky greens.
Scenic Views and Well-Maintained Greens
Besides offering a tough game, Clearwater Country Club also boasts stunning views. The course is surrounded by natural beauty, with trees framing the fairways. Your game here won’t just be fun; it will also be visually pleasing.
The greens at Clearwater Country Club are a golfer’s delight. They are kept in perfect condition, encouraging precise putting. The course is looked after with obvious care, from the tee boxes to the bunkers, showing a commitment to excellence.
| Course Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Holes | 18 |
| Course Type | Historic |
| Fairway Conditions | Well-maintained, lush |
| Green Conditions | Smooth, true rolling |
| Hazards | Strategically placed bunkers, water features |
| Scenic Views | Breathtaking vistas, mature trees |
Visiting Clearwater, Florida? Don’t miss playing at Clearwater Country Club. It’s known for its tough yet beautiful course and excellent maintenance. A day here promises a great golfing experience you’ll want to repeat.
Belleview Biltmore Golf Club
Belleview Biltmore Golf Club is among the oldest public courses in Clearwater, Florida. Since opening in 1925, it has been a favorite spot for golf lovers. It was crafted by the well-known designer Donald Ross. The course is a par 71, offering a fun yet challenging game for everyone.
This golf course is not just a course; it is full of services to make your visit great. You’ll find a nice restaurant, a shop full of golfing gear, and locker rooms for both men and women. There are also practice areas to help you improve your game.
They have different prices to fit various budgets. Plus, the club is always buzzing with events and tournaments. This all makes it a lively place to play golf in historic Clearwater.
In recent times, the Belleview Biltmore Golf Club changed into the luxurious Pelican Golf Club. The redesign was led by Beau Welling, who worked with the legendary Tom Fazio. Now, the course takes after great architects like Ross. It’s known for having Latitude 36 Bermudagrass, which makes the grounds beautiful and perfect for golf.
| Course Name | Year Built | Course Designer | Par | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belleview Biltmore Golf Club (now Pelican Golf Club) | 1925 | Donald Ross (original); Beau Welling (revitalization) | 71 | Expansive fairways, challenging green complexes, Latitude 36 Bermudagrass |
| Clearwater Country Club | 1920 | – | 72 | 18-hole course |
| Cove Cay Golf Club | – | – | – | 18-hole course, water on 12 holes, waterfront views |
| Lansbrook Golf Club | – | – | 72 | 18-hole course, breathtaking views, Cypress trees, water on 16 holes |
| Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Course | – | – | 69 | 70+ sand traps, water hazards, proceeds support at-risk children |
The future looks bright for the Pelican Golf Club. It has been hosting top LPGA Tour events, attracting players like Sei Young Kim and Nelly Korda. The club has big dreams, wanting to be like the Masters on the LPGA Tour. With its great history, stunning design, and focus on top service, the Pelican Golf Club is a top choice in Clearwater, Florida.
Bardmoor Golf & Tennis Club: A Premier Public Golf Experience
Bardmoor Golf & Tennis Club is in Clearwater, Florida. It offers a top-notch golf experience for everyone. This club is loved by both locals and visitors for its great course and facilities.
It was designed by top architects like William Diddel and Gary Koch. The course is a challenging par-72 over 7,015 yards. It has smooth Bent Grass greens for a great play.
Golfers really like Bardmoor, giving it 3.6 out of 5 based on 1,546 reviews. Over 71% suggest playing here. They love its condition, the staff, and the course design.
| Category | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Course Conditions | 3.5 |
| Value | 3.4 |
| Layout | 4.1 |
| Friendliness | 4.1 |
| Pace of Play | 3.2 |
| Amenities | 3.7 |
Bardmoor shines among 30 golf courses near St. Petersburg, FL. It’s in a league of its own, offering amazing public golf experiences. This is what makes it so special.
Your visit to Clearwater should definitely include Bardmoor Golf & Tennis Club. It offers a great challenge, excellent upkeep, and a warm welcome. Get ready for a memorable golf experience.
