All the courses discussed in this section and many, many more can be viewed and reviewed on Golfbuzz.com. Fees, tee times, course information, and driving directions...all of it at your fingertips...literally. Type in the name of any course you wish to play, and voila! Up pops all the information you need. There are reviews from players who have been there before and the opportunity for you to review the course after you've played. Golfbuzz is a community of avid golfers for avid golfers. For more information visit www.golfbuzz.com
Even casual golfers are familiar with the exciting island green at TPC Sawgrass No. 17, that daring little spit of land surrounded by a gaping lake. Or the magnificent coastline at Pebble Beach Golf Links, with the Pacific Ocean lapping the rocks to the left of the finishing hole.
Most every golf course has water somewhere in play. Often-just as at Sawgrass and Pebble Beach-the water holes on a golf course are the most memorable of a round, providing beauty as well as a fair challenge to your skills.
Architect Pete Dye remarked of his design for the 17th at Sawgrass, "I had created a hole that was planted in the player's mind from the very first tee. Knowing they ultimately have to confront the do-or-die 17th, competitors subconsciously realize that no lead is secure until their ball is safely on that green."
Similarly, water holes-be they in the form of an island green in the midst of a lake, a stream traversing a fairway, or an ocean crashing to the side of a putting surface-often elicit the same reaction from golfers as the 17th at Sawgrass: trepidation, anticipation, excitement…followed by either elation or disappointment, and a determination to conquer it next time around.
Amelia Island Plantation
WHERE: Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island Plantation has long been revered as a prime destination for luxury and golf in Northern Florida. Nowadays, a new clubhouse, golf school, and a new name-Amelia River Golf Club-ushers in an era of expanded services and even more reasons to come.
Conducted by Ed Bowe, The Amelia Island Plantation Golf School is located at the prestigious Long Point Golf Course. Nestled between ancient live oaks, the school overlooks its own private driving range and practice green. Bowe's instruction is geared to beginners as well as seasoned golfers.
The new 3,700-square-foot clubhouse at Amelia River Golf Club (formerly Royal Amelia) includes a well-stocked pro-shop, men's and women's locker rooms, and a restaurant all open to the public. The par-72 track, which plays to a yardage of 6,843 from the back tees, is always in pristine shape. Every hole offers a new challenge-with water in play on 12 holes-but the par-three 17th and its peninsular green is the signature hole.
Also new, single-family homes at Brady Point Preserve, an Amelia Island Plantation Community, located just off Amelia Island, where marsh-front, lake-front, and wooded estate-sized lots are available for purchase within a private, natural setting. This spectacular tract of ancient oaks, upland pines, and expansive marsh combine with an environmentally sensitive land development plan, to create a most desirable residential community overlooking the Amelia River.
For More Information (866) 703-8447
Bayside
WHERE: Fenwick Island, Delaware
The resort community of Bayside is situated on 867 acres just four miles west of Fenwick Island, along the Assawoman Bay. The recreational amenities are anchored by Bayside Resort Golf Club, an 18-hole, par 72 Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Water is present on every one of the course's 18 holes, including strategically designed water hazards, wetlands, and marshlands.
Residents also enjoy outdoor pools, tennis courts, a fitness facility, nature trails, kayaking eco-tours, crabbing and fishing pier, and much more. Spacious single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums range from the $300s to $1 million.
For More Information (877) 436-9998
Brunswick & The Golden Isles
WHERE:Georgia
Brunswick and its adjacent Golden Isles-St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and Jekyll Island-boast some truly exquisite water-oriented golf courses. Sea Island is annually ranked among the top golf resorts in North America and the three courses that are available to guests of both The Cloister and The Lodge all feature many beautiful holes on the water. On St. Simons Island-connected by a bridge to both Sea Island and Brunswick-golfers enjoy the King & Prince Golf Course at Hampton Plantation. This 18-hole beauty plays aside acres of saltmarsh, and across lagoons and lakes.
