Blogs

Buy Your 2020 Tour Card

January 20, 2020 2:39 pm EST

Looking to play golf at several of the best courses in North Florida but don’t want to spend a fortune doing so? The First Tee of North Florida offers Tour Cards that are only $99 and give members access to 10 participating courses throughout the 2020 calendar year for the Cart Fee only.

Best Golf Shots in the History of THE PLAYERS Championship

January 16, 2020 11:09 am EST

While THE PLAYERS Championship is known for its iconic 17th island green hole, don’t underestimate the rest of the course – it has seen its fair share of special moments too.

Discover And Visit These Florida Golf Courses That You Will Love

December 03, 2019 4:00 pm EST

Plan Your Golf Trip Around this Year’s TaxSlayer Gator Bowl

November 26, 2019 11:19 am EST

How do you make your golf vacation to Northeast Florida even better? Add a little pigskin.

Easy Season on Florida’s Historic Coast

October 28, 2019 3:30 pm EDT

Late summer, early fall is the best time to play golf and explore Florida. Read the Top 10 Reasons to Visit St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra during “easy season.”

5 Winter Warmer Golf Trip Ideas

October 25, 2019 3:31 pm EDT

Not everyone braves the winter elements with icy noses, numb fingers and layer upon layer of thick clothing. Here in Florida, we welcome the winter elements and see this season as a chance to beat the crowds and explore the beautiful golf courses that our Sunshine State has to offer. Looking for a place to thaw out and experience world-class golfing? Here are 5 winter warmer golf trip ideas in North Florida.

Golf Tips & Insights from This North Hampton Pro

August 23, 2019 12:38 pm EDT

Best Golf Vacation? Northeast Florida, Hands Down.

June 17, 2019 10:01 am EDT

9 Must-Have Accessories for Golfing in the Rain

April 22, 2019 2:30 pm EDT

The Best Golf Clubs for Novice, Intermediate and Senior Players

April 22, 2019 1:51 pm EDT

Where to Stay & Play on Your Florida Golf Getaway

April 22, 2019 12:37 pm EDT

Golf Tips & Insights From this Hammock Beach Resort Pro

February 15, 2019 10:59 am EST

New to Golf? Here Are a Few Basic Tips for Etiquette & Play

February 11, 2019 9:47 am EST

Plan a Romantic (Golf-Filled) Getaway to St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra, FL

January 30, 2019 10:14 am EST

The perfect balance of golf and romance for your next getaway can be found in St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra, part of Florida's first coast of golf.

Bring the family to THE PLAYERS championship

December 27, 2018 12:34 pm EST

A look at the family fun you will find at THE PLAYERS tournament this year.


Northeast Florida takes the golfing spotlight as THE PLAYERS Championship returns to TPC Sawgrass March 13 - 17, 2019. This week of golf features the world’s best players at Pete Dye’s TPC Sawgrass and it is a great event to enjoy together as a family. And with children 18 and under admitted free when accompanied by an adult, there’s no reason not to bring the kids along too.

5 Creative Gift Ideas for Golfers

December 17, 2018 3:47 pm EST

To a golfer, there’s no better gift than one that improves their game. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of creative gifts this holiday season for the golfer in your life. Whether you have them tracking their game like a pro or simply dressing like one, here are 5 golf-centric gift ideas they are sure to love:

Eagle Landing Golf Club: A Vacation for Less

October 30, 2018 10:52 am EDT

Enjoy lush fairways and vintage Florida scenery along Florida’s First Coast at the Eagle Landing Golf Club. Tucked away in the Oakleaf Plantation community in Orange Park, the club features classic holes and luxurious amenities. Read more.

Not a Top-Notch Golfer? Here’s How to At Least Look Great While Doing It.

October 30, 2018 10:46 am EDT

You don’t have to be a scratch golfer to look like a pro on the course. From Palm Golf Company to Greyson Clothiers, see the top brands that combine style with function, making you look good and play well. See the list.

