Quantcast
All Questions for Frank Fenton
Back to Frank Fenton page
Asked by Richard Moorhead on June 16, 2009
Q: Economic impact of golf industryin the State of Florida
A:

Richard:

Your question has an enormous answer so I'll try to point you to the correct folks to help answer it for you.

Check out this web site of the Florida Sports Foundation:  http://www.flasports.com/

They may reached at (850) 488-1424. They should have the information you are seeking.
Places to play in Northeast Florida
Asked by ksmithy on June 11, 2009
Q: Where are some good places to play golf in the northeast Florida area?
A:
KSmithy:
I have just returned from a trip to Florida’s northeast area (also known as Florida’s First Coast).There are many terrific golf destinations in this section of our state. A few of the ones that you should add to your list to visit:
 
The Ponte Vedra Inn in Ponte Vedra Beach. Two great courses at this classy resort – The Ocean and the Lagoon. Try them both.
 
The TPC Sawgrass PLAYERS Stadium Course, also in Ponte Vedra Beach (This is where they hold the PLAYERS Championship and it is home to the PGA Tour Headquarters).
 
Amelia Island Plantation (on Amelia Island, just north of the Jacksonville area) has four wonderful courses – Long Point, Oak Marsh, The Ocean Links and Amelia River GC. All are really great, but be sure to play the Ocean Links for the amazing ocean views.
 
In the St. Augustine area, go to the World Golf Village and play the King & Bear and the Slammer & Squire courses. While there go see one of my favorites, the World Golf Hall of Fame.
 
You may get lots of details and help planning your trip by checking out the Florida’s First Coast of Golf web site: www.florida-golf.org .
I hope that you enjoy your trip to northeast Florida!
Great deals on Southwest Florida golf
Asked by mum on June 25, 2008
Q: Hi, we are visiting from England arriving next sunday 29th june for 2 weeks and i would be very grateful if you could suggest some reasonably priced golf courses my husband and 2 sons (21 & 23) could play at not too far from the cape haze peninsula where we are staying, about 15 miles from port Charlotte. They enjoy the game but are by no means experts!. thanks
A:
Mum: There is lots of great golf in that area. First, you should take a look at my response to Simon Smee (the question just below yours) to read about the Englewood area which is nearby where you will be. You can’t go wrong with courses like Heron Creek and the 81 holes at Rotonda West. If you plan to play multiple times during your two week visit you may want to invest in a Big Summer Card (see my video –  Golf Deals in Florida: Playing the Big Summer Card). You’ll save a good amount on green fees at many southwest Florida courses. In addition to the golf clubs that I’ve listed in my response to Simon, I’d also try two layouts in Cape Coral. The Coral Oaks Golf Club is a Par 72 18 hole course designed by the noted Arthur Hills. Royal Tee Golf Club is a Gordy Lewis design (also a noted architect) and offers 27 holes of championship golf. Both are very fairly priced this time of year. In Port Charlotte is Riverwood GC, a Par 72 top tier track. Awarded 4 ½ stars by Golf Digest, it is a little more expensive but still more than worth the green fee. I’m sure that you and your family will have a wonderful golf vacation in Florida!
Top rate golf in Englewood
Asked by simon smee on June 20, 2008
Q: your reccommendation for a good course for father and son h/cap 20 around englewood
A:
Simon Smee: Right in Englewood is the Myakka Pines Golf Club with 27 holes. Mix and match to find your favorite 18 holes of golf. Boca Royale Golf & CC is in Englewood and offers a Par 72 6,188 yard course for you to play. A little easier layout is the Oyster Creek GC, also in Englewood. It’s short and only a Par 60, but you will still enjoy playing there. In nearby Rotonda West, FL you’ll find Rotonda Golf & CC with 81 holes of golf. They range from 18 hole championship tracks to a nice executive course. Deep Creek GC in Punta Gorda is voted the most popular in that area year after year. A Mark McCumber design, the price is right for a fun day of golf. My favorite in this area is Heron Creek Golf & CC in North Port. They have a terrific Golf Learning Center there and they offer 3 nines of really top notch golf. Hope that you have a great time on your upcoming Florida golf vacation!
Golf by the ocean near Fort Lauderdale
Asked by Ken McGee on May 11, 2008
Q: I will be in the Lauderdale area next week and hope to get in a round or two - are there any public course that abut the ocean?ThanksKen
A: Ken McGee: Due to the value of modern day ocean front land there are darn few courses built directly on the ocean. There is one that is not too far from the Ft. Lauderdale area. The Breakers in Palm Beach boasts the first 18 hole course ever built in Florida – the Ocean Course was first laid out in 1896 and redesigned for more modern golf in 2000. Located on the site of their famous hotel, you’ll encounter the Atlantic Ocean breeze as you play your shots on this Par 70 layout. You must be a guest of the hotel to play this course. There are plenty of other great Ft. Lauderdale tracks within close proximity of the ocean. (The beauty of Florida coastal cities is that you are never very far from the ocean or the Gulf of Mexico).Try out the Bonaventure CC in Weston or the Colony West CC in Tamarac. Jacaranda GC is in Plantation, FL and my old favorite, the Inverrary GC – where they played the Jackie Gleason PGA Tour event for so many years, is located in Lauderhill. Play well and play often!
Terrific golf in St. Pete, St. Augustine, Naples, Miami and Key West
Asked by Pete Canfer on May 06, 2008
Q: In September we are travelling around Florida and hope to get in 5 games of golf. Can you make any recommendations for public courses in St Petes, Naples, Miami, Key West (I think there is only one?) and St Augustine. I would be grateful for any advice with this.
A:

