Best Golf Courses at Disney World (2024)

Best Golf Courses at Disney WorldJoshua Powell2024-01-18T18:34:18-05:00

Walt Disney World is known for its theme park magic, but it’s also home to some of the best golf courses in the country. With world-class courses designed by some of the sport’s greatest players, it’s easy to see why golfers flock to the greater Orlando area. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find a Disney-area course that will challenge and delight you. Here are our picks for the ten best golf courses at Disney World Resort and within the greater Orlando area.

The Top 10 Disney and Non-Disney Golf Courses in Orlando

1. Reunion Resort Golf Courses

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Image © Reunion Resort

Location: Reunion Resort & Golf Club

Category: Private/Resort

Stats:

  • Palmer: 18 Hole; Par 72; 6916 Yards; 142 Slope
  • Watson: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7154 Yards; 141 Slope
  • Nicklaus: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7219 Yards; 140 Slope

GolfPass Score: 93.7% (Palmer), 91.5% (Watson), and 82.9% (Nicklaus)

Address: 7593 Gathering Dr, Kissimmee, FL

Who It’s Best For: Experienced Golfers

Reunion Resort is home to three signature golf courses designed by iconic PGA legends Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Jack Nicklaus. As the only destination with courses designed by all three legends in one place, Reunion Resort is a golfer’s paradise.

The Arnold Palmer course offers 6,916 yards of engaging play, with elevation changes up to 50 feet.

The Tom Watson course is a well-calculated challenge with wide-open greens, rolling fairways, and strategically-placed bunkers. And the Jack Nicklaus course features 18 holes of smooth, flowing play with elevated tee boxes and greens.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Reunion Resort’s three signature golf courses have something to offer everyone. The resort is only 6 miles from Walt Disney World, so it may be worth staying here if you value golf as much as theme parks. A stay at the resort does not include golf, but guests are eligible for a discounted rate.

2. Orange County National Golf Center

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Image © Orange County National Golf

Location: Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge

Category: Public

Stats:

  • Panther Lake Course: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7350 Yards; 139 Slope
  • Crooked Cat Course: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7493 Yards; 139 Slope
  • Tooth Course: 9 Hole; Par 29; 1563 Yards; N/A Slope

GolfPass Score: 93.2% (Panther Lake); 90.1% (Crooked Cat); 89.1% (Tooth 9-Hole)

Address: 16301 Phil Ritson Way, Winter Garden, FL

Who It’s Best For: All Levels

The Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge is a world-class golfing destination just about 6 miles from Walt Disney World. The center features two world-class championship 18-hole courses – the Panther Lake and the Crooked Cat – and the 9-hole Tooth walking golf course.

Panther Lake challenges include 92 bunkers, eighty-seven water hazards, and 79 undulating greens.

Crooked Cat challenges include 114 bunkers, 86 undulating greens, and 85 forced carries. Although these courses are geared toward experienced golfers, the Tooth 9-hole course is a great place for beginners, families, and casual players.

The facility offers a driving range, a chipping area, a putting green, a full-service clubhouse, restaurants, a pro shop, and lessons by PGA professionals. Additionally, guests who wish to stay overnight will find a 3-star lodge on the property. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just a beginner, Orange County National is one of the best places to play golf near Disney World.

3. Shingle Creek Golf Club

Location: Rosen Shingle Creek

Category: Public/Resort

Stats: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7213 Yards; 137 Slope

GolfPass Score: 90.4% Recommended

Address: 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL

Who It’s Best For: Experienced Golfers

Situated just 15 minutes from Disney’s bustling theme parks, Shingle Creek Golf Club offers visitors a chance to enjoy a classic game in a stunning setting. The renowned Arnold Palmer Design Company developed the course, which features 42 elevated greens, 66 strategically placed bunkers, and 72 picturesque water hazards. The layout challenges golfers of all levels, even the most experienced ones. It is not only a great golf course but there’s also native Florida foliage and wildlife throughout.

Shingle Creek Golf Academy offers individual golf lessons, club fittings, youth camps, and adult golf clinics. Shingle Creek Golf Course offers a unique golfing experience, as well as snacks, drinks, and patio dining. It is a great choice if you are looking for golf courses near Disney World.

