The Essential Tips to Enjoy Golf at Florida’s Most Enjoyable Courses You Need to Know

Florida is well known as the golfing capital of the United States, which is why over 1,200 golf clubs and 1,050 courses call The Sunshine State home. The year-round sunshine, great climate, and ease of maintaining course grass make the state a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts. Golfers can easily play 18 holes in the morning, head to a delicious dinner at night, and take the family to entertainment before starting over again the next day. 

Around 4.7 million retirees and roughly 1 million snowbirds live in Florida. That means you’ve got to be on top of your golf scheduling to get a clear tee time. For anyone visiting or relocating to this golf haven, understanding the logistics of car transport to Florida, housing, cost of living, and proper golf etiquette all play a role in ensuring a rewarding course experience. 

Navigating the Best Seasons for Golfing in Florida’s Premier Destinations

The first consideration is timing. Those new to Florida might show up for a scheduled playing time at 4 pm in August, only to be greeted by one of the many afternoon thunderstorms. 

Peak golf season is best enjoyed between November and April. That is when the average temperature and humidity levels are significantly lower (especially in South Florida). The average daily highs rest somewhere from 68 to 76 degrees, making it the perfect weather for a long day on the course. 

While you can enjoy summer golf (May through September), those are best reserved for long-time Florida residents. The temperature can easily climb into the high 90s, making the humidity something like walking through a shower from the moment you strap on your gloves and head outdoors. June through November also overlaps with Florida’s infamous hurricane season, which can quickly lead to dangerous course conditions. 

Choosing the right season based on the regional area of Florida you’re visiting ensures the most relaxing golf environment. That is why many snowbirds and seasonal visitors use transport carriers to ship cars during the best season for their specific city, like Orlando anytime, South Florida during the shoulder seasons, and North Florida in the winter. 

Planning Your Golf Trip: Tips for Car Transport to Florida’s Top Courses

Using the best auto transport services ensures you have a family vehicle ready to go from course to course, allowing you to explore all that Florida has to offer. It can easily take over 13 hours to drive the full 901 miles from Pensacola to Key West, so having a familiar vehicle you can trust and ride in comfort matters.

When selecting car transport to Florida, only work with a professional and experienced team. The domestic transport provider should offer precise pickup and delivery locations, including door-to-door, so you don’t have to go out of your way to receive your car. There should be clear quotes or estimates for all options, such as open or enclosed car transport. The provider should also carry shipping insurance, as well as USDOT and FMCSA numbers, for your peace of mind. 

The best car transport companies will provide vehicle preparation checklists and adhere to interstate transport laws. Some Florida visitors need cross-country car shipping if coming from California, Montana, or Maine, so knowing how to best prepare your ride for the journey is a big help. Try to schedule around peak snowbird season to avoid higher rates and be flexible with your delivery timeframe. While some providers offer expedited shipping, that flexibility usually means you can secure a better rate. 

Finally, be sure your provider has a vast network of experienced drivers who will offer real-time notifications and tracking. That way, you can plan which course to visit when, once you have all the relevant information about your car’s location. 

Essential Course Etiquette for First-Time Golfers in Florida

With your car delivered to your home or seasonal rental’s driveway, it’s time to focus on the game. Most experienced players will know how to act during playtime, but some new to the great sport of golf might need a quick refresher course on etiquette. Proper behavior matters, especially if you want to enjoy a drink at the clubhouse afterwards without any uncomfortable conversations from staff about your actions on the green. Some good tips to follow include: 

• Never talk or make noise during a player’s backswing. 
• Try to avoid walking through the putting line between a ball and the hole. 
• Do not hit your ball into the group playing ahead of you. Wait for a clear fairway. 
• Let faster groups play through. 
• No angry outbursts. You want to keep your feelings in check. 
• Arrive early, dressed appropriately, for your tee time. 
• Repair divots and ball marks whenever possible. 
• Please refrain from offering unsolicited advice to other players on the course. 
• Use your phone sparingly on the course.

It’s most important to treat others the way you want to be treated. Maintain a good pace so everyone else can have their turn on the course, and you should have no problem making new friends and enjoying a day playing one of the greatest games in the world. 

Local Insights: Must-Visit Golf Spots Across Florida’s Regions

Florida has one of the most welcoming golf cultures in the world. There is a good mix of exclusive clubs, hidden gems, and resort-style playing oasis. Even Walt Disney World near Orlando has a selection of courses to choose from. Here are some of the best courses recommended by locals. 

The Dye Course at White Oak, Yulee, FL

One of the most exclusive courses in the county, The Dye Course is just outside Jacksonville. There is no clubhouse or membership, but the complete natural setting and isolated course structure, designed by the late Pete Dye, make it a “bucket list” location for more players.

Streamsong Resort: Red, Bowling Green, FL

Coore and Crenshaw built this course on top of a reclaimed phosphate mine, which is where it gets the “Red” name. It’s actually part of a three-course resort, so you will have additional options if staying for a vacation. 

The Concession Golf Club, Bradenton, FL

The Concession was built by Tony Jacklin, a long-time Florida resident. It features a wonderful stroll through wetlands, oak hammocks, and meadows with contoured greens that will challenge players of all levels. Many high-profile tournaments include the Concession Golf Club. 

Jupiter Hills Club, Tequesta, FL

The trick that makes Jupiter Hills so attractive is the many elevation changes. Originally designed by George Fazio, you’ll find a good mix of bunkering and polished fairways that combine a rugged experience with refined playing structures, making it ideal for patient players. 

Calusa Pines Golf Club, Naples, FL

If you’re headed more southwest, stop by Calusa Pines for bolder earthwork and man-made ridges that easily top 60 feet. Gary Chensoff and Hurdzan-Fry created this course with blended Bermuda turf and impressive vistas, offering a more unique playing character than other Florida courses. 

TPC Sawgrass: Stadium Course, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

TPC Sawgrass is “Home to the Players” because it features two PGA Tour championship courses by Pete Dye (including the world-famous island green at the 17th hole). The Stadium Course features high bunkers and mounds, providing spectators with a clear view, so be prepared for an audience on busier days. 

Seminole Golf Club, Juno Beach, FL

Easily ranked as one of the best golf courses in Florida and the United States, Seminole Golf Club is renowned for its exclusivity due to its rich history and challenging environment. Designed by Donald Ross, you’ll have to adjust to coastal winds and precision pathways, but you’ll be walking in the footsteps of many of the world’s greatest events, like the Walker Cup. 

Maximizing Your Experience: Packing and Preparation for Florida Golf Adventures

Preparing yourself for any of the top Florida golf courses helps create the space for a more rewarding day on the green. Florida can quickly transition from overcast to sunny and hot, so pack layers that can be put on or taken off, as well as breathable fabrics, wide-brimmed hats, polarized sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. 

You’ll want to have extra shoes, rain gear, and even backup clubs. Having a vehicle you know is available, thanks to previously scheduled car transport to Florida, helps, as you can pack it with all the essentials before heading out for the day. Many golfers play in multiple regions in a single trip, so keeping your gear carefully stored is crucial.  

Get Ready for Your Florida Golf Excursion

Florida will always be the ultimate U.S. golfing destination. It has a strong mix of historic, exclusive, and innovative courses often featured on the PGA Tour and Golf Digest. The right reliable car transport will get your vehicle down south, allowing you to explore all the courses you want. Just be sure to prepare well ahead of time so you have the right gear for your journey. 

Take your time while you plan. Write out the top courses you need to visit this trip and partner with a vehicle shipping company you know you can trust. That will ensure you get in the most rounds of play before having to wrap everything back up and head back home.