Walt Disney World Resort isn’t just for theme park lovers—it’s also a golfer’s paradise! With three championship 18-hole courses, luxurious resort stays, and world-class dining and entertainment options at Disney Springs, you can easily plan the ultimate golf getaway. Here’s how to make your golf vacation at Disney an unforgettable experience.
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The Courses: Tee Off in Style
Start your golf adventure by playing all three of Disney’s premier 18-hole golf courses, each offering a unique challenge and beautiful scenery:
- Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course: Named for its majestic magnolia trees, this course is renowned for its elevated tees, spacious greens, and tricky water hazards. With 11 of the 18 holes featuring water hazards and numerous sand bunkers, it’s a course that invites big hitters but demands precision. Recently reimagined in 2023, Magnolia has been elevated to a new level with redesigned greenside and fairway bunkers, new teeing grounds, and beautifully re-contoured Bermuda grass greens that provide fast and true putting surfaces. In honor of its 50-year history, each hole now has a new Disney-themed name inspired by classic Disney films, paired with a motivational quote from either Walt Disney or Arnold Palmer. Certified as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary by Audubon International, this course offers a perfect blend of nature, challenge, and magic, making it a must-play for serious golfers.
- Disney’s Palm Golf Course: This tropical-inspired course was completely redesigned by the Arnold Palmer Design Company in 2013, resulting in a modernized version of the historic layout. With new green complexes, reshaped tees, and a fresh bunker design, Palm is now one of the most exciting and picturesque courses at Walt Disney World. Nine of the holes feature water hazards, and with 59 strategically placed bunkers, it’s a course that offers plenty of challenge whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro. The palm trees, shimmering lakes, and tropical sands provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable round.
- Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course: This course has hosted events from the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, and USGA, making it one of the more prestigious options for golfers visiting Disney. Designed by Joe Lee, the course is known for its elevated, bunkered greens that require precision on approach shots. One of the standout features is the 7th hole, which challenges golfers with a demanding island green. Certified as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary, Lake Buena Vista offers a peaceful and scenic setting, winding through Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, providing a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.
- Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course: Looking to sneak in an extra 9 holes before heading home. The Oak Trail executive course may be exactly what you are looking for. Don’t let the 9-hole layout fool you-with the number of large Oak Trees that line the fairways requiring precise tee shots, this may be the most challenging 9 holes on Disney property! Certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course offers a challenging experience with holes ranging from 132 to 517 yards from the white tees. The scenic layout takes you through holes 5, 6, and 7, which are beautifully routed around a serene canal and a picturesque pond, providing both a test of skill and a tranquil atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Relax in Luxury
To make the most of your golf vacation, consider staying at one of Disney’s Deluxe Resorts. The Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers convenient access to the courses and stunning accommodations, making it an ideal home base for your trip that is located just down the road from two of the courses you will be playing at. If you’re staying with fellow golfers or bringing family along, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is another fantastic option, with its proximity to Lake Buena Vista Golf Course and spacious villas perfect for larger groups.
Dining and Nightlife: Experience Disney Springs
After a long day on the greens, head over to Disney Springs to enjoy some of the best dining and nightlife options on property. Start with dinner at The BOATHOUSE, where you can enjoy waterfront views and delicious seafood or steaks. If you’re craving Italian, Maria & Enzo’s offers a classic menu in a beautiful art deco setting.
For a post-dinner cocktail or late-night entertainment, check out The Edison, a steampunk-inspired hotspot with signature drinks, live music, and dancing. If you’re in the mood for something more laid-back, grab a craft beer at City Works Eatery & Pour House or indulge in decadent desserts at Amorette’s Patisserie.
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Tips for a Memorable Golf Vacation
- Start your day early: Early morning tee times are ideal for avoiding the heat and crowds. Plus, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax by the pool or explore Disney Springs.
- Make it a group getaway: Traveling with a group of golf enthusiasts? Consider booking a villa at Saratoga Springs or Disney’s Old Key West Resort for added space and convenience.
- Mix golf with Disney magic: Even if golf is the focus of your trip, take advantage of the world-class theme parks nearby. A round of golf in the morning followed by an evening in Magic Kingdom or dinner in EPCOT’s World Showcase is the perfect way to balance relaxation with adventure.
With its championship courses, luxurious resorts, and endless dining and entertainment options, Walt Disney World Resort is the perfect destination for a golf vacation that’s both relaxing and magical. Get ready to hit the links and experience all that Disney has to offer on and off the course!
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Chris B.,
Thank you for covering our golf courses in your recent article, we really do very much appreciate it! The article read well, and is very informative to future prospective guests of WDW Golf, however, we would appreciate it if you would update the “Pardon our Bogey” image to another of our character themed signage dotted around the golf courses. If you need a replacement image, please don’t hesitate to let me know, and I’ll be happy to provide one if you would like to reach out to me via email at aforsyth@palmergolf.com, or you may call me directly at 407 454-5000.
Thanks!