From scenic public golf courses to invitation-only clubs, the Miami golf scene has something for everyone. The tropical climate means that you can benefit from beautiful weather nearly all year round, and coupled with the lush greenery that coats this tropical paradise, it’s no wonder Miami is renowned for having some of the best and healthiest golf courses in the world. 

So, if you’re a city lover who longs for the long putt, and keeps their clubs closeby, here’s our curated list. In it, you’ll find some of the best public golf courses in Miami, as well as some exclusive private ones, whether you’re looking to play a quick pitch-n-putt, hit the range, or play a serious round of 18 holes with your friends. Each of these courses is within a “short chip” of a drive from Miami’s main neighborhoods.

— Crandon Golf Course, Key Biscayne

Photo courtesy of MIAMIANDBEACHES

Why Miami golfers love it: It’s one of the most scenic golf courses in the country, with waterfront views from many tees and greens!

Often affectionately referred to as the most beautiful public course in the country, the Crandon Golf Course is a sight for sore eyes. While the lush greenery frames shimmering Biscayne Bay views that span the horizon, don’t let its beauty fool you into thinking this is an easy day on the greens. Crandon is a technical course, considered one of the most beautiful and difficult par-72 courses in the state of Florida. And with exposed water on a lot of the holes, you can expect to lose a few balls. Just don’t lose your patience!

Being a public golf course is a bonus, as you don’t need to dish out a lot in membership fees. However, this means it’s an incredibly well-known course, so you’ll find it to be reasonably busy. Still, in terms of value for money, Crandon comes out on top. Being that it is located on the lush and nature-filled Key Biscayne, Crandon is only a 15-minute commute from Brickell, and if you live in the area, it is only minutes from your doorstep.

— The Biltmore, Coral Gables

Photo courtesy of The Biltmore, Coral Gables

Why Miami golfers love it: It’s a golf course worthy of legends and with a historic location as a bonus.

After an extensive renovation, the new par-71, Donald Ross-designed course is better than ever. A reasonably technical course, the Biltmore Golf Course features deep bunkers and not-so-forgiving fairways, which makes it the perfect spot for those looking to hone their skills and have a challenge.

Located in beautiful Coral Gables and part of the historic Biltmore Hotel built in 1925, this golf course has seen legends like Dwight Eisenhower, Babe Ruth, and Al Capone stay and play here. So it’s no wonder it’s still a legendary course in Miami and a regular spot for locals. And with reasonable prices for members, it provides good value for money.

— Miami Beach Golf Club, South Beach

Why Miami golfers love it: Location, location, location. It’s in the middle of the city and very well-kept.

The Miami Beach Golf Club is world-renowned and a great option if you live around the area or if you have friends visiting. One of the best public golf courses in Miami Beach, it is located in the heart of the city, and after a hefty refurbishment in 2002, the par-72 course is a good knock for beginners and pros.

Masterfully designed by Arthur Hills, most of the holes were created in such a way that the course would satisfy long hitters and sharpshooters, and it also benefits from lake and sea views. Its South Beach location means it’s easily accessible via car and public transport, even if you aren’t local. It also has neighborhoods such as South of Fifth, Sunset Harbour and mid-beach nearby, making it a great regular spot if you are from the area.

— La Gorce Country Club, Mid-Beach

Photo courtesy of La Gorce Country Club, Miami Beach

Why Miami golfers love it: Very maintained greens, exclusive membership, including many executives and celebrities, and a nice atmosphere at the clubhouse.

Probably the most prestigious course on the list, La Gorce Country Club is a private, invitation-only club, with the course first opening in 1926. 

The country club features a vast array of amenities and an incredibly well-kept course nestled on La Gorce Island. All 18 holes of this par-71 course are pristine with perfect fairways drifting over the horizon and merging with the waters of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline — truly a sight to behold! 

Positioned in the center of Miami Beach and in proximity to the bay, La Gorce benefits from prime real estate. Its location makes it the perfect spot if you live in Mid-Beach but its prestige lures members from far and wide.

