20 of the Most Underrated Golf Courses in Florida in 2025

Florida, renowned for its championship golf destinations, harbors numerous hidden treasures beyond the famous tournament venues. While many golfers flock to well-known courses, the state offers exceptional golfing experiences that remain surprisingly under the radar. These lesser-known gems provide outstanding play value, unique design features, and memorable landscapes without the crowds or premium pricing.

The most underrated golf courses in Florida deliver exceptional quality and distinctive character while remaining relatively unknown to the average golf traveler. From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic shores, these courses represent diverse architectural styles, challenging layouts, and scenic beauty that rival their more celebrated counterparts. Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf trip or looking to add a round during your Florida vacation, these underappreciated courses deserve your attention.

1. Juliette Falls Golf Course and Community

Tucked away in Dunnellon, Juliette Falls is one of Florida’s hidden gems that deserves more recognition. This stunning golf course features meticulously maintained fairways and greens that wind through natural limestone formations and rolling hills, providing a unique playing experience.

The par-72 championship layout was designed by John Sanford and opened in 2008. You’ll appreciate the strategic challenge it offers with its four signature waterfalls that not only add visual appeal but also come into play throughout your round.

Beyond the exceptional course conditions, Juliette Falls offers practice facilities that rival many private clubs. You can fine-tune your game at the expansive driving range, short game area, and putting green before tackling the course.

The natural beauty surrounding the course enhances your golfing experience. Mature oak trees, native vegetation, and wildlife create a peaceful atmosphere that feels removed from the busier tourist areas of Florida.

Rating: 4.6 (571 reviews)
Location: 6933 SW 179th Ave Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432
Contact: (352) 522-0309
Website: Visit Website

2. Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando

Hidden within the Walt Disney World Resort area, the Tranquilo Golf Course at Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando offers an unexpected sanctuary for golf enthusiasts. This Tom Fazio-designed masterpiece stands out for its rare varying elevations in typically flat Central Florida.

What makes Tranquilo truly special is its status as a Certified Audubon Sanctuary. As you navigate the par-71 course stretching 6,901 yards, you’ll encounter abundant wildlife and protected wetlands that create a peaceful escape from Orlando’s typical tourist attractions.

The facility recently invested $2.5 million in their 16-acre practice facility, creating course-like undulating target greens that serve both serious players and casual golfers. You can take advantage of the double-ended driving range, dedicated chipping areas, practice bunkers, and a two-acre natural-grass tee box.

Beyond the exceptional course, Four Seasons offers comprehensive services including club fitting, private instruction, and specialized programs like short-game evaluations and on-course playing lessons with their Director of Golf Instruction.

Rating: 4.7 (216 reviews)
Location: 3451 Golf View Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Contact: (407) 313-7777
Website: Visit Website

3. Streamsong Golf Resort

Tucked away in Central Florida’s secluded landscape, Streamsong Golf Resort stands as a hidden gem that deserves far more recognition. This exceptional destination features three distinct championship courses – Red, Blue, and Black – all ranked among the Top 30 in the United States.

What makes Streamsong truly special is the dramatic, unusual terrain that differs dramatically from typical Florida golf. Built on former phosphate mining land, the courses feature towering dunes, sandy fields, and pristine lakes that create a links-style experience more reminiscent of Scotland than the Sunshine State.

The resort complements its world-class golf with luxurious accommodations featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the stunning natural surroundings. After your round, you can unwind at the infinity pool, enjoy outstanding dining options, or indulge in spa treatments.

Located within 90 minutes of both Tampa and Orlando, Streamsong offers an accessible escape that feels worlds away from Florida’s typical tourist attractions. The peaceful seclusion and extraordinary golf experience make this resort a must-visit destination for serious golfers looking beyond the obvious choices.

Rating: 4.5 (1190 reviews)
Location: Bowling Green, FL
Contact: (863) 312-8008
Website: Visit Website

4. ChampionsGate Golf Club

ChampionsGate Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience that often flies under the radar despite its impressive pedigree. Designed by golf legend Greg Norman, this facility features two distinctive 18-hole championship courses that challenge players of all skill levels.

The National Course provides a traditional American-style layout with tree-lined fairways and natural wetlands that create strategic shot-making opportunities. Meanwhile, the International Course offers a links-style experience with open fairways, deep pot bunkers, and undulating greens reminiscent of Scottish and Irish courses.

You’ll appreciate the immaculate course conditions and attentive service that complement the challenging yet enjoyable layouts. The practice facilities are equally impressive, with a comprehensive driving range and short game areas where you can warm up before your round.