For More Information (800) 933-COAST
Georgetown County
WHERE: South Carolina
ncompassing Garden City Beach, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield, Pawleys Island, Georgetown, and Andrews, the southern shores of the Myrtle Beach Grand Strand are a very special region of the Carolina coast. Two hundred years ago, Georgetown County was home to Southern plantations built along the tidal rivers. Today, the region is home to some of the finest golf courses, restaurants, and accommodations on the East Coast, where visitors enjoy a relaxed pace, beautiful beaches, and cool ocean breezes. The region's golf courses are among the most awarded in America, providing a golf experience that is unsurpassed.
For More Information (866) 570-4236
Grande Villas at World Tour Golf Links
WHERE: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
At World Tour Golf Links, one does not need to travel the world to play some of the most well-known and spectacular golf holes on the planet, one need only to visit Myrtle Beach. The 27 holes of golf here were inspired by such renowned designs as Augusta National, Cypress Point, and St. Andrews. Now, you can live and play amidst these golf gems, in a remarkable new residential resort community-The Grande Villas. Featuring spectacular golf course views and exclusive golf privileges, these one-, two-, and three-bedroom units offer the opportunity to live a luxurious golf-lifestyle.
For More Information (704) 506-7435
Brunswick Forest
WHERE: Leland, North Carolina
Brunswick Forest is a master-planned community now being built around the lush landscape of a 4,500-acre forest, featuring a wide variety of individual neighborhoods and amenities linked by miles of paths and trail ways.
Located just 10 minutes from historic Wilmington on U.S. Hwy. 17, amenities include 27-holes of world class golf at Cape Fear National; an 18,000-square-foot state-of-the art wellness/fitness center including tennis courts and indoor and outdoor pools; a River Club on Town Creek that will serve as a community center for boating and fishing activities; an Ocean Club; an extensive network of parks, nature preserves, paths, and trail ways; and The Villages at Brunswick Forest, a major retail center with shops, dining, entertainment, and professional offices, located at the community's entrance.
The first 18 holes of the 27-hole Cape Fear National course at Brunswick Forest are under construction with an opening planned for spring 2009. The course will be part of the private Cape Fear National Country Club. The course winds through forests of oaks, maples, pines, and magnolias to create the old-world feel.
An array of individual neighborhoods- some with gated entries-offer single-family homesites, custom homes, townhomes, and cottages, designed to offer a wide range of architectural and lifestyle choices. Initial pricing puts homesites from the $150s and home packages including home-sites from $260s.
For More Information (888) 371-2434
Centex Destination Properties/Palm Coast Resort
WHERE: Palm Coast, Florida
For all who enjoy living and playing near the water, the accommodating climate and exceptional convenience of Palm Coast make it the ultimate destination. In close proximity to St. Augustine, Jacksonville, and Daytona Beach, Palm Coast's location allows you to easily incorporate all varieties of recreation into your lifestyle. Palm Coast Resort is a dream come true for boaters or anyone who loves the sea.
Palm Coast Resort features spacious layouts overlooking a top-rated yacht harbor on the Intracoastal Waterway with a collection of luxury amenities. Luxury three- and four-bedroom condominium residences start in the $400s.
Best of all, as a property owner, you'll enjoy an opportunity few have: to take advantage of membership in the prestigious Ocean Club at Hammock Beach by Ginn ResortsSM. That means access to the magnificent Beach Club with its spectacular pool complex, 10,000-square-foot pampering spa, and fabulous casual dining. As a golf club member, you'll be one of the few that have access to the highly-rated Jack Nicklaus Signature Ocean Course at Hammock Beach with six spectacular oceanside holes along the Atlantic Ocean and the challenging Tom Watson course at The Conservatory.
Right now you can save up to 30% on a condominium home. But hurry, like the tides that wash the unspoiled shores of Palm Coast, this opportunity will be gone before you know it.
