Best Golf Resorts in Florida for a Winter Golf Vacation

Fellow adventurers, it’s Mark here, excited to lead you on this journey!

While your friends back home battle icy windshields and piles of snow, you’re soaking in the warm Florida sun on a lush fairway, the gentle breeze carrying hints of jasmine and freshly mowed grass. Your golf bag rests on your shoulder, the golden light dances across the greens, and your only decision is whether to aim for the pin or play it safe. This isn’t a fantasy—it’s a winter golf escape in Florida, turning cold months into a lively, swing-packed adventure. 

Florida isn’t just a getaway; it’s a golfer’s paradise, home to over 1,000 courses that wind through palm-fringed coasts, ancient oak groves, and restored landscapes that seem sculpted by golfing deities. From legendary championship tracks that have challenged Tiger and Jack to tucked-away gems nestled in pristine wilderness, Florida delivers a vibrant array of golfing thrills wrapped in luxury and bathed in year-round sunshine. Whether you’re ticking off a bucket-list round or craving a family-friendly retreat with top-tier amenities, these resorts will turn your winter golf vacation into a story worth sharing.

General Travel Tips for Your Florida Winter Golfing Getaway

Best Time to Visit: Florida’s winter window—November to April—is pure magic for golfers. Expect daytime highs in the mid-70s°F (20s°C), with low humidity and skies so blue they seem painted on. Rain is rare, but the occasional morning mist only adds to the mystique of an early tee time. Be warned: this is peak season, so resorts buzz with energy, and prices reflect the demand. Holiday weeks like Christmas and Presidents’ Day see the biggest crowds, so plan around them for a quieter escape.

Booking in Advance: Don’t sleep on this one—Florida’s top golf resorts are like front-row concert tickets, snatched up months in advance. Secure your accommodations and tee times 6-9 months out, especially for marquee properties or special events like pro-am tournaments. Many resorts offer stay-and-play packages that bundle rounds, lodging, and perks like spa credits—snap these up early for the best deals.

Packing Essentials:

• Golf Attire: Pack lightweight, breathable polos, shorts, and pants in vibrant colors to match Florida’s bold vibe. Don’t forget grippy golf shoes—some courses have dewy mornings.
• Layers: Days are balmy, but evenings in northern Florida can dip into the 50s°F (10s°C). A stylish sweater or windbreaker keeps you comfortable for post-round cocktails.
• Sun Protection: The Florida sun doesn’t mess around, even in winter. Slather on SPF 50, sport a wide-brimmed hat, and wear polarized sunglasses to cut through the glare on water hazards.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes love Florida’s waterways, especially at dawn or dusk. A small bottle of DEET or picaridin is your best friend.
• Swimsuit & Resort Wear: Resorts boast pools, hot tubs, and beaches that beg for a dip. Pack flip-flops and a cover-up for seamless transitions from fairway to poolside.
• Golf Gadgets: A rangefinder or GPS watch can elevate your game on unfamiliar courses. Don’t forget a portable phone charger for long days on the links.

Transportation: A rental car is your ticket to freedom, letting you hop between courses, explore local eateries, or venture to nearby attractions like Miami’s art scene or St. Augustine’s historic streets. Resorts often have shuttles for on-property travel, but for off-site adventures, ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft are perfect, especially if you’re toasting your birdie with a mojito.

Hydration & Snacks: Florida’s humidity sneaks up on you, even in winter. Carry a reusable water bottle and toss in some electrolyte packets for long rounds. Stash energy bars or trail mix in your bag for a quick boost between holes.

Safety Tip: Florida’s resorts are safe havens, but use the hotel safe for passports, jewelry, or extra cash. When exploring off-resort, stick to well-lit areas in tourist hotspots and keep your wits about you in bustling spots like South Beach.

Read more: Best Family Resorts in Florida for Orthodox Christmas 2026

The Resorts: Your Winter Golfing Havens

1. Streamsong Resort, Bowling Green

Driving through central Florida’s undulating hills, you’ll swear you’ve stumbled into a Scottish moorland. Streamsong Resort is a surreal masterpiece, carved from a former phosphate mine where ancient dunes and wild grasses now cradle three world-class courses: Red (Coore-Crenshaw), Blue (Tom Doak), and Black (Gil Hanse). Each course feels alive, with bold bunkers, rippling fairways, and greens that demand creativity. The Red’s par-3 7th, with its punchbowl green, is a love letter to golf’s golden age.