Are you looking for the best golf courses at Disney World? Would you like to book a lesson with a PGA Pro, reserve a tee time, or learn more about one of the Disney World hotels?

As one of the best Disney travel agencies in the business, The Vacationeer can provide advice, make hotel and theme park reservations, and ensure you get the luxury and add-ons you deserve.

Click here for a free, no-obligation quote, and start planning your Disney golf vacation now!

4. Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course

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Image © Disney

Location: Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Category: Resort

Stats: 18 Hole; Par 72; 6745 Yards; 133 Slope

GolfPass Score: 89.7% Recommended

Address: 2200 Golf Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL

Who It’s Best For: Experienced Golfers

Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is a world-class, 18-hole public golf course designed by architect Joe Lee. The course is rated four stars by Golf Digest and is beautifully situated among villas, palmettos, lakes, and pine forests. It feels more like a classic country club than any of the four Disney golf courses.

The course has hosted PGA, USGA, and LPGA events and is known for its elevation, bunkered greens, and an island green on the 7th hole. It has 56 bunkers, 53 water hazards, and 34 undulating greens. In addition to being a top-notch golf course, Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary.

Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course offers rental equipment, golf carts, and tee-time reservations. The driving range and lessons are available for those who want to improve their game. The pro shop and clubhouse offer a variety of clothing and equipment for purchase. There is also a restaurant available for after the game. Lastly, transportation is available to and from the course.

5. Waldorf Astoria Golf Club

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Image © Hilton Waldorf Astoria

Location: Waldorf Astoria Orlando Hotel

Category: Public/Resort

Stats: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7108 Yards; 134 Slope

GolfPass Score: 89.1% Recommended

Address: 14224 Bonnet Creek Resort Ln, Orlando, FL

Who It’s Best For: All Levels

The Waldorf Astoria Orlando Golf Club is among the country’s most prestigious and luxurious golf clubs. Located at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, one of a select number of five-star hotels at Disney World, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando Golf Club features two 18-hole championship courses designed by Rees Jones. The course is renowned for its playability and features a five-tee system to accommodate golfers of every caliber. Majestic cypress trees line the fairways, and the practice range and putting green provide ample opportunity to perfect your game.

The club offers a state-of-the-art practice facility, golf lessons, a full-service pro shop, and the Clubhouse Grille that overlooks the 18th hole. Additionally, hotel guests have access to its luxury amenities, including its spa, pool, and fitness center. The Waldorf Astoria Orlando Golf Club is the perfect place for serious golfers and those who just want to practice their swing and escape the Disney World crowds.

6. Disney’s Palm Golf Course

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Image © Disney

Location: Walt Disney World Resort Golf (across from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort)

Category: Resort

Stats: 18 Hole; Par 72; 6870 Yards; 131 Slope

GolfPass Score: 88.7% Recommended

Address: 1950 W. Magnolia Palm Dr., Lake Buena Vista, FL

Who It’s Best For: Experienced golfers

Disney’s Palm Golf Course is a championship 18-hole golf course near Disney’s Polynesian Resort. It opened in 1971 and was redesigned in 2013 by the Arnold Palmer Design Company. Arnold Palmer Golf Management now operates the property.

The enchanting golf course weaves its way through palm trees, shimmering lakes, tropical sands, and sloping greens- creating a truly unique and memorable experience for golfers of all skill levels. It is rated four stars by Golf Digest, and it is one of the most challenging courses at Walt Disney World. With 59 bunkers and nine holes with water hazards, the course is sure to test even the most experienced golfers. Disney’s Palm Golf Course is worth a try if you’re looking for a challenging round of golf while staying at a Disney resort.

Disney’s Palm Golf Course offers rental equipment, golf carts, reservations, and cancellations. The driving range and lessons are available for an additional fee. The pro shop and clubhouse are open for business seven days a week. The required golf attire includes a shirt with a collar, shorts or slacks, and non-metal spiked shoes (or tennis shoes). Players may be paired up with others. Transportation to and from the course is available. A short walk from the clubhouse is Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Deli, a snack bar and outdoor patio adjacent to the Magnolia golf course.

