Ponte Vedra Golf Courses
Ponte Vedra Beach, located in Florida, is renowned for its exceptional golf courses, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. The area features several prestigious courses, each offering unique designs and challenges. Below are the primary golf courses in Ponte Vedra:
1. Ocean Course at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
The Ocean Course is a historic gem that has been a cornerstone of the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club for over 90 years. Originally designed by Herbert Strong, it has undergone significant renovations to enhance its playability and aesthetics. The course is now a par-71 layout that captures the essence of modern seaside design with expansive fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and lagoons. Recent upgrades include:
- Modern Turf Grasses: The greens feature TifEagle bermudagrass, while Celebration bermudagrass is used on the fairways and TifGrand bermudagrass on the tee boxes.
- Design Improvements: Enhancements include lower green complexes and additional screening areas to improve strategy and aesthetics.
- New Holes: A new par 3 hole (#13) has been added, with yardage ranging from 99 to 178 yards.
The Ocean Course offers a captivating golfing experience complemented by luxurious amenities at the AAA Five-Diamond resort.
2. Lagoon Course at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
The Lagoon Course is another notable course in Ponte Vedra Beach. This par-70 course measures 6,022 yards and was co-designed by Robert Trent Jones (front nine) and Joe Lee (back nine). It features a beautiful layout that incorporates natural landscapes with water hazards on every hole, providing both challenge and scenic views.
3. TPC Sawgrass
While technically not within Ponte Vedra Beach itself but very close by, TPC Sawgrass is one of the most famous golf venues globally. It hosts THE PLAYERS Championship annually and features two championship courses:
- Stadium Course: Designed by Pete Dye, this course includes the iconic island green on hole #17, which is one of the most recognizable holes in golf.
- Dye’s Valley Course: Also designed by Pete Dye, this course offers a balanced golfing experience through North Florida’s landscape.
Both courses at TPC Sawgrass are known for their quality maintenance and challenging layouts.
4. The Yards
The Yards is an innovative 12-hole course that combines elements from Arnold Palmer’s original design with new par-threes to create a unique golfing experience. This course caters to golfers looking for a shorter yet engaging round.
In summary, Ponte Vedra Beach boasts several world-class golf courses including the Ocean Course and Lagoon Course at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club as well as TPC Sawgrass—home to THE PLAYERS Championship—making it a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.