Tips From a Pro: How to Improve Your Golf Swing

October 30, 2018 10:24 am EDT

Golf is played best with a trusted golf swing. See what Derek DiStefano, a PGA golf pro at the Golf Club at South Hampton, had to say about improving your swing with these five steps.

Golf in Florida is Not Like Golf in Some Areas of the Country. Here’s What to Expect

September 04, 2018 11:04 am EDT

Planning a golf vacation to Florida’s First Coast comes with new experiences. Take a look at why golf in Florida is not like golf in other areas of the country.

Upcoming Events to Add to Your Golf Vacation Itinerary During Your Visit

September 04, 2018 11:03 am EDT

Whether you’re looking to experience top golfing events or want to schedule some time on the course, here’s a look at Northeast Florida’s upcoming events.

So You Want to Play Golf? A Beginner’s Guide to the Game

September 04, 2018 11:01 am EDT

Ready to learn how to play golf? Read Florida’s First Coast of Golf’s blog for a beginner’s guide with tips on how to begin learning the game.

Is a Golf School Right For You?

July 05, 2018 2:55 pm EDT

Is a golf school right for players of all skill levels? Is it right for you? Here’s what you need to know about attending a golf school in Northeast Florida.

Our Top Picks for Golf’s Best Shots

April 11, 2018 12:40 pm EDT

Take five minutes and check out this compilation of great golf shots from some of the world’s top golfers. Here’s a look at some of our favorite top shots.

Enjoy Springtime Golf on Florida’s First Coast

April 11, 2018 12:21 pm EDT

There’s no better time to visit Florida’s First Coast than the springtime. Here’s a look at more reasons why you should plan your visit this season.

Plan Your Visit to THE PLAYERS Championship

April 11, 2018 10:20 am EDT

Interested in attending THE PLAYERS here on Florida’s First Coast, but not sure how to begin planning? Let us help you take care of the details and make your trip to Northeast Florida a success.

Amelia Hotel at the Beach: The Best of Both Worlds for Golfers

March 20, 2018 9:29 am EDT

Enjoy the best of both worlds, golfing on Amelia Island and a relaxing vacation at the beach.

Sink It In on Florida’s First Coast With Your Jax Ale Trail Passport

March 01, 2018 3:01 pm EST

Beer lovers, rejoice! With over 75 miles of world-class golf courses and a beer scene that’s brewing up faster than it takes the head to settle on a cold one, a vacation to Florida’s First Coast won't disappoint.

THE PLAYERS Championship Travel Guide by Florida’s First Coast of Golf

February 16, 2018 2:24 pm EST

THE PLAYERS returns March 10-15, 2020 to Northeast Florida. Check out our travel guide to make the most of your time at this year’s tournament. Read the blog.

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Your Favorite Golfer

February 12, 2018 1:02 pm EST

Looking for some Valentine's Day gift ideas for your favorite golfer? Read our blog for the top golf gift ideas this year.

Why Your New Year’s Resolution Should be to Play More Golf

December 19, 2017 10:05 am EST

With 44 courses in Northeast FL that fit every pocketbook, golfing more can be the one resolution you'll keep this year. Read the blog...

Hidden Hills History with The PLAYERS

December 19, 2017 9:46 am EST

Located at one of the highest elevations in Jacksonville, FL and being an Arnold Palmer signature designed course, Hidden Hills has an impressive history.

Golf on the First Coast Is About to Get a Whole Lot Better

December 14, 2017 1:46 pm EST

Learn about the practice ground improvements at one of Northeast Florida's premier courses, Golf Club at South Hampton.

What This Golf Pro Has to Say About Improving Your Game

October 20, 2017 11:29 am EDT

How do you improve your golf game? What clubs should you work with to help you improve? What Northeast Florida holes are pro favorites and which ones should you be playing? One of the nation’s top ranked golf instructors, Anne Cain of PGA Tour Golf Academy at World Golf Village, answers these questions and more.

Top Tips for Left-Handed Golfers

October 20, 2017 9:32 am EDT

Attention lefties! We thought we’d gather some of the top tips and videos for left-handed golfers, and put them in one place for you. It can already be challenging enough to live in a world catered to the right-handed, (does anyone else hear a violin?) so, we thought we’d make things a little easier for you.

