As evidenced by Tiger Woods and his son, emerging superstar Charlie Axel Woods, there is perhaps
no better father and son bonding experience than golfing, and there’s no better place to spend time
together than on the treasured coastal courses of Northeast Florida.
When not on the green, dad and son alike can hone their skills and shop for the latest in golfing
apparel, equipment and more.
1. Play (and Stay) Like the Pros
Northeast Florida has no shortage of acclaimed courses and luxurious resorts to choose from — Amelia Island, Jacksonville and The Beaches, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, Clay County and Palm Coast & The Flagler Beaches — all perfect for father-son golf getaways. Reconnect and make lasting memories as you navigate the same award-winning courses that host championship events including THE PLAYERS Championship, PGA TOUR and Champions Tour, or were designed by some of golf’s finest.
Test your skills at Pete Dye’s legendary TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course, whose 7,215 yard course challenges even the most seasoned of golfers with daring drives and difficult holes — including the dreaded “Island Green” 17. For a slightly less challenging yet still pro-level experience, opt for TPC Sawgrass’ 6,838-yard, 72-par Dye’s Valley Course offers Afterwards, relax at the Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa, complete with pools, seven restaurants and lounges and a Cabana Beach Club that provides direct access to Ponte Vedra Beach.
Challenge dad to a round just yards from the Atlantic Ocean at one of the four courses located nearby Omni Amelia Island Resort, such as the Fernandina Beach Golf Club, which offers a varied, 27-hole experience and a Lighthouse Driving Range. Also on Amelia Island, The Amelia River Club is an esteemed course suitable for novice or expert players, with 18 challenging holes and a wide-open layout reminiscent of a Scottish links course. The Omni Amelia Island: PGA Golf Tour Package includes one round of golf per registered guest, per day plus a branded hat and golf balls that make for the perfect souvenir.
Or, show your son how it’s done at the Arnold Palmer-designed Hidden Hills Golf Club, just a short drive from the Jacksonville International Airport and area beaches. This wild, pine – and oak-laden course occupies one of the highest points in Jacksonville, with rolling hills and curves creating an exciting challenge. Your group should consider staying at Overmoon’s Vacation Rentals, which offer private pools and beach access nearby, or experience an oceanfront view on the beach at SpringHill Suites Oceanfront, Jacksonville Beach’s newest hotel.
World Golf Village, a top choice for where to base a family Florida golf adventure. Here, golfers can stay at one of three properties, such as the AAA Four-Diamond Renaissance St. Augustine World Golf Village Resort, Holiday Inn World Golf Village, or Overmoon Vacation Rental in St. Augustine. Hone your skills at the PGA TOUR Golf Academy, and golf the greens of King & Bear from the minds of Arnold Palmer and Jack Niclaus and the Bobby Weed-designed Slammer & Squire. Complimentary shuttle service connects guests with historic downtown St. Augustine for even more golfing and Florida exploration.
2. Tee up a shopping spree or training session at the PGA Tour Superstore
Whether shopping for a perfect Father’s Day gift, or just looking for the latest in golf accessories, apparel and equipment, the massive, 25,000-square-foot PGA TOUR Superstore in Jacksonville is a must-visit. Bring in your current clubs for adjustments and repairs, including enhancements to loft and lie angles, gripping and shaftwork. Or, if you’re in need of new clubs, consult the on-site experts for custom-fitted drivers, irons, wedges and putters.
Brush up on golf skills at the 1,134 square-foot putting green or in one of several high-tech interactive simulators. If either father or son need extra instruction, 45-minute training sessions with a PGA TOUR Superstore Certified Golf Instructor are also available. These hands-on educational workshops feature state-of-the-art technology that monitors a ball’s flight trajectory and video capture and playback of golf swings within a comfortable environment. Look for special in-store events and clinics throughout the year, including a free golf clinic on the second Saturday of each month addressing common golfing mistakes.
3. Extend the experience with a trip to TopGolf
Open day and night, TopGolf is a paradise for golf-lovers and a perfect place to extend father-son bonding time while in Northeast Florida. This expansive entertainment center in Jacksonville, Florida, spans three floors and is part sports lounge, part driving range, and is ideal for golfers of all ages and skill levels.
In one of over 100 all-weather semi-private bays, take turns driving balls into the distance and try to sink a shot in outfield targets. Innovative technology built into the balls allows you to easily keep score — perfect for some friendly father-son competition. Or enjoy quality time with one another as you watch live sports on one of the over 200 HDTVs throughout the complex, including at the on-site restaurant and rooftop lounge. A 14-hole miniature golf course is perfect for the younger crowd and for those longing to return home with treasured childhood memories in Northeast Florida.
Learn more about family-friendly golf vacations in Northeast Florida, explore the region’s courses, browse available vacation packages and start planning your perfect father and son golf getaway.