What Are The Best Golf Courses In The St. Augustine Area?
So you’re a golf enthusiast looking to tee off in the St. Augustine area, huh? Well, you’re in luck! This article is here to guide you through some of the best golf courses this beautiful region has to offer. From stunning views to challenging fairways, you’ll find everything you need in these remarkable greens. So grab your clubs, put on your golfing attire, and get ready for an unforgettable experience on the lush courses of St. Augustine.
Public Golf Courses
If you’re looking for some great golfing options in the St. Augustine area, you’re in luck! There are several fantastic public golf courses that offer beautiful views, challenging holes, and a memorable golfing experience. Let’s take a closer look at three of the best public golf courses in the area.
St. Johns Golf Club
St. Johns Golf Club is a popular public course located just north of St. Augustine. This course features 18 holes of well-maintained fairways and greens, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. With a mix of challenging and more forgiving holes, St. Johns Golf Club is suitable for players of all skill levels. The friendly staff and reasonably priced green fees make this course a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The King and Bear
Designed by legendary golfers Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, The King and Bear is a must-play course for golf enthusiasts. This unique course combines elements from both players’ design styles, creating a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the World Golf Village, The King and Bear offers spectacular views and meticulously maintained greens. Be prepared to bring your A-game, as this course will test your skills and strategy.
The Slammer & Squire
Adjacent to The King and Bear, The Slammer & Squire is another exceptional public golf course. Designed to honor golf legends Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen, this course offers a blend of interesting challenges and strategic play. The Slammer & Squire showcases stunning views of the surrounding lakes and wetlands, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting for your round. With its well-maintained fairways and greens, this course provides an enjoyable and rewarding golfing experience for players of all levels.
Private Golf Clubs
If you’re a serious golfer looking for an exclusive and luxurious experience, St. Augustine is home to several private golf clubs that offer top-notch facilities and impeccable service. Here are three private golf clubs that consistently receive high praises from members.
The Palencia Club
Nestled within the scenic Palencia community, The Palencia Club offers an unrivaled golfing experience for its members. Designed by renowned golf course architect Arthur Hills, this private course features a challenging layout with strategic bunkers and water hazards. The Palencia Club also boasts a state-of-the-art clubhouse and practice facilities, ensuring that members have access to all the amenities they need to improve their game and relax after a round.
The Golf Club at South Hampton
The Golf Club at South Hampton is another exclusive private club that provides an exceptional golfing experience. This Clyde Johnston-designed course presents a variety of challenges, including strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens. Members of The Golf Club at South Hampton also enjoy access to a well-appointed clubhouse, a pro shop, and a practice facility equipped with a driving range and putting greens. With its impeccable course conditions and attentive staff, this private club offers a truly elevated golfing experience.
Marsh Creek Country Club
Nestled alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, Marsh Creek Country Club offers a stunning and serene setting for its members. The Tom Fazio-designed course at Marsh Creek Country Club features meticulously manicured fairways and greens, surrounded by beautiful marshlands and towering oak trees. Members enjoy exclusive access to the clubhouse, dining facilities, tennis courts, and a variety of social events throughout the year. With its impeccable service and breathtaking views, Marsh Creek Country Club is a highly sought-after private club in St. Augustine.
Resort Golf Courses
For those looking to combine their love of golf with a relaxing getaway, St. Augustine offers several resort golf courses that provide an unforgettable golfing experience coupled with top-notch accommodations and amenities. Here are three resort courses that are sure to impress golf enthusiasts.
World Golf Village – The Resort Course
As part of the renowned World Golf Village, The Resort Course is a must-play destination for golfers visiting St. Augustine. This beautifully designed course, crafted by renowned golf course architect Bobby Weed, offers a challenging and picturesque golfing experience. Featuring rolling terrain and well-placed hazards, The Resort Course is known for its strategic play. After a round, golfers can enjoy the world-class amenities and accommodations available at the World Golf Village, including the World Golf Hall of Fame and the luxurious Renaissance Resort.