Ocean Course at Hammock Beach Resort Reopens Fall 2017

August 24, 2017 11:38 am EDT

Ocean Course at Hammock Beach Resort has undergone updates and restoration work and is set to open Fall of 2017. Read about the updates and more on our blog.

Florida’s First Coast of Golf Turns 25

August 07, 2017 9:15 pm EDT

FFCG hit the quarter century mark in 2017, making its 25th Anniversary the silver summit for the long list of accomplishments that this premier golf destination has achieved over the years.

Why Florida’s First Coast Should Be Your Next Golf Trip

August 07, 2017 2:40 pm EDT

Earlier this year, we were voted the 2017 “North American Golf Destination of the Year”.

Golf Fitness to Improve Your Game

July 10, 2017 12:09 pm EDT

Here’s a look at how to maintain proper golf fitness a part of your routine to help improve your skills and overall game.

Best Golf Holes in Northeast Florida

July 10, 2017 12:06 pm EDT

Florida’s First Coast is filled with golf holes for both beginners and seasoned golfers. Book a tee time and add these to your must-play list.

Best Of: 4th of July Itinerary

July 03, 2017 10:08 am EDT

This 4th of July take advantage of Northeast Florida’s golf courses and accommodations with this helpful itinerary. See where to tee off, stay and more!

How to Plan the Perfect Golf Vacation

June 15, 2017 9:51 am EDT

Ready to start planning your next golf vacation to Florida’s First Coast? From choosing the right accommodations to booking those important tee times, going on vacation involves a bit of planning, but don’t let that keep you from maximizing your time on the golf course.

Recap of THE PLAYERS Championship for 2017

June 15, 2017 9:27 am EDT

Northeast Florida was in the international golfing spotlight during THE PLAYERS Championship. With a week of great weather and challenging golf, Si Woo Kim of South Korea proved victorious capturing his first victory on the PGA TOUR.

Enjoy Shrimp and Play Golf in Amelia Island

May 01, 2017 2:41 pm EDT

Experience some of the area’s best golf courses and take part in one of Amelia Island’s most celebrated festivals when you visit Florida’s First Coast.

How to Have the Perfect (Golfing!) Bachelor Party

May 01, 2017 2:21 pm EDT

Have a buddy getting married soon? Take charge and make his bachelor party an event to remember – with plenty of golf and sunshine along Florida’s First Coast.

The Newly Renovated Residence Inn Amelia Island

March 21, 2017 9:27 am EDT

Florida’s First Coast offers lodging options from golf resorts to beachfront hotels, and includes convenient golf packages so you can get the most out of your golf getaway.

Spring Is For New Beginnings – On and Off the Golf Course

March 20, 2017 9:22 am EDT

The temperatures are rising and it is time to get your golf game back in gear. Spring is the perfect time for new beginnings – on and off the golf course.

Jacksonville’s Hidden Hills Golf Club Now Open to the Public

March 16, 2017 11:17 am EDT

Known as one of Northeast Florida’s premier golf courses, Jacksonville’s Hidden Hills Golf Club is now open to the general public.

What Do a CEO, an Airport and Golf Have In Common?

March 02, 2017 2:38 pm EST

For Florida’s First Coast, golf and aviation are two symbiotic industries here—both are welcoming, and both are constantly connecting people. Recently we connected with Steve Grossman, Chief Executive Officer of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA), to talk about a golfer’s airport in a golfer’s destination.

Best Seafood to Round Out Your First Coast Golf Trip

January 26, 2017 3:36 pm EST

Let’s do a little word association: Sunshine: Florida. Golf: Florida. Seafood: Florida. It’s hard to not to think of Florida when sunshine, golf and seafood are mentioned. So we’ve dedicated this article to some of our favorite seafood restaurants throughout Florida’s First Coast.

A Win-Win Romantic Golf Getaway

January 26, 2017 3:33 pm EST

Fellas don’t fret. There’s no reason you can’t enjoy a golf getaway and make it romantic for your loved one as well. We’ve come up with a few ways to add a little romance to your golf getaway, making it a win-win for everyone.