For the complete experience, the adjacent Omni Orlando Resort offers luxurious accommodations and dining options to make your golf getaway truly memorable. The professional staff can help arrange your tee times and provide valuable course management tips to enhance your game.

Rating: 4.6 (1082 reviews)
Location: 8575 White Shark Blvd, Championsgate, FL 33896
Contact: (407) 787-4653
Website: Visit Website

5. Southern Dunes Golf and Country Club

Southern Dunes Golf and Country Club in Haines City stands as one of Florida’s hidden golf treasures. This championship course features dramatic elevation changes of up to 100 feet, a rarity in the generally flat Florida landscape.

The challenging layout stretches over 7,200 yards from the championship tees, offering a unique golfing experience. You’ll encounter rolling hills, strategically placed bunkers, and meticulously maintained fairways throughout your round.

Located just outside Orlando, Southern Dunes makes an excellent addition to your vacation itinerary if you’re visiting the theme parks. The course consistently ranks among the nation’s best golf destinations, yet it remains less crowded than many of its counterparts.

When you play Southern Dunes, you’ll appreciate both the quality of the course design and the value it offers compared to other premier Florida courses. The dramatic hillside layout provides spectacular views and challenging shots that will test golfers of all skill levels.

Rating: 4.5 (1462 reviews)
Location: 2888 Southern Dunes Blvd, Haines City, FL 33844
Contact: (863) 421-4653
Website: Visit Website

6. Streamsong Golf Resort – Black

Designed by acclaimed architect Gil Hanse, Streamsong Black offers a breathtaking golfing experience that’s surprisingly underrated despite its accolades. The par-73 championship layout features flowing elevations, rolls, and sand ridges reminiscent of Australia’s Melbourne Sand Belt region.

What makes this course special is its scale and creative design elements that prioritize both fun and strategic play. The vast landscape provides stunning views throughout your round, creating a memorable experience that stands apart from typical Florida golf courses.

The Black course is complemented by “The Gauntlet,” a 1.2-acre putting course that adds to the overall experience. You’ll find the iconic windmill at the ninth hole serving as both a distinctive visual marker and a practical aiming point for the punchbowl green.

Recognition has come steadily since opening, with Golf Digest naming it 2018’s Best New Golf Course of the Year and ranking it #29 among America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses in 2023. Despite these honors, many golfers overlook this gem when planning their Florida golf trips.

Rating: 4.6 (260 reviews)
Location: Bowling Green, FL
Contact: (888) 294-6322
Website: Visit Website

7. Bent Pine Golf Club

Tucked away in Vero Beach, Bent Pine Golf Club stands as one of Florida’s hidden golf treasures. Founded in 1975, this private club offers an exceptional experience designed by renowned architect Joe Lee, who masterfully incorporated the natural landscape of towering pines and shimmering lakes.

The course strikes a perfect balance between challenge and playability. You’ll appreciate the expansive driving areas that forgive slight mishits, while the well-bunkered greens demand precision and thoughtful approach shots. This versatility makes Bent Pine accessible for beginners while still engaging experienced players.

Beyond the outstanding golf, the club boasts a vibrant community atmosphere. Members rave about the social environment and dining experiences curated by Chef Brian, ranging from daily lunches to sophisticated wine-tasting dinners. The club is currently undergoing clubhouse renovations to enhance the already elegant facilities.

What truly sets Bent Pine apart is the camaraderie among members who share a passion for golf traditions. The intimate setting creates a welcoming environment where lasting friendships form naturally against the backdrop of Vero Beach’s picturesque landscape.

Rating: 4.5 (115 reviews)
Location: Vero Beach, FL
Contact: (772) 567-6838
Website: Visit Website

8. Reunion Resort Golf Courses – Palmer & Watson

Reunion Resort offers a truly exceptional golfing experience with its world-class Palmer and Watson courses. These signature designs, created by legends Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson, provide distinctive challenges that will test every aspect of your game.

The Arnold Palmer course features dramatic elevation changes of up to 50 feet, sprawling across hilly terrain with strategic risk-reward opportunities throughout its 6,916 yards. You’ll need to carefully plan each shot to navigate this engaging layout.

Tom Watson’s course presents a different challenge with its wide-open greens, rolling fairways, and strategically placed bunkers. Your short game will be put to the test here, requiring well-calculated approaches to score well.