Pete Canfer: Your upcoming trip sounds like it will be a lot of fun! Please see my previous responses to questions on this page for Miami and Naples - Andy Smiffy (Golf tour around Florida). For St. Pete please see my response to Tyler C (Challenging golf in Clearwater/Tampa/St. Pete). For St. Augustine please see my response to Deana (Great golf within 2 hours of Orlando). In Key West there is a wonderful course called Key West Golf Club that is open to the public. It is a Rees Jones design and plays 6,512 from the tips so you will get a real test of your game. If you happen to belong to a private club back home you might have your pro contact the private Sombrero CC in Key West to see about a reciprocal round. Have a terrific time on your Florida golf trip!
Summer golf values in Sarasota & Orlando
Asked by Jason Sauerwein on April 27, 2008
Q: Frank, Visiting Orlando and Siesta Key in July, which area would be more ideal for me a 15 handicap. Price is important(under $80 for the round), where getting on as a single would not be a problem. Thanks Jason.
A: Jason Sauerwein: You’ll find plenty of great courses to play that time of the year and all the ones I’ve listed below should be under your budget during the July time frame. If you are going to be here for a while and play multiple rounds of golf you may want to look at getting one of the “golf privilege cards” like the Heart Association or the Big Summer Card - www.bigsummergolf.com. See my video on “Golf Deals in Florida: Playing the Big Summer Card”. These cards have arrangements with many golf courses throughout Florida that offer reduced rates in the 30 to 60% off range. To save some additional cash without these type cards you could try booking an afternoon tee time. In Orlando try Hunter’s Creek GC – a top course at a very fair rate. Celebration GC, near Disney is a challenging Robert Trent Jones, Sr. & Jr. design. Lake Orlando GC is a very good deal. When you get over to Siesta Key try these courses in the Sarasota area: Legacy GC – an Arnold Palmer design that will really test your game. Waterlefe GC is a great day of golf along the Manatee River with a very fair green fee. The recently opened Sarasota National GC in Venice (just south of Sarasota) is a wonderful new track. You should have no trouble finding a game as a single. People in Florida are very friendly (or may be tourists themselves) and glad to have another golfer play with them. Have a fantastic time during your summer visit!
Places to play for 16 handicapper in Miami
Asked by eduardo gorostiza on April 14, 2008
Q: I am 16 hand. and will be in Miami first week of May. What course would you advice? Thanks
A: Eduardo Gorostiza: When you visit Miami you should play Crandon Park on Key Biscayne. It plays pretty tough from the back tees, but you’ll really enjoy the course from the regular tees. Beautiful views of Biscayne Bay! An easier track is Calusa CC with its wide fairways and very fair golf rates. Just a little north in the Fort Lauderdale area is Bonaventure CC (in Weston) which has 36 holes of golf that will test your game with its famous #3 waterfall hole. In Lauderhill is the Inverrary Golf Club. Host for many years of the Jackie Gleason Inverrary Classic, the strong East course also held the 1976 Tournament Players Championship (before Sawgrass) the year Jack Nicklaus won. The West course is somewhat easier, but both will test your game. Enjoy your trip!
Golf schools for beginners around Orlando
Asked by Ken Boyle on April 07, 2008
Q: I'll be in Orlando June 8-14. I'm a beginner, would appreciate some golf school recommendations. I can devote 2-3 days, half a day or more, if I can find a good school. Will be staying inside Disney World, but I'm willing to drive a bit. Price matters, but I'm interested in "value," not necessarily cheapest thing available. Thanks for your help.
A: Ken Boyle: There are many quality golf schools in and around the Orlando area. While at Disney you could certainly take private or group lessons from their PGA pros at their superb golf courses. Grand Cypress Academy of Golf at the Grand Cypress Resort near Disney is another respected school. Top rated teacher Mike Bender has three great Mike Bender Golf Academy locations around Orlando – Stoneybrook East, Stoneybrook West and Timacuan GC. The Arnold Palmer Golf Academy – run by Director of Instruction John O’Leary – is wonderful for golfers of all levels and is located at The Bay Hill Club & Lodge. David Leadbetter’s Golf Academy provides top level instructors that will help your game, based at the Omni Resort at ChampionsGate, southwest of Orlando. Paradise Golf Academy is located near there at the Orange Co. National Golf Club. Nick Faldo’s Institute is at the Marriott Grand Vista off International Dr., south of Sea World. Near there is the Brad Brewer Golf Academy at Shingle Creek GC (near the Orange Co. Convention Center). All of these are top notch schools and I’m sure that you would learn plenty from them. Check out their websites for dates and fees to see which one best fits your needs. Have a terrific time learning the game while at these Florida golf schools!
Florida summer golf
Asked by Thommy Falck on March 29, 2008
Q: Hello, How is the course condition during the summers months?June-August? Best Regards from Sweden.
A: Thommy Falck: That’s a very good question. Many people see how great the Florida weather is during the winter and they think that it must be unbearable in the summer. Sure it gets a little warm, but I have played golf all over the U.S. (and many places around the world) and I can tell you that the summer golf in Florida is very good compared to many other places. Our temperatures are in the 80sF to low 90s (I’ve never seen it in the 100s like many other warm weather locations in the summer). The humidity is something that you prepare for with plenty of water just like any other warm place. I’ll let you in on a little secret from a Floridian. The really cool thing is that the number of summer golfers gets so low that many of the courses will offer incredible rates to play golf. Some places even throw in a free lunch or free golf balls to get you to come to their course. The grass that many golf courses plant actually grows better and faster in the warm months so the putting greens in particular are very good, sometimes the best of the year. If you are thinking about summer golf in Florida, I’d say to give it a try. You may find that it is your favorite time of the season. See my video on this page “Golf Deals in Florida: Playing the Big Summer Card” to see Waterlefe Golf & River Club that offers some terrific summer rates. Have fun!
Golf in the Port Charlotte area
Asked by Frances Kot on March 26, 2008
Q: Where might a beginner and an 8-handicap both go to enjoy lessons as well as reasonably priced motels/hotels in the southwest. My husband and I are visiting friends in the Port Charlotte area next week.
A:

