The Best Places to Play Golf near Haines
The five closest public golf courses to Haines feature diverse layouts and amenities. Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club stands out with its 7,192-yard championship course designed by Steve Smyers, featuring more than 170 bunkers, dramatic elevation shifts over 100 feet, and a USGA slope rating of 140 for a notable test of skill [39]. Cypress Greens in Lake Alfred provides a 9-hole semi-private course with moderate technical difficulty, frequent water hazards, and a relaxed booking policy for daily play [44]. Cypresswood Golf & Country Club in Winter Haven offers an 18-hole Ron Garl design set across 6,816 yards from the back tees and five sets of tees for varied skill levels [45]. Deer Creek RV Golf & Country Club in Davenport is an 18-hole executive track established in 1987, with a par of 60 and recent recognition as one of the most improved U.S. courses, ideal for honing the short game amid a sociable club atmosphere [46][53]. Grenelefe Golf & Tennis Resort (East Course) in Haines City is a 6,802-yard Ed Seay design with a slope of 131 and water in play on many holes, while the South Course (Robert Trent Jones Sr.) adds length and variety; however, club and course conditions may vary and should be checked before visiting [42][43].
Other public golf options within 20 miles include Reunion Resort’s Legacy Course designed by Arnold Palmer, which features undulating terrain and risk-reward challenges popular among professionals and amateurs alike [47][54], and Highlands Reserve Golf Club, known for its wider fairways and accessible design. Each course in the area provides a unique layout, practice facilities, and signature holes. The selection features both long-established golfing destinations and courses recognized for innovative features and steady improvements over the years [45][46].
Fun Facts about Golf Courses near Haines
- Southern Dunes features more than 170 bunkers, making it one of the most bunker-heavy public courses in Florida [39].
- Cypress Greens is a 9-hole course open daily, with water hazards on nearly every hole and flexible booking for all skill levels [44].
- Deer Creek RV Golf & Country Club was rated #3 Most Improved Golf Course in the U.S. in 2015 according to Golf Advisor [53].
- Grenelefe’s East Course was designed by Ed Seay, who also co-designed several courses with Arnold Palmer [42].
- Reunion Resort’s Legacy Course was laid out by Arnold Palmer, one of just a few Florida courses personally designed by the legendary golfer [47].
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oldest golf course near Haines?
Grenelefe Golf & Tennis Resort (South Course) opened in 1971 and was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. [42]
Which public golf course in Haines is best suited for high-handicap or casual players?
Deer Creek RV Golf & Country Club is noted for its friendly design, moderate length, and is well suited for beginners and recreational golfers [46]
Who designed Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club?
Steve Smyers is the architect of Southern Dunes, known for its dramatic elevation changes and strategic layout [39]
What is a key feature of Cypress Greens?
The 9-hole semi-private course has water hazards on most holes and visitors are welcome every day with advance booking [44]
Are there famous championship designers represented at Reunion Resort?
Yes, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus each designed two of the three championship courses at Reunion, with Palmer’s Legacy Course closest to Haines [47][54]
References
[39] https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/courses/15833-southern-dunes-golf-country-club
[44] https://www.1golf.eu/en/club/cypress-greens/
[45] https://www.1golf.eu/en/club/cypresswood-golf-country-club/
[46] https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/courses/15219-deer-creek-rv-golf-country-club
[47] https://www.golfbreaks.com/en-gb/holidays/orlando/reunion-resort/palmers-legacy-course/
[53] https://deercreekrvgolf.com
[54] https://www.reunionresort.com/golf/courses
[42] https://www.polkcountygolf.com/golf-course/grenelefe-golf-and-tennis-resort/
[43] https://www.hole19golf.com/courses/grenelefe-golf-tennis-resort-south