What makes Reunion truly special is that it’s the only destination worldwide featuring courses designed by Palmer, Watson, and Nicklaus all in one location. The resort also houses the Golfzon Leadbetter Academy World Headquarters and Club Champion custom fitting services.

Rating: 4.3 (256 reviews)
Location: 7599 Gathering Dr, Kissimmee, FL 34747
Contact: (833) 258-0472
Website: Visit Website

9. Providence Golf Club

Providence Golf Club stands as a hidden gem in Central Florida, just 10 minutes from Disney in Davenport. This public 18-hole championship course, designed by renowned architect Mike Dasher, offers both a challenging game and beautiful surroundings.

The course winds through scenic Florida landscape featuring freshwater creeks, ancient hardwoods, and wetlands. You’ll likely spot native Florida wildlife during your round, including some of Central Florida’s largest alligators and occasionally even bears.

Dasher’s affection for European-style courses is evident in the unique, undulated greens that Providence is known for. Many golfers praise these as the best greens in Central Florida. The dedicated professional staff brings decades of experience, having received numerous awards from the PGA and LPGA.

For tourists visiting Orlando or Tampa, Providence offers a serene getaway from the busy theme parks. The staff focuses on creating an enjoyable experience for all skill levels, welcoming both individual players and groups of all sizes.

Rating: 4.4 (1096 reviews)
Location: 1518 Clubhouse Blvd, Davenport, FL 33837
Contact: (863) 424-7916
Website: Visit Website

10. Copperhead Course

Nestled within the prestigious Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, the Copperhead Course offers one of Florida’s most challenging yet rewarding golf experiences. This 7,200-yard championship course is lined with majestic pine trees that create a distinctly different atmosphere from typical Florida layouts.

As host of the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship, Copperhead delivers a professional-caliber experience that surprisingly flies under the radar for many golf enthusiasts. The famous “Snake Pit” (holes 16-18) provides a formidable finish that tests even the most skilled players.

What makes Copperhead truly special is its natural terrain. Unlike many Florida courses, you’ll encounter rolling hills and peaceful lakes throughout your round. The course’s design requires strategic shot-making rather than just distance, rewarding thoughtful play and precise execution.

When you visit, you’ll have access to the broader amenities of Innisbrook Resort, including practice facilities to sharpen your skills, multiple dining options, and six swimming pools for post-round relaxation. The resort atmosphere elevates the entire golfing experience beyond just the excellent course itself.

Rating: 4.7 (699 reviews)
Location: 36750 US Hwy 19 N, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
Contact: (727) 942-2000
Website: Visit Website

11. Mangrove Bay and Cypress Links Golf Courses

Tucked away in St. Petersburg, Mangrove Bay and Cypress Links Golf Courses offer one of Florida’s best public golfing values that many travelers overlook. The facility features an 18-hole championship course at Mangrove Bay complemented by the 9-hole executive Cypress Links course, giving you options regardless of your skill level or available time.

The Mangrove Bay course presents an engaging layout with strategic water hazards and well-placed bunkers that challenge your shot-making abilities without being overly punishing. Natural Florida landscapes surround the fairways, creating a peaceful atmosphere away from the tourist crowds that flock to more heavily advertised courses.

Practice facilities include a comprehensive driving range and putting greens where you can warm up before your round. The pro shops are well-stocked with equipment and apparel, while the on-site snack bars provide convenient refreshments to keep you fueled throughout your game.

The courses are meticulously maintained year-round, offering conditions that rival many private clubs at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Tampa Bay area, these municipal gems deserve a spot on your golfing itinerary.

Rating: 4 (422 reviews)
Location: 875 62nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
Contact: (727) 893-7800
Website: Visit Website

12. Golden Bear Club

Nestled in the prestigious Keene’s Pointe community, the Golden Bear Club represents one of Florida’s hidden golf treasures. This Jack Nicklaus Signature-designed course offers an exceptional golfing experience that often flies under the radar of mainstream recognition.

The course’s natural beauty is immediately apparent as you play among majestic oaks and towering cypress trees bordering the Butler Chain of Lakes. The layout combines challenging elements that will test your skills while rewarding strategic play, creating a balanced experience for golfers of various abilities.

The club features an impressive clubhouse facility with panoramic views of the 9th and 18th finishing holes. You’ll appreciate the private country club atmosphere while enjoying the opportunity to play as a “member for a day” on this meticulously maintained course.

