Best Public Golf Courses in Orlando, Florida

Did you know Orlando is home to an impressive 100 public golf courses? This city is a true paradise for golf enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of layouts. Each course presents unique challenges and standout holes, catering to all skill levels and budgets.

Whether you’re planning a golf vacation or just looking to play during your Disney trip, Orlando has some of the best courses. These top-rated courses promise unforgettable experiences. We will look at the city’s finest public golf offerings, including green fees, booking details, and tips for overcoming challenging holes.

Orlando’s golf scene is enriched with award-winning courses that set new standards. Shingle Creek Golf Club, named the 2023 Best Golf Course in Orlando, leads with its outstanding greens. Orange County National was crowned the Best Public Golf Course in Orlando for 2023, and Waldorf Astoria Golf Club earned the Best New Golf Course title in 2011.

When planning your Orlando golf outing, be aware that prices vary significantly across these elite courses. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking a luxury experience, there’s a course for you. Always book in advance to secure your spot on these sought-after fairways.

Key Takeaways

• Orlando offers 100 public golf courses for all skill levels
• Shingle Creek Golf Club is the 2023 Best Golf Course in Orlando
• Orange County National won Best Public Golf Course in 2023
• Pricing varies widely, catering to different budgets
• Advance booking is recommended for popular tee times
• Many courses offer standout holes and unique challenges
• Several Orlando courses have received national recognition

Understanding Orlando’s Golf Landscape

Orlando has transformed into a haven for golf enthusiasts. It boasts nearly 200 courses, catering to both locals and visitors. Many of these courses are located within residential areas, providing easy access to major attractions.

Climate and its impact on golf courses

The subtropical climate of Orlando allows golfing all year round. Courses adjust to the seasons, incorporating native plants and animals into their designs. This approach ensures diverse playing experiences throughout the year.

Types of public courses in Orlando

Orlando’s public golfing scene ranges from municipal layouts to upscale resort courses. Green fees vary significantly, with some courses like Winter Park Country Club offering rates as low as $16. Conversely, premium courses such as Celebration Golf Club charge up to $129 for non-residents during peak times.

Golfing regions in and around Orlando

Orlando’s golfing scene covers various regions. The International Drive area and Lake Buena Vista are home to numerous courses, offering easy access to tourist spots. Quieter golfing experiences can be found in outlying areas like Winter Garden and Haines City. Many courses provide guest access and boast excellent amenities, enhancing your overall golfing experience.

When selecting a course, consider membership details, benefits, and proximity to other attractions. Orlando’s diverse golfing options ensure you’ll find the perfect course for your skill level and budget.

Best Public Golf Courses in Orlando, Florida: A Golfer’s Guide

Orlando’s golf scene is diverse, featuring courses with unique designs and features. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, there’s a course for you. We will look at some top-rated public golf courses in the area.

Shingle Creek Golf Club is a premier spot, ranking as the best in Orlando for 2023. Its scenic beauty and challenging layout make it a favorite among golfers. The green fee of $239 reflects its high quality.

Orange County National is another top choice, celebrated as the best public course in Orlando for 2023. It offers excellent playing conditions and guest policies for locals and tourists alike. The course’s design highlights Central Florida’s natural beauty.

For those on a budget, Winter Park Golf Course is ideal. At just $20 for nine holes, it’s great for a quick game. Its design shows that top-notch golf doesn’t have to be expensive.

For luxury, Tranquilo Golf Club at Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers stunning views and a Greg Norman design. Although the $325 green fee and stay requirement are high, the exclusive experience is a dream for many golfers.

Orlando’s public golf courses cater to all levels of play, from championship to casual. With their varied designs and scenic views, you’ll find the perfect course for your next golf outing in Florida.

Shingle Creek Golf Club: A Top-Tier Experience

Shingle Creek Golf Club is a leading golf destination in Orlando. Spanning over 7,000 yards, it suits golfers of every skill level. Its location near the Orange County Convention Center makes it perfect for both locals and tourists.

Award-Winning Greens

The club is renowned for its exceptional putting surfaces, having received the Greens of Excellence award. These greens are meticulously maintained, offering a smooth yet challenging experience for every putt.

Ideal Location and Natural Beauty

Located along historic Shingle Creek, the course combines modern amenities with Florida’s natural beauty. The lush surroundings provide a tranquil setting for your game, elevating the golfing experience.