Frances Kot: This is a great time of the year to come play golf in Florida. In the Port Charlotte area you’ll find some wonderful courses to play. One of my favorites is Heron Creek Golf & CC in North Port. They have a terrific Golf Learning Center there run by PGA professional Duncan Clark. They offer 3 nines of really top notch golf that the 8 handicap golfer will love and if the beginner takes a few a lessons or a clinic they’ll have a fine time as well. For a place for the novice to learn to play I’d try out the Oyster Creek GC in Englewood. It’s short and only a Par 60, but the 8 handicap golfer will still enjoy playing there. Very reasonably priced. In nearby Rotonda West, FL you’ll find Rotonda Golf & CC with 81 holes of golf. They range from 18 hole championship tracks to a nice executive course with very fair pricing. Deep Creek GC in Punta Gorda is voted the most popular in that area year after year. A Mark McCumber design, the price is right for a fun day of golf and you may take lessons there as well. There are several moderately priced motels in the area. Try the Days Inn in Port Charlotte or the Days Inn in Englewood. There is a Best Western Ambassador Suites a little farther north in Venice that is nice. Have a great time when you play next week. The weather here has been superb!
Resort golf with transportation
Asked by Danny Moore on March 18, 2008
Q: We stay and play the last couple of years at the Sandestin 2500 acre resort with 4 golf courses on the property and accommodations are great. My question is, are there any other resorts in Florida that could compare? We would like to try something different although we do love Sandestin. We tried Naples once and it was nice, but had to have rental cars and drive to different courses and restaurants. We want to have courses and restaurants within the resorts, shuttle service is great within the resort and also shuttle to and from the airport. This last trip we brought 28 people and it was just a blast. If you can steer us to something new, we would like to take a look at it, otherwise we will probably be back at Sandestin again. Thanks for your help Frank.
A: Danny Moore: It is hard to beat the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. I recently visited there and they have four terrific golf layouts. With everything you need in their resort from restaurants to boating, hiking and the beach, it is a great place! If you are looking for a change of pace you might try the Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor – just north of Tampa. They have a great shuttle service to move you around the resort to the four superb golf courses, including the Copperhead that just hosted the PGA Tour PODS Championship. They also have some wonderful restaurants. Just a little farther north of Tampa is the SaddleBrook Resort. They offer two splendid Arnold Palmer designed layouts along with fine dining and 800 suites/rooms. I really liked it there. Don’t forget Disney in Orlando. You’ll find five courses at this colossal resort. The Magnolia and the Palms are played during the PGA Tour event each year and there is the outstanding Tom Fazio designed Osprey Ridge track. As I’m sure you are aware, there are tons of great places to eat and shop as well as an abundance of other activities at their numerous parks. There are shuttles to get around the resort and complimentary taxis to take guests to and from the golf courses. Your yearly trip sounds like a fantastic time. Hope that you and your group have an amazing trip to Florida!
Great golf within 2 hours of Orlando
Asked by Deana on March 16, 2008
Q: Thank you for all the great info you've provided here! I wish I had found it earlier in the day and saved myself hours of searching. :) My husband & I have never been to Florida and we are very happy to be coming for our first visit during the second week of April. We are flying into Orlando and I'm debating whether we should stay in the Orlando area or head out once we land (2-3 hours drive would be OK). We hope to stay in one place & golf in that area 4 times. We both prefer to walk the course rather than take a cart, if its possible. I'm looking for good value golf, and I'm not sure whether the best bang for the buck is in the Orlando area or not. Do you advise us to stay in the Orlando area or should we head out (if so, which direction?) Thank you very much!
A: Deana: You will always remember your first trip to Florida. I still remember every detail of mine way back when I was only 12 years old. The beaches, the palm trees, golf courses and the weather - I just loved it! You plan to arrive in Orlando – central Florida – so you’ll have a huge number of choices to travel 2+ hours in many directions to find some great golf. Let me give you a few options. Depending on the other activities that you’d like to do during your trip (Disney, Universal, Sea World, shopping) you can’t go wrong by staying and playing in the Orlando area. Please take a look at my replies to “A.C.” and “Carol Baillie” on this page for many golf courses in and around Orlando. You’ll enjoy playing such places as Falcon’s Fire Golf Club, Shingle Creek GC and Celebration GC. To save some money be sure to ask about the rates for an afternoon tee time. Since we have switched back to Daylight Savings Time there is ample time to complete your round of golf before dark. If you would like to be closer to some of our fine Florida beaches try a trip to the Tampa/St. Pete/Clearwater area – just about an hour west of Orlando. Please see my response to “Mark Whitwell”. Just south of Tampa (about 2 hours from Orlando) is Sarasota/Bradenton. There are some wonderful layouts there like the Arnold Palmer designed Legacy GC, University Park CC and Waterlefe Golf & River Club (see my recent blog re: Waterlefe). If you travel about 1 ½ hours northwest of Orlando to Crystal River you could stay at the Plantation Inn Golf Resort & Spa (see my story on this page just above the Q&A section). They have their own 18 hole championship course at the Inn. Just 20 minutes south of there in Brooksville are two of the best courses in Florida at World Woods Golf Club – the Pine Barrens and Rolling Oaks. While in Brooksville check out the bargain priced Silverthorn CC, designed by Joe Lee. The beaches of the Gulf of Mexico are close by all these western areas. If you’d like to see the Atlantic Ocean travel an hour and 45 minutes northeast from Orlando to St. Augustine and set up your golf vacation at the World Golf Village. There is the superb Renaissance Resort to stay at, right next door the World Golf Hall of Fame. It overlooks the Slammer & Squire course and just a few miles away is the King & Bear course. You’ll have a great time playing these excellent tracks and I’d really recommend the Hall of Fame. About a 2 hour drive southeast of Orlando is Port St. Lucie, home of the PGA Golf Club. There you’ll find three wonderful layouts - the Dye, Wanamaker, and Ryder Courses. They also offer the wonderful 35-acre PGA Learning Center – something that may be of interest to you during your golf trip. Some of the courses that I mentioned here will allow walking, but many prefer that you take a cart (due to the spacing of the golf holes running through resorts, etc.). You can always take turns walking a few holes while you or your husband drive along side with the cart toting those heavy golf bags and a cool drink. I hope that this helps you in planning your trip. There are so many fantastic golf courses in Florida that you are sure to enjoy your trip in any of these locations. Have a great time!