Keep Your Golf Game From Getting Cold this Fall and Winter.

January 26, 2017 3:25 pm EST

In Northeast Florida, fall and winter don’t seem to grab us by the golf balls quite as hard as they do in other destinations. During these seasons, it’s the perfect time to get out on the course along Florida’s First Coast.

THE PLAYERS Stadium Course Exciting Recent Renovations at TPC Sawgrass

December 28, 2016 3:47 pm EST

Pros, amateurs and enthusiasts alike have been anticipating one of Ponte Vedra’s most ambitious renovation projects this year. The Recently renovated Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass, which had been temporarily closed (prior to Hurricane Matthew) for enhancements and modifications, is looking better than ever.

Family Offerings For Your First Coast Golf Getaway

December 28, 2016 3:09 pm EST

Combining your First Coast golf getaway with a family trip? Here is a short list of off-the-course offerings for the whole family.

IAGTO North American Golf Destination of the Year

December 28, 2016 2:34 pm EST

In 2017 Florida’s First Coast of Golf will hit the quarter century mark, boasting a prestigious new award to be added to the list of accolades received by this premier golf destination.

Gene “ The Squire” Sarazen: A Florida Golfer

December 06, 2016 12:36 pm EST

"I'm just a fellow who's been playing golf as well as he could for as long as he could and still loves the game." – Gene Sarazen, “Champion’s Story” What Gene “The Squire” Sarazen brought to the game of golf is immeasurable, and the legacy that he left behind remains immortalized to this day - Eugenio Saraceni (1902-1999).

Best Places to Eat Off the Course in Palm Coast & Flagler County

December 06, 2016 11:33 am EST

Golf. Is. Life. However, golf is not edible. For the edible aspects of life, here’s a list of the best places to eat off the course in Palm Coast & Flagler County.

Best Places to Eat Off the Course in Jacksonville

October 31, 2016 9:34 am EDT

Northeast Florida is home to over 70 public & private courses, with Jacksonville hosting over 25 of these courses alone. Whether you want to fuel up before you tee off, have a full menu experience, or go for drink after a round, you’ve got your pick in Jacksonville

Embrace Your Unorthodox

October 21, 2016 10:21 am EDT

When it comes to Ryan Moore, a conventional swing does not exist… and that’s why it works for the 33-year-old pro golfer. With an impressive PGA Tour career and four top-15s in majors, Moore is embracing his ‘imperfections’ and doing quite well in the process.

Farewell “Arnie”

October 21, 2016 9:35 am EDT

We bid farewell to “The King”, the legend, Arnold “Arnie” Palmer (September 10, 1929 – September 25, 2016). The legendary pro golfer was one of the most admired men in the sport of golf, elevating the game to what it is today and building his “Army” all the while. Palmer was a lot of things, to a lot people… a list too long to try and sum up.

Hey! What About North Florida?

September 30, 2016 10:00 am EDT

I stumbled across an interesting article today that I found quite surprising. Canadian Golf Magazine had identified the “5 Best Bang for Your Buck Golf Trips” and had failed to mention North Florida to their Canadian readers! Here are five reasons why North Florida is Canada’s Best Bang for Your Buck Golf Trip.

Who’s going to the Golf Festival at World Golf Village?

September 15, 2016 2:55 pm EDT

Don’t miss out! World Golf Village has a really fun event coming up for the whole family! The Golf Festival will include free golf clinics, tournaments, food trucks, live music and more!

Adventures in First Coast Golf & Geocaching

September 01, 2016 10:40 am EDT

Are you looking for a new activity to mix up your golf weekend? Mix the competitive dynamic of golf with a less competitive, but just as exciting scavenger hunt! Golf and Geocache your way across North Florida, or pick one smaller stomping ground and conquer all the caches near a single course!

Behind the Scenes at the World Golf Hall of Fame

August 16, 2016 12:38 pm EDT

My family weekend in St. Augustine was incredible and I’m eager to share our experience at the World Golf Hall of Fame because I don’t want First Coast Golf fans to miss out!