First-Class Service and Amenities

Shingle Creek Golf Club is known for its superior facilities and service. From booking tee times to relaxing after your game, every detail is tailored for your comfort and convenience. The club’s booking system ensures a seamless process for securing your preferred time.

Despite varying greens fees, the course’s championship quality offers great value. Whether you’re a pro or a casual golfer, Shingle Creek Golf Club promises an unforgettable experience in Orlando.

Orange County National: Championship Golf at Its Finest

Orange County National Golf Center is a top-tier golfing spot in Orlando, Florida. It boasts two championship courses, Panther Lake and Crooked Cat, designed for golf lovers. The Panther Lake course, with its 7,350 yards, tests your skill to the limit.

Since its opening in 1998, the course has been crafted by Phil Ritson, Dave Harman, and Isao Aoki. It stretches 7,278 yards from the back tees, with a challenging slope rating of 140. The course features Tifdwarf grass greens and Bermuda grass fairways, ensuring great conditions all year.

Every hole presents unique challenges and standout features. The natural setting provides a peaceful environment for your game. Water hazards and strategically placed bunkers add to the difficulty, keeping you alert throughout.

Orange County National has hosted notable events like the PGA TOUR Qualifying School Finals and a 2023 LIV Golf Tour Event. These events highlight the course’s high-quality design and challenge.

For a full golfing experience, enjoy the on-site lodging, large driving range, and 9-hole short course. Don’t forget to book your tee time early to secure your spot at this premier golf destination.

Celebration Golf Club: A Father-Son Design Masterpiece

In the heart of Disney town, Florida, lies Celebration Golf Club, a par-72 masterpiece. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and his son Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 1996, it combines challenge with beauty. This course caters to golfers of all skill levels.

Natural Wetlands and Native Trees

The course’s natural beauty is a marvel. It blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Players are surrounded by lush wetlands and towering native trees, creating a serene atmosphere. This blend of nature enhances the visual appeal and game strategy.

Exceptional Playing Conditions

Celebration Golf Club is celebrated for its top-notch playing conditions. It ranks highly among Orlando’s golf destinations. The fairways and greens are meticulously maintained, offering a pristine experience. Combined with excellent amenities and service, it ensures an unforgettable round.

Unique Course Layout

The course’s layout is distinctive. It has hosted events like the 2002 U.S. Senior Open Qualifier and the 2003 Florida State Public Links Championship. It’s also junior-friendly, making it perfect for family outings.

For those looking into membership details, Celebration offers various options. The club’s benefits go beyond golf, with facilities and programs designed to enrich your experience. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, Celebration Golf Club is a delightful place to play. It’s a top choice among golfers, featured as one of the best public golf courses in Florida.

ChampionsGate Golf Club: A Tale of Two Courses

ChampionsGate Golf Club in Orlando presents a unique golfing experience. Designed by the renowned Greg Norman, it features two distinct courses: the National and International. These courses cater to different playing styles and preferences with their unique features.

The International course brings Scotland and Ireland to Florida with its links-style design. It challenges golfers with windswept dunes and deep pot bunkers. On the other hand, the National course reflects traditional Florida golf with lush fairways and strategic water hazards.

Guests enjoy easy access to these top-tier courses, thanks to the club’s well-thought-out facilities. The 35,000-square-foot clubhouse can host up to 300 guests, ensuring a comfortable stay. ChampionsGate’s guest policies aim to make your golf outing memorable and hassle-free.

The resort’s offerings go beyond golf. It boasts 15 acres of pools and recreational activities, including an 850-foot lazy river and Orlando’s only resort wave pool. ChampionsGate is a complete vacation destination, whether you’re into golf or family fun. This Greg Norman creation ensures an unforgettable experience in Florida’s golfing heartland.

Eagle Creek Golf Club: Central Florida’s Only Par 73

Eagle Creek Golf Club is a standout in Central Florida’s golf scene. Designed by Howard Swan and Ron Garl in 2004, it presents a unique par-73 layout. With a 4.7 average rating from 2,360 reviews, its quality is evident, as 97.1% of players highly recommend it.