For More Information (888) 640-7483
Jekyll Island Club
WHERE: Jekyll Island, Georgia
At the turn of the 20th century, Jekyll Island Club members built one of Georgia's first golf courses. Today, Jekyll is Georgia's largest public golf resort with 63 holes of beautiful, challenging golf and year-round play. The Jekyll Island Club Hotel, located less than a mile from the golf clubhouse, is a National Historic Landmark. Luxurious accommodations, excellent service, and fine dining are hallmarks of this Historic Hotel of America. The Hotel is proud to be the southeastern home of Bird Golf Schools, the "Ultimate in Golf Learning Experience."
For More Information (800) 535-9547
The Peninsula On The Indian River Bay
WHERE: Millsboro, Delaware
The Peninsula On the Indian River Bay is a private, gated, luxury residential golf resort, featuring Delaware's first private Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and offering an unparalleled waterfront lifestyle with golf, tennis, swimming, spa services, and much more. Set on nearly 800 acres and surrounded by water on three sides, this exciting community unveiled two notable projects in 2007: a 13,000-square-foot wave lagoon; and Eighteenth On The Bay, the community's newest collection of luxury condominiums located on the 17th and 18th greens of the golf course. Home prices range from the $300s to over $1 million.
For More Information (866) 736-3352
Kaua'i
WHERE: Hawaii
Kaua‘i is an adventure for golfers. Award-winning courses are ready to tempt the soul and challenge the handicap of any golfer. Not only are world-renowned architects and professional golfers responsible for the course designs, but nature had quite a hand in them as well. Here, dramatic ocean views, ancient lava tubes, streams, and sculpted mountains all compete for your concentration. After a day of challenging play, visitors to Kaua'i can relax at one of many fine restaurants and watch a glorious Hawaiian sunset in the evening.
For More Information (800) 262-1400
South Padre Island
WHERE: Texas
Imagine a tropical island with miles of unspoiled beaches, just waiting in the sun beside the sparkling Gulf of Mexico. Sounds like the perfect place for a golf and beach vacation, right? Located at the tropical tip of Texas, that description fits South Padre Island. Known as a Spring Break destination, it's one of the fastest-growing destinations in the Southwest. It's a place where warm, sparkling beaches and unparalleled lodging facilities, come together with friendly hospitality to ensure a wonderful vacation experience. Golfers are thrilled when they discover that six holes of the South Padre Island Golf Club play adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico.
For More Information (800) SO-PADRE
Grande Dunes
WHERE: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Grande Dunes brings an exciting new dimension of luxury living to the Grand Strand. Capturing both local and international recognition, this master-planned community spreads over 2,200 acres.
An exclusive ocean-to-Intracoastal address features classic Mediterranean architecture and abundant amenities including two golf clubhouses, two 18-hole championship golf courses, an award-winning tennis and fitness center, a 25,000-square-foot Ocean Club, and a 130-slip marina within a planned Marina Village. Both the Resort Club and the Members Club bring water into play…frequently! The Resort Club boasts seven holes situated right alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, and the Members Club is dotted with sparkling lakes.
The new "condo-tel" Marina Inn is one of only 400 Small Luxury Hotels of the World, an independent international hotel classification that represents exemplary amenities and customer service. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, each guest will experience magnificent waterway views.
The planned Marina Village at Grande Dunes will be a festive gathering place that will have the feel of a European coastal village. Residential opportunities include a wide selection of golf, tennis, lake, and Intracoastal Waterway single-family homes and villas, in addition to luxury oceanfront condominiums. Single-family homes start in the $700s; golf and waterway villas begin in the $300s; oceanfront condominiums start in the $1-2 million range.
For More Information (877) 347-2633
Hampton Lake
WHERE: Bluffton, South Carolina
The Lowcountry region of South Carolina has long been synonymous with scenic, world-class golf offerings. One gentleman whose vision contributed greatly to the quality of golf and lifestyle in the Lowcountry is John Reed, whose development successes include Colleton River, Belfair, Berkeley Hall, and Hampton Hall.
