Travel

“We Built This City on Rock And Ross.” Donald Ross’s imprint on golf-course design has been everlasting. Ross’s love affair with Pinehurst began with his work on the famed No. 2 course at the Pinehurst Resort–a course most experts agree is not only the finest of Ross’s designs, but also among the best ever designed in America. And although he designed or redesigned more than 400 courses (no, that’s not a misprint) in 30 states, Pinehurst remains the single greatest collection of Donald Ross courses you can play, including those at Pinehurst Resort, Pine Needles Lodge and Mid Pines Inn. For a great review on the legend of the Scotland-born Donald Ross, hop online and check out the Donald Ross Society at www.donaldrosssociety.org.

Girl Power. The gals will be back in ’07–Michelle, Cristie, Natalie, Paula and defending champion Annika Sorenstam will put their top games to the ultimate test at Pine Needles, host course for the 2007 Women’s U.S. Open in June. Pine Needles, designed by Donald Ross (but refurbished by John Fought), is a must-play for any golfer coming to Pinehurst. The driving, iron, short and recovery games are all put to the test on this championship-caliber layout. Also, one shouldn’t miss Pine Needles’ slightly older sibling–Mid Pines. It too is among Ross’s most highly acclaimed courses in Pinehurst. And by the way, if you guys aren’t convinced these girls can play, come be humbled and watch the stars of the LPGA. For more information, visit www.uswomensopen.com.

The Big Daddy. Let’s end the confusion. When people refer to “Pinehurst,” the distinction ought to be made between the Pinehurst Resort and the actual town of Pinehurst. Pinehurst Resort is in, well, Pinehurst, N.C. When referring to the Pinehurst area, that also includes the surrounding towns of Southern Pines and Aberdeen. (All three places reside in Moore County.) Pinehurst Resort, however, remains the prima donna of the region, housing some of the most special and monumental courses in the world. There are eight courses here, with the Donald Ross-designed No. 2 garnering the most praise. If you get a chance, play it. If not, play No. 7 and No. 8. Heck, play ’em all if you can! For more on the Pinehurst Resort, check out www.pinehurst.com.

Golf Schools. Since most golfers who visit Pinehurst will be playing several rounds during their stay, it only makes sense to take a lesson or two. Pinehurst is home to several great golf schools, and among the most popular are the John Jacobs Golf School located at Woodlake Resort, the School for Learning Golf at Pine Needles, and lastly, the Golf Advantage School located at Pinehurst Resort. All three will have golfers primed for the rounds of their lives. For more, visit www.jacobsgolf.com, www.golfari.com, www.pinehurst.com/golf_school.asp.

Package Providers. Like a few other popular destinations in the United States, Pinehurst also has its fair share of solid golf-package providers who can take over all the hassles of hotel reservations, tee times and restaurant recommendations. The best way to get started is to browse sites on the Internet. Start with Sandhills (www.sandhillsgolf.com) and you’ll see there’s plenty to choose from. Other popular package providers include GolfPac (www.golfpactravel.com), Condotels (www.condotelsofpinehurst.com) and Pinehurst Golf Trips (www.pinehurstgolftrips.com)._Ê

Old-Time Charm. Opened in 1921, Mid Pines, a Donald Ross-designed layout is a pure classic and significantly hillier and somewhat shorter than its sister course at Pine Needles. Nevertheless, this is the kind of course that’s in vogue, requiring golfers to do more than just bomb drives and hit high approaches. Mid Pines is a true thinker’s course, but it’s designed a bit softer and is more accommodating to the recreational player. In fact, Donald Ross designed this course to be fun first and challenging second. Either way, Mid Pines is a must-play for players of all abilities. It’s a hoot. Visit www.pineneedles-midpines.com.

Side Trippin’. Yes, it’s true. Pinehurst is and always will be a golf destination, and compared to other golf hubs, what’s left to be done between rounds is less than what you’d find at places like Las Vegas or Orlando. Nevertheless, there are a few things to do, if time allows. First, the Campbell House Gallery has a variety of art pieces for sale by local artists. The House in the Horseshoe is an 18th-century plantation home that was formerly a cotton plantation. (The house clearly shows bullet holes resulting from a 1781 skirmish between Whigs and Tories.) Finally, the North Carolina Zoological Park ranks among the top five in North America. Don’t miss it. Links and phone numbers for all three attractions can be found at www.homeofgolf.com.

