How to Take a Florida Golf Vacation

Florida isn't one gigantic golf course; it only seems that way. But the state features more than 900 courses and clubs from which to choose, from Pensacola on the west side of the Panhandle all the way down to Key West. Each region has unique qualities. Northeast Florida is home to the PGA Tour and the World Golf Hall of Fame. Orlando is the epicenter of family entertainment, featuring Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World and scores of smaller activities. You can plan a relatively inexpensive excursion or you can go all out and enjoy four- and five-star luxury. Florida offers the whole range.

Internet access to shop the dozens of attractive packages for each region of the state.

Travel agent with experience booking Florida golf vacations.

Step 1: Determine which region of Florida you prefer. Each offers distinct advantages along with some disadvantages. Orlando is a popular family destination because of all the other family attractions, but the Panhandle, Tampa/St. Petersburg, Fort Meyers/Naples, Jacksonville, Palm Beach and Miami/Ft. Lauderdale offer nearby beaches.

Step 2: Determine the dates of your trip and check the temperature and precipitation norms of the region to which you are headed. Florida offers year-round golfing, but winter months bring cool weather along the northern edge of the state. Summer afternoons in South Florida can be quite humid and rainy; the spring and summer months offer better golfing.

Step 3: Choose the type and location of your accommodations. Decide if you want to be in a hotel room, condominium or home in a golfing resort, Golf resorts typically offer a wide array of amenities, including golf lessons, health spas and tournament outings. These can be great choices for all-inclusive corporate events. Decide if you prefer accommodations away from the course, near other attractions and how much time you will spend actually golfing. Accommodations come in all sizes and prices. Determine how much space you will need, if you will be eating in and entertaining guests, if you're going to travel with a large group, another couple or family, or children? Also consider if you will have several parties in your group. List your priorities before starting to shop.

Step 4: Determine what caliber of clubs and courses to play. They range from exclusive to municipal, from challenging to duffer-friendly. Golflink offers helpful reviews on numerous Florida courses.

Step 5: If you can't decide if you would prefer to take your own clubs and rent some and save the headaches, check the availability and cost of equipment rental where you're headed.

Step 6: Set a budget. Shop aggressively. Compare prices carefully. Look for hidden costs. Consult with travel agencies and brokers offering golf vacation packages in your desired area. They can get you steep discounts in accommodations and the courses, but discounts often come with restrictions and limitations. If you know which courses you want to play, work with a broker capable of tailoring package deals. Brokers can often book tee times well in advance — something you cannot do individually at many courses.

Check the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour and Nationwide Tour schedules to see if there is a pro event nearby during your stay. Attending such an event would add plenty to your golf experience.

Most regions of Florida feature ample resort villas for rent. These are homes designed for vacationers, and you will be surprised at how comparably affordable they are.

During the hurricane season, weather can be volatile in all areas of Florida.

Rely on the recommendations of fellow travelers. Ask around and see who has had good experiences—and who has suffered bad ones.

If you work through a broker or management company, know who to contact and/or where to go for help once you arrive.

When checking the amenities at your resort or vacation rental, note the difference between "included" and "available." It something is available, it may cost you extra money.