About Hilton Hotels: Orlando's Best 12 Golf Courses

Monday, July 25, 2011

Orlando's Best 12 Golf Courses

Celebration Golf Club

Highlights

Celebration is an upscale resort course designed by the father and son team of Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Jr. This championship caliber course demands accurate approach shots and consistent putting. It was designed with shot-making strategy in mind and features strategic hazards and challenging greens. The course is surrounded by tranquil wetlands and sprinkled with native oaks, pines, and magnolia trees. It is conveniently located in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district.

Golf School

The Golf Academy at Celebration offers corporate programs, group instruction, a junior academy, and professional golf instructors.

Reviews

“Would add this course to list of must plays” – David (Edmond, OK) 6/1/11

“A quality course but not for the faint of heart. ‘A’ game a must.” – Allan (Halifax, NS, Canada) 4/22/11

“Fantastic. The staff treated us very nicely and the course was in the best condition of any course we’ve ever played in Florida. That says a lot!” – Paul 3/23/11

ChampionsGate

Highlights

ChampionsGate offers two distinctive courses designed by Greg Norman.

The National is a classic American-style layout that rolls through two hundred acres of woodlands and wetlands. Its unique bunkering, tree-lined fairways, and intriguing green designs define a challenging course for any shotmaking golfer. Its par 3 holes and the double green shared by holes 4 and 16 offer a memorable test.

The International is one of the highest rated courses in Florida, with the look and feel of a links-style layout in the British Isles. The International was designed, constructed and seeded to offer a hard, fast playing surface similar to those found on true links courses in Scotland and Ireland. The International, with 18 of the most dramatic and challenging holes in Florida, is destined to rank among the top resort courses in the country.

Golf School

The David Leadbetter Golf Academy at ChampionsGate is the world headquarters of all of David Leadbetter’s golf schools. It offers personalized golf lessons, seminars, and corporate events. The school includes two putting greens, two chipping greens, a pitching area with 12 target bunkers, and the state-of-the-art Callaway Performance Center complete with high speed cameras and precision software to evaluate students’ swing data.

Reviews

“This was my favorite course of the ten or so that I have played in the Orlando area. The conditions were excellent. The clubhouse is awesome and the staff are all very friendly.” – Russell (Brin Bay Arm, NL, Canada) 3/27/11

“I had heard good things about this layout from some locals and they were right on. Most enjoyable golf experience for two mid handicappers who love a challenge. Course is tough but fair. Compliments to the superintendent and his maintenance crew. Beautiful greens. Fast pace of play. Truly professional, friendly and welcoming staff. Great facility. Don't miss it if you're in the Orlando area. Thanks to Tee Time USA for this recommendation. - Ron (Northport, NY) 3/26/11

“One of the finest courses in all of Florida. Spectacular service from the entire staff. We were treated like no other course we have played in Florida.” – Tom (Whitmore Lake, MI) 3/12/11. Read more reviews

Harmony Golf Preserve

Highlights

Harmony is Central Florida’s only Johnny Miller signature course. It is located between the beaches of Melbourne and the major attractions of Orlando. It is certified by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary as a designated preserve for incorporating beautiful wetlands and wildlife into a stellar golf setting. Golf Digest readers rated it with four and a half stars as one of the “Best Places to Play.” It was listed as the Fourth Toughest Course in Central Florida by Orlando Business Journal. Harmony is managed by Troon Golf.

Golf School

Dennis Murray’s Uncomplicated Golf School at Harmony Golf Preserve is designed to accommodate golfers at every skill level. It offers private lessons, small group lessons, and corporate events.