Good Eats. When it comes to grabbing a bite, look no further than the offerings you’ll find at the Pinehurst Resort. There you’ll find everything that suits a golfer. Beginning with the 1895 Grille, golfers can don their golf apparel and still maintain a gourmet atmosphere. The Tavern is just that–a replica Scottish tavern (with an authentic bar) that serves tasty fare or sandwiches, beverages and other goodies. Other great spots to catch a beer and some food include the 91st Hole, The Ryder Cup Lounge, Donald Ross Grill and the Fairwoods on Seven Dining Room. For an even more in-depth look at the great places to eat at the Pinehurst Resort, visit www.pinehurst.com.

National Pastime. It’s not only Donald Ross who has left his imprint on Pinehurst. The highly touted National Golf Club features the only Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course in the area, making it a must-play for the consummate player. The rolling Sandhills combine with wide fairways and tricky putting greens–both are a departure from the more old-fashioned variety of Donald Ross designs. Nevertheless, National GC is a welcome challenge for golfers accustomed to current, modern-day designs. It’s also a great place to eat, as the Cornerstone Restaurant remains one of the most popular fancy eateries in town. For more, visit www.nationalgolfclub.com.

5 Places To Stay

1. Pinehurst Resort
With three accommodation options available, this grand, stately resort offers something for everyone. Especially those who value Southern hospitality and charm.

2. The Pine Crest Inn
Close to all the area golf courses, the Pine Crest Inn is part of local history. Donald Ross used to own it. Like to sing? Check out Mr. B’s Lounge–the piano gets a workout.

3. Foxfire Golf And Country Club
Two traditional layouts set under the Carolina Sky. One- two- and three-bedroom lake and fairway villas and condos mean you’re never far from the action.

4. Homewood Suites
Less than a mile from Pinehurst Village, this all-suite accommodation is affordably priced. Ask the staff to help with tours._Ê

5. Springhill Suites
With 25 percent more room than a traditional hotel room, SpringHill Suites is the perfect choice for a large group of golfers._Ê

Packages That’ll Save You $$$

1. Donald Ross Package_Ê
Accommodations at Pine Needles or Mid Pines, two rounds of golf per day, breakfast and dinner daily. $290-$380
www.pineneedles-midpines.com

2. Putter Boy Package
Unlimited golf daily on any of Pinehurst Resort’s eight courses, one sleeve of balls and cart, Accommodations, etc. $591-$924
www.pinehurst.com

3. Pinehurst Championship Package
Unlimited championship golf on all eight courses for three days, caddie on #2 with your name on his jersey, etc. $2,006
www.pinehurst.com _Ê

4. Pinehurst Golf Advantage School
A 5:1 student-teacher ratio ensures you get plenty of individual attention._Ê
www.pinehurst.com

5. Foxfire Golf Package
One night lodging, one round with cart on either the East or West Course. $99-$139
www.golffoxfire.com

1. 1936 PGA Championship
Prior to the tournament, the #2 course converts its greens from sand to grass. Danny Shute finishes on top.

2. 1940 North And South Open
27-year-old Ben Hogan, winless in seven years on Tour, finally defeats his demons (and the rest of the field) to capture his first professional victory at Pinehurst’s #2 course. Sam Snead is runner up.

3. 1959 North And South Amateur
19-year-old Columbus, Ohio-native Jack Nicklaus captures one of his biggest tournaments to date. 26 years later, Nicklaus’s son Jackie bests the field at Pinehurst’s #2 to win the same tourney.

4. 1996 U.S. Women’s Open
Annika Sorenstam dominates the field at Pine Needles, shooting eight-under par to capture her second straight U.S. Women’s Open. It’s her last Open victory until 2006, when she wins in a playoff at Newport Country Club in Rhode Island.

5. 1999 U.S. Open
After Payne Stewart drains a 15-foot par putt on the 18th green at Pinehurst’s #2 course to defeat Phil Mickelson, he pumps his fist and leaps into his caddy’s arms. Four months later, Stewart dies in a tragic plane crash. Today his victory celebration is immortalized in bronze at the clubhouse.