Now, Reed and his team have brought 900-acre Hampton Lake to the Hilton Head area. This community is set upon the shores of a 165-acre freshwater lake and amidst nature preserves.
Hampton Lake offers residents an action-filled, water-oriented lifestyle, where boating, fishing, and frolicking on a sandy beach all are in a day's options. A Lakehouse, Boathouse, and Fitness Center form the core of the community.
Additionally, a limited number of equity golf memberships to the renowned 18-hole Pete Dye-designed Hampton Hall golf course-adjacent to Hampton Lake-are available to Hampton Lake owners. Additional equity golf memberships are available at prestigious Berkeley Hall, just across Highway 278.
There are approximately 900 homes and homesites being offered at Hampton Lake, with both waterfont and wooded preserve options currently available. Most lakefront homes and homesites will accommodate boat slips. Homesites start in the $190s. Custom Homes from $600s to $1.3 million.
For More Information (866) 875-LAKE
Los Cabos
WHERE: Mexico
The dreamy destination of Los Cabos-at the far southern tip of the Baja Peninsula-features ocean views from just about every hole on every golf course. When the whales are jumping offshore in winter months, it's hard simply to concentrate on golf!
While most courses boast outstanding water views, there are some holes that play right next to the lapping waves of the Sea of Cortez. Holes 17 & 18 at Cabo Del Sol's Ocean Course, for example, a par-three followed by a par-four, are both hard against the water and among the most unforgettable holes you'll ever play.
Hole 16 at Cabo Real is bordered all along the left by the sea, as well.Palmilla's 27 holes also offer golfers spectacular views of the Sea of Cortes from nearly every hole.
And while Los Cabos is a wonderful place to visit, vacation home ownership is very popular as well, and golf plays a major role in the decision to buy. Choices of real estate range from exclusive and private-such as Querencia and El Dorado Golf & Beach Club-to resort villas, condominiums, and fractional ownership options.
For More Information (866) LOS-CABOS
Maui
WHERE: Hawaii
Talk about island golf, it doesn't get any better than the Magic Isles of Maui, where you get three great destinations in one-Maui, Moloka'i, and Lana'i. Year after year voted "Best Island," here you'll find the Hawaii experience in perfect balance-a romantic, tropical destination in a gorgeous natural setting.
Several world-renowned golf resorts are found on Maui, including Kapalua, Kaanapali, and Wailea.
The PGA Tour has for several years opened its season at Kapalua, with the Mercedes-Benz Championship contested over Kapalua's challenging Plantation Course each January.
When on Maui, one of the better accommodation, choices is the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, featuring a recent $60 million renovation to all guestrooms and suites, along with all restaurants and common areas. What has remained unchanged is the resort's spectacular oceanfront location where guests can play any of the resort's three championship golf courses and frolic in the surf minutes later. The popular Hula Moons restaurant also remains one of the area's favorites with its signature island cuisine. For More Information: (800) 525-MAUI; visitmaui.com
For More Information (866) (808) 879-1922
(800) 525-MAUI
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
WHERE: Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
A northeast Florida landmark since its celebrated opening in 1928, this historic oceanfront resort has faithfully served three generations of guests. One of only seven AAA Five Diamond-rated resorts in Florida, Ponte Vedra Inn & Club features 250 guestrooms and suites, the Atlantic surf, a beautiful beach, 36 holes of golf, tennis and fitness facilities, pools, a luxury spa, fine dining, shopping, and award-winning hospitality.
Just steps from the ocean, two picturesque 18-hole courses are featured, each with its own seaside links flavor. A dazzling array of water hazards, steeped-faced bunkers, undulating fairways, and elevated Bermuda greens combine to create every kind of shot-making challenge imaginable.
The historic Ocean Course was originally designed by Herbert Bertram Strong in 1928, redesigned by Robert Trent Jones in 1947, and redesigned again by Bobby Weed in 1998. Robert Trent Jones returned in 1961 to design the Lagoon Course.