 
Top tracks in the Orlando area
Asked by Martin Porter on March 16, 2008
Q: Hi Frank, I am a PGA Golf professional coming out to orlando on the 29 march. Myself and a friend would like to play golf whilst the kids are enjoying the parks. Where do you recommend.Regards Martin. P.S will not have any clubs with us.
A: Martin Porter: The weather is superb here this time of year and you should have a great trip. Since you are a pro I’d suggest the following courses for you to test your game. If you are going to be at Disney I’d play the Magnolia and Palm courses (used for the PGA Tour event). They also have the terrific Tom Fazio designed Osprey Ridge that you’ll really enjoy. Nearby is the Grand Cypress Resort that offers 45 holes – all designed by Jack Nicklaus - to mix the nines and create 18 holes of true championship golf. Orange County National (located just southwest of the Disney area) has two magnificent layouts – the Crooked Cat and the Panther Lake - both used by the PGA Tour for the final rounds of their Qualifying School. In that same area is ChampionsGate with two Greg Norman designed tracks used for the tour players’ Father/Son event at the fantastic Omni Resort. The Bay Hill Club & Lodge is close by. They play the Arnold Palmer Invitational there on the PGA Tour. Set up a round that you are sure to remember. If you are going to Sea World there is a wonderful course just down International Drive called the Marriott Grande Pines Golf Club that is well worth your time to go play. I know that if you get the opportunity to play any of these layouts you’ll have a marvelous time during your visit. Have fun!
Volunteer for the ADT Championship LPGA Tour event
Asked by Barb Green on March 16, 2008
Q: Hi Frank, We are going to spend the winter in palm beach this year and love following the lpga lady golfers. We saw your post on the new event in ft lauderdale but would like to know how to volunteer for the event in November at Trump International. Would love to see that course!
A: Barb Green: You are asking about the ADT Championship to be held at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach on 11/17 – 23/08. The actual days of tournament play are 11/20 – 23/08. They will need over 700 volunteers to work this event, but many will be returning from the group of volunteers they had last year. To see if you could be a volunteer you may e-mail Lindsay Weber: Lindsay.Weber@lpga.com. For Ticket, Pro Am or Volunteer information you may also call 561-656-4400. I hope that you have a great time at this wonderful LPGA event!
Terrific values in the Clearwater area
Asked by mark whitwell on March 12, 2008
Q: We will be in the Clearwater Beach area for 2 weeks in April and are looking for recommendation and/or Golf specials. What do you suggest for moderate costs? Thanks
A: Mark Whitwell: The weather should be wonderful during your April visit. I’ll give you a few moderately priced tracks to try in the Clearwater area. The Cove Cay Golf & Tennis Club in Clearwater is short at 6,002 yards from the back tees, but tight and a real challenge with lots of water to negotiate. The mature, par 72 Clearwater CC is also a shorter layout, but again a good test. In Odessa, FL is the Eagles Golf Club with its two courses – the Lakes and the Forest. The Lakes is the longest (7,089 from the tips), with the Forest not quite as long. Both are a good value for the money. I like the old Donald Ross designed course in Dunedin called the Dunedin CC. A great value for the buck. If you are willing to drive a bit, try the Club Renaissance in Sun City Center. A newer course designed by Chip Powell and a beautiful layout. To search for golf specials online while you are here try www.lastminuategolfer.com or www.ezlinks.com (see their specials). Have a great time on your golf trip!
Great rates in Weston/Fort Lauderdale
Asked by jack griffith on February 15, 2008
Q: we will in the Weston/Ft, Lauderdale area the wwk of Feb. 23- March 1st and are looking for recommendation and/or Golf specials. What do you suggest for moderate costs? Thanks
A: Jack Griffith: There are great courses to play for very fair rates in the Weston/Ft. Lauderdale area. Since you’ll be visiting that area when it is still the golf high season you may want to check out www.lastminuategolfer.com or www.ezlinks.com (see their specials) to locate rates that suit your budget. The courses that I’d suggest are: Colony West CC in Tamarac – tough, but a great value track. Bonaventure CC in Weston – the east course is a little better, but the west course is more moderately priced. Try the Grand Palms Hotel and Golf Resort – they have three nines open to the public to choose from. Sunrise CC in Sunrise, FL is an older course, but inexpensive and a good value. For a history filled day check out the Inverrary GC – where they played the Jackie Gleason PGA Tour event for so many years. In Plantation, FL is Jacaranda GC – the great east course will challenge your game. If the rates seem a little high for you be sure to ask for an afternoon tee time to save some money. Have a wonderful golf trip!
Good values in Orlando
Asked by AC on February 15, 2008
Q: Can u recommend any golf courses in the Orlando area that are good value for the money? Please and Thanks
A: AC: I’m glad that you asked about “good values”. Some folks make the mistake of just looking for cheap golf rates. Remember, you get what you pay for so seeking a good value course is a great idea. You may pay a little more, but you’ll have a day that you will always remember. The golf rates vary by quite a bit depending on the time of the year. Since you didn’t indicate when you’d be coming to Orlando I’ll give you some good values for almost anytime. Check out Lake Orlando GC – it is tight, but a real shot maker’s course and very fairly priced. Hunter’s Creek GC is a top course in the area rated highly by Golf Digest. The newly opened Shingle Creek GC is on Universal Blvd. near the Orange Co. Convention Center and it is wonderful. Try the CC at Deer Run in Casselberry – inexpensive and fun to play. In Kissimmee you’ll find Orange Lake CC with the Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay designed Legends course. Speaking of Arnold – if you really want a memorable day (and the chance to run into Mr. Palmer who is there for many days in the late fall to early spring time) set up a time to play the Bay Hill Club & Lodge where they hold the PGA Tour event. You’ll spend a little more, but you won’t soon forget your visit. Play well during your trip to Florida!
Palm Beach Co. Frequent Player Card
Asked by alex on February 13, 2008
Q: golf around card palm beach? where can you get it?
A: Alex: I believe that you are asking about the Palm Beach County reduced golf rate card known as the Frequent Player Card. This card allows you to play rounds of golf for reduced fees at the following golf courses in Palm Beach County: Okeeheelee GC, Park Ridge GC, Southwinds GC, John Prince Golf Learning Center and soon at Osprey Pointe in Boca Raton. You may obtain one of these cards at any of the above listed golf facilities or go to: http://www.pbcgov.com/parks/sports/golf/ . Have a great time playing in Palm Beach!
Tee times online for Orlando golf
Asked by Henry on February 07, 2008
Q: what are some good tee time auction websites to use for golfing in the Orlando area?
A: Henry: Try www.ezlinks.com for a “name your own price” special. Also, www.lastminutegolfer.com has some good deals on courses in the Orlando area that may still have a few tee times that have not yet been booked. Good luck with your search!
Fun golf layouts from Disney to Amelia Island
Asked by Kim on February 06, 2008
Q: Hi Frank, My family will be in DisneyWorld for 7 days in August and would like to drive the Atlantic Coast on our return to Canada. My husband and 11 year old son are looking for courses with 115 to 125 slope to play near Amelia Island, Jacksonville or Saint Augustine and perhaps around Walt DisneyWorld. Which courses do you reccommend?
A: Kim: While at Disney try out the Lake Buena Vista layout. It is the easier of the 18 hole courses and really fun to play with a slope of 123 from the gold tees. You may also want to check out the Oak Trail 9 hole Par 36 course. It’s set up for walking and a great place to go out with the family. When you get to St. Augustine be sure to go to the World Golf Village. The Slammer & Squire course is the friendlier of the two and its right next to the World Golf Hall of Fame (the King & Bear course is a strong track, but the slope may be a little high for your current needs). Take your son to see the many wonderful exhibits at the Hall of Fame and he’ll get a real lesson in the history of golf. A fun place to visit! Up the road in Jacksonville you can find Champions at Julington Creek – 121 slope from the white tees. In nearby Orange Park is the Golf Club at Fleming Island Plantation – it is a little more challenging with slopes of 129 from the white and 114 from the green tees. Try the bargain priced Deerfield Lakes GC in Callahan, FL with a slope of 114. Farther north is the Fernandina Beach Municipal GC with three nines that have slopes from 117 to 120. Don’t forget the magnificent Amelia Island Plantation Resort with multiple courses. It was named a “Silver Medal Golf Resort” by GOLF Magazine. The Ocean Links has great views and is the least demanding at 108 from the white and 119 from the blue tees. The Oak Marsh layout is 121 from the whites and Long Point is 122 also from the white tees. This should get you started. Have a wonderful time on your summer trip in Florida on your upcoming visit!
Great deals on golf clubs in Orlando
Asked by carol baillie on February 05, 2008
Q: Hi Frank - forgot to ask you if you can advise me of best place / best prices to buy a set of taylor made Draw graphite irons in the area around Orlando - we have purchased clubs before when visiting America and saved a packet but they unfortunately got stolen!! Any suggestions on who to contact for prices > thanks a million regards carol baillie
A: Carol Baillie: Hello again. When you are in the Orlando area you should go to the Edwin Watts golf shops. There are six Edwin Watts stores in Orlando including their Orlando Clearance Center located on International Dr., just north of Sand Lake Rd. There you may find brand new “close-outs” of professional grade golf clubs. This means that the clubs, although brand new, are not the most recent model introduced. But as fast as many big name golf club companies change their models, I don’t think this will affect your playing of the game. Also check out the Golfsmith stores. There are two of them in Orlando. You can search the type of products both Edwin Watts and Golfsmith offer online. Good luck in your quest for new clubs!
Values around Orlando
Asked by carol baillie on February 05, 2008
Q: Hi Frank - sorry to trouble you but wondered if you would be able to advise us if there are any website or contacts who could advise us if we can get discounted golf fees for our trip commencing 16th-30th May. We are booked into accommodation on Southern Dunes Golf Country Club and hope to play 3 or 4 rounds there with buggy as my father is 76 and cant walk the course these days - neither can I come to that!! My father and I are not great golfers but we love it so we would like to play at S.Dunes and maybe another couple of nearby courses which may give us discounted fees for 3 people inc. buggy - Can you help with advice? regards carol baillie
A: Carol Baillie: You and your father will have a wonderful time playing at Southern Dunes. You should also try these courses in nearby Kissimmee: Orange Lake CC – the Legends course, designed by Arnold Palmer & Ed Seay is the best. Falcon’s Fire Golf Club – a great Rees Jones design. Celebration GC – near Disney, was designed by the team of Robert Trent Jones, Sr. & Jr. and it is a top course. In Orlando try Hunter’s Creek GC. Rated as one of the “Top 75 Courses You Can Play” by Golf Digest, you’ll sure to enjoy it. You can check for discount rates at the following sites to get an idea of price points: www.lastminutegolfer.com, www.ezlinks.com (see their specials), www.thegolfcourses.net and www.teetimesusa.com. A great way to play a course for less is to book an afternoon tee time (sometimes referred to as a “Twilight Rate”). This will save you 30 – 60% off the standard morning rate. Just be sure to get a tee time that is early enough to allow you to complete your 18 hole round of golf. I hope that you and your dad have a magnificent time playing golf here in Florida on your upcoming visit!
Best Florida weather at Christmas time
Asked by sandra on February 03, 2008
Q: Hi Frank, After spending spending several Christmas holidays in Hawaii we are thinking of trying Florida. What region would you suggest with the best weather and best golf. We would only have 9 days there. Thanks
A: Sandra: Great golf abounds in the entire state of Florida! Florida is a big and diverse state (ask anyone who has made the drive from Key West to Pensacola) and the weather may be good throughout the entire state around Christmas time. The warmest weather will of course be from Orlando southward so without knowing your exact travel plans I’ll try to give you a few courses to look for in the southern part of the state. Miami is always nice that time of year. I’d go to the Doral Resort for upscale luxury and the municipal Cranston Park GC on Key Biscayne for a tremendous layout at reasonable rates. In Aventura (between Miami and Fort Lauderdale) is the Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort & Club. They just completed a $100 million renovation and they have a course strong enough to host a new LPGA Tour event this year. The Boca Raton Resort & Club in Boca Raton is first class and has some wonder golf courses. In Naples is the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort with the Greg Norman designed Tiburon Golf Club – host of the Merrill Lynch Shootout and home to the Rick Smith Golf Academy. Farther north in Palm Beach Gardens is the PGA National Resort with five top courses. On the other side of the state, Sarasota has the Arnold Palmer designed Legacy Golf Club that is a wonderful challenge to play. In Orlando there is the Walt Disney World Resort with several great layouts by designers like Tom Fazio and Joe Lee. When visiting Disney for a golf holiday stay at the Grand Floridian Resort. One of my favorites is Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, also in Orlando. A first rate course, wonderful rooms, great service and you may run into Arnold while you are there. What could be better? Hope that you have a fantastic time on your Florida Christmas golf vacation!