6. 2001 U.S. Women’s Open
26-year-old Aussie Karrie Webb becomes the seventh woman to repeat as U.S. Open champ, and blows away the field by eight shots in the process.

7. 2005 U.S. Open
After Gore and Goosen collapse, New Zealander Michael Campbell squeaks out a win over the hard-charging Tiger Woods.

When you head to America’s great Southeast for a golf vacation, you’ll find not only incredible resorts stacked with unforgettable golf, but that vaunted Southern hospitality, too.

CHARLESTON

Let’s start at Fort Sumter near Charleston, South Carolina: The Civil War marks the darkest, most trying period in all of American history. It all began on April 12, 1861, when Confederate artillery opened fire on Fort Sumter. The Union army surrendered the fort less than two days later. Journey by boat into Charleston Harbor and experience the isolation and vulnerability that those soldiers felt when hostilities erupted. A bonus of the trip is a wonderful view of Charleston from the water. For more info, visit www.nps.gov/fosu/.

Middleton Place Plantation–Charleston, SC. Located 14 miles northwest of Charleston, Middleton Place Plantation was established as a rice-planting operation in 1741 by Henry Middleton. The Middleton family quickly rose to prominence in the Low Country and beyond. Henry went on to become president of the First Continental Congress. His son, Arthur, signed the Declaration of Independence. Subsequent generations have occupied the South Carolina statehouse and affixed signatures to the Ordinance of Secession. The Union army burned Middleton Plantation in 1865. Two decades later, the great Charleston earthquake destroyed many of the rebuilt structures. The spectacular gardens on the 60-acre plantation were restored in 1916. Visitors can now look into another era of the heritage of the Low Country. For more info, visit www.middletonplace.org.

HILTON HEAD

The Heritage Classic in this golf-rich South Carolina island not far from Savannah, Georgia, continues to be one of the PGA Tour’s most popular stops.  After the pressure-packed drama of The Masters, golfers, media and fans look forward to  Harbour Town Golf Links, site of the annual event, which was designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus. It’s a tree-lined, quirky test that produces some of the most interesting shotmaking that fans will ever see. The list of champions includes Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Hale Irwin, Greg Norman and local favorite and five-time winner, Davis Love III. For more info, visit www.golfweb.com/tournaments/r012.

While There …

River Street–Savannah, Georgia. Stroll along the cobblestones on one of Colonial America’s most historic thoroughfares. When General James Oglethorpe sailed up the Savannah River from the Atlantic, he made camp here. Today, River Street is a bustling lane of art galleries, boutiques, candy shops and restaurants. History is never more than a few footsteps away. If you visit in the spring, check out the St. Patrick’s Day celebration. For more info, visit www.riverstreetsavannah.com.

The Lady And Sons Restaurant– There’s no shortage of quality restaurants in Savannah, from the kid-themed Pirate House to five-star dining on the oak-lined boulevards. But the city’s best-kept secret is out–in a big way. The Lady and Sons Restaurant, owned by Food Channel personality Paula Deen, is a soulful homage to Southern cuisine with black-eyed peas, fresh green beans, creamy cheese grits and, of course, golden fried chicken and much, much more. And then there’s dessert. Pick up an autographed cookbook on your way out. For more info, visit www.ladyandsons.com.

THE GEORGIA COAST

St. Simon’s Island Lighthouse – St. Simons Island. It’s hard to imagine a time when St. Simons Island, a charming little community of artists, writers and other laid-back types, would have been considered “remote.” Of course, take away the five-mile causeway connecting it to the mainland, and it would be. The first lighthouse on this site went up in 1804 to help facilitate shipping between the mainland and the island. The Confederates later took it and burned it when they pulled out. The Lighthouse as it stands today was completed in 1872. It’s 129 stairs to the top, but the view is worth it.

The Cloister – Sea Island. Over the years, the Cloister has welcomed royalty, heads of state and top athletes and entertainers to its five-mile-long private island. In 2004, the famed hideaway hosted the G8 summit of world leaders. Opened in 1928, the resort’s golf courses, beach club, spa, riding stables and restaurants provide a rare escape from the pace and pressure of the “outside” world. Such luxury comes at a price, but visitors can stroll the grounds and dine in one of the hotel’s legendary restaurants or lounges. For more info, visit www.seaisland.com.

