The Players Championship & Local Golf Courses

Florida's reputation as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts is unparalleled and with The Players Championship taking place this week, it's the perfect time to spotlight this prestigious event alongside the golf courses in St. Augustine. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or someone looking to experience the beauty and challenge of Florida's golf courses, this guide is tailored for you. Let's dive into the heart of NE Florida's golf scene, highlighting the local courses that make this area a golfer's paradise.

The Crown Jewel: TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach

Location: Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
Status: Private
Highlight: Home of The Players Championship

TPC Sawgrass is not just a golf course; it's a symbol of golfing excellence. It is a premier golf destination, home to THE PLAYERS Championship and renowned for its two Pete Dye-designed championship courses. The PLAYERS Stadium Course, famous for its challenging Par 3, 17th hole with the iconic “Island Green,” offers a unique test to golfers, blending competition with spectator enjoyment. Its companion, Dye’s Valley Course, provides a balanced golfing experience, winding through Florida’s natural beauty and rated among the state's top golf courses. Beyond golf, TPC Sawgrass features exceptional dining and a Performance Center, making it a comprehensive venue for golf enthusiasts seeking a blend of challenge and luxury.

St. Augustine's Private Havens

Marsh Creek Country Club

Location: St. Augustine Beach, FL
Status: Private

Marsh Creek Country Club, the only golf course on Anastasia Island, epitomizes the pinnacle of private club living with a focus on golf, tennis, fitness, and dining. Marsh Creek’s 18-hole golf course was designed by renowned golf course architect, Mark McCumber, and spans across lush fairways framed by towering oak trees and pristine water features. The golf course seamlessly blends the natural beauty of the surrounding marsh, creeks and lakes, which creates a scenic and tranquil atmosphere for your golfing experience. Measuring 6,888 yards, the par-72 course presents a formidable test of skill and strategy, especially on the back nine. With a variety of tee options available, golfers of all abilities can enjoy a round suited to their skill level.

The Palencia Club

Location: St. Augustine, FL
Status: Private

The Palencia Club stands as a beacon of luxury and community. Since its opening in May 2002, this premier private golf club has become synonymous with an exceptional golf experience. Designed by Arthur Hills, the 7,071-yard championship golf course weaves through ancient maritime oak trees and along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, providing both a challenging and picturesque setting for golf enthusiasts. The golf course practice facilities are heralded by one and all for the spacious 10,000 square feet of putting surfaces, 400 yard double-sided driving range along with a short-game area to fine tune your chipping and bunker play. 

Public Gems

Royal St. Augustine

Location: St. Augustine, FL
Status: Public

Royal St. Augustine Golf and Country Club presents a captivating 18-hole public golf course that stretches over 6,529 yards. This meticulously designed course winds through stunning landscapes, featuring lush foliage and exotic wetlands. Its layout is adorned with moguled fairways, sandy waste areas, strategically placed bunkers, numerous lakes, and expansive greens, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. With four different tee positions, the course caters to a wide range of abilities, ensuring an inclusive environment for everyone. 

St. Augustine Shores Golf Club

Location: St. Augustine, FL
Status: Public

The St. Augustine Shores Golf Club offers a unique and inviting golfing experience for players of all skill levels. This well-maintained course, with its picturesque fairways and challenging greens, provides an ideal setting for both leisurely rounds and competitive play. Its design thoughtfully incorporates the natural beauty of the surrounding area, making every game not just a test of skill, but also an opportunity to enjoy the serene landscape. 

St. Johns County Golf Course

Location: St. Augustine, FL
Status: Public

Voted Best of St. Augustine in 2019, St. Johns Golf Golf Club (owned & operated by St. Johns County) boasts 18 well-maintained championship holes that challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels. With the area's largest public practice facilities, including an expansive grass tee driving range, a two-tiered chipping green, and a separate putting green, golfers can refine their skills in a picturesque setting. The club also features a full-service pro shop stocked with top brands and offers on-site equipment repair. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or new to the game, St. Johns Golf Club provides a welcoming atmosphere with professional staff dedicated to making your visit memorable. 

World Golf Village: A Duo of Distinction

King & Bear: The only golf course co-designed by golf legends Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, offering a unique blend of strategy and challenge.

Slammer & Squire: Named after Sam Snead (Slammer) and Gene Sarazen (Squire), this golf course offers a slightly more forgiving play, but is no less challenging with its carefully placed hazards and undulating greens.

World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Florida, offers a unique blend of luxury, leisure, and golfing excellence, making it an ideal destination for enthusiasts of the sport and visitors seeking a premium vacation experience. At the heart of this picturesque community is the PGA TOUR Academy, which provides a comprehensive range of golf instruction and club fitting services tailored to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned golfers. Accommodations at the World Golf Village include the AAA Four-Diamond Renaissance World Golf Village Resort. Whether you're planning a golf getaway or looking for a luxurious retreat, World Golf Village combines the best of golfing facilities with exquisite accommodations and amenities.

Conclusion

Whether you're here for The Players Championship or looking to explore local golf courses, St. Augustine and its surrounding areas offer a rich tapestry of golfing experiences. From the prestigious greens of TPC Sawgrass to the welcoming fairways of public courses, there's something for every golfer in this beautiful part of Florida. As we celebrate the sport and the community it fosters, let's remember that every course has its own story, challenges, and beauty, inviting us to become part of its legacy. Happy golfing!