Southwest Florida is a golfer's paradise, boasting more courses per capita than almost anywhere in America. From championship layouts designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio to pristine daily-fee courses where you can walk on any day, SWFL delivers world-class golf in a spectacular setting. This guide covers the 20 best golf courses in Southwest Florida—public, resort, and semi-private—that welcome visiting golfers in 2026.
Quick Navigation: Naples Area | Fort Myers | Sarasota | Public Courses | Tips
Why Southwest Florida for Golf?
Before we dive into specific courses, here's what makes SWFL golf special:
- Year-round season: While summer brings afternoon storms, you can play 365 days a year
- Course variety: Links-style, parkland, wetland, and resort courses all within an hour's drive
- World-class designs: Nicklaus, Fazio, Norman, Palmer, and Dye have all left their mark
- Price range: From $35 twilight rounds to $350 resort experiences
- Accessibility: Most private courses offer public play through resort partnerships or tee time services
Naples Area
1. Tiburón Golf Club (The Ritz-Carlton)
Tiburón hosts the PGA Tour's QBE Shootout annually
Home to the PGA Tour's QBE Shootout, Tiburón Golf Club features two Greg Norman-designed championship courses carved through pristine preserve land. The Black Course and Gold Course offer distinct challenges, with the Black being the longer, more demanding layout.
Resort guests at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples enjoy preferred tee times, but public play is available year-round. The clubhouse and practice facilities rival any private club.
- Location: 2620 Tiburón Dr, Naples, FL 34109
- Courses: Black Course (7,288 yds), Gold Course (7,193 yds)
- Designer: Greg Norman
- Green fees: $199-$350 (seasonal)
- Rating/Slope: Black: 75.1/143, Gold: 74.7/140
- Best for: Serious golfers, resort guests, PGA Tour experience
- Don't miss: Walking the same fairways as PGA Tour pros
- Book: tiburongolfclub.com
2. Hammock Bay Golf Course
Consistently ranked among the best public courses in Florida, Hammock Bay offers a stunning Peter Jacobsen/Jim Hardy design winding through natural wetlands and preserve areas. The course requires strategic shot-making while remaining playable for all skill levels.
- Location: 1370 Hammock Bay Dr, Naples, FL 34113
- Course: 18 holes, 7,291 yards
- Designer: Peter Jacobsen & Jim Hardy
- Green fees: $79-$169 (seasonal)
- Rating/Slope: 75.4/145
- Best for: Public golf seekers, strategic players
- Features: GPS carts, excellent practice facility, full restaurant
- Book: hammockbaygolfclub.com
3. Naples Grande Golf Club
Part of the Naples Grande Beach Resort, this Rees Jones design challenges golfers with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards while winding through mangrove preserves. Resort guests get preferred rates, but public play is welcomed.
- Location: 7540 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples, FL 34105
- Course: 18 holes, 7,078 yards
- Designer: Rees Jones
- Green fees: $89-$199 (seasonal)
- Rating/Slope: 73.5/136
- Best for: Resort golf, vacation golfers
- Features: Stay-and-play packages, practice range, resort dining
- Book: naplesgrande.com
4. Lely Resort Golf & Country Club
One of Naples' premier daily-fee destinations, Lely Resort offers two outstanding championship courses: the Mustang (designed by Lee Trevino) and the Flamingo Island (designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.). The contrast in design philosophy makes playing both courses a memorable experience.
- Location: 8004 Lely Resort Blvd, Naples, FL 34113
- Courses: Mustang (7,217 yds), Flamingo Island (7,171 yds)
- Designers: Lee Trevino (Mustang), Robert Trent Jones Sr. (Flamingo)
- Green fees: $79-$179 (seasonal)
- Best for: Those wanting variety, two-course experiences
- Features: Two distinct designs, excellent conditions, golf academy
- Book: lelyresort.com
5. The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
The most convenient golf to Naples beaches, this historic course has hosted golfers since 1929. While not the most challenging layout, the location and resort amenities create a quintessential Florida golf vacation experience.
- Location: 851 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL 34102
- Course: 18 holes, 6,462 yards
- Green fees: $89-$159 (seasonal)
- Best for: Vacation golfers, beginners, historic Florida golf
- Features: Beachfront resort, walkable course, old-Florida charm
Fort Myers Area
6. Raptor Bay Golf Club
Raptor Bay winds through Audubon-certified preserve land
An Audubon-certified sanctuary course, Raptor Bay delivers an environmentally conscious golf experience without sacrificing challenge. The Raymond Floyd design features generous fairways but demands precise approach shots to well-protected greens.