Millionaire’s Village–Jekyll Island — At the start of the 20th century, the isolated enclave of Jekyll Island was winter home to many of the country’s most wealthy industrialists. Social life centered around Millionaire’s Village, where the Vanderbilts, the Cranes, the Morgans, the Pulitzers and others maintained luxurious mansion getaways. Drift from home to home, admiring well-appointed gardens, sweeping ballrooms and magnificent views of the marshes of Glynn County, inspiration to poets for generations. The party at Jekyll Island ended during World War II, when German U-boats reportedly were spotted just off the island’s beaches. The state of Georgia later bought Jekyll Island, and the 240-acre Millionaire’s Village became a National Historic Site. For more info, visit www.nationaltrust.org.

Cumberland Island National Seashore–St. Mary’s When English settlers first came to the Georgia coastal region known as the Golden Isles, they discovered a string of barrier islands that stood between the open sea and the mainland. These islands were rich with timber and wildlife and featured towering dunes, freshwater lakes and miles of white beaches. To get a taste of what the early explorers found, board the National Park Service ferry in the quaint burg of St. Mary’s and take the short ride to Cumberland Island, the southernmost of Georgia’s barrier islands. Wild horses that descended from those early exploration parties still roam the island.

Okefenokee Swamp–Folkston. There’s more to Georgia’s coastal region than beaches. The Okefenokee (“land of the trembling earth”) Swamp, less than a half hour off I-95, is one of the most unique ecosystems in the United States. Canoe along still waterways and search for alligators. Take nature walks or simply enjoy the visitor center and learn about the plant and animal life in this beautiful 438,000-acre watershed. For more info, visit www.fws.gov/okefenokee/.

Sea Island Resort www.seaisland.com
Jekyll Island www.jekyllisland.com
Kiawah Island Resort www.kiawahresort.com
Hilton Head www.hiltonhead.com

5 Great Places To Stay In South Carolina & Georgia

1. Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Offers several options for accommodations, including luxury villas, beachfront rental homes and the ultra-premium Sanctuary Hotel. Five golf courses are on-site.

2. Sea Island Resort
Guests visiting Sea Island can choose from the outrageous Cloister, the ultrapremium Lodge or a private villa. All accommodations at Sea Island are luxurious, but the Cloister is in a class by itself.

3. The Inn At Harbour Town
Located at the Sea Pines Resort on Hilton Head, the Inn features elegantly appointed rooms with custom furnishings and around-the-clock English butler service.

4. The Westin Resort, Hilton Head
Another great option for golfers visiting Hilton Head, the Westin has three championship courses from which to choose.

5. Jekyll Island Club Hotel
Rated among the top 500 resorts in the world, the Club Hotel is as good as it gets.

5 Hidden Gems

1. Cougar Point Golf Club
Everyone thinks of the Ocean Course at Kiawah, but there are five tracks to choose from. This one is a favorite of those in the know. If you’re going to Kiawah, definitely make it your business to play the Cougar.

2. Shadowmoss Plantation
Located on the site of an original Charleston plantation, Shadowmoss features amazing Bermuda fairways and a fantastic natural setting with thick forest and ample water.

3. Bloody Point G.C.
This lesser-known course at Daufuskie Island Resort on Hilton Head is an outstanding Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish design that takes full advantage of coastal scenery.

4. Pine Lakes
Recently redesigned by Clyde Johnson, Pine Lakes is considered by many to be the premier course on Jekyll Island.

5. Sea Island G.C., Plantation Course
Renovated by Rees Jones in 1998, this is a beautiful but challenging parkland design.

5 Things You Need To Know

1. Kiawah Is Right Near Charleston
Some travelers think Kiawah Island is an entity unto itself, but it’s really right near Charleston, SC. A great trip is to enjoy some golf on Kiawah, then drive over to Charleston and check out one of the most beautiful and historic cities in America.

2. The Golden Isles
Off the coast of Georgia there are a group of four barrier islands that make up the famed Golden Isles. Of the four, Jekyll Island, Sea Island and St. Simons Island are the ones you want to visit to play golf, as the fourth, Little St. Simons Island, is more or less private.

