The Watson Course

at Reunion Resort & Golf Club

Location: Orlando, Florida | Style: Parkland | Par: 72 | Designer (Opened): Tom Watson (2004)

Tom Watson’s Independence Course - often referred to simply as the Watson Course - is a masterfully designed layout that combines strategy, creativity, and finesse. Opened in 2004 as Watson’s first signature course in Florida, it remains one of the standout highlights of Reunion Resort.

Unlike many Florida layouts dominated by water hazards, the Watson Course places its emphasis on bold bunkering, expansive waste areas, and subtle elevation changes that set it apart from traditional parkland designs.

Generous fairways offer room off the tee, but players must navigate strategically positioned bunkers and contend with large, sloping greens that reward precision and touch.

Signature Holes

Several holes on the Watson Course have earned a reputation as memorable highlights:

• Hole 5 (Par 4) – A demanding long par 4 requiring both distance and accuracy into a protected green.
• Hole 17 (Par 5) – A risk-reward par 5 lined with bunkers leading up to a narrow, elevated green.
• Hole 18 (Par 4) – A picturesque, tree-lined closer playing beneath the towering Reunion Grande—an iconic finish.

Post Round

Reunion Resort provides a first-class golf infrastructure to complement its trio of signature courses (Watson, Palmer, and Nicklaus). Amenities include:

• Fully stocked pro shop and modern locker rooms
• Dining and beverage services for post-round relaxation
• Extensive practice facilities, including putting and short-game areas
• A coaching academy for lessons and custom instruction

Note: Priority access is reserved for resort guests and those staying in resort-affiliated vacation rentals.

Did You Know?

For the LPGA Ginn Open, Reunion created a composite course that combined the front nine of the Palmer Course with the front nine of the Watson Course.