 
Rules of Golf
Asked by eugene mitchell on February 01, 2008
Q: we allways fight over wheather or not you can re tee a ball after it goes into the water
A: Eugene Mitchell: I make it a rule to not give out Rules of Golf advice, but just this one time I will. If you check the USGA “The Rules of Golf” handbook you’ll find Rule 20-5 a) and b). They basically say that if you hit a ball into a hazard (I believe that the water you spoke of is a hazard) then from the teeing ground you may elect to re-tee the ball (but you don’t have to if you don’t want to). Anywhere else on the course you must drop the ball according to the rules. Please see http://www.usga.org/playing/rules/rules.html for more info on the Rules of Golf. I hope that this helps. Keep playing and enjoying this great game!
Challenging golf in Clearwater/Tampa/St.Pete
Asked by Tyler C. on January 30, 2008
Q: Hi Frank, I'll be coming to Florida at the end of April/ beginning of May with family and am hoping to get about 4 rounds of golf in while I’m there. We’re staying in Clearwater, and I was hoping you could recommend some courses around the Clearwater/Tampa/St. Petersburg area? The handicaps in our group range from 3 to 20 and we were hoping for some suggestions around $100 or under. Thanks in advance.
A: Tyler C: April and May are great times to visit Florida for a golf vacation. The weather is still very nice and the number of players and green fee rates are both going down. For an initial warm up round I’d try the rather short (6,231 yards from the tips), but testing Clearwater CC. It’s a par 72 that all the golfers in your group will enjoy. I’d also recommend that you make the trip slightly north of the Tampa area to Brooksville. Here you’ll find World Woods Golf Club (see my story on this page about World Woods and the Plantation Inn). They have two fantastic Tom Fazio designed courses there – Rolling Oaks and Pine Barrens. Both are a real delight to play, tough, but fair. Just down the road in Brooksville is Silverthorn CC. Designed by one of my favorite architects, Joe Lee, the price to play here is incredibly low. In New Port Richey (where Gene Sarazen said that he got the idea for and created the first sand wedge) you’ll find Fox Hollow Golf Club. A Robert Trent Jones, Sr. design it is 7,138 yards from all the way back, but a still challenging 6,402 from the white tees. In Tampa is the Dunedin CC. I always look for a chance to play one of Donald Ross’ courses and this is a jewel from 1927. It actually served as the first home for the PGA of America before they relocated to their current home in Palm Beach Gardens. It is priced at a really fair rate. Have great time on your spring Florida golf vacation!

 
Golf schools at wonderful resorts
Asked by Lydia Miles on January 23, 2008
Q: My wife and I would like to to take a golf school vacation that would include a resort type atmosphere and instruction for a beginner and an intermediate. What would you suggest and why? Anywhere in Florida is fine.
A:  

Lydia Miles:

That sounds like a great idea for a Florida vacation. Let me give you a few places to look at so that you may select the one best suited for you. As I have recently stated, the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy held at the Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando is a great place to learn or improve your game. John O’Leary - Director of Instruction, does a wonderful job there as he teaches Arnold Palmer’s own golf philosophy. The Lodge is first class and the staff is wonderful. Also in Orlando is David Leadbetter’s Golf Academy. Top level instructors will help your game. This is based at the beautiful Omni Resort at ChampionsGate with two Greg Norman courses. The Renaissance Resort at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine has excellent rooms and lots of nearby golf. The PGA TOUR Academy located at the WGV teaches students of all levels. Just north in Ponte Vedra Beach is the Marriott Sawgrass Golf Resort & Spa. Staying there gives you access to 99 holes of golf at various top courses in the area. If you like to go to the spa or the beach, this is the place. Next door is the world famous TPC Sawgrass that has the PLAYERS Stadium course the pros play. The TOUR Academy holds class in a new 2,800 square foot teaching facility. Farther south in Port St. Lucie is The PGA Golf Club with a tremendous PGA Learning Center. The Hilton Garden Inn offers pleasant rooms near the three golf courses at PGA Village. If you select Miami as your destination you can not overlook the Doral Golf Resort & Spa. They have an “Escape Your Way Golf or Spa Package” that provides goodies like rounds of golf on their great courses and an introductory golf clinic. The Jim McLean Golf School there teaches world class players. I also like the friendly Plantation Inn Golf Resort & Spa in Crystal River. They just opened up a new spa to enhance your visit at the resort. The Mt. Snow Golf School (located in Vermont) has a winter home at the Plantation Inn golf courses next door. You can swim with manatees and get terrific golf lessons in the same day. This should give you an excellent start on setting up your play-and-learn golf vacation. Have fun!

