South Florida is home to some of the most scenic and challenging public golf courses in the state. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking for a true test of skill or a casual player seeking a relaxing round beneath palm trees, Palm Beach and Martin Counties deliver variety, value, and views. Below, you’ll find a complete comparison of eight top-rated courses—covering design, layout, difficulty, and player experience.
Designer: Joe Lee | Opened: 1999 | Type: Public | Par: 72 | Yardage: 7,200 yards
Abacoa Golf Club is one of South Florida’s top-rated public courses, blending natural scenery with demanding water features. With water hazards on 14 of 18 holes and a slope rating of 140, this course is as beautiful as it is challenging. The greens are fast, fairways immaculate, and layout engaging for low- and mid-handicap players alike.
Designer: Bob Erickson | Type: Semi-Private | Par: 54 | Yardage: 1,962 yards
Jupiter Dunes Golf Course is a picturesque par-3 course right by the ocean. Compact but challenging, it’s ideal for golfers working on short-game precision. The sea breeze and coastal setting make each hole unique and relaxing—perfect for beginners, families, or quick after-work rounds.
Designer: Lamar Smith | Opened: 1981 | Type: Public | Par: 70 | Yardage: 6,275 yards
The Golf Club of Jupiter is a welcoming community favorite. The fairways are generous, the greens true, and the atmosphere friendly. This course prioritizes playability and pace of play, making it a perfect fit for everyday golfers and groups. It also features a fun local restaurant, The Fairways Grill.
Designer: Roy Case | Opened: 1992 | Type: Public | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,504 yards
Sandhill Crane Golf Club offers an immersive nature-filled golf experience. Set entirely in a wetland preserve, the course delivers stunning views of native wildlife and lush vegetation. It’s strategic and challenging—demanding accuracy off the tee and precise approaches into elevated greens.
Type: Public | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,909 yards
The Florida Club blends old-Florida charm with modern playability. Its wide fairways and tree-lined corridors make for an enjoyable round, while the challenging bunkering and water hazards ensure solid course management. The layout feels open and fair, offering a relaxed pace and exceptional conditions.
Designer: Tom Fazio | Type: Public | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,890 yards
Champions Club at Summerfield is a Tom Fazio masterpiece—strategic, scenic, and always in top shape. The course winds through wetlands and rolling terrain, offering elevation changes rare in South Florida. It’s playable yet engaging, with five sets of tees catering to all skill levels.
Designer: Jack Nicklaus | Type: Semi-Private | Par: 71 | Yardage: 7,071 yards
North Palm Beach Country Club is a standout Jack Nicklaus Signature course and one of only two public Nicklaus designs in the U.S. The course’s links-style setup invites creative play and features expansive greens, coastal breezes, and a modern clubhouse overlooking the Intracoastal.
Type: Municipal | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,214 yards
Sailfish Sands Golf Course, formerly Martin County Golf Course, is a newly renovated, budget-friendly municipal facility emphasizing fun and accessibility. The reversible 9-hole short course, full-length 18, and Toptracer range make it one of the most innovative golf experiences in Florida.
1. Which course is best for beginners?
Jupiter Dunes and Sailfish Sands are ideal for new players due to their shorter layouts and easy pace of play.
2. Which is the hardest course in the area?
Abacoa Golf Club provides the toughest challenge, with water hazards and demanding greens.
3. What’s the most scenic course?
Sandhill Crane Golf Club delivers unmatched natural beauty and tranquility.
4. Which courses have famous designers?
North Palm Beach Country Club (Jack Nicklaus) and Champions Club (Tom Fazio) feature signature designs.
5. What’s the best value course?
The Golf Club of Jupiter offers great conditions and affordability.
6. Which course is most family-friendly?
Sailfish Sands and Jupiter Dunes are both excellent for families and group play.
Palm Beach and Martin County offer an incredible variety of public and semi-private golf courses that cater to every type of golfer. Whether you want the championship challenge of Abacoa, the natural serenity of Sandhill Crane, or the family-friendly fun of Sailfish Sands, each course delivers a unique Florida golf experience worth exploring.
For more Florida golf insights and tee time listings, visit FloridaGolf.com.
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