- Location: 23001 Coconut Point Resort Dr, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
- Course: 18 holes, 6,803 yards
- Designer: Raymond Floyd
- Green fees: $69-$149 (seasonal)
- Rating/Slope: 72.7/130
- Best for: Wildlife viewing, eco-conscious golfers
- Features: Audubon sanctuary, abundant wildlife, Hyatt Regency resort
- Book: raptorbaygolfclub.com
7. Old Corkscrew Golf Club
Named one of Golf Digest's "Best in State," Old Corkscrew represents Jack Nicklaus's vision of links-style golf in Southwest Florida. The course winds through 400 acres of natural wetlands with minimal housing intrusion.
- Location: 4150 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928
- Course: 18 holes, 7,410 yards
- Designer: Jack Nicklaus
- Green fees: $99-$199 (seasonal)
- Rating/Slope: 76.3/147
- Best for: Nicklaus enthusiasts, links-style lovers, serious golfers
- Features: Walking encouraged, no homes on course, practice range
- Book: oldcorkscrewgolf.com
8. Pelican Preserve Golf Club
Part of the massive Pelican Preserve 55+ community, this 27-hole facility welcomes public play with three distinct nine-hole layouts. The Osprey, Heron, and Cormorant courses can be combined for variety.
- Location: 9802 Pelican Preserve Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33913
- Course: 27 holes (three 9-hole courses)
- Green fees: $49-$99 (seasonal)
- Best for: Variety seekers, value-conscious golfers
- Features: 27-hole rotation, practice facility, on-site dining
- Book: pelicanpreservegolf.com
9. Gateway Golf & Country Club
A premier semi-private facility, Gateway features a Tom Fazio design that challenges all skill levels. The course sits within the Gateway community near RSW Airport, making it convenient for arriving or departing golfers.
- Location: 11360 Championship Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33913
- Course: 18 holes, 7,070 yards
- Designer: Tom Fazio
- Green fees: $79-$159 (seasonal)
- Rating/Slope: 74.3/139
- Best for: Fazio fans, convenient airport access
- Features: Practice facility, excellent conditions, friendly service
- Book: gatewaygcc.com
10. Sanibel Island Golf Club
The only golf course on Sanibel Island, this compact but charming layout offers a welcome respite from the beach. Rebuilt after Hurricane Ian, the course features new greens, bunkers, and improved drainage.
- Location: 1100 Par View Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
- Course: 18 holes, 5,634 yards
- Green fees: $69-$129 (seasonal)
- Best for: Island visitors, casual golf, wildlife viewing
- Features: Only Sanibel course, abundant wildlife, island charm
- Book: sanibelislandgc.com
Sarasota Area
11. The Concession Golf Club
The Concession hosted the 2021 WGC Match Play
One of the most exclusive golf experiences in Florida, The Concession hosted the 2021 WGC Match Play Championship. This Jack Nicklaus/Tony Jacklin collaboration offers limited public play through certain booking partners.
- Location: 8400 The Concession, Bradenton, FL 34202
- Course: 18 holes, 7,474 yards
- Designers: Jack Nicklaus & Tony Jacklin
- Green fees: $350+ (limited availability)
- Rating/Slope: 77.0/155
- Best for: Bucket-list golf, serious players, special occasions
- Features: PGA Tour host venue, exceptional conditions
- Note: Limited public access—check availability carefully
12. Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
The Lakewood Ranch master-planned community features multiple courses, with several offering public play. The Nicklaus/Jones Legacy Golf Club and Lakewood National provide excellent daily-fee options.
- Location: 7650 Legacy Blvd, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
- Courses: Multiple courses available
- Green fees: $59-$139 (seasonal)
- Best for: Variety, new construction, Lakewood Ranch visitors
- Features: Multiple course options, excellent facilities
13. Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Sarasota
The Ritz-Carlton's Sarasota golf resort features a Tom Fazio design in a championship setting. Resort guests receive preferred access, but public play is available.
- Location: 1170 Grey Oaks Dr, Sarasota, FL 34231
- Course: 18 holes, 7,300 yards
- Designer: Tom Fazio
- Green fees: $179-$295 (seasonal)
- Rating/Slope: 75.1/138
- Best for: Luxury golf, resort guests, Fazio designs
- Features: Ritz-Carlton service, pristine conditions, spa access
14. University Park Country Club
A well-maintained semi-private facility, University Park offers solid value for quality golf. The 27-hole layout provides variety, and the club welcomes daily-fee players.
- Location: 7671 Park Blvd, University Park, FL 34201
- Course: 27 holes
- Green fees: $49-$99 (seasonal)
- Best for: Value seekers, consistent conditions
- Features: 27-hole rotation, practice facility, friendly atmosphere
15. Tatum Ridge Golf Links
A unique links-style layout in Sarasota, Tatum Ridge offers something different from typical Florida parkland courses. The wind plays a significant role, especially on the back nine.
- Location: 421 N Tatum Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34240
- Course: 18 holes, 6,777 yards
- Green fees: $39-$79 (seasonal)
- Best for: Links lovers, value golf, wind players
- Features: Links-style design, firm conditions, walking welcome
Best Public Courses
These courses offer the best value and accessibility for visiting golfers:
16. Coral Oaks Golf Course (Cape Coral)
A true municipal gem, Coral Oaks delivers excellent conditions at city-course prices. The Arthur Hills design rewards strategic play.