April golf tour
Asked by Bob Cranston on January 23, 2008
Q: Hi Frank My wife and me are visiting Florida in April to do a golf tour...we have played in Orlando and spent a week at the Plantation Inn...any hints that may help us. Thank you for your time. All the best...Bob
A: Bob Cranston: The first thing I suggest that you do is take a look at my response to a previous question from Andy Smiffy on this page. I gave him over 16 places around the state to consider stopping at on his tour through southeast to southwest Florida. Don’t forget to visit northwest Florida. There are some magnificent courses in that part of our state. I’d recommend you visit Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Destin, FL. They have four terrific layouts there and a long beachfront to enjoy. Nearby is the WaterColor Inn that has an association with several close proximity top level private clubs that you’ll have access to if you stay there. I’ll be traveling to both these resorts in the near future, so be sure to read my feature stories and blog for more information on these northwest resorts. Also, if you will be here into the month of May or later you should look into getting a “golf privilege card” like the Big Summer Card (www.bigsummergolf.com). This will give you a list of over 60 courses to play, mostly from Tampa to Fort Myers, but expanding into Ocala, Orlando and other spots around the state. The card is most useful from May through October. A reduced rate has been negotiated at these clubs so you should enjoy many rounds for less money. The courses will range from okay to great, some of them being very good private clubs that allow “member only” play during our winter season. I wish you and your wife a wonderful trip to Florida in the springtime! Take some photos and send them to this web site to show us what you enjoyed.
Getting ready for the Tour
Asked by colin colraine on January 21, 2008
Q: I am intending coming over to the Miami area for 10 weeks at the end of January 2008. My aim is to practice and hone my golf. I am a +2 handicap. I am from Scotland. I will not be driving, can you recommend anywhere I can base myself to stay and practice and possibly get some lessons? Thankyou.
A: Colin Colraine: It sounds like you are training to become a professional Tour player. A +2 handicap is very impressive! Not knowing what your budget is I’d recommend the following golf resorts as great places to stay, practice and play. They are not inexpensive, but you’ll train on some great layouts. In Miami there is the Marriott Doral Golf Resort. Five superb courses including the famous Blue Monster and Jim McLean’s Golf School makes this a top choice. Next door to the Resort are the Marriott Villas at Doral. You can walk to the various golf courses from these beautiful villas. In Miami Lakes is the Don Shula Hotel and Golf Club. They also have a magnificent world famous steak restaurant. In nearby Aventura is the Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort and Club. They have two wonderful golf courses there, both designed by golf great Ray Floyd. I have met aspiring Tour players over the years in the US and many of them base their homes in Florida. Since many were young and did not have a lot of cash they would rent a condo or villa near a decent golf course (and maybe share the expense with another pro) and spend their days pounding balls and playing their games into shape on the many mini-tours that are held in Florida. If this is your goal you may try to team up with a like-minded golfing friend and settle in to a rented place for a period of time to take advantage of the warm Florida winter. I’ve been to Scotland and played golf there during different times of the year and always enjoyed it, but I know how the winters (and sometimes the summers) can be a bit cold. Have a great time during your visit and good luck on your goal of getting even better than your +2 handicap!
First class golf destinations in Orlando
Asked by DJ on January 21, 2008
Q: Frank, My wife has agreed to let me play golf on my birthday in December as long as she accompanies me. She wants 3 nights of Class A accomodations, and I need two rounds on great courses for my 14 handicap in the Orlando area. What do you recommend?
A: DJ: What a great wife you have! You have several choices for a first class golf vacation in Orlando. I have just recently stayed at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge. The lodge has a small, homey feel about it and all of the staff will treat you wonderfully. Your wife may enjoy the spa. Excellent dining, too. Mr. Palmer told me that they recently refurbished the lodge area. My wife loved sitting out on the balcony (that overlooked the putting green and range) and seeing Arnold Palmer (in person) practicing. You may even run into Arnold during your stay! The magnificent Bay Hill golf course is site of the PGA Tour event each spring and will give you a real test. You may want to try the Ritz Carlton GC at Grande Lakes Orlando. We all know of the Ritz hotel level and I hear that the Greg Norman course is top rate. Disney is not just for the kids. Stay at the Grand Floridian Resort and enjoy their first class service. The Osprey Ridge GC (designed by Tom Fazio) is tough, but still a treat to play. Also try out the Magnolia Course at Disney (where they play the PGA Tour event in the fall). Just don’t play from the tips (7,516 yards). You’ll have plenty of fun from the white tees. Grand Cypress Resort has great rooms and three nines designed by Jack Nicklaus. You can’t go wrong with any of these. Have a Happy Birthday when you come to Florida!
Golf tour around Florida
Asked by Andy (Smiffy) on January 20, 2008
Q: Hi Frank Acouple of buddies and myself are visiting florida in October for a fortnight, the first night is sorted staying in Haines city and playing Southern dunes the next day. After this 2 of us are embarking on our travels out to cocoa beech and travelling the florida coast line back round to Tampa. If you had to pick out 8 of you favourite course even if they are private or munisiple which ones would you suggest. Looking forward to your reply, Andy in the UK
A: Andy Smiffy: It sounds like you guys are serious golfers. I wish I could go with you. I assume that you will be traveling south down the southeast coast of Florida, then over toward Naples on the west coast and up the southwest coast to Tampa. With that in mind I’ve listed some great courses for you to try out of varying difficulty and price ranges. South of Cocoa Beach is Port St. Lucie, home of the PGA Golf Club at the PGA Village. They have three splendid courses there - the Ryder, the Wanamaker and the Dye Course. All of these are worth a visit. Next, stop off at Palm Beach Gardens and test your game at any of the five courses at the PGA National Resort. I like the Champion Course best. Further south is Coral Springs. Go to the Heron Bay Golf Club, former home of the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic. It is tough with the wind off the Everglades. In Fort Lauderdale I always like the old Inverrary CC East course that hosted the Jackie Gleason PGA Tour event years ago. A Robert Trent Jones, Sr. design, it is bargain priced to play. Colony West – the Championship Course, is also a good deal for the money in the same area. When in Miami you must play the Blue Course at the Doral Resort. This is where they play the WGC event in the early spring. A less expensive track is the Crandon Golf Club out on Key Biscayne. It is a top course (the Champions Tour played here for years) and a beautiful setting. Now, across “Alligator Alley” to Naples. Tiburon GC has two wonderful layouts, both designed by Greg Norman. They are a bit pricey, but magnificent courses. Not priced so dear is the Golden Gate CC. At this course, designed by two of my favorite architects – Dick Wilson and Joe Lee, you’ll get your money’s worth. On to Fort Myers. Try out the challenging Colonial CC at over 7,500 yards from the tips. A real deal is the city run, recently refurbished Eastwood Golf Club. Move up the coast to North Port and stop at Heron Creek Golf & CC. They have three nines there designed by Arthur Hills and all of them are enjoyable to play. Just north in Sarasota you should play Legacy GC. Arnold Palmer designed this tough, but fair track. A few miles west of the Legacy is University Park CC, a quality Ron Garl design. Finally up to Tampa, you should stop at the Innisbrook Resort. They have three courses – try the Copperhead, where the PGA Tour plays. About 30 miles north of the Tampa International Airport is the SaddleBrook Resort – play the Palmer course. That’s a few more than eight courses, but if you get to play some of these you’ll have a marvelous golf vacation!