The resort itself is a modern marvel—sleek lodges with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the lunar-like landscape. After your round, sink into the AcquaPietra spa’s mineral pools, where warm water melts away every errant swing. Cast a line in the resort’s bass-filled lakes for a serene afternoon, or savor a grass-fed steak at SottoTerra, where farm-to-table dishes taste like Florida’s heartland. At night, gather around the rooftop firepit, swapping stories under a starlit sky.

Travel Tip (For the Avid Golfer/Solo Traveler): Streamsong’s walking-only ethos and caddie program bring you closer to the game’s soul. Hire a caddie—they’ll read greens like a poet and share tales of the land’s mining past. Solo travelers will love the resort’s intimate vibe, with communal dining options that spark new friendships.

Food Recommendation: The bone-in grouper at Restaurant Fifty-Nine is a must, paired with a craft cocktail infused with local citrus. It’s Florida on a plate.

Read more: 17 Best Fort Lauderdale Resorts, Florida

2. TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach

Stepping onto the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass is like walking into a golf cathedral. Home to THE PLAYERS Championship, this Pete Dye masterpiece is hallowed ground, where every fairway hums with history. The par-3 17th—golf’s most famous island green—will test your nerve, its tiny target surrounded by water and the weight of a million dreams. But every hole here, from the dogleg 12th to the brutal 18th, tells a story of triumph and heartbreak.

The resort wraps you in luxury, with stay-and-play packages that put you steps from the iconic clubhouse. Sip a bourbon in the Nineteen bar, where photos of past champions line the walls, or take a guided tour to hear tales of Nicklaus, Woods, and McIlroy. Off the course, stroll Ponte Vedra’s beaches or explore Jacksonville’s craft breweries for a taste of local life.

Travel Tip (For the Bucket-List Golfer): Tee times on the Stadium Course vanish faster than a well-struck drive. Book 9-12 months out, ideally mid-week, to dodge peak crowds. Pair your round with the Dye’s Valley Course for a less intense but equally scenic challenge. Don’t skip the clubhouse tour—it’s a history lesson that’ll give you chills.

Local Etiquette: Dress sharp and respect the course’s legacy. Silence your phone and repair your divots—this is sacred turf.

Read more: Top 10 Best Resorts in Florida for Burns Supper Getaway 

3. PGA National Resort, Palm Beach Gardens

PGA National is where legends are forged. The Champion Course, home to the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic, is a beast, with the infamous Bear Trap (holes 15-17) lurking like a golfing gauntlet. The par-3 17th, with its water-guarded green, has broken hearts and scorecards alike. Yet, the course’s beauty—lush fairways framed by palms and shimmering lakes—makes every struggle worth it.

Fresh off a $100 million renovation, the resort blends sleek modernity with golf’s storied past. Unwind in the spa’s eucalyptus steam room, where sore muscles meet their match, or dine at The Butcher’s Club, where dry-aged steaks pair perfectly with a bold cabernet. With five other courses, including the Palmer and Fazio, there’s variety to keep you swinging all week.

Travel Tip (For Golf Enthusiasts & Couples): Warm up on the Match or Squire course before tackling the Champion’s teeth. Couples will love the spa’s couples’ suites and the poolside cabanas for lazy afternoons. Book a lesson at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy to fine-tune your swing—pros here have coached major winners.

Specific Activity Suggestion: Hit the resort’s sports bar, Ironwood, for craft beers and live PGA Tour action on massive screens.

Read more: 20 Best Panama City Beach Resorts, Florida

4. The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples

Picture this: you’re on the Gold Course at Tiburón Golf Club, a Greg Norman design where palm trees sway and water hazards gleam like sapphires. The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples is a love letter to luxury, with two courses—Gold and Black—that weave through wetlands and dunes. The Black’s par-5 18th, with its dramatic elevation changes, feels like a grand finale to an unforgettable round.

The resort’s elegance is unmatched, with suites overlooking fairways and sparkling water features. The spa’s citrus-infused treatments rejuvenate you for another 18 holes, while the complimentary shuttle to the nearby Ritz-Carlton beach resort opens up a world of sugar-sand shores and turquoise waves. In Naples, sunset cocktails at Gumbo Limbo, with its oceanfront views, are a romantic ritual you won’t want to miss.