5 Tips for Planning Your Fall Golf Trip to Florida

August 12, 2016 3:00 am EDT

Fall is going to be here soon and it couldn’t come sooner! We are in the dead heat of summer and I just can’t wait for all the fun that Florida’s First Coast brings along with the autumn season. When you are planning your fall vacation to North Florida, here are a few items you don’t want to forget...

Exercises to Improve Your Golf Game

August 04, 2016 3:41 pm EDT

It’s incredible how much you can improve your swing with just a few minor exercises on a regular basis. However, when you focus on head-to-toe physical improvement, you will step on the course feeling unstoppable.

The Top Three Most Challenging Courses in North Florida

July 29, 2016 10:57 am EDT

Let’s get one thing straight -- This is my humble opinion. I have played every course in North Florida and I am a huge North Florida golf enthusiast. These three courses are my “go tos” for when it’s time to step up my game. I usually play all three of these back to back before tournaments because they help me identify my weaknesses.

The Unwritten Rules of Golf

July 20, 2016 6:18 pm EDT

Apparently, I had one too many before my Saturday game last week and my wife told me that I needed to brush up on my golf etiquette before I can play this weekend. I know, I know… boardshorts are not appropriate for the course, but I had just spent the morning on Fernandina Beach and forgot my khaki slacks. Hey - at least they were Chubbies, right?!

Family-Friendly Golf Courses in North Florida

July 15, 2016 3:01 am EDT

When you’re a golf-enthusiast that lives and plays on Florida’s First Coast, your world is a lot bigger than say, a golf-enthusiast in practically any other part of the world. There are a lot of places to play and enjoy! But alas, I have realized that in some of my previous posts, I have been a little biased to places that are nearer to me. For this post however, I am going to keep in mind that with a car packed full of kids, you need to head somewhere that’s close by and family-friendly. So the following list is broken down by different regions of North Florida. Find a spot closest to your home, or to the hotel or resort you are staying in for your vacation, and check out the family golf fun nearby!

5 Ways to Improve Your Short Game from the Edge of the Green

July 07, 2016 10:44 am EDT

If there is one thing I’ve learned, it’s choking on chip shots will completely kill your score, but it happens all the time. Dave Pelz even enjoys his stories of teaching Mickelson how to overcome choking on some of the most basic and straightforward chip shots. But these shots were severely affecting his short game and at times, causing him to fall just short of winning majors. The primary issue, as Pelz would explain, is that players will not believe they can make the shot, so they sacrifice a couple strokes. This shouldn’t be the case. You should believe that you can make your chip shots, so I have developed a mental checklist to keep in mind when you approach your next chip shot. These should severely improve your short game.

The Perfect 4th of July for Golf-Loving Families

June 29, 2016 11:50 am EDT

Holidays for families who love golf can sometimes become a bit of a dance between spending your entire extra weekend day on the course and spending time with the kids and other members who may or may not be quite as interested as you are in improving your golf swing.

Summer Golf Accessories

June 22, 2016 10:03 am EDT

I want to start off this article by saying one important thing: I was not paid or persuaded in any way to offer you these recommendations. I simply play golf every weekend in the summer in North Florida (Jacksonville to be specific) and I think there are certain accessories that I just could not live without. There are a gazillion articles out there that tell you what you will need to play golf in cold weather, but few offer honest reviews of the important ‘must haves’ for warm weather. Too many snow birds show up completely unprepared, with their tightly knit cotton polos, cold weather golf balls, and thick socks. They play terribly because they feel miserable. Come enjoy the warm weather, but be prepared!

Five Simple Tips to Improve your Golf Swing

June 16, 2016 3:31 pm EDT

If you have been playing golf for a while, some of this advice may seem elementary, but I honestly cannot tell you how many times I need to refresh myself with these stupid-simple tips so I don’t slip into my old bad habits. Golf is all about fine-tuning your swing, but if you are skipping the basics, the fine-tuning is pointless. So do yourself a favor and commit a little time during the week to spend at the range, where you can focus on maintaining and improving your swing in a more structured setting. It’s kind of like going to the gym every day to stay fit, only not daunting…and way more fun.