Reviews

“Absolutely stunning setting. Greens were fast and true. Wildlife was spectacular. It was worth the drive” – Anthony (Pittsburgh, PA) 3/17/11

“One of the prettiest courses I’ve played. Loved the Preserve. Even saw a few gators!! Very challenging, especially in the wind.” – Brian (Girard, OH) 3/11/11

“Beautiful course. Best one of the trip for us. Nice mix of bunkering, water, and doglegs to keep things interesting.” – Matt (St. John’s, NL, Canada) 3/4/ 11

MetroWest Golf Club

Highlights

MetroWest was voted the “#1 Best Golf Course in Orlando” by Orlando Magazine. The Robert Trent Jones Senior signature design features spring-fed lakes, mature native trees, expansive rolling fairways, dramatic elevation changes, large undulating greens, sculpted bunkers, and recently renovated clubhouse. The course is highly playable for all skill levels, but precision is required for approach shots into the greens. The USGA and PGA both hold their qualifying tournaments at MetroWest. Florida Golf Central Magazine awarded it with “Best Greens in Central Florida.”

Golf School

The Golf Academy at MetroWest is directed by Tom Creavy, a Golf Digest “Top 50” and “Top 20 under 50” and the instructor of LPGA superstar Se Ri Pak. It offers professional instruction, innovative programs, great golf amenities, and a state-of-the-art practice facility for professionals and amateurs alike.

Reviews

“A great way to end our week of golf. Wide open and playable from tee to green. Just avoid those traps.” – Allan (Halifax, NS, Canada) 4/22/11

“Great layout – fun to play. Well maintained with friendly staff. Fourth year we played it – never get tired of it. Great warm-up course after a winter lay-off.” – Peter (Port Williams, Canada) 4/19/11

“Really classy place. Golf course is terrific, and the staff very courteous.” – Larry (Davenport, IA) 4/13/11

Orange County National

Highlights

Orange County National features 36 championship holes on its Panther Lake and Crooked Cat courses. The two top layouts feature tournament-playing conditions. Panther Lake winds through natural oak hammocks, pine forests, scenic wetlands, and glistening freshwater lakes. Its rolling hills include dramatic elevation changes. Crooked Cat is a links-style course with an open, flowing design. Its sloping greens, steep grass, and sand bunkers offer a challenge to golfers of all skill levels. Orange County National has hosted multiple PGA Tour Q-School Finals. Its practice range was voted one of the Best Practice Ranges in America by Golfer Magazine. Both courses received four and a half stars in Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play.”

Golf School

The Orange County National Golf Learning Center offers private lessons, group lessons, junior golf programs, and a special ‘Just Fore Women’ program for golfers of all skill levels.

Reviews

“Superb. Players are treated like royalty by an incredibly friendly staff. The practice area alone is worth a visit, and of course, conditions cannot be topped. We’d return again in a heartbeat.” – Dennis (Plattsburgh, NY) 4/16/11

“Excellent course with great greens, plush fairways, and the tee boxes perfect. A little more challenging for us since we are not big hitters.” – Rick (Cherry Hill, NJ) 4/10/11

“Spectacular course maintained in immaculate condition. Staff extremely accommodating and courteous. Simply one of the best affordable public courses.” – Steven (Tonawanda, NY) 4/1/11. Read more reviews

Orange Lake

Highlights

Orange Lake includes two beautiful and distinctly different courses. The Reserve at Orange Lake was redesigned by Mike Dasher to be in harmony with its carefully preserved native wetlands. The Reserve winds through woodlands of oak, cypress, and pine marshlands featuring lakes and abundant wildlife. Golf Magazine rated it as one of Florida’s top fifty places to play. Orange Lake’s Legends offers an Arnold Palmer-designed course with Scottish-style golf on the front nine and the back nine reminiscent of the Carolinas. It features towering pines, majestic oaks, winding fairways, and flowing water. Its par five fourth hole is considered one of the toughest holes in Central Florida from tee to green.

Golf School

The McCord Golf Academy is recognized by Golf Magazine as one of the Top Twenty-Five Golf Schools in America. It was founed by Rick McCord, who is one of Golf Magazine’s Top One Hundred Best Teachers in America. Golfers of all levels can request private instruction and group golf clinics daily.