Scottish-Style Bunkers and Mini-Verde Greens

The course boasts over 90 Scottish-style bunkers and Mini-Verde greens, making it both challenging and engaging. Golfers appreciate the meticulous upkeep, awarding it high scores for layout (4.8) and overall quality. It offers six sets of tees, welcoming players from novices to top-tier women amateur golfers.

Environmental Stewardship

Eagle Creek is dedicated to environmental conservation. As an Audubon International Silver Signature course, it showcases a deep commitment to preserving nature. This focus on sustainability enhances the course’s scenic beauty, providing a picturesque setting for golf.

Challenging Yet Forgiving Layout

Despite its challenges, the course features wide fairways that offer forgiveness. The variety of par-5s adds excitement to each round. For a shorter, more casual game, the Wee 18, a 18-hole short course, is perfect for fun and accessibility.

Just 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport, Eagle Creek Golf Club offers convenience alongside excellent facilities. The clubhouse features a well-stocked pro shop, locker rooms, and the Belfry Restaurant. It’s important to note the dress code before visiting. With year-round play and straightforward tee time bookings, Eagle Creek provides an unforgettable golfing experience in Central Florida.

Grand Cypress Golf Club: Jack Nicklaus’ Orlando Legacy

Grand Cypress Golf Club is a masterpiece by Jack Nicklaus, showcasing his architectural brilliance. It features 36 holes of championship golf, offering a top-tier experience for golf lovers. The Links course, recently renovated, boasts improved greens and welcomes everyone. The Florida course, a new design, replaced the old North/South/East courses.

Since its opening in 1984, Grand Cypress has been a top choice for golf in Orlando. Tee times may be more expensive than other places, but the quality of the game makes it worth it. The green fees change with the season and time, showing the course’s high demand and prestige.

Booking your game at Grand Cypress is straightforward. You can book tee times up to 30 days ahead, making it easy to plan your Orlando golf trip.

Grand Cypress Golf Club has served over 675,000 travelers and booked more than 2,200,000 rounds. It remains a key spot in Orlando’s lively golf scene.

Tranquilo Golf Club: Luxury Golfing at Four Seasons Orlando

Tranquilo Golf Club at Four Seasons Resort Orlando presents a top-tier golfing experience. It boasts a 4.6 rating from 222 reviews, highlighting its excellence. The course, revamped in 2014 by Tom Fazio, melds luxury with a challenging layout.

Tom Fazio’s Redesigned Masterpiece

The 2014 redesign by Fazio elevated the course, introducing standout holes that push your limits. With Bermuda grass covering the fairways and greens, the course maintains exceptional conditions all year. Golfers can enjoy twilight play starting at $159, making it a valuable experience.

Unique Topography and Natural Surroundings

Tranquilo is a standout among Orlando’s 50 golf courses for its distinctive terrain. The course navigates through wetlands and Southern Live Oak trees, offering a serene backdrop for golf. Its varied elevation adds a unique challenge to the typically flat landscape of Central Florida.

Exclusive Golfing Experience

As part of the Four Seasons Resort, Tranquilo provides an upscale golfing experience. The clubhouse boasts a bar, grill, and banquet facilities, ensuring a refined atmosphere. A strict dress code maintains a professional vibe. Some golfers believe it surpasses other top courses in Orlando, such as Bay Hill and Grand Cypress.

Southern Dunes Golf Club: Rolling Fairways and Sandy Scrubs

Southern Dunes Golf Club is a standout among Orlando’s public golf courses. Designed by Steve Smyers in 1993, it offers a unique “Dunes” atmosphere. This makes it distinct from other Florida golf experiences.

Just 25 minutes from Orlando, Southern Dunes features rolling fairways through vast sandy scrub areas. This layout challenges yet entertains golfers of all abilities. Its superb putting conditions have been recognized with the Greens of Excellence award.

Regarding membership, Southern Dunes provides various options to meet your golfing lifestyle. Whether it’s daily fee play or an annual membership, there’s a plan for every schedule and budget. Members benefit from preferred tee times and discounts on pro shop items.

The club’s offerings go beyond the course. You’ll find a fully-stocked pro shop, practice facilities, and a clubhouse with dining options. For guests, Southern Dunes offers rental clubs and golf carts for convenience.

Though not in the world’s top 100 courses, Southern Dunes provides a unique golfing experience in Central Florida. Its design, with tall sand ridges and deep sand pockets, mirrors the local landscape. It offers a challenging yet fulfilling round of golf.

