by Edward Schmidt

Created on: December 28, 2009   Last Updated: January 11, 2010

Florida has nearly 1,400 golf courses featuring one of the world’s most extensive menus. Like any great menu, the most expensive entrees often catch the eye first. For those who seek luxury accommodations along with world-class golf fashioned by celebrated architects like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman, Florida has an impressive list of selections. The superbly maintained and designed courses are among the best the state has to offer and the resorts feature posh amenities like spas, gourmet restaurants and five-star service.

Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge (Orlando)

The 70-room resort complex located in the southwest part of Orlando near Universal Orlando is set in an upscale golf course community. Arnold Palmer, who resides in the community in the winter months, can often be seen on the golf course or at the lodge. There are 27 golf holes as well as a professional style driving range. Bay Hill is essentially a private club but lodge guests are afforded special playing privileges.

Grande Lakes Orlando

A Greg Norman designed golf course is the centerpiece amenity for this resort complex that includes Ritz-Carlton and J.W. Marriott hotels. What makes the golf experience unique are the “Caddie Concierges”, on course caddies who where Augusta National style caddie uniforms and deliver world-class, on-course service.

Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples

Opened 2001, this resort complex features a 295-room Ritz-Carlton hotel framed by the 36-hole Tiburon Golf Club designed by Greg Norman. In addition, there are a 30,000 square-foot clubhouse and the Rick Smith Golf Academy.

Doral Golf Resort & Spa (Miami)

The 650-acre resort features five golf courses, including the celebrated Blue Monster, a Dick Wilson design that has hosted a PGA Tour event for decades. The resort’s other notable course is the Greg Norman-designed Great White, a unique design featuring tightly packed coquina sand to frame fairways. Noted golf instructor Jim McLean, whose client list includes Tom Kite and Steve Elkington has a golf school on-site.

The Breakers (Palm Beach)

Built in the late 1800s by Standard Oil icon Henry Flagler, the Breakers is set on 140 acres of some of the most expensive beachfront property in the world. The famous Villa Medici in Florence inspired the fabulous hotel. The Ocean Course, which was originally laid out in 1897 is considered Florida’s oldest 18-hole course. The course has been redesigned and revitalized

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