Reviews

“Nice course! Difficult but fun to play. Course was in great shape!” – Greg (Clolville, OH) 2/27/11

“This course is beautiful. The best of all is unlimited afternoon golf. It is quite a challenging course.” – RC (Canada) 12/22/11

“Challenging but fair.” – Neil (Canada) 12/22/11

“Nicest course we played. Course was in good shape. Greens were a bit faster than most we played. Long distances from some greens to next tee, but enjoyed this course. Would definitely return.” – Talbot (Solon, IA) 2/21/11

“Wonderful course, my wife and I both liked it so much we changed our itinerary in order to play it again!” – Tim (N. Olmstead, OH) 12/11/10. Read more reviews

Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club

Highlights

Southern Dunes is a distinctive course featuring a dramatic hillside layout, rolling terrain, steep elevation changes, and large, fast, undulating greens. Designer Steve Smyers created a unique course with his high-lipped bunkers and creative contours. His spectacular design and the course’s recently renovated Champion Dwarf Greens is further enhanced by the high grasses and ornamentals that form the borders for holes that tumble with the terrain. Golf Digest rated Southern Dunes 4 ½ stars in its “Places to Play.”

Golf School

The Kevin Woodard Golf Studio at Southern Dunes offers professional, experienced instructors for golfers of all skill levels.

Reviews

“Southern Dunes is a top notch course. Traps are all over the place, but a very fair course. Fairways and greens were in immaculate condition. A must play.” - Brian (Horsham, PA) 3/11/11

“One of my favourites. I can't imagine anyone ever being disappointed with this beautiful golf course.” - L. Hubley 3/5/11

“A lot of sand. Fairways and greens were in very good condition. Not too difficult for club players. I would recommend this course for anyone.” - Markku (Pieksamaki, Finland) 2/20/11

“This was my fourth or fifth time playing this course and I'd play it again. Different for Florida because there's almost no water (but they make up for it with bunkers all over the place). Plenty of challenge and a lot of different shaped holes. - Bob (Chester Springs, PA) 2/20/11

Falcons Fire Golf Club

Highlights

Falcons Fire Golf Club was designed by Reese Jones to be challenging, yet playable. It recently underwent a $1.2 million renovation that resurfaced its greens with TifEagle turf that provides golfers with faster, smoother, playing conditions. Bunkers were reshaped, the clubhouse was improved, and the grounds were overseeded. The course is exquisitely maintained and boasts year-round playing conditions.

Golf School

The Aaron Fagan Golf Academy at Falcon’s Fire offers many instruction options with skilled instructors for golfers of all skill levels. It features individual lessons, group lessons, playing lessons, and junior golf programs.

Reviews

“Very playable and wide open course. Nothing to block out the wind so club selection is critical.” - John (Rego Park, NY) 3/31/11

“Average difficulty, in very good condition and tough rough. Keep the ball on the fairway here. Friendly staff.” - Ken (Syosset, NY) 3/17/11

“A first class operation. Nice layout in great shape. The rough was as lush as most fairways. A definite repeat.” - Al (Sinking Spg, PA) 2/21/11

Shingle Creek Golf Club

Highlights

Shingle Creek Golf Club was designed by David Harman. Its rolling fairways and interconnecting waterways create a challenging test of golf for all skill levels. It was voted one of America’s Top Forty New Courses by Golfweek Magazine.

Golf School

The Brad Brewer Golf Academy at Shingle Creek Golf Club offers private lesions, academy programs, junior programs, customized group instruction, and team building activities.