Junior golf schools around Orlando
Asked by Ann Trombino on January 17, 2008
Q: What is a good golf school in the Orlando area for my 13 year old son who loves the game?
A: Ann Trombino: There are some great golf schools to get your son started in the Orlando area. One of the best is the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy held at the Bay Hill Club & Lodge. John O’Leary - Director of Instruction, does a wonderful job there as he teaches Arnold Palmer’s own golf philosophy. Nike has a Golf School and Junior Camp held at the Orange Co. National Golf Club just SW of Orlando. This is designed for all different levels of junior instruction. PGA Champions Tour player, Larry Ziegler and his son Tony run the Ziegler Golf School in nearby Windemere. Tony does a great job with all levels of golfers. Also located in the Orlando area is the worldwide headquarters of the David Ledbetter Golf Academy at ChampionsGate. Ledbetter has his IMG junior golf academy located in Bradenton, FL – about an hour and a half from ChampionsGate. If you go that far from Orlando you really should contact PGA teaching professional Doug Mochrie in Sarasota (just south of Bradenton). Doug is famous for teaching champion LPGA Tour player Dottie Pepper and is amazing with juniors. Ann, your son will thank you for this great start in learning the game we all love.
Fort Myers golf tracks
Asked by Eric on January 14, 2008
Q: I am visiting Fort Myers in Feb abd would like to play some golf. My wife does not play so I will only be able to play 2-3 times in our two week holiday period. I am still a duffer, about 100, and would like to keep the cost under $75/round. Any suggestions?
A: Eric: The city of Ft. Myers runs two very good courses that are both bargain priced. The first is one of the oldest courses in SW Florida – Ft. Myers CC. Designed by famed architect Donald Ross and opened in 1917, this shorter, flat golf layout has the famous Ross crowned greens that will test you, but even as a 100 shooter you’ll find it easy to reach the greens and keep the ball in play. The other city run course is Eastwood Golf Club. It has just reopened after a $1.4 million dollar renovation and a new $2 million clubhouse. This course will be more of a challenge to your game, but give it a try. If you want a nice short tune-up round try the Burnt Store Marina Golf Club with its three nine hole courses – the Osprey, Pelican and Heron. They range in yardage from 1,633 to 1,895 for each nine and combined you can play three different days and always get a different 18 hole look. Designed by Ron Garl and Mark McCumber, you know you’ll get some great holes to play. The green fee rates are very reasonable. Enjoy your visit to Florida!
Buying golf equipment in Fort Lauderdale
Asked by Joop Brussee on January 13, 2008
Q: Hi Frank, I'm from the Netherlands and will be coming to Florida for a two weeks vacation starting out the 1st 3 days from Ft.Lauderdale on Jan.23. Can you suggest some good discount golfshops there where I can buy new & used clubs. For your info I will golf later at Naples golf resort. Thanks a lot in advance for your help best regards, joop
A: Joop Brussee: Since you will be staying in Ft. Lauderdale initially during your visit I’ll give you a few golf stores in that area for you to try to find your new or used clubs. Edwin Watts Golf Shops are a good place to start your search for the perfect clubs. There are three Edwin Watts stores in the Ft. Lauderdale area. Their Clearance Center would be a great place to begin since you may find some close-out clubs there (these are new clubs, but perhaps last years model). They have a Superstore in Ft. Lauderdale and yet another store in nearby Plantation, FL. Play It Again Sports is a store located in Coral Springs (just northwest of Ft. Lauderdale) that deals in sports equipment that people have traded in. They also sell new discount equipment. Try them for a deal on used golf clubs. Finally, I would go to the Golfsmith store located in Hollywood (a little south of Ft. Lauderdale) and see what type of used clubs they may have. They take trade-in clubs and sell all the big brand names of new golf clubs as well. Be sure to ask the sales people for help when you shop since they may be aware of special discount golf clubs that you may not notice when you first walk in these stores. The people who work in these stores usually know a lot about the equipment they carry. Good luck in your search. I hope that you have a wonderful time playing golf in Florida!
Playing with locals in Florida
Asked by russ smith on January 11, 2008
Q: hi frank. i've been playing golf now for 12 months and have a average handicape of around 22-26, i'm coming over to florida in begining of feb 2008, i'm after a course or two to play on with-out up-setting any locals.many thanks.
A: Russ Smith: Congratulations! You have only been playing for 12 months and you are already breaking 100. Many golfers must practice and play for years to get under the century mark. I wouldn’t worry too much about upsetting any other golfers. You currently shoot an “average” game of golf and I’m sure as you progress and get truly hooked you’ll start to break 90, then 80 and then you’ll begin to regularly shoot in the 70s. This may take some serious practice, but always be sure to enjoy the game as your skill advances. Tell me which cities or area of Florida that you plan to visit and I’ll attempt to give you a few courses to try out.
Beginner golf and lessons in Miami
Asked by Joao on January 10, 2008
Q: Hi Frank, I´ve just started playing golf a couple of months ago and I´m visiting my sister in Miami next february. What would be the most recomended courses for me to play and have a few lessons?
A: Joao: There are few places on earth with better weather than Miami in February. You should have a great time playing golf. You said that you have just started playing golf - welcome to the game of a lifetime! Miami has many courses open for the public to play. Here’s a few to try. Since you are a beginner you may want to try a nine hole course. There is a well maintained one in Hollywood called Sunset Golf Club. At only 2,800 yards and a par of 35 (it plays easier); you’ll have an enjoyable time there. Another nine hole course is Briar Bay G.C. A par 31 (it plays a little harder than this) you’ll still get a good workout during your round. If you are ready to step up to an 18 hole layout then give Calusa CC a test. It is relatively inexpensive to play and has wide open fairways. Pro Scott Jones is known as a good teaching professional so this may be a good place to get a few lessons. One of my favorite public courses is Crandon Park on Key Biscayne. This track is good enough to host a PGA Champions Tour event and has outstanding views of Biscayne Bay. Be sure that your game is ready to take on this challenge. For a top notch golf school you can’t go wrong at the Jim McLean Golf School at the Doral Resort. Doral has multiple top rate courses (be really sure that your game is honed for these tracks) and McLean’s school has some students that are world class players like the current US Open champion Angel Cabrera. The magnificent Doral courses and the golf school and not inexpensive, but you’d be playing and training at a first class facility. Have a fantastic time playing this great game you have discovered!