Travel Tip (For Luxury Seekers & Couples): Use the shuttle to spend a day at the beach resort, where you can lounge by the Gulf or try paddleboarding. For a romantic evening, dine at The Grill, where lobster tail and key lime pie create a perfect Florida night. Book a couples’ massage for ultimate relaxation.

Transportation Advice: The resort’s shuttles handle on-property travel, but for exploring Naples’ chic Fifth Avenue South or nearby beaches, a quick Uber ride is your best bet.

Read more: 101 Fun Things to Do in Orlando, Florida With Kids & Family

5. Innisbrook Golf Resort, Palm Harbor

The Copperhead Course at Innisbrook is a PGA Tour legend, hosting the Valspar Championship amid rolling hills and towering oaks. Its par-5 14th, dubbed “The Snake,” slithers through hazards that demand precision. Yet, the course’s beauty—lakes reflecting the sky, fairways framed by Spanish moss—makes every challenge a joy. With three other courses (Island, North, and South), there’s a layout for every mood and skill level.

The resort feels like a lush retreat, with villas nestled among pines and a golf academy where PGA pros unlock your potential. After your round, dive into one of six pools or dine at Packard’s Steakhouse, where the ribeye is as bold as your driver off the tee. Family-friendly activities like tennis and kids’ camps make this a haven for all.

Travel Tip (For Skill Improvement & Family): Enroll in a half-day golf clinic at the Innisbrook Golf Academy—your swing will thank you. Families can enjoy the Lochness Monster Pool, complete with slides and waterfalls, while you chase par. Book a villa for extra space and home-like comfort.

Hidden Gem: A short drive to Tarpon Springs’ Sponge Docks offers a taste of Greek culture, with baklava and seafood at spots like Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill.

Read more: 12 Best Islamorada Resorts, Florida

6. Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Palm Coast

The Ocean Course at Hammock Beach is a Jack Nicklaus masterpiece where Atlantic waves crash just beyond the fairways. Holes like the par-4 9th, perched on a dune, challenge your game and dazzle your senses with ocean views. The wind is your dance partner here, adding drama to every shot. The Conservatory Course, with its cascading waterfalls, is equally stunning.

Beachfront suites offer balconies where you can sip morning coffee to the sound of the sea. The spa’s seaweed wraps and hot stone massages are pure bliss, while the multi-level pool complex feels like a tropical playground. Dine at Atlantic Grille for shrimp tacos and ocean breezes that make every bite unforgettable.

Travel Tip (For Coastal Views & Relaxation): Pack wind-resistant gear for the Ocean Course’s exposed holes. Spend a lazy afternoon at the pool’s swim-up bar or indulge in a spa treatment with seaweed harvested from Florida’s coast. Sunset walks on the beach are a must.

Food Recommendation: The Loggerhead Bar’s conch fritters and mango mojitos capture the coastal vibe perfectly.

7. Trump National Doral Miami

The Blue Monster at Trump National Doral is a golfing titan, its name earned through decades of humbling the pros. With water hazards on 14 holes and fairways that punish wayward shots, it’s a thrilling test. Three other courses—Gold, Red, and Silver—offer variety, while recent renovations have elevated the resort to new heights of luxury.

The buzzing clubhouse is a golfer’s social hub, with craft cocktails at Champions Bar & Grill. The spa’s golfer-specific massages target your shoulders and back, prepping you for another round. Miami’s electric energy is a short drive away, from South Beach’s nightlife to Wynwood’s vibrant street art.

Travel Tip (For the Social Golfer & City Explorer): Plan a night out in Miami’s Little Havana for Cuban coffee and live salsa music. The resort’s proximity to Miami International Airport makes it a breeze for quick getaways. Book a cabana for poolside luxury between rounds.

Specific Activity Suggestion: Explore Doral’s growing food scene—try La Carreta for authentic Cuban sandwiches and a taste of Miami’s soul.

Read more: 30 Best Florida Beach Resorts

8. Reunion Resort & Golf Club, Kissimmee

Reunion Resort is a golfing trifecta, with courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Jack Nicklaus. Palmer’s course rewards bold drives, Watson’s demands strategy, and Nicklaus’s tests precision. Each hole feels like a personal challenge from a legend. The resort’s villas are perfect for families, with full kitchens and sprawling patios.

