Whether you’re seeking championship courses, seaside celebrations, or family-friendly activities, this region has it all. Here are five compelling reasons to celebrate New Year’s Eve on Florida’s First Coast.
1. TEE OFF THE NEW YEAR ON THE GREEN
As a premier golf destination, Florida’s First Coast is home to over 70 courses to fit your needs, with over 100 miles of world-class coastal golf courses, resorts, and plenty of post-green activities to round out your vacation and make your ultimate golf vacation to Northeast Florida that much better. Whether you’re an experienced player or just looking to relax on the fairways, you’ll find a course to match your style.
TOP PARTNER COURSES TO EXPLORE:
- TPC Sawgrass (Ponte Vedra Beach): Iconic home of THE PLAYERS Championship, featuring the famous 17th island green on THE PLAYERS Stadium Course.
- King & Bear and Slammer & Squire (St. Augustine): Championship courses at World Golf Village with rich history and stunning layouts.
- Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa (Palm Coast): Oceanfront beauty featuring the Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Course and the Tom Watson-designed Conservatory Course.
- Amelia River Golf Club (Amelia Island): A local favorite with a lush, challenging layout for golfers of all levels.
- Eagle Landing Golf Club (Clay County): A premier course offering natural beauty and challenging play.
Enjoy coastal breezes and picture-perfect fairways that make every round memorable. Be sure to reserve your tee time in advance—New Year’s weekend is a popular time for visitors and locals alike!
2. CELEBRATE IN STYLE AT WORLD-CLASS RESORTS
After a day on the course, swap your cleats for party shoes and enjoy the best New Year’s Eve celebrations in Northeast Florida. From elegant dining to spectacular fireworks, there’s something for everyone.
WHERE TO STAY AND CELEBRATE:
- Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa (Palm Coast): Treat yourself to a luxurious NYE at this oceanfront resort. Check out the many resort activities offered for live entertainment and dancing or Delfinos Italian Chophouse, which offers a special New Year’s Eve prix fixe menu featuring Roasted Tenderloin Medallions paired with Lobster Tail, fresh seasonal sides, and a decadent Champagne Mousse dessert. Then head to the Champions Event Lawn for live entertainment and a dazzling fireworks display.
- Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa (Ponte Vedra Beach): Enjoy fine dining, craft cocktails, and a New Year’s Eve party just steps from TPC Sawgrass.
- Omni Amelia Island Resort (Amelia Island): Ring in the New Year in style and with a fun night on the pool deck, complete with a DJ, dancing, apple juice toast at 10 PM. for the kids and fireworks at midnight. For a local twist, check out the Amelia Island Shrimp Drop, where a giant sparkling shrimp descends at 8 PM, perfect for families.
3. EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON
Northeast Florida transforms into a holiday wonderland during New Year’s, offering events and experiences beyond the golf course.
CAN’T-MISS NEW YEAR’S EVENTS:
- St. Augustine Nights of Lights: Stroll through millions of twinkling lights in the nation’s oldest city. Take it up a notch with a boat charter for panoramic views of the illuminated skyline.
- Jacksonville Fireworks Show: Celebrate downtown with a breathtaking display over the St. Johns River. Enjoy dinner at nearby restaurants before the show.
- Amelia Island Black and White Gala: Ring in the New Year in style with the Ritz-Carlton’s fourteenth annual Black and White New Year’s Eve Gala at The Ritz-Carlton. Dance the night away to live music while enjoying the open bar, spectacular fireworks, and a Champagne toast to commence the New Year. You can also check out Amelia Island Historic Tours to learn about the area’s history.
Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, these events create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable New Year’s memories.
4. PERFECT WEATHER FOR WINTER GOLF
Escape the cold and embrace the mild winter temperatures of Florida’s First Coast. With average highs in the upper 60s to low 70s in late December and early January, it’s the ideal climate for a winter golf getaway.
Pro Tip: If you need extra gear, visit the PGA TOUR Superstore to pick up a polo, light sweater, or sunglasses. Sunny skies and ocean breezes await, so make sure you’re prepared to hit the green in style.
5. KICKSTART YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS ON THE COURSE
A new year calls for new resolutions, and whether yours is to improve your swing, your fitness, or your overall game, we have the perfect one for you — just play more golf! The best part? We can help you keep this one because here on Florida’s First Coast of Golf, there is no shortage of reasons why your top New Year’s resolution should not be just that.
If you’re looking to sharpen your skills, Florida’s First Coast is also home to the top-rated Golf Schools like the PGA TOUR Golf Academy in St. Augustine, where expert instructors and state-of-the-art facilities help you take your game to the next level.
Start your year with a resolution you’ll actually keep—playing more golf in paradise.
Playing more golf on Florida’s First Coast is easy—we promise you that. Let us help you plan the ultimate golf vacation for you and your group and if you’re already ready to start making that New Year’s resolution, book a tee time!