Tampa

What to Know About Golf in the Tampa Bay Area

The Tampa Bay area is one of the largest metropolitan areas in Florida, home to millions of residents. This region is famed for its scenic waterfront and gorgeous weather but is just as renowned for its unparalleled golf options. 

Like most of Florida, the Tampa area is a hotspot for golfers, with some of the best courses in the U.S. The picturesque setting and ideal golf weather attract large numbers of visitors every year seeking to enjoy the famous resorts and courses it is known for. 

The Tampa area is home to PGA golf events and has courses designed by some of the biggest names in the sport. There are dozens of courses in and around the city, each presenting golfers with unique challenges. Exploring all the options would be time-consuming, so we’re here to help.

Top Golf Courses Across the Tampa Bay Area

Let’s look at the golf courses across the Tampa Bay area that offer exciting challenges, gorgeous designs, and prestigious reputations.

Innisbrook Resort, Palm Harbor: This famous resort houses the Copperhead Course, one of the premier courses in the state. It is the site of the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship, a pivotal part of the annual Florida Swing. Copperhead is one of four courses at Innisbrook Resort, each with perfectly-manicured landscapes and gorgeous settings. Copperhead is an 18-hole course that offers 7,200 yards of championship golf. 

World Woods Golf Club, Brooksville: This is a public golf club that offers two courses and 36 holes of immaculate golf designed by renowned course architect Tom Fazio. Pine Barrens, one of the two courses, is notable for its substantial sandy challenges, which can cause serious frustration for golfers of all skill levels. Rolling Oaks is the second course, which offers a more traditional feel.

Rocky Point Golf Club, Tampa: Rocky Point is one of the city’s two municipal courses, providing an affordable golf option that still has excellent quality. It is easily accessed from the airport and many of its hotels, making it a popular option for those in Tampa on business. Rocky Point has 18 holes on a scenic course, 12 of which offer water challenges.

TPC Tampa Bay, Tampa: TPC Tampa Bay is a professional-caliber course that is part of the PGA Tour’s Tournament Players Club network. This is an extremely difficult course that is not for the faint of heart and has given even the most experienced golfers fits. TPC Tampa Bay is a par-71 public access course, situated around natural wetlands that provide a unique experience. 

Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club, Dade City: Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club is different from the typical flat Florida course. With rolling hills and pine trees, it has a distinct feel that makes it stand out and also provides some magnificent views. Lake Jovita has two 18-hole courses to explore, designed by course architects Kurt Sandness and Tom Lehman. 

Saddlebrook Resort, Tampa: This is a well-known resort that offers a scenic place to stay and golf for lovers of the sport. Saddlebrook has two 18-hole courses designed by legendary golfer and designer Arnold Palmer. The par-71 Palmer Course and the par-70 Saddlebrook Course provide picturesque settings surrounded by palm trees and immaculately-manicured grounds.