Waldorf Astoria Golf Club: Rees Jones’ Orlando Gem

The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club is a premier destination in Orlando’s golf scene. Designed by Rees Jones and Steve Weisser, this 18-hole championship course offers a top-tier golfing experience. It competes with the best in Florida.

The course stretches over 7,108 yards, catering to golfers of all abilities. It features various tee options, each with distinct ratings and slopes. Strategically placed bunkers and lush surroundings challenge players, making the layout both fair and demanding.

The club’s guest policies are inclusive and welcoming. Open to the public, it accepts visitors throughout the year. Tee times range from $45 to $160, with weekday rates from $110 to $130 and weekend rates from $120 to $160.

Aside from its challenging fairways, the club boasts excellent amenities. Golfers can utilize a driving range and putting green. For those aiming to enhance their skills, teaching pros and a golf academy are available.

The views at this Orlando gem are breathtaking. Surrounded by lush greenery, the course offers a serene atmosphere that elevates the golfing experience. Golf Magazine has recognized it as one of the “Top Courses You Can Play.”

Visitors frequently commend the exceptional service, pristine course conditions, and professional staff. The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club has emerged as a top destination, drawing comparisons to elite courses across the U.S. and globally.

Ritz-Carlton Golf Club: Luxury Meets Challenge

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando epitomizes luxury in golf. This elite course hosts the PNC Championship, offering a blend of challenge and refinement. It boasts open landing areas, multiple tee placements, and fast, firm conditions, all maintained to PGA Tour standards.

Greg Norman’s Strategic Design

Designed by golf legend Greg Norman, this course demands your best. It features strategic bunkers and challenging green complexes, testing golfers of all skill levels. With varied tee options, you can adjust the difficulty to suit your game while enjoying the stunning views.

Pristine Everglades Setting

Located in the Florida Everglades, the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club offers a unique setting. Pines, palmettos, and live oaks line the fairways, creating a natural paradise. This pristine environment elevates the golfing experience, making each round unforgettable.

Meticulously Groomed Courses

The course’s maintenance is exemplary. In 2020, it underwent overseeding for the first time in nine years, ensuring superior playing conditions. Tee times are managed to maintain the course’s quality, offering an exclusive experience for each golfer.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club’s luxury comes at a price, but its world-class facilities and natural beauty are worth it for golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re booking tee times for a special event or seeking an exceptional round, this course promises an unforgettable experience.

Hidden Gems: Underrated Public Golf Courses in Orlando

Orlando’s golf scene extends beyond the well-known resorts. It’s home to hidden public courses that blend great value with unique experiences. These hidden gems cater to both locals and tourists, offering affordable options without sacrificing quality.

Winter Park Golf Course is a standout with its rich history and a replay rate of just $7. It’s ideal for a quick, budget-friendly round. Dubsdread Golf Course also offers excellent value, boasting a high rating and reasonable greens fees.

Falcons Fire Golf Club presents a challenge with its 7,000 yards from the back tees. Its green fee details are competitive, making it a great option in the area. When booking your tee time, consider these hidden gems for a unique Orlando golfing experience.

Orlando boasts over 70 public golf courses, each with unique challenges and charms. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these underrated courses provide a chance to enjoy quality golf without the hefty price tag.

Winter Park Golf Course

Nestled north of downtown Orlando, Winter Park Golf Course offers a unique golfing experience. This 9-hole gem, often called WP9, boasts a 2,480-yard layout and par 35. After a $1.2 million renovation in 2016, it was recognized as the 5th Best Short Course in the nation.

WP9 is celebrated for its accessibility and affordable pricing. Rates for 9 holes vary from $17 to $29, depending on residency and day of play. Junior golfers receive discounted rates, making it perfect for family outings. The course is open from dawn till dusk, with hours adjusted for daylight saving time.

For those who play frequently, annual memberships offer great value. Residents pay $1,200, while non-residents pay $2,000. These memberships include greens fees and a 10% discount on pro shop merchandise. Rental options are available for those without equipment, with pull carts, electric carts, and clubs at reasonable rates.

The course features several standout holes that challenge players of all skill levels. Its strategic design ensures quick, enjoyable rounds, ideal for those short on time. The Thor Guard Lightning Prediction and Warning System ensures player safety during inclement weather.