The Golden Bear Club consistently maintains impeccable playing conditions, making every round memorable. The natural Florida landscape is thoughtfully incorporated into the design, providing both scenic beauty and strategic challenges that will have you planning your return visit.

Rating: 4.6 (213 reviews)
Location: 6300 Jack Nicklaus Pkwy, Windermere, FL 34786
Contact: (407) 876-5775
Website: Visit Website

13. PGA National Members Club

Despite its renowned name, the PGA National Members Club remains one of Florida’s more underrated golfing experiences. While the Champion Course gets most of the attention for hosting The Honda Classic, the private Members Club offers an exceptional experience that often flies under the radar for non-members.

The course presents a perfect balance of challenge and playability, with meticulously maintained fairways and greens that provide consistent surfaces year-round. The layout takes full advantage of Palm Beach Gardens’ natural beauty, incorporating water features and strategic bunkering that reward thoughtful shot selection.

What truly sets this course apart is the exclusive atmosphere combined with top-tier amenities. You’ll enjoy access to excellent practice facilities, a well-stocked pro shop, and dining options that rival fine restaurants. The attentive staff enhances the experience, ensuring your day on the course is memorable from first tee to final putt.

The club’s commitment to preserving golf traditions while incorporating modern conveniences makes it a hidden gem in Florida’s crowded golf landscape. If you have the opportunity to play here through a member connection, don’t hesitate to take advantage of this underrated treasure.

Rating: 4.5 (736 reviews)
Location: 400 Ave of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
Contact: (561) 627-1800
Website: Visit Website

14. Old Memorial Golf Club

Old Memorial Golf Club in Tampa stands as one of Florida’s hidden gems in the golfing world. Despite its relatively low profile compared to some of the state’s more famous courses, it delivers an exceptional experience that serious golfers seek.

The private club features meticulously maintained fairways and greens that challenge players of all skill levels. You’ll find the course design balances difficulty with playability, making each round both challenging and enjoyable.

What sets Old Memorial apart is its commitment to the pure golfing experience. The club maintains an atmosphere of traditional golf values while providing modern amenities. You’ll appreciate the uncrowded feeling and the staff’s attention to detail.

The club’s exclusive nature means many Florida golf enthusiasts haven’t had the opportunity to play here, contributing to its underrated status. However, those fortunate enough to experience Old Memorial consistently rank it among their favorite courses in the state.

Rating: 4.9 (106 reviews)
Location: 13600 Hixon Rd, Tampa, FL 33626
Contact: (813) 926-8888
Website: Visit Website

15. Old Corkscrew Golf Course

Hidden in Estero, Florida, Old Corkscrew Golf Club stands as Jack Nicklaus’ only Signature Design in Southwest Florida. This championship course stretches to 7,400 yards and offers a pure golf experience unmarred by real estate development.

What makes Old Corkscrew special is its integration with the natural environment. The layout winds through mature oak, pine, and cypress trees, creating a challenging yet visually stunning experience. As a Certified Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary, the course maintains a harmonious relationship with its natural surroundings.

You’ll encounter wildlife throughout your round, as the course serves as a habitat for alligators, tortoises, raccoons, and various water birds. The natural flow way through the center of the property adds to the distinctive character of this championship layout.

For Father’s Day 2025, the course is offering special packages, making it an excellent gift option for the golf enthusiast in your family. When looking for top-tier golf experiences in Florida that fly under the radar, Old Corkscrew should be on your must-play list.

Rating: 4.1 (610 reviews)
Location: 17320 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928
Contact: (239) 949-4700
Website: Visit Website

16. The Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club

Nestled on 315 acres of lush, tropical landscape in Bradenton, the Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience that remains somewhat under the radar among Florida’s golf destinations. The Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole championship course is magnificently sculpted to complement its natural surroundings, featuring unusual elevation changes and picturesque lakes rarely found in the Sarasota area.

What sets this course apart is its immense playability, catering to golfers of various skill levels while maintaining the challenge and aesthetic appeal that Fazio designs are known for. The course’s layout takes full advantage of the natural beauty of the environment, creating a truly memorable golfing experience.

As part of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club, Sarasota, memberships provide access not only to this exceptional golf facility but also to the beach club and spa amenities. While primarily a members club, limited guest access makes this an attainable experience for visitors seeking a premium golf outing in the Bradenton-Sarasota region.

The combination of impeccable Ritz-Carlton service standards with Fazio’s design brilliance creates a golf experience that deserves more recognition among Florida’s best courses. The attention to detail extends from the course conditions to the clubhouse facilities, ensuring a complete premium golf experience.