3. The Georgia Coast Is A True Golf Destination, Really
The Georgia Coast is more than 100 miles long and has a tremendous number of attractions and activities for the entire family to enjoy, as well as a ton of great golf courses. If you’ve never visited this part of the country, it’s time to plan a trip.

4. Hilton Head’s Got A Lot Of Courses
Hilton Head is obviously best-known for Harbour Town, but Harbour Town is actually part of Sea Pines Resort. The Hilton Head area has more than 30 golf courses to choose from, most of which are pretty darn good.

5. The South Is Charming
We’ve all heard this cliche, but believe it or not, it’s actually true. Even if you’re not a hard-core golfer, the people, food and natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination.

See the Slideshow Here _È

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100+ Golf Courses. The common misperception is that all 100+ courses along the Grand Strand are right on top of each other. Not the case. (It’s not named the Grand Strand for nothing.) From the southern chunk of North Carolina to Georgetown County 20 miles south of Myrtle Beach, the Grand Strand (or as numerologists call it, Hwy. 17) stretches over 60 miles with golf courses that range from the sublime high-end daily fees to cheap munis. It seems there’s literally every type (and price range) available for all kinds of budgets and skill levels. Penny-pinchers will gravitate to courses like Azalea Sands and Diamond Back, while those looking to tackle best-conditioned tracks, such as Barefoot Resort and The Dunes, will pay considerably more. One constant remains: to find the best deals, buy a package. www.mbn.com

Waccamaw Golf Trail. The 12 courses that make up the Waccamaw Golf Trail wind their way through old rice plantations, massive moss-draped oak trees and the black waters of the Waccamaw River. One of the highlights is the 18th hole at Caledonia, Mike Strantz’s low-country gem. The second shot requires a short mid-iron over some serious agua to a green guarded by numerous sand traps. If that doesn’t put a lump in your throat, the dozen or so onlookers relaxing on the nearby clubhouse porch will. Chances are, they’re wagering whether your ball gets wet, sandy or lands on the green stuff._Ê www.waccamawtrail.com/gt

World Amateur Golf Championship. In 2006, more than 3,000 participants from every state and 21 countries flocked to Myrtle Beach for the 23rd annual World Amateur Golf Championship, a four-round, good-natured net golf tournament. Competitors play four rounds of golf (on four different golf courses) and gain admission to the PGA Tour Superstore at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach, site of the world’s largest 19th hole. Hey, where else can you mingle with 3,000 other people who love the game as much as you do? www.worldamgolf.com

Glory Days Alumni Golf Classic. Can’t get enough of your buddies from college? 2007 marks the inaugural year of this four-man, 54-hole Ryder Cup-esque event, which pits alma maters against each other. More than just a chance to relive your glory days, there are some serious bragging rights to be won, plus you can tailgate, down a couple cold ones and win some cool prizes. May 16-20, 2007. www.glorydaysgolf.com

Golfapalooza/Monday After The Masters. Think Masters and you immediately picture Augusta National, azaleas and Amen Corner, but for a lot of people without passes to that hallowed tournament (and for some who do have passes—John Daly made a cameo last year), there’s Golfapalooza, a blowout event that broadcasts the tournament on a jumbotron and features a massive golf equipment demo and competitions. Come Monday, Hootie and the Blowfish host the Monday after the Masters Pro-Am Charity Tournament. No jacket required. www.golfholiday.com/golfapalooza.cfm

Broadway At The Beach. In recent years, most of the nightlife in Myrtle Beach has gravitated to this city walk. Bars, restaurants, stores, cinemas, the Palace Theatre and a wave park for the kids dot the landscape that crisscrosses waterways stocked with ravenous koi. Even KISS, the heavily made-up heavy metal quartet, has its own coffee house. www.broadwayatthebeach.com

Barefoot Landing. Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, this shopping complex brings to mind an old fishing village. Hey, can you name another mall with a 27-acre lake in the middle of it? Tired of polite waiters? Go to Dick’s Last Resort, a cheeky joint where they treat you like a_â”well, rudely. Greg Norman’s Australian Grille doesn’t serve shark, but they do make a mean slow-roasted prime rib. Sink your teeth into the 18-ounce “Shark Cut.” Barefoot is also home to Myrtle Beach’s House of Blues, home of Golfapalooza and Hootie and the Blowfish’s Monday after the Masters Jam. www.bflanding.com