Winter Park Golf Course’s commitment to quality and accessibility has made it a local favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, WP9 offers an enjoyable and affordable golfing experience in the heart of Orlando.

Ventura Country Club Golf Course

Ventura Country Club Golf Course, nestled in Orlando, is a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts. Mark Mahannah designed this semi-private 18-hole course in 1981. It stretches over 6,002 yards with a par of 70. The course, though gated, opens its doors to the public, offering a unique mix of exclusivity and accessibility.

The course features Champion Bermuda Greens, a favorite among PGA Tour events. These greens provide a true roll and consistency, boosting your game. With water on 15 holes and 50 strategic bunkers, the layout challenges golfers of all levels but remains enjoyable.

But golf isn’t the only draw here. The club boasts a swimming pool, tennis courts, and fitness centers. Guest policies are clear, ensuring a smooth experience for all. The clubhouse is perfect for events, hosting everything from corporate gatherings to weddings.

Playing at Ventura offers many perks. With a 4.2 average rating from 1,932 reviews, it’s celebrated for its conditions, value, and layout. The staff, under Director of Golf Josh Bennett, ensures a warm welcome for every golfer.

MetroWest Golf Club

In the heart of Orlando, MetroWest Golf Club presents a premier golfing experience. The course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1987, features an 18-hole championship layout. It challenges and delights golfers across various skill levels.

The design includes rolling fairways and strategic bunkering, earning a 4.2 out of 5 rating from reviewers. With Bermuda 419 Grass fairways and Tiftway II Grass greens, the course maintains excellent conditions throughout the year.

Spanning 7,051 yards from the back tees, the course offers scenic views on each hole. It provides varying tee options, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all players.

• Blue tees: 6,467 yards
• White tees: 5,978 yards
• Red tees: 5,325 yards

Golf Digest Places to Play gave MetroWest a 4 out of 5 stars. Orlando Magazine readers ranked it the top public golf course in the area. The club’s greens were hailed as the “best in the state of Florida” by Golf Digest, enhancing its prestige.

Aside from the course, MetroWest boasts a fully stocked pro shop, practice facilities, and GPS-equipped carts. Its convenient location and outstanding reputation make it a top choice for golf lovers in Orlando.

Comparing Orlando’s Golf Scene to Other Florida Cities

Orlando’s golf scene is unparalleled in Florida, boasting a plethora of public and resort courses. Its storied history in golf is clear at Dubsdread Golf Course, established in 1923. This course, slightly over 6,000 yards long, has been graced by legends like Sam Snead and Ben Hogan.

Orlando excels in offering diverse tee times and greens fees. Options range from the historic Winter Park Golf Course, available almost all year, to the luxurious Shingle Creek Golf Club near the Orange County Convention Center. Tee time bookings here are flexible and varied, unlike other Florida cities.

Orlando’s golf facilities are exceptional. Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club, a mere 25-minute drive from the city, and the Deltona Club, ranked 20th Best Public Course in Florida by GolfWeek Magazine, stand out. These clubs offer top-tier facilities that compete with those in coastal Florida cities.

While St. Augustine has historic courses, Orlando’s golf scene is more diverse. It features championship courses like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and fun mini-golf outings like Hawaiian Rumble. This variety caters to all golf enthusiasts.

Beyond the Course: Orlando’s Golf Culture

Orlando’s golf scene extends beyond its pristine fairways and challenging holes. It’s a city where golf culture thrives, welcoming players at all levels. Here, serious play and leisure seamlessly blend, offering unique experiences. When booking your next round, consider exploring Orlando’s standout holes and diverse course options.

Take Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, for example. It features two courses: The Champion and The Challenger. The latter, an 18-hole PGA Tour venue, challenges your skills on a professional level. For a family golf trip, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club at Grande Lakes offers a great deal. Children and young adults up to 17 can play for free with each paid adult round.

Green fees in Orlando vary, fitting different budgets and preferences. Luxury options like the Waldorf Astoria Golf Club’s 7,108-yard course offer a premium experience. On the other hand, budget-friendly courses like the historic Winter Park Golf Course provide affordable nine-hole rounds. This diversity keeps Orlando’s golf culture inclusive and vibrant, drawing millions of visitors each year to its golfing paradise.