World Golf Village – The King & Bear
Another gem within the World Golf Village, The King & Bear stands out as the only course jointly designed by golfing legends Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. This collaborative effort resulted in a course that combines breathtaking beauty with a formidable challenge. The King & Bear showcases the distinctive design characteristics of both Palmer and Nicklaus, offering a thrilling golfing experience. Players can expect strategically placed bunkers, undulating fairways, and well-manicured greens as they navigate their way through this exceptional course.
The Renaissance Resort – Slammer and Squire Course
Located within the luxurious Renaissance Resort, the Slammer and Squire Course offers a unique golfing experience. Designed by renowned golf course architect Bobby Weed, this course pays homage to golf legends Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen, who were known as “The Slammer” and “The Squire,” respectively. The Slammer and Squire Course features a challenging layout with water hazards, beautifully landscaped fairways, and impressive bunkering. After a round, golfers can unwind at the Renaissance Resort, which offers luxurious accommodations, a relaxing spa, and delectable dining options.
Links-style Golf Courses
For those who crave the experience of playing on courses that emulate the classic links-style design found in Scotland and Ireland, St. Augustine offers several exceptional options. Here are three links-style golf courses that will transport you across the Atlantic and provide a truly authentic golfing experience.
St. Johns Golf & Country Club
St. Johns Golf & Country Club is a links-style course that captures the essence of traditional Scottish and Irish golf courses. With its rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and natural surroundings, this course offers a unique and challenging golfing experience. The St. Johns Golf & Country Club also features excellent practice facilities, including a driving range and putting greens, allowing golfers to warm up and hone their skills before heading out to the first tee.
Marsh Creek Country Club
Marsh Creek Country Club not only offers a private club experience but also showcases a links-style course that will transport you to the fairways of Scotland. This meticulously maintained course features wide fairways, deep bunkers, and windswept dunes, replicating the challenges found on traditional links courses. Golfers will appreciate the strategic shot-making required to navigate this magnificent course successfully. With its stunning vistas and authentic links-style design, Marsh Creek Country Club provides a memorable and enjoyable golfing experience.
The Palencia Club
The Palencia Club is not only known for its impeccable course conditions but also for providing golfers with an authentic links-style course. Designed by golf course architect Arthur Hills, this course incorporates elements that evoke the feeling of playing on a traditional Scottish or Irish links course. The Palencia Club boasts wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging greens, providing an enjoyable and challenging experience for golfers of all levels. As you traverse this picturesque course, you’ll truly feel as though you’ve been transported to the birthplace of golf.
Oceanfront Golf Courses
What could be better than combining your love for golf with breathtaking views of the ocean? St. Augustine is home to several oceanfront golf courses that offer a truly unique and picturesque golfing experience. Here are three courses that will make your golfing dreams come true as you play along the stunning coastline.
Squire’s Oceanfront Course
The Squire’s Oceanfront Course is a true gem located right along the coast. This stunning course combines challenging golf with panoramic ocean views, creating an unforgettable golfing experience. As you navigate through the course, you’ll encounter strategically placed water hazards, high dunes, and rolling fairways. The Squire’s Oceanfront Course ensures that golfers are not only tested on their skills but also treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.
Marsh Creek Country Club
Not only does Marsh Creek Country Club offer a links-style golf course, but it also provides golfers with the opportunity to enjoy sweeping ocean views. This exclusive private club boasts a location alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, offering stunning vistas of the ocean from several holes. As you tackle the challenging layout of the course, you’ll be captivated by the sheer beauty of your surroundings. Marsh Creek Country Club truly provides a golfing experience that seamlessly combines natural splendor with exceptional golf.
St. Johns Golf & Country Club
St. Johns Golf & Country Club not only offers a links-style course but also grants golfers the chance to soak in mesmerizing ocean views. This scenic course features several holes that run parallel to the coast, providing players with constant glimpses of the sparkling Atlantic waters. As you swing your way through this beautiful layout, you’ll be enchanted by the soothing sounds of crashing waves and the refreshing ocean breeze. Playing at St. Johns Golf & Country Club ensures that you’ll have a golfing experience that is as scenic as it is challenging.