For More Information (800) 234-7842
Prince Edward Island
WHERE: Canada
Situated on Canada's east coast, this modest Canadian province offers the best of many worlds: old-world, links-style golf, modern accommodations, easy access, and small-town charm with picturesque views.
There are close to 30 celestial golf courses nestled into this cozy, peaceful island landscape.
On the north shore, the beachfront Links at Crowbush Cove has consistently ranked in the top 10 in ScoreGolf's authoritative list of Canada's Top Ten. Last summer, Vijay Singh and Mike Weir matched up against one another on this course for the popular "Making The Connection" golf event. In 1998, this same prestigious course was the site for a Skins Game Celebrity-Am featuring John Daly, Mark O'Meara, Fred Couples, and Mike Weir.
Fox Meadow Golf Course and the Canadian Golf Academy, just minutes from the heart of Charlottetown, offer panoramic views of the capital city and harbor. Cavendish area offers a cluster of quality golf courses including Glasgow Hills, Andersons Creek, Eagles Glenn, and Green Gables.
On the eastern shores, providing some of the most stunning beauty in PEI, is Dundarave where Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson re-lived their rivalry before a large crowd in 2006. Located on the same site is the Brudenell River Golf Course and the new Callaway Golf Divine Nine.
The golfing experience on this Gentle Island combines some of the best golf in Canada with unparalleled scenic beauty found only in Prince Edward Island.
For More Information www.golfpei.ca.
Texas Tourism
When you think about Texas, you might picture ten-gallon hats and cowboy boots. But maybe you should picture 9-irons and golf cleats. That's because the Lone Star State is home to a whole lot of golf courses-more than 900 in fact-each with its own signature holes and unique challenges.
Plus, Texas boasts great weather, so almost every day is the perfect day to hit the links. Whether you're teeing off in the Panhandle or down by the coast, you're sure to find a course that perfectly fits your style, no matter where you travel. The wide variety of terrain in Texas means that there's a wide variety of courses. From the tranquil, sloping greens scattered throughout the Texas Hill Country to the challenging courses nestled deep within the Piney Woods, each and every course sets the stage for a new experience that's sure to make your Texas vacation unforgettable.
Of course, it's about more than just relaxing. No golfing vacation is complete without a chance to see the pros in action. Many of the courses in Texas are stops on the PGA TOUR®, which means that, in the rare moment you're not playing a round, you can watch in awe as your favorite players wow the crowd. So what are you waiting for?
For More Information (800) 8888-TEX, ext. 4486
WCI Communities
WHERE: Florida
In Florida, several WCI developments are renowned for magnificent water-oriented golf: Pelican Preserve, Parkland Golf & Country Club, and Venetian Golf & River Club.
Pelican Preserve is a 1,100-acre, "55 & Better" community located in Fort Myers. Here, residents enjoy 27 holes of championship golf designed by Chip Powell. The club's spectacular island/water hole is found on the Heron Course, No. 6, a par-3 with its putting surface surrounded by water.
Overlooking Hole 6 on Pelican Preserve's new Ibis Course, developer WCI introduced a new neighborhood of condominium homes starting in the $150s, and early 2008 marks the debut of the community's new golf clubhouse.
Parkland Golf & Country Club is an 800-acre WCI development located in the City of Parkland, an exclusive suburb of northwest Broward County in Florida. Parkland features a signature Greg Norman-designed, 18-hole championship course with several water holes on the par-72 layout and plans to feature a 25,000-square-foot, Tuscan-inspired golf clubhouse. The Golf Club is expected to welcome members during the winter 2009 season. Residences at Parkland are priced from the $800s.
Venetian Golf & River Club is located in beautiful Venice, Florida. It provides a picturesque 18-hole championship golf course designed by renowned golf architect Chip Powell. Golfers enjoy beautiful views against the backdrop of serene lakes and wetlands with a superb array of native flora and fauna on this Audubon International Gold Signature Course. Here, a new golf clubhouse opened in November 2007. Homes at Venetian are priced from the $200s.
For More Information (866) 703-8447
