Miami Golf Courses: Top 8 Must-Play Spots for Vacationing Guests

Many know Miami for its nightlife and beaches, but the area’s golf scene welcomes guests to experience some of the best courses in the U.S. While Florida has more golf courses than any other state, it’s no surprise Miami features golf courses on both resorts and in lesser known spots. Pair these courses with a warm coastal climate, and there are few better places to spend a day on the greens. Here are the top Miami golf courses vacationers should play.

8 Miami Golf Courses for Challenging Games and Incredible Views

Soffer Golf Course at Turnberry Isle Miami

Manicured greens, ponds with ducks, swans, flamingos, and two legendary courses originally designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and re-imagined by Raymond Floyd, Turnberry Isle Miami offers two 18-hole championship courses.

Choose from the Soffer and the Miller, both featuring elevation changes and rolling fairways. Whether a first-timer, looking to improve or seasoned pro, both courses offer challenges and a chance to play where PGA and LPGA legends were made.

Biltmore Hotel Coral Gables Golf Course

Designed by esteemed architect Donald Ross, Biltmore Hotel Coral Gables Golf Course at The Biltmore Hotel Spa and Golf is a par-71 course designed in 1925, and updated by Ross student Brian Silva. This classic golf course features dozens of trees, several sand traps and must-see views of this national historic landmark resort.

The Coral Gables Canal runs right through the course. In fact, some players have even spotted manatees, iguanas, blue herons, white ibis and the occasional crocodile. After a day on the greens, relax at the world-class Biltmore spa, which has the largest pool in the U.S.

Flamingo Lakes Country Club

Just north of Miami sits Flamingo Lakes Country Club golf course. This semi-private, daily-fee club offers a variety of membership options and ranks as one of the area’s best-kept secrets.

The course ranks challenging but forgiving, making it a great option for all skill levels. With water hazards on most holes and strategically placed bunkers throughout, the course requires strategic moves in order to score well. Flamingo Lakes can be completed in less than four hours, catering to those who want to play but are short on time.

Costa del Sol Golf Club

With plenty of scenic views, Costa del Sol Golf Club ranks among the best Miami golf courses for its water features. Designed by ASGCA Architect Robert E. Cupp, the course measures 6,011 yards from the longest tee for a par 72. While the course is mainly flat, there are significant challenges coming from narrow fairways lined with trees.

In addition, players find water hazards on most holes, with the most challenging on the 14th, a par 3, which requires a tee shot over water. Visitors also encounter several sand bunkers throughout the course. Costa del Sol also has a driving range, putting green, PGA pro lessons and practice facilities to help improve game.

Club at Emerald Hills

The Club at Emerald Hills ranks No. 1 by USGA in South Florida and ranks as the longest golf course in Florida. The Club opened in 1969 and was originally designed by Bruce Devlin and Robert Von Hagge, both world-renowned golf course architects.

With over 40 bunkers, rolling terrain offers a design that proves challenging for seasoned pros and keeps golfers coming back to master the course. The Club is membership driven and has lots of options – even a summer membership plan – for those vacationing in Miami during the season.

Miami Shores Country Club

Looking to join legends such as Bob Hope, Joe DiMaggio, Arnold Palmer, Sam Snead and Lee Trevino? Then head to Miami Shores Country Club.

This signature 18-hole course houses sub-tropical wildlife and vegetation. Designed by Red Lawrence, gently rolling terrain full of bunkers and trees challenge all skill levels. To practice and develop new skills, stop by the lighted driving range, which features grass surfaces for a real-feel experience.

Don Shula’s Golf Club

This top among the best Miami golf courses offers a game that starts off not too difficult and progressively gets harder as golfers play. The 11th green and on proves the most challenging with water on almost every hole and narrow fairways.

Designed by Bill Watts and updated by nationally recognized golf course architect Kipp Schulties, Senator Course at Don Shula’s Golf Club is a championship par 72 suitable for all skill levels. Don Shula’s opens to the public with membership options and also has tennis courts, fitness center and upscale restaurants.

Palm Aire Country Club: Oaks and Cypress

Two prestigious golf courses, Oaks and Cypress, at Palm Aire Country Club were designed by famous golfer and architect George Fazio and his nephew, Tom Fazio. To add to its cool factor, the course has been visited by movie stars, including Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Jerry Lewis.

Both Oaks and Cypress courses feature Tif greens — a new hybrid grass — which have received rave reviews from Nike Tour pros, PGA Tour officials and Golf channel. Suitable for golfers of all abilities, Palm Aire Country Club operates as a daily-fee facility and has golf shops, two driving ranges and professional golf academy.

Want to stay on some Miami golf courses? These vacation rentals in Miami provide the best of both worlds: home and golf.

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