7. Celebration Golf Club

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Image © Celebration Golf

Location: Celebration Golf Club

Category: Public

Stats: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7,023 Yards; 141 Slope

GolfPass Score: 88.6% Recommended

Address: 701 Golf Park Dr, Celebration, FL

Who It’s Best For: Experienced golfers

Celebration Golf Club is an 18-hole public golf course less than 10 minutes from Walt Disney World Resort. World-renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr designed the course to offer stunning views of wetlands and clusters of native pine, oak, and magnolia trees. It features a unique blend of challenging holes and beautiful scenery, making it one of the most popular golf destinations in Central Florida.

There is something for golfers of all skill levels at Celebration Golf Club, but experienced golfers will feel most at home here. Course challenges include 176 water hazards, 169 bunkers, and 14 undulating greens. So if you’re a seasoned pro or just up for a golfing challenge, check out Celebration Golf Club the next time you’re in town.

8. The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando, Grande Lakes

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Image © Ritz-Carlton

Location: Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

Category: Resort

Stats: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7,122 Yards; 139 Slope

GolfPass Score: 79.9% Recommended

Address: 4040 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL

Who It’s Best For: All Levels

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando golf course is an 18-hole championship course developed by legendary golf course designer Greg Norman. The course is set amidst the natural beauty of central Florida and features wide fairways, challenging greens, and numerous hazards. Some of the course challenges include 32 bunkers, 32 water hazards, and a long 1st hole.

The luxury clubhouse features a restaurant and pro shop, and there are also lessons for both children and adults. Children and young adults up to age 17 play golf at no charge with each paid adult round of golf. Tee times can be booked online or through your Disney travel agency.

9. Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course

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Image © Disney

Location: Walt Disney World Resort Golf (across from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort)

Category: Resort

Stats: 18 Hole; Par 72; 7,516 Yards; 141 Slope

GolfPass Score: 79.6% Recommended

Address: 1950 W. Magnolia Palm Dr., Lake Buena Vista, FL

Who It’s Best For: Experienced Golfers

Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course is one of Disney’s more challenging courses and a paradise for serious golfers. The course is surrounded by majestic magnolia trees and features elevated tees, spacious greens, and wide, long fairways designed with power in mind. Perhaps the most challenging aspect of the course is its water hazards: 11 of the 18 holes have water hazards, and 97 bunkers are scattered throughout.

The Magnolia Golf Course was renovated in 2015 and is certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary, which makes it not only a great place to golf but also a great place to appreciate nature. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just looking for a challenging round of golf, Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course is the place for you.

Note: A major redesign of holes 14 through 17 occurred at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course in 2022.

10. Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course

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Image © Disney

Location: Walt Disney World Resort Golf (across from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort)

Category: Resort

Stats: 9 Hole; Par 36; 2,913 Yards; 123 Slope

GolfPass Score: 73.2% Recommended

Address: 1950 W. Magnolia Palm Dr., Lake Buena Vista, FL

Who It’s Best For: Beginners; Intermediates; Families

Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course is a 9-hole, par-36 golf course at Walt Disney World. Despite its gently rolling greens and exciting challenges, Oak Trail is relatively flat and less challenging than other Disney courses. It’s suitable for all skill levels but geared toward beginner and intermediate players. The course offers junior tees for younger players and Junior Golf Camps, making it an ideal golf course for families with kids who want to learn.

Arnold Palmer Golf Management operates the course and is certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary. Golf carts are not allowed on the course, but guests can rent pull/push carts for a small fee.

Whether you’re looking to take the family out for a round of golf or simply enjoy a quick round of golf in a scenic setting, Oak Trail Golf Course may be the perfect place for you. Contact The Vacationeer to book your tee time or lesson with a golf instructor.