— Miami Shores Country Club, North Miami

Photo courtesy of Miami Shores Country Club, North Miami

Why Miami golfers love it: It’s got an interesting layout, different from most courses, and it has elevated greens, which are a rarity for South Florida. 

Located off of Biscayne Boulevard in North Miami, this is a classic in the area. Inaugurated in 1939, the Miami Shores Country Club golf course was designed by architects Robert F. “Red” Lawrence and Louis Wilson, with a full-on renovation in 2011. With more than 80 years of history, you can expect to find locals on the green who have been hitting there their whole lives. 

The 18-hole course is a par-71, but the club also offers tennis and a full-service restaurant and lounge. Located less than 15 minutes from Downtown Miami, Miami Beach, and the Miami International Airport, it’s a city favorite for its history and easy access.

— Normandy Shores Golf Club, North Miami Beach

Photo courtesy of Normandy Shores Golf Club, North Miami Beach

Why Miami golfers love it: It’s a challenging course where wildlife is always present, so expect to see a few friends along the way.

Located in North Miami Beach on Normandy Isle and considered one of the best golf courses in Miami, Normandy Shores Golf Club opened for play in 1941. It has been frequented by legends both past and present, with the likes of Arnold Palmer and Peter Thompson both gracing its greens. 

Known for some narrow holes, water hazards, and challenging shot choices, but easy location off of the 79th Street Causeway, this par-71 is a great choice if you live on the beach or mainland Miami. Plus, the club completed a $9 million facelift, making it an ideal shot for a knock

— Greynolds Golf Course, North Miami Beach

Photo courtesy of Greynolds Golf Course, North Miami Beach

Why Miami golfers love it: It’s one of the more affordable courses and has a simple layout perfect for beginners.

The Greynolds 9-hole course is reasonably challenging. With par sitting at 36 and with the course spanning over 3,100 feet, it can prove difficult for beginners. The real “birdie” of this course, however, is its fee. Greynolds has some of the best value-for-money golf out there, especially when you don’t have time to play a full 18. 

Its location in North Miami Beach also makes it a great option for Aventura and Hollywood residents alike.

— Soffer and Miller Golf Courses at Turnberry Isle Country Club, Aventura

Photo courtesy of Soffer and Miller Golf Courses at Turnberry Isle Country Club, Aventura

Why Miami golfers love it: Challenging course with pristine grounds and the convenience of all of the services of the Club.

Turnberry Isle Country Club is a golfer’s oasis that’s less than a mile from the beach. Between the Soffer and Miller courses, players have 36 holes (par 72 and 70, respectively) to work on their handicap, while there’s also tennis, a waterpark, and a spa. Soffer is known as the longer and more challenging course, at more than 7,000 yards from the back tees. But what most players note is the pristine fairways, lush vegetation, and overall quality of play. 

And because Turnberry is so conveniently located, surrounded by many Aventura luxury condo buildings, nearby Sunny Isles, and the shopping at Aventura Mall, Turnberry Golf Course is one of the most coveted for Miami residents.

— Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Miami a Good Golf Destination?

Miami has long been a coveted destination for golfers both nationally and internationally because of its relatively flat and open landscape, as well as its warm temperatures and sunny skies. Also, golf enthusiasts have many courses to choose from, both public and private, which makes it easy to access and fun to vary.

How Many Golf Courses Are There in Miami?

There are approximately 20 golf courses in the Miami area, between public and private ones. This means we have a well-established infrastructure to cater to golfers of all levels of experience and preferences.

— Living That Golf Life

As we’ve mapped out the best public golf courses in Miami and some private ones, you have an idea of the areas you should be looking for if you love hitting the green. And if you’d like to know more about condos located close to any of these golf courses, contact us by email, text, or phone and we’ll be more than happy to help you in your search!

Have another sport you’d like CondoBlackBook to feature? Interested in a Condo within a golf course community or with a course nearby? Reach out and let us know! Chat, write or call us anytime.