Golf can be an intimidating sport for newcomers, but Florida is packed with courses that are welcoming and ideal for beginners. Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or refining your skills, these beginner-friendly courses across Florida offer accessible layouts, affordable pricing, and a relaxed atmosphere to help you enjoy the game. Here’s our guide to some of the best golf courses in Florida for new players.
1. Winter Park Golf Course (Winter Park)
Overview: This charming, 9-hole course in the heart of Winter Park is perfect for beginners. With a straightforward layout, affordable rates, and a relaxed atmosphere, Winter Park Golf Course is a great place to practice.
Highlights: The course is walkable and doesn’t require advanced skills, making it ideal for new golfers. Its location in a scenic neighborhood adds to the charm, and rounds are relatively quick.
Tips: Weekdays are quieter and allow for more relaxed play. Consider starting with a 9-hole round to ease into the game without committing to a full 18 holes.
2. The Links at Greenfield Plantation (Bradenton)
Overview: Known for its friendly atmosphere and accommodating staff, The Links at Greenfield Plantation offers an enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.
Highlights: The course layout includes wide fairways and minimal hazards, which helps beginners build confidence. It also has forgiving rough areas, making it easier to recover from wayward shots.
Tips: Take advantage of the affordable twilight rates. Greenfield Plantation also offers lessons if you’re looking to improve your swing with some professional guidance.
3. Largo Golf Course (Largo)
Overview: This executive course is short and straightforward, perfect for beginners who want to work on their game without the challenge of a full-length course.
Highlights: With only 18 par-3 and par-4 holes, Largo Golf Course provides a faster pace and an excellent opportunity to practice short game skills.
Tips: Play during the week for a less crowded experience, allowing you to take your time and enjoy each hole. The course also offers affordable rental clubs for those without their own equipment.
4. Fairwinds Golf Course (Fort Pierce)
Overview: Designed with the novice in mind, Fairwinds Golf Course has a laid-back atmosphere and affordable rates. It’s part of the St. Lucie County parks system, so it’s popular among locals.
Highlights: The course is walkable, and each hole is well-marked, helping new players navigate with ease. The friendly staff is known for helping beginners feel welcome.
Tips: Fairwinds has an on-site practice range, so arrive early to warm up. Look out for local discounts, especially if you’re a Florida resident.
5. Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne (Miami)
Overview: Crandon Golf offers a beautiful, relaxed environment on Key Biscayne, just a short drive from downtown Miami. The course is friendly to newer players while still being scenic.
Highlights: The wide fairways and open layout make it forgiving for beginners. With its beautiful ocean views and tropical setting, this course provides a unique golfing experience.
Tips: Book a tee time in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. While Crandon is scenic, it’s also quiet during off-peak hours, allowing new golfers to enjoy a relaxed pace.
6. Palm Beach Par 3 (Palm Beach)
Overview: This 18-hole par-3 course is a hidden gem for beginners in Florida. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, it offers stunning water views and a short, manageable layout.
Highlights: With holes ranging from 60 to 210 yards, it’s a great place for golfers to improve their short game without facing the challenges of a longer course.
Tips: Because it’s a shorter course, beginners can complete a round in less time than a standard course. This course is also less expensive than many others in Palm Beach, making it a budget-friendly choice.
7. Cypress Head Golf Club (Port Orange)
Overview: Cypress Head is a semi-private course designed by Arthur Hills that provides an approachable experience for beginners without sacrificing quality.
Highlights: The course has forgiving fairways and few water hazards, allowing new players to focus on developing their swing without the pressure of high-risk shots.
Tips: Cypress Head often runs beginner-friendly clinics and group lessons, so check the schedule if you’re interested in improving your skills with guidance from a pro.
8. Orange County National Golf Center (Orlando)
Overview: Known for its excellent practice facilities, Orange County National is a popular spot for new golfers in the Orlando area.
Highlights: The facility has a 9-hole executive course called the Tooth Course, perfect for beginners. Orange County National also offers one of the largest driving ranges in the state.
Tips: Spend some time at the practice facility before heading to the course. They offer affordable group lessons, so consider signing up for extra guidance if you’re just starting out.
9. St. Johns Golf Club (St. Augustine)
Overview: This county-owned course offers a relaxed atmosphere and is known for being beginner-friendly with reasonable rates and a welcoming staff.
Highlights: St. Johns has a flat, forgiving layout, and the course is walkable. It’s a great spot for casual play without the pressure of more challenging, high-end courses.
Tips: Play during the week if you’re looking for a quieter experience. The clubhouse also has a pro shop with gear available for purchase or rental if needed.
10. Sandridge Golf Club (Vero Beach)
Overview: Sandridge Golf Club offers two courses, the Lakes and the Dunes, both of which provide an enjoyable experience for new players while still offering a few challenges.
Highlights: The Dunes Course has fewer water hazards, which can be helpful for beginners. Sandridge also has a welcoming atmosphere and is popular with the local community.
Tips: Both courses are walkable, which can be a great way to enjoy the Florida scenery. Sandridge also offers clinics for beginners looking to learn the basics.
Tips for New Golfers in Florida
Start Small: Consider starting with 9-hole or par-3 courses, which allow you to focus on your swing and short game without committing to a full 18 holes.
Check for Clinics and Lessons: Many of these courses offer beginner clinics or group lessons, which are excellent ways to learn the fundamentals and improve quickly.
Book Off-Peak Times: Weekdays or twilight hours are often less crowded, allowing you to take your time and enjoy a relaxed pace.
Rent Equipment if Needed: Don’t worry if you don’t have your own clubs; many beginner-friendly courses offer affordable rentals.
Stay Hydrated and Wear Sun Protection: Florida’s sun can be intense, so remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to keep cool on the course.
Conclusion
Florida offers a wide range of beginner-friendly golf courses, each with unique features and welcoming atmospheres that make them ideal for new players. From scenic par-3 courses to laid-back community courses, there’s something here for every level of beginner. So grab your clubs, book a tee time, and enjoy exploring the Sunshine State’s best beginner courses as you build your skills and love for the game!