- Location: 1800 NW 28th Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33993
- Designer: Arthur Hills
- Green fees: $35-$79 (seasonal)
- Best for: Budget-conscious golfers, Cape Coral visitors
17. Fort Myers Country Club
The oldest course in Lee County, Fort Myers CC offers classic Florida golf at municipal prices. Well-maintained and conveniently located.
- Location: 3591 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Green fees: $29-$59 (seasonal)
- Best for: Historic golf, budget play, downtown Fort Myers
18. Bobby Jones Golf Club (Sarasota)
Bobby Jones offers three courses at municipal rates
Named after the legendary amateur, this Sarasota municipal facility features three courses at accessible prices. The recent renovation improved conditions significantly.
- Location: 1000 Azinger Way, Sarasota, FL 34232
- Courses: British (18), American (18), Gillespie (9)
- Green fees: $25-$55 (seasonal)
- Best for: Municipal value, variety, Sarasota visitors
19. Alico Family Golf
One of Fort Myers' most accessible facilities, Alico Family Golf features an 18-hole course plus extensive practice facilities including a lit driving range.
- Location: 16300 Lee Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33912
- Green fees: $25-$49 (seasonal)
- Best for: Families, beginners, practice facilities
20. Eagle Lakes Golf Club
A solid Lee County municipal course, Eagle Lakes offers good value and conditions. The straightforward layout suits players of all abilities.
- Location: 14001 Eagle Lakes Dr, Naples, FL 34114
- Green fees: $29-$69 (seasonal)
- Best for: Value golf, East Naples visitors
Course Comparison Chart
| Course | Location | Green Fees | Designer | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tiburón Black | Naples | $199-350 | Norman | Tour experience |
| Old Corkscrew | Estero | $99-199 | Nicklaus | Links-style |
| Hammock Bay | Naples | $79-169 | Jacobsen/Hardy | Public premium |
| The Concession | Bradenton | $350+ | Nicklaus/Jacklin | Bucket list |
| Raptor Bay | Bonita | $69-149 | Floyd | Wildlife |
| Gateway | Fort Myers | $79-159 | Fazio | Value |
| Bobby Jones | Sarasota | $25-55 | Various | Budget |
| Coral Oaks | Cape Coral | $35-79 | Hills | Municipal |
Golf Tips for SWFL
Best Time to Play
- Peak season (January-March): Highest prices but best conditions; book 3-7 days ahead
- Shoulder season (November-December, April): Great value, good conditions
- Summer (May-September): Lowest prices but hot; play early morning or twilight
- Pro tip: Afternoon summer storms typically clear by 5pm—twilight rates are excellent value
Booking Strategies
- Resort stay-and-play packages often provide the best value at premium courses
- GolfNow and similar apps offer deep discounts, especially for last-minute tee times
- Call the pro shop directly for rates not advertised online
- Ask about replay rates if planning multiple rounds
What to Bring
- Sunscreen (even in winter, Florida sun is strong)
- Bug spray (mosquitoes can be fierce near water)
- Rain gear (especially summer afternoons)
- Extra balls (water hazards claim many victims)
Course Conditions
Florida courses can be very different from what Northern golfers expect:
- Bermuda grass plays faster and requires cleaner contact
- Sand is often compact; hit down firmly in bunkers
- Wind can dramatically affect club selection
- Heat/humidity impacts ball flight and stamina
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best public golf course in Southwest Florida?
Hammock Bay in Naples and Old Corkscrew in Estero consistently rank among the top public-access courses. For value, Coral Oaks in Cape Coral offers excellent conditions at municipal prices.
When is the best time to golf in Southwest Florida?
Late October through April offers the best conditions and weather. January through March sees peak demand and prices. Summer offers dramatic savings but afternoon storms and heat require early starts.
How much does golf cost in Southwest Florida?
Prices range from $25-55 at municipal courses to $200-350 at resort and premiere facilities. Average quality daily-fee courses run $75-150 during season, with significant discounts in summer.
Can I play golf in Southwest Florida in summer?
Absolutely. Morning rounds before 11am typically avoid afternoon storms. Twilight rates after 3pm offer excellent value, and storms usually clear by 5pm. Bring water, sunscreen, and expect slower play in the heat.
Do I need a cart in Southwest Florida?
While most courses require carts during busy times, some (like Old Corkscrew) encourage walking. The heat makes walking challenging except in cooler months or early mornings.
More Southwest Florida Guides
- Retiring to Southwest Florida: Complete 2026 Guide — Planning your move to paradise
- Best 55+ Communities in Southwest Florida — Many with golf included
- Best Restaurants in Naples — Post-round dining
- Best Restaurants in Fort Myers — 19th hole options
Have a favorite SWFL golf course we missed? Let us know and we'll check it out!
