Southern Orlando: A Modern Take on Classic Florida Golf.
Southern Orlando sits at the intersection of classic Central Florida golf design and modern resort refinement. The region is defined by flat-to-gently rolling terrain, abundant water features, and layouts that reward strategic positioning as much as length. Architects have leaned into wide corridors, sculpted bunkering, and visually engaging green complexes, creating courses that balance playability with thoughtful challenge. The result is a polished golf destination that pairs strong architecture with year-round accessibility.
Featured Golf Courses
Architect: Arnold Palmer Design Company (2003); restored by Arnold Palmer Design Company
Shingle Creek delivers a refined golf experience across natural corridors and gently rolling terrain. The routing emphasizes flow and variety, blending measured risk-reward decisions with ample room off the tee. Palmer’s influence is evident in the strategic bunker placement, contoured greens, and inviting sightlines from the tee. The course offers a balanced test that feels both polished and enduring, well suited to repeat play.
Shingle Creek Golf Club – Orlando, FL
Grand Cypress Golf Club – Links Course & Cypress Course – Orlando, FL
Architect: Jack Nicklaus (1984); restored by Jack Nicklaus
Grand Cypress presents two distinct yet complementary experiences. The Links Course draws inspiration from St. Andrews, featuring wide fairways, shared greens, and classic pot bunkers that encourage creativity and bold shot-making. The Cypress Course contrasts with a more traditional Florida parkland feel, where narrower corridors, water hazards, and precise angles reward disciplined play. Together, the courses provide architectural variety and depth, making Grand Cypress a cornerstone of the collection.
Hawk’s Landing Golf Club – Orlando, FL
Architect: Joe Lee (1986); restored by Robert Cupp Jr.
Hawk’s Landing emphasizes strategic decision-making throughout the round, with water hazards and bunkering shaping both tee shots and approaches. Fairways alternate between generous landing areas and more demanding corridors, creating a steady mix of risk and reward. The routing offers continuity and variety, while the design blends classic resort elements with modern refinements. It is a strong complementary course within a resort-forward Southern Orlando lineup.
Plan Your Next Trip the Right Way
Insider Notes:
Water Hazards: Are a constant strategic factor across Southern Orlando courses, and alligators are commonly present around lakes and ponds.
Overseeding: Typically occurs in early fall, often September to October, with aerification commonly scheduled in late spring or late summer. Always confirm maintenance schedules when planning a trip.
Insect Repellent: Is recommended during warmer months, especially on courses with extensive water features
Orange County National (Crooked Cat): Lies southwest of the main resort corridor and is worth the extra drive for golfers seeking a more open, links-style layout. Wide fairways and wind exposure create a noticeably different experience than most Central Florida resort courses.
Airport Access:
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Shingle Creek Golf Club: ~20 minutes
Hawk’s Landing Golf Club: ~25 minutes
Grand Cypress Golf Club: ~30 minutes
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
Shingle Creek Golf Club: ~45 minutes
Hawk’s Landing Golf Club: ~50 minutes
Grand Cypress Golf Club: ~55 minutes
Driving Times: Orlando, FL
Tampa, FL: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Jacksonville, FL: ~2 hours 10 minutes
Fort Myers, FL: ~3 hours
Miami, FL: ~3 hours 40 minutes
Tallahassee, FL: ~4 hours
Savannah, GA: ~4 hours 10 minutes
West Palm Beach, FL: ~2 hours 20 minutes
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