Coastal Federal Field. Longing for the days when athletes played for the love of the game? You know, presteroid/premultimillion dollar contracts? Check out the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the Advanced Class-A Affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. What’s more, they play in an intimate (6,000 capacity) ballpark that was rated the number-two ballpark in the country at the Class-A level. If the seats look familiar, it’s because they’re from the old Fulton County Stadium. www.myrtlebeachpelicans.com

T-Shirts. Myrtle Beach might have the largest T-shirt stores in the country. Up and down the Grand Strand, superstore-sized T-shirt stores rise from the ground like fluorescent-lit airport hangars. There’s literally one (sometimes two) of these behemoths on every block. They aren’t just packed with cotton crewnecks; you can also find beach towels, hats, sunglasses and every other imaginable beach item priced to sell.

When To Go
Year-round accommodations are available. (Late summer through spring is the prime time with premium rates. Low rates are available in winter and early summer.)

5 Places to Stay

1. Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort
Located in the Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island section of the Grand Strand. Perfect when playing the Waccamaw Trail. It’s a great place for an iced tea too.

2. Patricia Grand
With an indoor “lazy river” and proximity to B’way at the Beach, it’s great for families. Plus, all the rooms were recently renovated, so bring your swim trunks and float away.

3. Sheraton Convention Center
The Sheraton hosts the annual World Amateur Golf Championship’s 19th hole and is close to a ton of mini golf courses.

4. Long Bay Oceanfront Resort
There are 286 oceanfront condos, suites and rooms, plus a “Silly Submarine Kiddie Pool.” The course, however, is a stiff test for anyone.

5. Myrtlewood Villas
One-, two- or three-bedroom villas adjacent to the Myrtlewood Golf Club. One mile to Broadway at the Beach, where it seems everyone likes to go on the weekends.

5 Package Deals

1. Tour Trio Golf Package
Three nights in a country club villa and three rounds of golf at Pawleys, Wachesaw East and TPC of Myrtle Beach. $284-$459_Ê
(866) 224-5617, www.tourtriogolf.com

2. The Island Package
Four nights accommodations, golf on Pawleys, The Tradition, Caledonia and True Blue. Plus daily breakfast buffet. $409-$709
(800) 367-9959, www.pawleysplantation.com

3. TPC Myrtle Beach Package
Three nights accommodations, four rounds of golf, breakfast daily, range balls. $306-$479.
(866) 469-7853, www.patriciaresorts.com

4. Play Four Rounds, Get A 5th Free
Five rounds of golf with carts, four nights lodging, daily breakfast. $375-$559
(800) 882-0684, www.ambassadorgolf.com

5. Golf School Packages
Two to five day golf school packages, lodging, golf with cart, breakfast and lunch, instruction, spouse stays free. $625-$1,630
(888) 229-5747, www.seatrail.com

1. Wicked Stick Golf Links
Its name might give you the wrong impression, but this John Daly and Clyde Johnston design is relatively flat and only slightly waterlogged, making it the perfect chance to knock some strokes off your index. Plus, you can’t beat the price. Some rounds ring up as low as $48.
www.wickedstick.com

2. King’s North
Now in its 10th year, this Arnold Palmer redesign of the Myrtle Beach National North Course is forgiving and challenging—even if the 18th hole features 40 bunkers. Hit it straight on 12, it’s an island green.
www.mbn.com

3. Lockwood Folly CC
This semi-private William Byrd design lies at the northern end of the Grand Strand in Shallotte, N.C. It winds through groves of hardwood trees and features views of the tidal estuary. It’s tight and tree-lined, but that doesn’t mean low numbers can’t be posted.
www.lockwoodfolly.com

4. World Tour Golf Links
This 27-hole facility boasts three nines that draw inspiration from some of the world’s most famous golf holes. Augusta National (Amen Corner), St. Andrews, Cypress Point and Winged Foot are just a few of the famous courses represented.
www.worldtourmb.com