Rating: 4.8 (202 reviews)
Location: 15150 70th Terrace E, Bradenton, FL 34202
Contact: (941) 309-2900
Website: Visit Website

17. Bear’s Club

The Bear’s Club in Jupiter, Florida represents one of the state’s most exclusive golfing experiences. Founded by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, this private course offers a level of pristine conditioning and design excellence that few venues can match.

You’ll find meticulously maintained fairways winding through natural Florida landscapes, with strategic bunkering that challenges players of all skill levels. The course layout demonstrates Nicklaus’s signature attention to detail, rewarding thoughtful shot-making rather than simply power.

Members and fortunate guests enjoy world-class practice facilities and a clubhouse that exudes understated elegance. The Bear’s Club has gained recognition as one of Florida’s premier golfing destinations, though its private nature keeps it somewhat under the radar compared to more publicly accessible courses.

The club’s commitment to preserving natural elements while creating a challenging golf experience makes it a standout even in Florida’s crowded golf landscape. Water features come into play throughout the course, adding both beauty and strategic complexity.

Rating: 4.8 (95 reviews)
Location: 250 Bears Club Dr, Jupiter, FL 33477
Contact: (561) 626-2327
Website: Visit Website

18. Black Diamond Ranch

Tucked away in Lecanto, Florida, Black Diamond Ranch offers an escape from typical Florida golf experiences. This hidden gem features 45 holes of championship golf designed by acclaimed architect Tom Fazio, creating a dramatic landscape that stands apart from other courses in the state.

The Quarry Course is the crown jewel of Black Diamond Ranch, with holes 13-17 famously described by legendary sportswriter Dan Jenkins as “The 5 Best Consecutive Holes of Golf in the World.” The unique quarry setting provides stunning elevation changes rarely found in Florida golf.

Beyond the Quarry, members enjoy two additional exceptional layouts: the Ranch Course (18 holes) and the Highlands Course (9 holes). Each offers distinct challenges while maintaining Fazio’s commitment to world-class design principles.

As a private club, Black Diamond Ranch provides members with an active social calendar and various clubs and groups to join. The experience extends beyond golf, creating a community that represents Florida’s premier club lifestyle in an unexpected setting.

Rating: 4.5 (339 reviews)
Location: 3125 W Black Diamond Cir suite 100, Lecanto, FL 34461
Contact: (352) 746-3440
Website: Visit Website

19. TPC Sawgrass

While TPC Sawgrass might seem like an unusual choice for an “underrated” list given its fame, many golfers overlook its accessibility to the public. This Pete Dye masterpiece in Ponte Vedra Beach offers you the rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of PGA TOUR professionals.

The property features two championship courses, with THE PLAYERS Stadium Course being the more renowned of the pair. Its infamous Par 3, 17th hole with the island green has become one of golf’s most recognizable challenges, testing your nerves and precision in equal measure.

Don’t overlook the Dye’s Valley Course, which opened in 1987 and offers a perfectly balanced golf experience through North Florida’s natural landscape. This secondary course has hosted numerous Korn Ferry events and provides a less crowded but equally impressive golfing experience.

When you visit, you’ll enjoy more than just world-class golf. The resort offers elegant accommodations, four swimming pools, fine dining options, and a spa, making it an ideal destination for a complete golf getaway.

Rating: 4.8 (3132 reviews)
Location: 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Contact: (904) 273-3235
Website: Visit Website

20. The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando, Grande Lakes

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando offers an exceptional golfing experience that often flies under the radar compared to more publicized Florida courses. Designed by two-time British Open champion Greg Norman, this 18-hole course provides a challenging yet enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels.

You’ll appreciate the course’s environmental commitment, certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary and recognized by Golf Course Management magazine as the National Resort Course winner in the “Environmental Leaders in Golf” category. This dedication to sustainability doesn’t detract from the playing experience but enhances it with natural beauty.

The course features five sets of tees for varying shot options, with closely mowed turf and short roughs that create a fair yet challenging setup. After your round, you can visit the upscale, full-service clubhouse with a pro shop and enjoy a meal at the Fairways Pub restaurant and bar.

For frequent visitors or Florida residents, the Members Club option provides regular access to this hidden gem. The practice facilities are comprehensive, featuring an all-grass driving range, putting green, and dedicated practice facility to help you improve your game.

Rating: 4.7 (232 reviews)
Location: 4040 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32837
Contact: (407) 393-4900
Website: Visit Website