On a warm day while staring down a birdie putt, you’ll realize how lucky you are to be in the Fort Myers area. This historic and tranquil town along the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico is like no other in Florida, with secluded beaches, lush nature preserves, a blossoming food scene and amazing golf. The islands, beaches and neighborhoods of Fort Myers offer an ideal family vacation setting and golf destination with over 90 courses, including 20 that are open to the public.
After your round, beeline to one of the area’s many popular breweries for a post-round scorecard review, dine on some of America’s best fresh seafood along the waterfront, or visit the very cool Backyard Social that combines food trucks, bars, music and games. You can also take in the local aura by hopping islands, collecting seashells, exploring nature preserves or relaxing at one of the many spacious beaches in the greater Fort Myers area. And if your family or friends want to further satisfy their golf fix in a fun social atmosphere, check out the local PopStroke, Topgolf or Chips Sports Pub.
Classic and Iconic
Open since 1917, the mega-popular and walkable Fort Myers Country Club muni is a Donald Ross masterpiece in the heart of the city. Thomas Edison played here plenty back in the 1920’s and had a significant influence on the course’s creation. The restaurant still bears his name, while the course itself is best known for Ross’ signature domed greens.
Eco-Conscious and Family Friendly
Native birds meet birdies at the 70-acre Audubon-certified Shell Point Golf Club near Sanibel Island that showcases pristine water hazards and challenging fairways. Evoking the feel of a lush, private escape, this beautiful facility offers peaceful lakes, wildlife preserves and tropical landscapes that embody the natural beauty of Southwest Florida.
Impromptu Tee Times for Buddy Trips and Good Vibes
Known as an “island within an island” resort layout, Gasparilla Golf Club in Boca Grande is a Pete Dye design that’s surrounded by the scenic Charlotte Harbor and Gulf of Mexico. Perpetually in exceptional condition, this course features eco-friendly turf throughout, extensive practice areas and unparalleled views. There are conveniently no tee times – just come by and play.
Most Challenging
Old Corkscrew Golf Club in Estero is a favorite among Southwest Floridians, thanks to its challenge and natural beauty. The lengthy Jack Nicklaus design is an Audubon International Signature Sanctuary set in a stunning world of wetlands, bald cypress stands, pinelands and native scrub. You won’t see any houses on property, but you will encounter strategy-laced holes, lots of bunkers and in-play water hazards.
Finding Zen
Set within a century-old oak hammock, Coral Oaks Golf Course is a Cape Coral muni that feels more like a peaceful retreat. It’s a well-maintained Arthur Hills design featuring eight lakes and 37 bunkers that collectively make this a challenging, yet rewarding, experience. Golfers negotiate large greens, contoured fairways and rich natural surroundings throughout.
Witnessing Wildlife
Nestled inside a Sanibel Island wildlife preserve sanctioned by the Audubon Society, The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club is an island-style golf experience with opportunities to see the likes of alligators, otters and wading birds – but remember to keep a respectful distance. The Mark McCumber design caters to all skill levels, with immaculately maintained fairways meandering through natural landscape. If you opt to walk, try using the hands-free autonomous caddie that lugs your bag and cooler while providing accurate GPS distances.
Fresh Wide-Open Challenge
Saltleaf Golf Preserve in Bonita Springs is a bunker- and house-free course that opened in 2024. Raymond Floyd took the original course on property that he designed and kept its natural beauty and wildlife habitat but transformed the layout into something spectacular. Situated beside the jaw-dropping Estero Bay aquatic preserve, it spans 150 acres and challenges golfers with naturally exposed sandy areas, lakes, rolling terrain and tranquility. Expect to use every club in the bag. There’s also The Leaf, a nine-hole short course, on site.
Getting to Fort Myers is easy – the convenient Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) offers direct flights to and from more than 50 U.S. cities plus Canada, Cuba and Europe. Visit https://www.visitfortmyers.com/plan-your-trip to plan an amazing golf or family getaway.
This article was originally published on golfdigest.com