5. Possum Trot Golf Club
Opened in 1968, this Russell Breeden design remains one of the best values on the Grand Strand. It’s also short and forgiving and a favorite among women. The red tees max out at just over 5,100 yards and the whites stop short of 6,400 yards. Still, it’s the greens fees that we love. $30-$69 for a round.
www.possumtrot.com

Great Florida golf is, well, everywhere, but here are some longtime favorites of  many a Sunshine State visitor. (Editor’s note: This story was updated in 2019)

Walt Disney World

We know what you’re thinking. And while we’re somewhat guilty of taking pleasure in riding the Peter Pan and Dumbo rides, the Walt Disney World mecca is also home to some outstanding golf. There are 99 holes there, with top-rated golf courses that include the Magnolia and Palm, two courses that regularly play host to the PGA Tour every year. Say what you will about the theme parks, Walt Disney World has some awesome golf courses to boot. www.disneyworld.com

Westin Innisbrook Resort

Like the golf at Disney World, the Westin Innisbrook Resort (just outside of Tampa) screams “Play me!” to the golf enthusiast. There are 72 holes of golf to choose from on a property that’s big enough to account for 900 acres of outstanding golf. The best course is the Copperhead course—an awesome layout stretching 7,300 yards that plays host to the Chrysler Championships every fall. Better yet, accommodations and restaurants are plentiful at the resort, leaving very little reason to leave and go elsewhere. www.innisbrookgolfresort.com

Grand Cypress Resort

There are 45 holes (all designed by Jack Nicklaus) and four combinations to choose from, making Grand Cypress among the nicer upscale resorts in the Orlando area. Our favorite is the 18-hole New Course, designed by Nicklaus, who was intent on paying homage to the Old Course at St. Andrews. It has double greens, pot bunkers, stone bridges and stone walls, just like several of the courses across “the pond.” Some purists may scoff at the notion of such artificiality, even though the course is surprisingly fun to play. It’s also a good challenge, especially for golfers who opt to swing from the back tees. www.grandcypress.com

Doral Golf Resort

After (or before) checking out Little Havana, play Miami’s most recognizable course: the Blue Monster at Doral. Not only is this course storied, but it has been made over during a near yearlong closure at the resort. No doubt it’s better than ever, as are the remaining four courses to choose from. Accommodations are plentiful at Doral, and with five courses to choose from, it’s a safe bet you’re never going to play the same shot twice on any course. www.doralresort.com

World Woods

Tucked about an hour north of Tampa, World Woods seems light-years away from the buzz of the city. Tom Fazio took an excellent piece of land and made his own magic with the Pine Barrens Course, 18 holes that cut through dense forest and over expansive waste areas, consistently providing a treat for the senses. Just a few holes into the round, and you’ll quickly see why Pine Barrens is considered one of the top 100 courses in the world. www.worldwoods.com

World Golf Village

For those who can’t get enough golf, the World Golf Village in St. Augustine is where to find it. It features two courses (King & Bear and The Squire), an IMAX theater, a Renaissance Resort and the anchoring World Golf Hall of Fame (as seen in the commercials with Gary Player). Visitors can walk over a replica Swilcon Bridge, walk through a Trophy Room and even play a famed course, such as St. Andrews, through a computer simulator. All this is just the beginning…www.wghof.com

Arnold Palmer Invitational. Don’t let the name change fool you. The Arnold Palmer Invitational (formerly the Bay Hill Invitational) is still the same tournament it has always been, thanks to the guidance of the King himself, Arnold Palmer. Dubbed as the best preview to see which stars are playing their best in time for the Masters, Tiger Woods has left an indelible mark on this event having won it four times in row, though not once since ’03. We don’t doubt he’s hungry for another streak. By the way, if you can’t make it to the tourney, stay at the Lodge and play both courses at Bay Hill for yourself.

www.bayhillinvitational.com

TPC Sawgrass

The most famous course in Florida, Pete Dye’s Stadium Course at the TPC at Sawgrass has gotten a few updates over the years since it became the Players Course in 2007, and the adjacent Valley Course, Dye’s Valley, is worth a play, too. Much of the renovation work took place underground, with the exception of a few new bunkers and tee boxes on a few select holes. Nevertheless, the island-green 17th hole remains untouched and is still among the most visually daunting short par-3s ever conceived. To not try it once would be a huge mistake. www.tpc.com

