Fort Myers, Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant city life. But it’s also home to some of the finest golf courses in the country. With a diverse selection of public and private courses, Fort Myers has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a challenging championship course or an easy-going par three, there’s a course that will fit your needs. Here are the 11 best golf courses in Fort Myers for 2023.
Old Corkscrew Golf Club
Old Corkscrew Club is a Certified Audubon International Sanctuary that boasts a beautiful and challenging golf course. The layout is entirely carved from a mature pine forest and is accented by the bright blue skies of Florida. Nestled on a divine piece of land, surrounded by wetlands, prairie grass, and a blanket of endemic trees including pine, mature oak, and cypress, this club is an oasis of peace and seclusion.
But don’t let the serenity fool you. The long holes on this course are demanding and require you to execute quality shots. With a distance of over 7,400 yards, the course is not for the faint of heart, and a strategic choice of tee box is critical. More than half the course has water in play, and large, shaped bunkers play a critically important role in both course management and defining the character of the layout, in typical Nicklaus fashion.
Address: 17320 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928, United States
River Hall Country Club
River Hall Country Club embodies the essence of “casual Southern elegance” in everything that it does. Nestled east of Fort Myers, the semi-private club offers a thriving membership as well as tee times for the public. Renowned golf course architect Davis Love III designed this track, which boasts wide and forgiving fairways and large pristine greens that are nearly always in perfect condition.
Although the Bermuda greens may be grain-free, they remain challenging to accomplish even for seasoned golfers. The pristine condition of the course makes for an ideal golfing experience that is both enjoyable and rewarding. The cost for tee times on the course can vary massively, so make sure to check pricing before booking. River Hall Country Club is definitely a must-visit for every avid golfer looking for a golfing experience that is both challenging and exciting.
Address: 3500 River Hall Pkwy, Alva, FL 33920, United States
San Carlos Golf Club
When it comes to golf courses in Fort Myers, the San Carlos Golf Club is often overlooked. But those in the know understand that this is a gem that should not be missed. Designed in 1981, the course showcases a classic Florida design that is both challenging and rewarding. Despite its relatively flat terrain, the routing is absolutely stupendous, with holes that move in both left and right directions. Players will need to manage their shots carefully to succeed on this course. Water and sand are omnipresent, presenting a challenge that you simply can’t avoid.
The San Carlos Golf Club is located just south of Fort Myers, in the direction of San Carlos Park and Miromar Lakes. What sets the course apart the most, however, is its exceptional playability and always-excellent condition. The club aims to keep the course open all year-round, making it a perfect destination for golfers of all types. Regardless of your skill level, you’ll appreciate the forgiving fairways, which are dotted with large sandy waste areas and bunkers that present the main hazards. With a par of 71 and a length of 6,423 yards, there’s plenty here to both challenge and excite golfers of all abilities.
Address: 7420 Constitution Cir, Fort Myers, FL 33967, United States
Coral Oaks Golf Course
Establishing itself as one of the premier golf courses in the Cape Coral and Fort Myers area, Coral Oaks offers a unique experience for golfers of all skill levels. Designed by the venerated Arthur Hills, this narrow track winds its way through a centuries-old oak hammock, providing a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable round. The short game area is a highlight of the course, featuring multiple greens, bunkers, and ample space for shots within 50 yards. A mile away from the surrounding nature preserves, Coral Oaks offers a true escape for golf enthusiasts.
Recently renovated in 2017, the club now boasts TifEagle greens and contoured fairways. With eight lakes and thirty-seven bunkers, players must carefully navigate the course while taking in the stunning scenery of century-old oak trees. A round at Coral Oaks is sure to challenge even the most seasoned golfers while offering a unique and elegant experience.
Address: 1800 Northwest 28th Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33993, United States
Dunes Golf & Tennis Club
Sanibel Island’s natural beauty is truly something to behold, and the massive nature reserve, bays, creeks, and bayous only serve to exemplify this. One location that stands out as a shining gem within this Audubon-certified region is The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club. This golf course is a unique blend of water and sand, with water hazards coming into play frequently. It’s not just a golf course with some water features – it’s “water with a golf course.”
Designed by the 10-time PGA Tour winner Mark McCumber in 1973, this course presents players with plenty of opportunities to play aggressively and make birdies while still requiring a high level of precision. Even from the back tees, The Dunes isn’t the longest course, but avoiding the water and out-of-bounds areas is crucial to a successful round. If you’re looking for a challenge that showcases the natural beauty of Sanibel Island, look no further than The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club.
Address: 949 Sand Castle Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957, United States
Magnolia Landing Golf & Country Club
Magnolia Landing Golf & Country Club, designed by Gordon Lewis, has solidified its standing as one of the most coveted courses in Southwest Florida since opening its doors in 2007. Nestled amidst oak groves and pine forests, golfers are warmly greeted with ample space to work with off the tee, especially those keen on unleashing their driver.