The water park and lazy river keep kids entertained, while the rooftop Eleven restaurant serves up steak and skyline views. Orlando’s theme parks—Disney and Universal—are just minutes away, making this a multi-generational hit.

Travel Tip (For Families & Multi-Generational Trips): Book a villa to save on dining with home-cooked meals. Buy theme park tickets online for discounts and skip-the-line perks. The resort’s bike rentals make exploring the property a fun family adventure.

Budget Travel Tip: Use the villa’s kitchen for breakfast and snacks to cut costs, leaving room for a splurge at Eleven’s rooftop bar.

9. Omni Amelia Island Resort

On Amelia Island, golf meets the sea. The Oak Marsh Course at Omni Amelia Island Resort winds through salt marshes and maritime forests, with the par-3 9th offering ocean views that steal your breath. The course’s tight fairways and tricky greens demand focus, but the island’s charm makes every shot a pleasure.

Oceanfront rooms let you wake to the sound of waves, while the spa’s palmetto-inspired treatments soothe your soul. Bike along the island’s trails, kayak through mangroves, or stroll Fernandina Beach’s historic streets for a dose of Southern charm.

Travel Tip (For Nature Lovers & Relaxation): Rent a kayak for a guided marsh tour to spot herons and dolphins. The resort’s beach is perfect for shell-hunting or a barefoot sunset walk. Book a spa day for the ultimate recharge.

Hidden Gem: Fernandina Beach’s Centre Street is a treasure trove of boutiques, galleries, and cafés like Timoti’s Seafood Shak.

Read more: 13 Best Sanibel Island Resorts, Florida

10. World Golf Village, St. Augustine

World Golf Village is a golfer’s mecca, home to the World Golf Hall of Fame and two legendary courses: King & Bear (designed by Nicklaus and Palmer) and Slammer & Squire (inspired by Snead and Sarazen). The King & Bear’s par-4 15th, with its island fairway, is a heart-pounding highlight. The Hall of Fame is a journey through golf’s history, with exhibits that bring legends to life.

St. Augustine’s cobblestone streets and 450-year-old history add depth to your trip. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos or take a ghost tour for a spooky thrill. The resort’s rustic charm and modern comforts make it a perfect base.

Travel Tip (For History Buffs & Golf Historians): Spend a full morning at the Hall of Fame, testing your swing on vintage clubs. In St. Augustine, dine at The Floridian for farm-to-table Southern fare and wander St. George Street for history and charm.

Cultural Immersion: Sip sangria at Casa Monica’s Cobalt Lounge, surrounded by Spanish colonial vibes.

Conclusion

As the Florida sun dips below the horizon, casting an orange-pink glow over the fairways, you’ll feel the magic of a winter golf escape. Florida’s blend of championship courses, luxurious resorts, and endless sunshine turns a getaway into a story you’ll tell for years. Whether you’re battling the Bear Trap, soaking in ocean views, or walking in the footsteps of golf’s greats, these resorts deliver unforgettable moments.

The key to an epic Florida golf vacation is early planning. Tee times and rooms at these premier resorts book up fast during winter, so lock in your spot 6-9 months ahead. With a little foresight, you’ll trade snow for sand traps and create memories that outshine even the Sunshine State’s brightest days.

Disclaimer: Always check the latest travel advisories, visa requirements, and health guidelines from official government sources before planning your trip.

FAQs

Is Florida good for a winter golf holiday?

Absolutely — with mild, sunny weather and world-class courses, it’s a top winter escape for golf lovers 🏌️‍♂️.

Are these resorts suitable for non-golfers too?

Yes — most feature spas, pools, beaches, and dining for non-golfing partners and families.

Which Florida golf resort is the most famous?

TPC Sawgrass is legendary for its iconic 17th hole, while PGA National is a favourite for tour events.

When’s the best time to golf in Florida during winter?

December to March offers cool mornings, sunny afternoons, and dry conditions perfect for a round.

Do these resorts offer golf packages?

Many do — with inclusive rounds, golf carts, spa treatments, and dining credits. Check each resort’s 2025 offers.