The Breakers

“Whoa.” That’s probably the first thing you’ll say to yourself after seeing the spectacular beauty of the renovated Breakers resort in Palm Beach. The resort plopped down a smooth $225 million in improvements about a decade ago, resulting in a property that exudes the high-class living of the folks who both live in and visit the upscale Palm Beach neighborhood. In addition to some stunning accommodations and amenities (no point listing them, since they have everything), there are two courses to choose from. The Ocean Course, which is Florida’s oldest course, and the Rees Jones Course, located 10 miles away. www.thebreakers.com

Ocean Hammock Resort

The Ocean Hammock Resort is a golfer’s paradise overlooking the Atlantic Ocean (between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville). There are two courses to choose from, both of which have gained notoriety for having some stunning natural beauty. The Ocean Hammock Course is considered the only oceanfront course in Florida to have opened in 70 years, and thanks to a Jack Nicklaus design, it hosts several high-profile events and qualifiers, year in and year out. The sister course is Palm Harbor, the shorter and more mature course of the two. Designed by Bill Amick, the layout looks easy, but don’t be deceived—it’s tougher than it looks. If time permits, Daytona is a short drive away. If you’re a NASCAR fan, you’ll understand. If not, stick around and enjoy the lodge and beach. www.oceanhammock.com

Contact Info

Orlando can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-timer. Visit one of the best Orlando Websites online at www.orlandoinfo.com. If you can’t find it there, it doesn’t exist.

5 Best Stay-And-Plays In Florida

1. Walt Disney World Resort
Trust us. The resort’s 99 holes are all excellent, and you’ll have time to catch up with the family in Fantasyland that afternoon.

2. Bay Hill Club & Lodge
Known as the home of Arnold Palmer, Bay Hill is a treat to play. Just knowing who’s played (and won) there is enough to make it worth your while.

3. Grand Cypress Resort
Luxurious accommodations can be found at the Grand Cypress Hyatt, as well as great golf, racquet sports and much more. The New Course is a real hoot to play.

4. Westin Innisbrook Resort
The Innisbrook compound has four great courses and four superb restaurants. What more do you need? How about six swimming pools and 11 tennis courts? It’s all here.

5. Doral Golf Resort
Come play the Blue Monster, but don’t neglect the other fine courses that make Doral one of the best stay-and-plays in Florida.

5 Local Favorites To Play

1. Championsgate (National)
Greg Norman cut 36 holes out of some rolling terrain that was made to resemble what he called an “Australian links” course.

2. Falcon’s Fire
Understated and underappreciated, this Rees Jones design is a classic beauty. Expect great service and excellent course conditions year-round.

3. Celebration Golf Club
Having a course designed by one Jones family member is pretty good, but two of them on the same 18? Check out what Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Jr. can do.

4. Shingle Creek
Tee it high and let it fly at this Orlando gem, but make sure you hit the green in the right spot. The greens are tricky and sometimes rather quick.

5. Eagle Pines
Designed by Pete Dye, this Disney course has a lot of water, shaped fairways and lots of pine straw. Don’t worry, it’s not too scary.

7 Other Things To Do In Florida

1. Kennedy Space Center
Not only can you watch a shuttle launch from here, but the center has tours of the International Space Station and much more.
www.ksc.nasa.gov

2. Daytona International Speedway
The famed NASCAR loop has something going on almost every week from January to early March.
www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com

3. Miami
From Little Havana to South Beach, you’ve got to see it to believe it.

4. Ernest Hemingway’s Home
That’s right, you can see for yourself the Key West home of the legendary Ernest Hemingway. It’s a museum as well.
www.hemingwayhome.com

5. Busch Gardens
This Tampa institution has wildlife, safari tours and an amusement park chockful of exciting thrill rides.
www.buschgardens.com

6. Peanut Island
Did Kennedy intend on using the bomb shelter beneath the island? You be the judge.
www.palmbeachfl.com

7. Amelia Island
We admit! There’s great golf found at this beautiful locale in the very northeast corner of the state
www.ameliaisland.org