As a semi-private club, Magnolia Landing maintains a vibrant membership but also welcomes non-members to experience the gratifying challenges its famed course offers. Situated just a short 25-minute drive north of Fort Myers, the course stretches over 7,200 yards from the back tees, a testing distance only for the seasoned golfer. Water is omnipresent on virtually every hole, except for two that provide respite from the briny depths. Magnolia Landing Golf & Country Club is a must-play for enthusiasts seeking an exceptional yet enjoyable golfing experience in Florida.
Address: 3501 Avenida del Vera, Fort Myers, FL 33917, United States
Raptor Bay Golf Club
The Raptor Bay club, now known as the Saltleaf Golf Preserve, is a stunning representation of modern design in the world of target golf. With ample water, sand, and natural areas strategically placed to challenge all golfers, this semi-private gem is tucked snugly next to the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve. The course, designed by former PGA Tour player Raymond Floyd, was originally opened in 2001.
However, the 2022 renovation elevated it to become one of the finest public golf courses Fort Myers has to offer. The interplay between the course and the adjacent nature preserve has a profound impact on the character of the Saltleaf Golf Preserve. While not a wild course, this club requires golfers to plot strategic paths and determine the best strategy to attack each hole. Those looking for targeted challenges on the green need look no further than Saltleaf Golf Preserve.
Address: 23001 Coconut Point Resort Dr, Estero, FL 33928, United States
Shell Point Golf Club
Nestled away in an idyllic corner of Fort Myers, Florida, you’ll find Shell Point Golf Club. What really sets this course apart is its stunning location, where the Caloosahatchee River winds its way toward San Carlos Bay. As soon as you step onto the 70 acres of lush green grounds, which are dominated by Florida’s unique wetlands, you’ll feel yourself being transported to a world that’s both peaceful and invigorating.
Designed by the talented Gordon Lewis, the course presents a challenging proposition for both beginners and seasoned golfers alike, with water playing a particularly prominent role. In fact, only one hole – the fourth – doesn’t feature water, so accuracy off the tee is essential. Thankfully, there are six different sets of tees to choose from, meaning you can tailor your game to your personal abilities. With a par of 71 and stretching across 6585 yards, Shell Point Golf Club is sure to keep you on your toes, no matter how many times you play.
Address: 17500 On Par Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33908, USA
Del Tura Golf & Country Club
Del Tura Golf & Country Club is an exceptional golf course designed by the legendary Ron Garl. With its prestigious reputation and 27 impeccably-manicured holes, it is considered one of the best-kept secrets in the area. The Champion Bermuda greens are in perfect condition and roll true without much grain, providing excellent putting surfaces for golfers of all skill levels.
At Del Tura, golfers can choose to play from forward tees for a more beginner-friendly experience, or from the challenging back tees, which test their skills with well-placed hazards and demand precise club selection. For those looking for a happy medium, there is a middle tee that strikes the perfect balance. No matter which tee you choose, Del Tura Country Club offers a golfing experience that’s sure to leave you feeling satisfied.
Address: 18621 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers, FL 33903, USA
Herons Glen Golf & Country Club
On the edge of Lee County is one of the Sunshine State’s hidden gems: Herons Glen Golf & Country Club. With a Ron Garl design, this course has been attracting avid golfers since it opened for play in 1991. Garl’s designs are known worldwide, but most of his portfolio can be found in Florida, making Herons Glen a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
A renovation in 2021 has taken this par 72 championship course to new heights, with impressive improvements in both its aesthetic and conditioning. The verdant site is truly remarkable, with its abundance of palms and shrubbery and the many lakes that come into play throughout the course.
As you would expect from this part of Florida, water comes into play frequently, as do vast white sand bunkers positioned in a way that tests even the most experienced of golfers. The third hole is a perfect example, with its long bunker running along the left-hand side and three strategically placed bunkers in the front. As a semi-private course, Herons Glen offers a unique golfing experience that is well worth the journey.
Address: 2250 Herons Glen Blvd, North Fort Myers, FL 33917, United States
Stoneybrook Golf Club
Stoneybrook Golf Course in Estero, Florida is an exceptional championship golf course that demands the utmost respect from every level of golfer. Designed by the well-respected architects Jed Azinger and Gordy Lewis, Stoneybrook is recognized for its superb golf course conditions and remarkable greens. Offering seven sets of tees, this course accommodates players of all skill levels, earning its distinction as one of only 200 nationwide to be certified “BEGINNER FRIENDLY” by the National Golf Course Owners Association.
From the Champions Tees, Stoneybrook Golf Club is one of the longest courses in Southwest Florida, measuring a staggering 7353 yards. Golfers will experience generous fairways that wind through vast preserve areas and glittering lakes leading to large and undulating greens. Imposing bunkers and rolling mounds strategically protect the greens, offering players a robust and enjoyable round of golf.
Address: 21251 Stoneybrook Golf Blvd, Estero, FL 33928, United States
Conclusion
Fort Myers is home to some of the best golf courses in the world and no matter what your skill level or preference, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you are a novice or an expert golfer, these five exceptional Fort Myers golf courses provide challenging layouts and stunning views that will keep you coming back again and again. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy some truly world-class golfing in this one-of-a-kind destination.