Traditional Parkland Courses
For golfers who appreciate the classic beauty and tranquility of parkland-style courses, St. Augustine offers several exceptional options. Here are three traditional parkland courses that will transport you to a golfing oasis filled with lush fairways, towering trees, and peaceful surroundings.
The Palencia Club
The Palencia Club not only offers a links-style course but also presents golfers with a traditional parkland layout. This Arthur Hills-designed course showcases meticulously maintained fairways and greens, framed by beautiful forests and natural landscaping. The Palencia Club provides strategic challenges, including well-placed hazards and dogleg holes that require precise shot-making. With its serene ambiance and stunning vistas, this parkland-style course creates a golfing experience that is as enjoyable as it is picturesque.
The Golf Club at South Hampton
The Golf Club at South Hampton is another extraordinary parkland course in St. Augustine. Nestled amidst beautiful oak trees and rolling terrain, this Clyde Johnston-designed course offers golfers an idyllic setting for their round. The course boasts wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens, providing golfers with the opportunity to showcase their skills and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The Golf Club at South Hampton ensures that golfers can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in a serene and traditional golf experience.
The King and Bear
While The King and Bear is well-known for its challenging design, it also incorporates elements of a traditional parkland-style course. As you traverse this striking layout designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, you’ll be enchanted by the park-like setting that surrounds you. The King and Bear showcases towering pines, lush fairways, and pristine natural beauty, inviting golfers to embrace the serenity and tranquility of the course. With its classic design and breathtaking scenery, this course provides a golfing experience that is both captivating and memorable.
Challenging Championship Courses
For golfers seeking a true test of their skills, St. Augustine offers several challenging championship courses that will put their abilities to the ultimate test. Here are three courses in the area that are known for their difficulty and championship caliber.
The King and Bear
The King and Bear, designed by the golfing legends Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, stands out as one of the most challenging championship courses in St. Augustine. This formidable course features long fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and demanding greens that require precision and strategic shot-making. The layout of The King and Bear is known for its difficult design, providing a true championship-caliber experience. Golfers who are up for the challenge will find no shortage of excitement and thrill as they tackle this exceptional course.
The Slammer & Squire
Adjacent to The King and Bear, The Slammer & Squire also offers a challenging championship course in St. Augustine. Named in honor of golf legends Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen, this course features a demanding layout that tests even the most accomplished golfers. With its intricate design, well-protected greens, and strategically placed hazards, The Slammer & Squire forces players to bring their A-game to succeed. The championship-level experience provided by this course ensures that golfers will be pushed to their limits and rewarded with a truly memorable round.
World Golf Village – The Resort Course
As part of the renowned World Golf Village, The Resort Course is another championship-caliber course that sets the bar high for golfers. This meticulously maintained course designed by Bobby Weed offers a challenging layout that demands precision and strategic shot selection. Golfers will encounter water hazards, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens that require careful navigation. With its impeccable conditions and challenging design, The Resort Course ensures that players will be tested on every swing, providing a truly rewarding championship experience.
Scenic Golf Courses
If you’re looking to combine your love of golf with stunning natural landscapes, St. Augustine offers several scenic golf courses that will take your breath away. Here are three courses known for their picturesque beauty and awe-inspiring surroundings.
Marsh Creek Country Club
Marsh Creek Country Club not only provides an exceptional golfing experience but also showcases breathtaking natural scenery. With its location alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, this private club offers stunning views of the marshlands and surrounding water. As you play your round, you’ll be captivated by the serene beauty of the landscape and the abundant wildlife that call Marsh Creek home. From the lush fairways to the majestic oak trees, every aspect of the course at Marsh Creek Country Club is designed to complement the natural beauty of the area.