Largo Golf Course: Affordable Golf in a Convenient Location
Largo Golf Course is great for those seeking affordable golf in Clearwater. It’s in the heart of Largo, Florida, making it easy to reach for both locals and visitors. The place is known for its friendly vibe and helpful staff, offering a nice welcome to all players.
Ideal Course for Beginners and Casual Golfers
It’s perfect for new and casual golfers wanting a laid-back game. With 18 holes and 1,206 yards from the longest tees, it’s not too strenuous. This forgiving course lets you concentrate on getting better while enjoying the pretty views.
| Tee Box | Par | Yardage |
|---|---|---|
| Back Tees | 62 | 3,335 yards |
| Front Tees | 62 | 2,655 yards |
It has well-kept bermuda grass on fairways and greens, ensuring a smooth game. The course’s greens are said to be a great place to sharpen your putting. Golfers often mention how tidy and fun the course is to play.
Friendly Staff and Laid-Back Atmosphere
The team at Largo Golf Course is known for being super friendly. They aim to make your visit as pleasant as possible, adding to the chill vibe. This creates a space where players can relax and enjoy their game without stress.
Besides the game, there’s a top-notch pro shop and a comfy clubhouse at Largo. Visitors love the food and drinks after playing a round. It’s the perfect place for a snack or a cold one.
Prices are quite reasonable, with rates from $16.59 to $18.73 every day. Largo Golf Course is indeed a gem for those watching their wallets. Its location, friendly vibe, and good upkeep draw in golfers from all around Clearwater for an enjoyable time.
The Landings Golf Club: Spectacular Waterfront Golfing
Visit The Landings Golf Club in Clearwater, Florida, for a stunning round of golf. This course is set by beautiful waterways. It attracts golfers of all levels with its tough yet rewarding layout.
Enjoy a game with amazing views of water and plants. The Landings shows off Clearwater’s natural charm. Yet, it challenges every golfer’s skills.
Clearwater’s climate is perfect for golf, with around 240 sunny days yearly. Its mild winters and warm summers let you play throughout the year. You’ll love the course’s beautiful surroundings in every season.
| Course Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Waterfront Location | Situated along the picturesque waterways of Clearwater |
| Challenging Layout | Designed to test golfers of all skill levels |
| Scenic Views | Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding waters and lush greenery |
| Well-Maintained Greens | Meticulously cared for to ensure optimal playing conditions |
The course is near two major airports for easy access. It’s great for both locals and tourists in Clearwater. Don’t miss this must-play waterfront course.
Play at The Landings Golf Club for a top-notch Florida golf experience. Its views and play will stay with you. Reserve your spot and see why Clearwater locals love it.
Cove Cay Golf Club: A Hidden Gem in Clearwater
In the heart of Clearwater, Florida, you’ll find Cove Cay Golf Club. It’s a hidden gem offering fun and challenge for all golfers. This course has been a local favorite since 1972 for its beauty and great features.
When you step onto Cove Cay Golf Club’s course, you see it’s not just beautiful, but well-designed. There are different levels of challenge with three types of tees. This lets golfers pick what’s right for their skill level:
| Tee | Course Rating | Slope Rating | Total Yardage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue | 70.4 | 130 | 6,161 |
| White | 67.8 | 122 | 5,659 |
| Red | 66.4 | 115 | 5,283 |
| Red (Ladies) | 66.4 | 115 | 5,283 |
| Beige (Ladies) | 66.7 | 111 | 4,216 |
Challenging Course Design with Stunning Water Hazards
Cove Cay stands out because of its design and water hazards. These scenic spots test your skill and strategy. You need to be accurate to play well.
The front 9 here is a par 36, and the back 9 is a par 34, for an overall par of 70. This setup keeps the game interesting and challenging throughout.
Excellent Practice Facilities and Pro Shop
Besides the course, Cove Cay has great places to practice. There’s a driving range, a chipping area, and a putting green. These are perfect for warming up or improving your game.
The club also has a pro shop with all the gear and clothes you could need. Top brands are available. You can buy clubs, balls, or shop for the latest golf trends.
Cove Cay is easy to get to and offers a great golfing experience. It’s open every day from 7 am to 6:30 pm. Come and discover this Clearwater secret. Book your game at Cove Cay Golf Club today!
