Tampa is famous for sunshine, beaches, and Florida man. But many people may not realize what a great area it is for golf enthusiasts as well, with year-round play and plenty of options for all skill and price levels.
Is it wrong to buy a home based on its proximity to a golf course? We don’t think so. As avid golfers and Tampa real estate experts, we understand the draw to being close to some of the “Golf Coast’s” best greens. So we’ve decided to compile a list of our favorite public golf courses across the Tampa Bay area and in a variety of neighborhoods. If pairing your golf habit to your future home is a priority, our team at My Tampa Agent is here for you.
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1050 Palm Boulevard, Dunedin, FL 34698
People are drawn to Dunedin for its small-town charm and great selection of independent restaurants and stores. It’s also home to the Dunedin Golf Club, former home of the PGA of America. Designed by world renowned golf course architect, Donald Ross, this course has a rich history that includes hosting 18 Senior Tour Championships. This course also includes a full-size driving range, as well as short-game practice area, and putting green. Need to polish your swing? Dunedin Golf Club has two PGA teaching professionals available for lessons. This course is available to the public and also offers memberships. Make sure you don’t miss a meal at their club house, which offers a great variety of food (including brunch), themed music nights, wine pairings, and so much more.
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11602 Westchase Golf Dr, Tampa, FL 33626
Nestled in the charming master-planned community of Westchase, this par 72 course was skillfully designed around a cypress forest and natural wetlands, resulting in tight fairways and challenging hazards. A definite favorite amongst residents of the over 5,000 homes in the community, this course also draws players from around Tampa who enjoy the scenic layout with close proximity to a fantastic variety of local restaurants and bars, like Mother’s, Blind Tiger Café, and Catch Twenty-Three.
There is little margin for error, so be sure to bring your A-game and your credit card, as this is one of the pricier courses in the area.
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16101 Nine Eagles Dr, Odessa, FL 33556
When the St. Petersburg Times created their “Dream 18” list of the top golf holes in the area, two of them came from here. Just north of Westchase you’ll find another outstanding course located in the sprawling family-friendly community of The Eagles. This location features two areas to play, the Forest Course (Par 72 and 6,604 yards) and the Lakes Course (Par 72 and 7,101 yards). Players comment that the Forest Course, designed by PGA Tour professional and NBC-TV commentator Gary Koch and renowned architect, Ron Garl, is quite narrow and is a true test of accuracy. But even if your game isn’t on point, you can make up for it with their satisfying Fried Green Tomato BLT and a craft beer from the clubhouse.
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36750 US Hwy 19 N, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
If you’ve ever wanted to know what it feels like to be a professional golfer, the four courses at Innisbrook may be the closest you can get to the experience in Tampa Bay. Their top-rated Copperhead Course is the home of the PGA Tour’s Valspar Golf Championship held each March. The 7,340 yard course is a Par 71 and poses a serious challenge to players in the Snake Pit area of the course. Additionally, Innisbrook has been included in Golf Digest’s “Top 75 Golf Resorts in America.” If you’re visiting the area with family or just looking for a local staycation, be sure to make time to stop by their expansive pool area, complete with water slides and a grotto.
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4151 Dana Shores Dr, Tampa, FL 33634
There aren’t many places where you can step off an airplane and be on a course in 15 minutes, but the Rocky Point Golf Course offers just that. One of three municipal courses in Tampa, this course is popular for a smooth, easy day of play. Founded in 1911, this is one of Florida’s first golf courses and carries with it a rich history. Now, it’s a local favorite as an affordable golf option that uses “dynamic pricing” based on demand. This course includes a driving range in addition to putting and chipping practice areas. There isn’t a traditional clubhouse restaurant, but the Rocky Point area of Tampa features several waterside dining options to enjoy before or after your game.
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7910 N 30th St, Tampa, FL 33610
The second of three municipal courses, this 160-acre course is only a short drive away from Tampa’s booming downtown area. Even though it’s close to the city, the course is bordered by the Hillsborough River and will leave you feeling like you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle. Rogers Park is home to the Tampa City Men’s Open Championship. Like the other municipal courses, it uses “dynamic pricing” and features one of Tampa's best driving ranges. If you’re pressed for time, this course has a 3-hole short game, which is a unique experience.
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11412 N Forest Hills Dr, Tampa, FL 33612
Mildred Ella “Babe” Didrikson Zaharias was one of the greatest female athletes of all time, having won two gold medals in track and field at the Olympics and 10 LPGA major championships. She was also the former owner and a regular player at this course until her death in 1956. This well-maintained course is municipally-owned and provides an excellent value for your money. Players enjoy how walkable this course is and note its relative ease for beginner and intermediate players due to its short course length. Babe Zaharias Golf Course is centrally located in Tampa, just off the I-275 and near the serene neighborhoods of Carrollwood and Lake Magdalene.
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10050 Robert Trent Jones Pkwy, Trinity, FL 34655
Nestled in the rapidly-growing area of Trinity, this Par 71 course proves to be a true challenge for golfers of all skill levels. With a healthy amount of sand traps and water features, this unique course is one of Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s last designs. It has become one of the premier semi-private courses in the area in recent years. Florida wildlife is abundant, adding to the beauty and brilliance of the landscape. This course is pricier than most in the area, but after playing you’ll understand why this is one of the favorite spots for serious golf enthusiasts.
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11111 W Waters Ave, Tampa, FL 33635
Okay, we know we promised you the “best” golf courses in this area and upon visiting you will realize this is not the most scenic course by a long shot. However, this course makes our list due to its short play and affordable rates. This Par 61 executive course has seven par 4’s and eleven par 3’s. Water hazards come into play on 14 of the course holes, designed by nationally-known architect Steve Smyers. While it’s not going to win a beauty contest, there’s a reason why Countryway Golf Club was included by readers on the Daily Planet’s list of “Best Value Golf Courses in Tampa Bay.” With close proximity to Tampa International Airport and surrounded by the peaceful suburban Countryway neighborhood, this course is worth a visit when the itch to golf strikes.
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13801 N 46th St, Tampa, FL 33613
Are you ready for a challenge? The Claw at the University of South Florida (USF) is your course! With 5 sets of tees, you can enjoy a round of golf that matches your skill level. The real challenge comes at hole 14 known as “The Claw” and the namesake of this course. Located on a certified Audubon animal sanctuary, you’re almost guaranteed to spot some furry, feathery, or even scaly friends as you play. Note that this Par 71 course is currently undergoing renovations to its clubhouse and bathroom facilities, meaning porta-potties may be your only option here.
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1000 Streamsong Dr, Bowling Green, FL 33834
The drive to Streamsong may have you saying, “we’re not in Tampa anymore.” Walking on any one of their three distinct golf courses may have you questioning if you’re even in Florida! With towering dunes and unexpected curves, this course feels otherworldly compared to traditional Florida flatland. Be forewarned that this is not just a game of golf, but an epic golf experience. The remote location in Central Florida gives you few food options, but within the Streamsong resort you have everything you need. Streamsong’s Red course was listed at #17 in Golfweek’s 2021 “Best US Courses You Can Play” and #19 in Golf Magazine’s 2021 “Top 100 Courses You Can Play.” It should be on every Florida golfer’s bucket list.
Did we miss any? This list is certainly not exhaustive of every course in the greater Tampa area, but if we’ve skipped a local gem, shoot us an email at Anthony@MyTampaAgent.com and let us know! And if you have any tips on how to retrieve a golf ball from the clutches of an alligator, we’ll take those too. On second thought… we’ll just get a new ball.
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