The Palencia Club
The Palencia Club not only offers a challenging golf course but also presents golfers with a truly scenic setting. This Arthur Hills-designed course features lush fairways, rolling terrain, and picturesque lakes that enhance the beauty of the course. As you navigate through the challenges of the layout, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including manicured gardens and preserved natural areas. The Palencia Club ensures that golfers not only enjoy a rewarding round but also revel in the picturesque beauty that surrounds them.
The Slammer & Squire
Adjacent to the World Golf Hall of Fame, The Slammer & Squire not only provides an exceptional golfing experience but also offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding lakes and wetlands. This beautiful course showcases natural beauty with its well-manicured fairways, lush greenery, and breathtaking water features. From the first tee to the final putt, you’ll be inspired by the stunning vistas and tranquil ambiance that accompany your round at The Slammer & Squire.
Historic Golf Courses
For golfers who appreciate the rich history and heritage of the game, St. Augustine is home to several historic golf courses that allow you to step back in time and experience the golfing traditions of the past. Here are three courses that will transport you to a bygone era and immerse you in the history of the game.
World Golf Village – The King & Bear
The King & Bear at the World Golf Village is not only a challenging course but also rich in history. Designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, this course pays homage to the game’s legendary figures. As you play your round, you’ll be reminded of the accomplishments and contributions made by Palmer and Nicklaus to the world of golf. The King & Bear stands as a testament to their legacy, transporting golfers to a time when these icons dominated the sport.
The Renaissance Resort – Slammer and Squire Course
Located within the grounds of The Renaissance Resort, the Slammer and Squire Course is steeped in history. This course is named after Sam Snead, known as “The Slammer,” and Gene Sarazen, known as “The Squire.” As you make your way through each hole, you’ll be reminded of the immense talent and achievements of these golfing legends. The Slammer and Squire Course provides an opportunity to not only play a challenging round of golf but also pay homage to the golfing greats who inspired generations.
St. Johns Golf Club
St. Johns Golf Club is more than just a public course – it is also rich in history. This course has been a favorite among golfers in St. Augustine for many decades. As you play your round, you’ll be following in the footsteps of countless golfers who have enjoyed this course over the years. St. Johns Golf Club provides a glimpse into the past and a chance to experience the game as it was played by previous generations.
Top-Rated Golf Courses
If you’re wondering which golf courses in the St. Augustine area truly stand out from the rest, look no further. Here are three top-rated courses that consistently receive high praise for their exceptional design, well-maintained conditions, and memorable golfing experiences.
The King and Bear
It should come as no surprise that The King and Bear tops the list of top-rated golf courses in St. Augustine. Designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, this course seamlessly blends the design styles of these golfing legends, culminating in a truly remarkable golfing experience. From the challenging layout to the stunning views of the World Golf Village, The King and Bear offers an unforgettable round of golf that consistently exceeds expectations.
The Palencia Club
The Palencia Club is a perennial favorite among golfers in St. Augustine and is known for providing a top-rated golfing experience. Designed by Arthur Hills, this course boasts impeccable conditions and breathtaking views. With its strategic bunkers, undulating greens, and stunning natural beauty, The Palencia Club provides golfers with a challenging and memorable round that keeps them coming back for more.
The Slammer & Squire
Rounding out the list of top-rated golf courses in St. Augustine is The Slammer & Squire. This exceptional course, with its impeccable conditions and stunning surroundings, consistently earns high praise from golfers. Designed to honor golf legends Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen, The Slammer & Squire offers a challenging and picturesque golfing experience that exceeds expectations. Golfers of all skill levels will appreciate the attention to detail and the enjoyable round of golf that this course provides.
In conclusion, the St. Augustine area is home to a wide array of exceptional golf courses that cater to every golfer’s preferences and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a public course, a private club, a resort course, or a top-rated golfing experience, St. Augustine has something for everyone. From the scenic oceanfront courses to the challenging championship layouts, each course in this area offers its unique charms and memorable experiences. So, grab your clubs, head to St. Augustine, and get ready to tee off on some of the best golf courses this charming city has to offer. Happy golfing!