Westchase Golf Club: A Favorite Among Local Golfers
Westchase Golf Club is a top choice for Tampa Bay golfers. It has a great course, challenging holes, and a welcoming team. This makes it a go-to spot for many.
In 1992, Lloyd Clifton designed Westchase Golf Club. Its course suits all skill levels. You’ll find Bermuda grass greens and fun, tricky holes. Players love the detailed course design.
Well-Maintained Course with Challenging Holes
Westchase is known for its top-notch course maintenance. Despite a few weeds, the fairways are green and smooth. The greens can be a bit dry but are good for putting.
Many return for the course’s challenging layout. It mixes tough and easier holes well. This underlines the need for careful, smart shots.
| Course Feature | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Conditions | 4.1 |
| Layout | 4.5 |
| Pace of Play | 4.0 |
| Value | 3.9 |
Friendly Staff and Excellent Food at the Clubhouse
The club is also praised for its staff and clubhouse food. Friendly team members welcome you warmly. They make sure your visit is top-notch.
Don’t miss the clubhouse food after your round. The bar and grill serve tasty meals and drinks, even Yuengling on draft. They also host events in their banquet hall.
Westchase Golf Club is loved for its course, staff, and food. It’s a standout in the Tampa Bay area. Once you play, you might find yourself coming back for more, regardless of your experience level.
Mangrove Bay Golf Course: A Unique Golfing Experience
In Clearwater, Florida, Mangrove Bay Golf Course is a special place for golf lovers. It mixes a unique design with natural beauty. This makes playing here both fun and challenging, surrounded by Florida’s scenic coastline.
This golf course is highly rated, getting 4.4 out of 5 stars. A whopping 96.2% of people say they’d recommend it. Here’s how people rated their experience:
- 5 Stars: 8 reviewers
- 4 Stars: 5 reviewers
- 3 Stars: 2 reviewers
- 2 Stars: 1 reviewer
- 1 Star: 1 reviewer
It opened back in 1977 and was designed by Bill Amick and Rick Robbins. It always offers great golf, thanks to the terrific upkeep of its grassy areas. Many are impressed by how well the grounds are maintained.
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Course Conditions | Excellent to Average |
| Value | Excellent to Average |
| Staff Friendliness | Excellent |
| Difficulty | Fairly Easy to Moderate |
| Amenities | Excellent to Fair |
The course offers more than just great golf. Its clubhouse has everything you need for a comfortable day out, including showers. There’s also a fantastic practice area where you can work on your game.
It welcomes everyone, whether you’re new to golf or an expert. The staff keeps everything running smoothly. Plus, they have food and drink to keep you going strong.
You can rent helpful equipment like push carts here. It adds to the already amazing golfing experience. Visitors and locals both love it, thanks to the great golf and stunning location in Clearwater, Florida.
Cypress Links at Mangrove Bay: Challenging Golf Amidst Natural Beauty
Nestled in the Mangrove Bay Golf Course complex, Cypress Links at Mangrove Bay gives a unique golf experience. It blends challenging play with the stunning beauty of Clearwater. The course treats you to Clearwater’s coastal charm as you play.
This golf course was designed to test your skills. It requires precision and smart thinking for all golfers. With tight fairways and strategic hazards, every shot is full of excitement and needs a plan.
Tight Fairways and Strategically Placed Hazards
The tight fairways at Cypress Links at Mangrove Bay make game play interesting. You must be accurate with your shots. The areas are surrounded by dense mangroves, making good shots even more important. Hazards like bunkers and water add excitement but also challenge.
Scenic Views of the Surrounding Mangroves
Playing here lets you enjoy stunning views of the mangroves. These trees provide a beautiful background while you play. This area’s beauty reminds us to protect Florida’s precious nature.
It’s perfect for both experienced and new golfers. Cypress Links at Mangrove Bay is a place where you can enjoy a challenging game. Plus, the beautiful surroundings make it a top choice in Clearwater, Florida.
Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club
The Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club in Clearwater, Florida, does more than offer a place to play golf. It provides an experience that benefits the local community. This course is named after a famous Puerto Rican golfer and features a par-69 layout. It includes over 70 sand traps and water hazards. This makes it a fun and challenging course for all golfers.
The Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club is known for its top-notch driving range. It has 49 bays, including 22 with a special teeing system called PowerTees. Here, golfers can easily practice their skills. They can buy different-sized buckets of balls to suit their practice needs.
This range has earned high praise, including being listed as a Top 50 Stand Alone Range by the Golf Range Association of America multiple times. The awards in 2012, 2015, and 2020 recognize its quality and the hard work of the staff.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4.3 (based on 1024 reviews) |
| Value | 4.4 |
| Layout | 4.4 |
| Friendliness | 4.5 |
| Pace | 4.0 |
What makes the Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club unique is its dedication to the local community. All income from the course and range goes to support the Chi Chi Rodriguez Academy and First Tee – Clearwater. These organizations help improve the area’s graduation rates. So, by playing or practicing here, you’re not just having fun. You’re also supporting a great cause.
The Pro Shop offers many golfing items, snacks, and drinks. It also provides a chance for students from the academy to learn about running a business. Plus, you can get rental clubs for free and book personalized club fitting appointments.
For players who want to get better at golf, the club offers lessons with professional instructors. You can choose to learn in a group or one-on-one. Either way, the driving range is a perfect spot to develop your skills.
Golfers praise the Chi Chi Rodriguez course for its balance of challenge and friendliness to new players. The course, at 5,454 yards, was designed by Denis Griffiths. It has a rating of 66.4 and a slope of 121. These numbers show it’s enjoyable for all skill levels.
Golfers also love the friendly staff, good quality carts, and the interesting layout of the course. Some challenges pointed out include slow play on busy days and the tricky crossing to reach the driving range. Despite these, many say it’s a top pick for a fun and impact-driven golf experience in Clearwater, Florida.
Lansbrook Golf Club
Lansbrook Golf Club sits in Palm Harbor, Florida. It’s known for its beautiful yet challenging course. Players of any skill level can enjoy these 18 holes set among stunning views. It’s only a short drive of 10 miles from Clearwater and has been popular since opening in 1975.
This 18-hole course is a par 72, where water features on 16 of the holes. It’s not just pretty. It also offers a tough game for those who enjoy a challenge.
For a course that everyone can love, Lansbrook Golf Club provides different tees. This lets each player enjoy the game without feeling left out:
| Tee | Yardage | Course Rating | Slope Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | 6,846 | 73.2 | 131 |
| Blue | 6,217 | 70.3 | 126 |
| White | 5,844 | 67.9 | 120 |
| White (Ladies) | 5,844 | 71.7 | 123 |
| Red (Ladies) | 5,264 | 70.2 | 124 |
Lansbrook also provides great places to practice. There’s a big grass teeing area and a pro-line strip. Golfers can get ready and improve their game before facing the challenge ahead.
Once the game is done, visit Niblick’s Grill. It’s right there at the course and offers meals and drinks all day. It’s the perfect place to enjoy time with other golfers after a good game.
Also Lansbrook Golf Club is a top choice thanks to its beautiful and demanding course. Visiting is easy, with different rates based on the day and time. This makes it a great choice for both locals and those just passing through Clearwater.
Tips for Booking Tee Times at Clearwater’s Public Golf Courses
Planning a golfing trip in Clearwater, Florida, needs early tee time choices at the best public courses. You’ll find tough tracks at Clearwater Golf and Country Club and beautiful courses at Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club. Making your booking smooth is key to enjoying more golf time.
It’s smart to book ahead, especially for busy times. Many courses in Clearwater let you book online. This way, you can save your spot and maybe get a deal. Early planning online means you can choose the best times and skip any stress at the last minute.
Consider Off-Peak Times and Weekdays for Better Availability
Taking tea times during less busy hours or on weekdays is a good idea. You not only have more options, but you might pay less and play at a slower pace. This timing lets you enjoy Clearwater’s great courses without spending a lot.
Use these tips, like booking ahead and looking for discounts online, for a great time at Clearwater’s top courses. Get your tee times set now and look forward to the challenge and beauty of these courses.