Reviews

“This is my favorite course in the area by far. Every aspect of the visit was first class, and the course was in beautiful shape. The greens were fast and true. The service was second to none.” - Jon (Leominster, MA) 3/7/11

“Excellent staff and service, great layout and maintenance, and fair price. It was a little challenging with all the water, but one just has to adjust to different tee boxes.” - Seung (Valley Stream, NY) 3/4/11

“Just a terrific golf course. Staff is super, practice area is great and the course is awesome. Don't miss this course.” - Douglas (Bellingham, MA) 2/22/10

Eagle Creek Golf Club

Highlights

Eagle Creek Golf Club is a European-inspired course designed by Ron Garl and Howard Swan. Its Mini-Verde grass provides exceptionally fast and vibrant greens. Eagle Creek is a designated Audubon Silver Signature Course with lush landscaping and challenging play. It has ninety white sand bunkers with extensive bulkheads embracing water hazards and nearly two thousand trees lining its breathtaking fairways. It is conveniently located just minutes from Orlando international Airport.

Golf School

The Golf Academy at Eagle Creek Golf Club specializes in individual lessons and small group instruction. All lessons are taught by Ben Heaver of Brian Kirk Golf Schools

Reviews

“Excellent links course. Huge greens with lots of undulations. The wind was blowing pretty good- so it was a good test of skills! Would definitely like another shot at it!” - Don 5/27/11

“A definite must play. This is the most beautiful and challenging course we've ever played in Florida. It was in pristine condition with true rolling greens.” - James Jennings (Milford, MA) 4/13/11

Mystic Dunes Golf Course

Highlights

Mystic Dunes’ unique Gary Koch design incorporates five sets of tees that allow golfers of all skill levels to enjoy a challenging round. The course was rated 4 ½ Stars by Golf DigestGolf Digest and was named one of Golfweek's Top Resort Courses. Its greens are reminiscent of Augusta National, with par 4's that rival some of the longest seen in major professional championships, and a diabolical quartet of par 3's.

Golf School

The Golf Academy (??) at Mystic Dunes Golf Course offers personalized assistance through individual lessons, group programs, and an extended practice facility.

Reviews

“Excellent course - undulated greens makes for interesting golf.” - Randy 4/22/11

“Tough course but several tee boxes make it playable for anyone. It's not a grip it/rip it golf course. You have to think out there and use all the clubs in your bag. I would not play it on day one but it's worth playing when you are tuned up. Nice staff too.” - Carl (Chelmsford, MA) 4/13/11

“Wonderful golf course, staff all pleasent and welcoming. The course was in good condition and off the front tees was still a good test of golf, with undulating greens it was a tough but fair test.” - James Macdonald (Scotland) 3/6/11

Grand Cypress Golf Club

Highlights

Grand Cypress features the Jack Nicklaus-designed New Course along with the North, South, and East Nines. The New Course is a Scottish-style links course, complete with twelve-foot pot bunkers, double greens, a snaking burn, and old stone bridges. The North, South, and East Nines provide three unique combinations for 18-hole rounds. Each combination provides a distinctive playing experience that test accuracy rather than strength and distance. The original North-South combination is a demanding, target-style test that is marked by sharply edged fairways, tall shaggy mounds, and plateau greens perched above water or sand. The South-East and East-North Courses are sportier and more generous, with beautiful trees, less bunkering, and more chances for run-up shots.

Golf School

The Grand Cypress Academy of Golf has been rated one of the “Top 25 Golf Schools in America” every eyar since 1991. The Academy features golf schools, lessons, clinics, state-of-the-art technology, and PGA certified instructors for golfers of all levels.

Reviews

“I felt like I had taken a trip to Scotland and was playing St. Andrews. This course had a lot of similiar holes and the greens were huge but a roller coaster ride with all the swells.” - William (Chesapeake, VA) 6/4/11

“Played South/East - always enjoy it. Accuracy is a must off tees - course requires good shots.” -Peter (Port Williams, Canada) 5/19/11

“A mixture of styles. The course was in great condition. The island green on the East was fantastic, the greens on the North are unbelievably fast and up and down. A good welcome with great facilities.” - WJG (United Kingdom) 11/18/10