Value golf in Orlando - try afternoons
Asked by Don Webster on January 09, 2008
Q: are there any sites that you would recommend for discounted tee times. We are staying at Southern Dunes. The green fees here are beyond our resources. Thanks
A: Don Webster: Southern Dunes is a terrific course and charges what the market will bear during the Florida “high season” when the courses are most in demand. You’ll find that the green fee rates are at their peak this time of year, but there are plenty of excellent tracks in the Orlando area that are priced below the levels of some of the top fee courses. Try the following sites to get an idea of price points and the reduced rates that may be found: www.lastminutegolfer.com, www.ezlinks.com (see their specials), www.thegolfcourses.net and www.teetimesusa.com. A great way to play a course for less is to book an afternoon tee time. This will save you 30 – 60% off the standard morning rate. Just be sure to get a tee time that is early enough to allow you to complete your 18 hole round of golf. If you are going to visit Florida in the March through October time frame you might want to explore some of the golf privilege cards that can be purchased from folks like the Heart Association and the Big Summer Card - www.bigsummergolf.com. These cards have arrangements with many golf courses throughout Florida that offer reduced rates in the $20 – 60 range including your golf cart. Regardless of what you pay remember to have a great time playing golf in Florida and enjoy our super weather this time of year. I always remember the superb courses and the wonderful climate long after I’ve forgotten the price I paid to play.
Boynton Beach golf
Asked by Davey P on January 08, 2008
Q: Dear Frank, My friend and I will be in Boynton Beach for a week and would like to know about some new tracks (affordable) to play... we love Okeeheelee and Lakeside.
A: Davey P: Boynton Beach and the neighboring cities have lots of courses open to the public for you to play during your upcoming visit. You mentioned “affordable”. That’s a relative term, especially in Florida during the winter months when our weather is perfect and more visitors come to play golf. You may need to pay over $100 to play a course in the winter, but in the summer months you could play the same track for $30. In any event I’ll give you some places to try that are around the $45-60 range this time of year (January) and still a high-quality place to play. The city of Boynton Beach runs a nice facility called the Links at Boynton Beach. With a par of 71 and 6,297 yards long it is a challenging shorter course designed by the team of Von Hagge/Devlin who have done many outstanding tracks around the country. Cypress Creek is another Robert Von Hagge design that is a little longer – 6,531 yards -which you should check out. Westchester Golf & CC offers 45 holes of golf – three nine hole layouts and one 18 hole Par 3 course. They will set up your round of championship golf on two of their nine hole courses, so you could play there three times and see a different 18 hole layout each time. I’d drive a few miles (about 18 miles north) to experience a terrific day of play at Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington. Their price may be a little higher in the morning, but book a tee time in the afternoon and I think you’ll get a great value for the green fee. Hope this helps. Have a wonderful time on your Florida golf vacation!
Starting the game in the St. Pete area
Asked by dolph_7 on December 24, 2007
Q: I'm a beginning golfer who lives in the St. Pete area. Can you suggest a good course for me to play? Thanks.
A: dolph_7: Welcome to the great game of golf. Since you are a self described beginner I’ll give you a few options to play in the St. Petersburg area. If you are just starting out you may want to try an “executive” or par 3 type golf course. These are great to learn how to play the different shots that will be helpful as your game improves. The courses are short and usually pretty easy so you’ll build confidence as you play. One to try out in your area is the Mainlands Golf Club in Pinellas Park. At a par of 63 and about 4,200 yards long, it will offer you a challenge, but not punish you all day with a degree of difficulty that you may not be ready for. If your game is ready for a full size course, try out the old Clearwater CC in Clearwater. Built many years ago when clubs and balls didn’t hit the distances they do today, it is still in good shape and a pleasant test of your skill. It measures around 6,000 yards from the White tees and 5,265 from the Golds. When you feel like you are prepared for a longer challenge try the Buffalo Creek Golf Course in Palmetto. This municipal track was designed by renowned golf course architect, Ron Garl. It is longer, but relatively wide open so you can try out your proficiency with the driver and fairway woods. It also has a large practice range where you can hone your game. Be sure to get some professional advice in regard to lessons as you develop your game. It will save you lots of time, not to mention golf balls. Good luck and have fun!
Terrific Fort Lauderdale golf
Asked by Buzzybee61 on December 24, 2007
Q: Hi Frank, which courses do you recommend in FT Lauderdale area?
A: Buzzybee61: Ft. Lauderdale has plenty of great courses to play. Here’s a few to try out. I like a windy challenge from time to time and the Heron Bay Golf Club in Coral Springs is a super test of your wind beating skills especially in the spring time. Sited next to the Everglades this track was home for several years to the Honda Classic when the course was known as the TPC at Heron Bay. A tough course, but you’ll feel like you really accomplished something if you score well during your round. Bonaventure CC in Weston has 36 holes of golf that will test your game. Challenge the famous #3 waterfall hole. If you attack the back right pin position you must confront the waterfall on this par 3. Give it a go! One of my old favorites is the Inverrary Golf Club in Lauderhill. Host for many years of the Jackie Gleason Inverrary Classic, the strong East course also held the 1976 Tournament Players Championship (before Sawgrass) the year Jack Nicklaus won. With champions like Lee Trevino, Johnny Miller and Tom Kite you must give this a try. Both courses, the East and West, were designed by the great Robert Trent Jones, Sr. If your game can hold up here you’ll remember the day for years to come.
VISIT FLORIDA Experts
Frank's picks
Girl Dancing at Pow Wow
Get a glimpse of Native American culture by attending a powwow ... View
Seminole family at Big Cypress
A Seminole family at Big Cypress demonstrates ages-old customs. ... View
Following the Seminole Trail
Why not take my family on a driving tour of all the Seminole historic sites ... More
Must-Sees for Native American History and Culture
Crystal River Archaeological State Park served as a vital religious and political center for regional ... More
Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum
Ah-Tah-Thi-Khi Museum features the history and culture of Florida's "unconquered" Seminole Indians. See lifelike exhibits ... Read More
Seminole family at Big Cypress
A Seminole family at Big Cypress demonstrates ages-old customs. ... View
Girl Dancing at Pow Wow
Get a glimpse of Native American culture by attending a powwow ... View
Following the Seminole Trail
Why not take my family on a driving tour of all the Seminole historic sites ... More
Must-Sees for Native American History and Culture
Crystal River Archaeological State Park served as a vital religious and political center for regional ... More
Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum
Ah-Tah-Thi-Khi Museum features the history and culture of Florida's "unconquered" Seminole Indians. See lifelike exhibits ... Read More