Six North Florida Beach & Golf Wedding Venue Itineraries

June 09, 2016 2:23 pm EDT

5 Reasons to Visit North Florida for Your Next Golf Vacation

May 31, 2016 11:37 am EDT

What is Footgolf?

May 19, 2016 3:42 pm EDT

Top 5 Craft Brews in Jacksonville, Florida

May 18, 2016 9:43 am EDT

In Town for The Players? 5 Things to Do Off the Golf Course

May 11, 2016 1:57 pm EDT

Amelia Island Golf Guide

April 18, 2016 9:00 am EDT

Top Three Challenging Florida Golf Courses

April 11, 2016 8:00 am EDT

Plan Your Sunny Florida Golf Getaway

April 04, 2016 9:00 am EDT

Plan a Historic St. Augustine Golf Vacation

March 16, 2016 8:30 am EDT

Jacksonville Golf Guide

March 07, 2016 6:24 pm EST

Plan a Florida Spring Break Golf Trip

March 01, 2016 4:03 pm EST

Florida’s Palm Coast Golf Challenges Avid and Novice Golfers Alike

February 16, 2016 4:37 pm EST

Florida Golf Resorts for Couples

February 08, 2016 11:38 am EST

Book a Hotel for THE PLAYERS Championship

February 01, 2016 7:00 am EST

Experience Near-Perfect Florida Golf Weather When You Play the First Coast

January 18, 2016 9:00 am EST

Need a Weekend Golf Deal?

January 11, 2016 8:48 am EST

Affordable Florida Golf Trips for Summer

January 06, 2016 4:27 pm EST

Foster’s Fairway: Slammer and Squire

September 24, 2014 12:57 pm EDT

Named for two legends of the game, Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen, the Slammer and Squire plays a little shorter than its King and Bear counterpart. At 6,939 yards from the stone tees, the course challenges players with club selection and course management, while also rewarding aggressive shots.

World Golf Village Golf Festival Offers Something for Fans of All Ages

September 12, 2014 1:32 pm EDT

This all day festival will celebrate everything we adore about the world's greatest sport.

The First Tee – Giving and Golf

September 12, 2014 10:19 am EDT

When it comes to giving time and help to young people, The First Tee uses the game of golf to introduce and teach life-skills.

Course Management Key at the LPGA International Hills Course

September 02, 2014 5:43 pm EDT

When you combine the Rees Jones Course and the Hills Course, LPGA International is a great destination for those looking for that memorable golf vacation. Each course has its own character and challenges that give great variety for one venue.

Faster Pace of Play Adds to Enjoyment of the Game of Golf

August 18, 2014 11:42 am EDT

By keeping in mind a few of these tips, golfers can lower their overall pace of play, adding enjoyment for yourself, and the other players on the course.

Foster’s Fairway: LPGA International - Jones Course

July 31, 2014 4:38 pm EDT

Home to two beautiful golf courses, the Jones and Hills courses, LPGA International offers a great experience for vacationing golfers looking for variety and a challenge.

World Golf Village - The King and Bear

July 30, 2014 4:12 pm EDT

A visit to the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Florida is a bucket list must for any golfer. The King and Bear is one of two renowned golf courses that call the village home.

Elevation Changes Make Magnolia Point a Must-Play in Northeast Florida

July 01, 2014 1:46 pm EDT

A History of the Golf Ball

June 25, 2014 2:21 pm EDT

Championship Holes and Beautiful Views Define Ocean Course at Hammock Beach

June 18, 2014 12:15 pm EDT

When planning for that perfect family vacation, visions of white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and beautiful oceanside resorts often come to mind. Throw in a couple of championship caliber golf courses and you have the perfect vacation for any occasion. Now you might think that you’re going to have to book flights to somewhere in the Caribbean or maybe even Hawaii, but you don’t have to look any further than Florida’s First Coast for this perfect vacation destination.