Other Golf Courses Near Walt Disney World to Consider:

ChampionsGate Golf

ChampionsGate Golf Club is a world-class golfing destination located about 15 minutes away from Walt Disney World. The club features two championship 18-hole courses designed by legendary golfer Greg Norman. The National and International courses offer a unique blend of traditional and modern elements, providing a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Both golf courses are impeccably maintained and feature stunning views of the surrounding area.

Tranquilo Golf Course

A Certified Audubon Sanctuary, Tranquilo Golf Course at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando is known for its varied elevations, protected wetlands, and abundant wildlife. The par-71 course was designed by Tom Fazio and features 6,901 yards and four tees for all skill levels.

Note: The Four Seasons Resort Orlando is the only five-star and AAA Five Diamond hotel at Disney World, which makes it a top choice if you’re looking for a luxury golf resort. The course doesn’t rate quite as high as others on this list, but the resort is beautiful, and the golf course is as well.

Hawk’s Landing Golf Club

Hawk’s Landing Golf Club is an 18-hole championship course located on the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort grounds. Robert Cupp, Jr. designed the course to feature lush scenery, native birds, and wildlife. The club also offers a pro shop, clubhouse, restaurant, and bar. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf in the morning, followed by lunch or dinner at the clubhouse. The resort also offers a variety of other amenities, including multiple swimming pools, a spa, and a fitness center.

Disney World Golf FAQs

Do Disney World golf courses have dress codes?

At Disney World, dress codes are in place for the golf courses to provide guests with the best possible experience. The semi-formal dress code does not permit denim jeans or shorts.

Here are some dress codes for Disney golf courses:

  • Men may wear polo-style shirts with collars, turtlenecks or mock turtleneck shirts, and slacks or Bermuda-length shorts.
  • Women may wear polo-style shirts with collars, suitable shirts or blouses, slacks, skirts, or Bermuda-length shorts.

In addition to appropriate clothing, golfers should also wear shoes with metal spike alternatives — tennis shoes are also acceptable. By adhering to the dress code, guests can help to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience on the course.

What is the easiest Disney golf course?

If you’re looking for an easy Disney World golf course, the best option is Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course. The par-9 course Oak Trail course is designed for beginners, but it’s also a perfect choice for those looking to get in a quick round of golf.

It’s home to a golf academy, where you can take lessons from PGA professionals. In addition, the course is just across from Disney’s Polynesian Resort, one of the best Disney Deluxe Resorts, making it easily accessible via Disney World transportation.

Whether you’re a first-time golfer or a seasoned pro, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course is a laid-back and friendly place to tee off at Disney World.

How many golf courses are at Walt Disney World?

Orlando is home to dozens of golf courses, but Disney owns only a few. Disney World owns four golf courses: three 18-hole courses and one 9-hole course. The four courses at Disney World are Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course, Disney’s Palm Golf Course, and the 9-hole Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course. Whether you’re a golf veteran or a beginner, you’re sure to enjoy a round of golf at any of Disney World’s four courses.

Can you play at hotel golf courses without staying there?

Hotel golf courses are a great way to enjoy a golf round without worrying about membership fees or tee times. However, many people are unsure about whether they can play at hotel courses without actually staying at the hotel.

The answer depends on the policies of each individual course, but in general, it is possible to play at a hotel course without being a hotel guest. Some courses may charge a higher green fee for non-guests, but this is typically not more than the standard guest rate. So if you’re looking for a convenient and affordable place to play golf, don’t rule out the hotel courses in your area.

Book your Disney Golf Vacation Now

Planning a Disney vacation can be time-consuming and stressful. Fortunately, you can rely on the professional Disney Vacation Planners at The Vacationeer for guidance.

Your primary contact will be a single, dedicated travel professional at every step of the way — no more waiting on hold or being bounced from person to person to get answers. You don’t have to worry about anything because they will get to know you and your family’s needs and keep track of everything for you.

The Vacationeer will handle everything from reservations to payment schedules, transportation, and tickets.

Moreover, since their agents are certified Disney fanatics and know everything about the park and the surrounding area, you won’t risk getting outdated information from an agent who hasn’t been there in a long time.

So if you’re ready to learn more about Disney World and the golfing options around the area, it’s time to reach out to The Vacationeer.

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