Golf holidays in Jacksonville

Jacksonville is one of Florida’s most complete yet underrated golf destinations, combining iconic PGA TOUR venues with relaxed coastal resorts and outstanding value. Anchored by TPC Sawgrass, home of THE PLAYERS Championship, the region offers genuine championship pedigree alongside a strong collection of resort and public-access courses that are ideal for visiting golfers.

Located in northeast Florida, Jacksonville benefits from mild winter temperatures, uncrowded fairways, and easy access via Jacksonville International Airport. From the tournament drama of Sawgrass to the laid-back luxury of Amelia Island and the historic home of the World Golf Hall of Fame, a Jacksonville golf holiday delivers variety, quality, and world-class golf without the intensity of Florida’s busier hubs.

Travel tips for golfers visiting Jacksonville

• Best time to visit: October to April is ideal, offering warm winter sun, comfortable playing conditions, and excellent course conditioning.
• Top tip: Many Jacksonville courses are strategically designed with water hazards and wind exposure. Accuracy and smart course management are key.
• Travel time: Direct flights from the UK connect to Jacksonville International Airport via major hubs, with short transfer times to Sawgrass and coastal resorts.
• Transport: Car hire is recommended, especially if combining Sawgrass, Amelia Island, and World Golf Village.
• Booking tip: TPC Sawgrass tee times are in high demand year-round. Booking well in advance is essential, particularly during peak winter months.

Some of Jacksonville’s best golf courses include:

THE PLAYERS Stadium Course, TPC Sawgrass | Ponte Vedra Beach Ranked the 2nd best golf course in Florida by Golf Digest in 2025 Architect: Pete Dye | Par: 72

One of the most recognisable courses in world golf, THE PLAYERS Stadium Course is a true bucket-list experience. Purpose-built for tournament play, Pete Dye’s design delivers dramatic visuals, strategic risk-reward holes, and immaculate PGA TOUR conditioning.

Course highlight: The iconic island green par-3 17th, one of the most famous and nerve-testing holes in golf.

Dye’s Valley Course, TPC Sawgrass | Ponte Vedra Beach Ranked the 69th best golf course in Florida by Golf Digest in 2025 Architects: Pete Dye, Bobby Weed & Jerry Pate | Par: 72

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbour, Dye’s Valley offers a slightly more forgiving but still championship-calibre test. Maintained to the same elite standards, it is an excellent complement to the Stadium Course and a must-play for any Sawgrass itinerary.

Good to know: Water comes into play on most holes, making thoughtful club selection essential.

Oak Marsh Course, Omni Amelia Island Resort | Amelia Island Architect: Pete Dye | Par: 72

Set amid marshlands and coastal scenery, Oak Marsh delivers a classic Pete Dye experience with strategic bunkering, water hazards, and strong finishing holes. It provides a challenging yet enjoyable round in a stunning island setting.

Insider tip: Afternoon sea breezes can significantly affect club choice, especially on exposed holes.

Slammer & Squire Course, World Golf Village | St Augustine Architects: Bobby Weed with Sam Snead & Gene Sarazen | Par: 72

Designed in collaboration with two legends of the game, the Slammer & Squire blends classic Florida golf with modern playability. Wide fairways, water features, and forgiving greens make it enjoyable for a wide range of handicaps.

Course tip: The back nine features more water, so patience and smart positioning are key.

King & Bear Course, World Golf Village | St Augustine Architects: Arnold Palmer & Jack Nicklaus | Par: 72

Florida’s only Palmer-Nicklaus collaboration, King & Bear combines bold visuals with strategic design. Tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and large greens create a challenging but highly rewarding round.

Good to know: The course offers a true championship feel while remaining playable for resort guests.

The Golf Club at South Hampton | Jacksonville Architect: Mark McCumber | Par: 72

A popular local favourite, South Hampton offers a strong championship layout with generous fairways, water features, and excellent conditioning. It is an ideal addition to a Jacksonville itinerary, offering quality golf away from the headline venues.

Insider tip: Early tee times provide the calmest conditions and best scoring opportunities.