Orlando – a destination full of spectacular golf courses, not just theme parks

For some, the mere mention of Orlando conjures up colourful images of oversized Disney characters and hoards of delighted children. And that’s it.

Orlando is undoubtedly the Theme Park Capital of the World and a magnet for families seeking fun, sun and thrilling attractions, but it’s also home to some of Florida’s spectacular golf courses.

Smart move by Disney

You may think these two attractions are poles apart, but Disney cleverly accommodates both. Disney World boasts its own beautiful golf courses, as well as acres of Disney-themed fun to ensure families really can have it all when they visit.



Disney’s immaculate golf courses include Disney’s Lake Beuna Vista, Magnolia, Palm and Oak Trail.

Orlando resorts get in on the action too

Due to Orlando’s relentless popularity, vast resorts have sprung up to accommodate the huge influx of annual visitors. In fact, these luxury resorts are like mini cities complete with luxury accommodation, shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment. Surprisingly, a number of these resorts also house championship golf courses designed by giants of the golfing world.



The legendary Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson are the names behind Reunion Resort’s three championship golf courses. Each 18-hole signature course offers unique challenges and plenty of their namesakes’ personalities too.

 Some of Orlando’s finest

Away from Disney you’ll find numerous pristine courses to maximize Orlando’s amazing climate that lends itself so well to golfing. Here’s a little taster:

• Shingle Creek Golf Club offers a  par 72, 7,149 yard, 18-hole championship course designed by golf architect David Harman that’s punctuated with water hazards, undulating fairways and fast greens


• ChampionsGate International is one of the highest rated 18-hole courses in Florida and was designed by golf architect Greg Norman. Its layout is reminiscent of some Scottish and Irish courses, offering challenges along the way combined with fast play


• Grand Cypress New Course is Arnold Palmer’s tribute to Scotland’s St Andrew’s Old Course with its familiar links-layout, challenging bunkers, double greens and an old stone bridge

This is just the tip of the iceberg as far as what Orlando has to offer in the way of golf courses. Our advice? Why not see what all the fuss is about by heading to Orlando this summer and playing some of the finest golf courses in Florida.