Golf Coast Magazine Southwest Florida Spring 2022 by Golf Coast Magazine

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Southwest Florida Edition

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Spring 2022

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Herons Glen Golf & Country Club One of Southwest Florida’s Best Community Values.

INSIDE: LOCAL NEWS, MAPS, DIRECTORIES and more

www.blackdiamondranch.com 3125 W Black Diamond Circle, Lecanto, FL 34461

FROM THE EDITOR

Golf Coast Magazine

Contents

Cover Story

Herons Glen Golf and Country Club has recently completed a $6 million tee-to-green course renovation.

ON THE WEB

Visit GolfCoastMagazine.com to keep up with local news and events.

15 HIGH TECH GOLF CART Herons Glen

Cape Royal Golf Club new offers new Tempo Walk golf carts from Club Car.

6 WELCOME

Where to contact us, plus a letter from our publishers

14 PUBLIC GOLF COURSE

Cover FEATURES

Herons Glen 18 hole course redesigned by Ron Garl.

Featuring several top notch courses in the Lee, Collier and Charlotte Counties.

Tempo Walk

30 PRIVATE COUNTRY CLUBS

26 TOP NEW

PRODUCTS FOR 2022

Featuring The Club at Gateway and Olde Hickory Country Club.

more.

DIRECTORIES

Golf Products to help you play better and look good too. Nexbelt and

LEE, COLLIER & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES 48 49 51 52 62

LEE & COLLIER MAP LEE & COLLIER FEATURED COURSES SHOPPING, SERVICES, AND ENTERTAINMENT LOCAL GOLF COURSE LISTINGS CHARLOT TE COUNT Y COURSES

20 GolfCoastMagazine.com

WELCOME LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to

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Connecting Golfers on the West Coast of Florida. Mary Raimondo, Publisher - Southwest Florida Mobile: 410-449-2822 mary@golfcoastmagazine.com Ryan Ruppert, Publisher - Southwest Florida Office: 941.361.1536 ryan@golfcoastmagazine.com Rose Ruppert, Partner rose@golfcoastmagazine.com Bruz Fellenz, Publisher - Tampa Bay Area Tami Vaughan, Production Manager Olivia Baldassari, Digital Marketing Manager olivia@golfcoastmagazine.com Mark Cardon, Golf News - fcardon@aol.com Golf Coast Magazine is published by Golf Coast Magazine, Inc.; 3X’s a year and distributed along the West Coast of Florida.

© 2022 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this guide. Golf Coast Magazine and it’s affiliates are not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions, or changes in rates or information.

GolfCoastMagazine.com

2013 Best Publication Award

The days are getting a little warmer, and with that, the feeling that Spring is upon us! With golf participation at an alltime high, we couldn’t be more excited about the days to come. We heartily welcome seasoned golf writers Tony Leodora and Wayne Mills to the Golf Coast Team. Tony and Wayne are talented experts who will be sharing local knowledge on our clubs and the wider industry. In this issue, Wayne gives us a glimpse of Herons Glen Golf and Country Club in North Fort Myers, showcasing their new $6 million renovation, as well as Olde Hickory Country Club. Tony will feature all the top new products of the year, direct from the 2022 PGA Show. Regarding top of the line golf products, the Golf & Casual Shop in Fort Myers is kicking off their Annual End of Season sale on March 19th, which will run through the end of April, so be sure to check out their huge selection of golf products and apparel. We also wanted to highlight Big Summer Golf Card, which is celebrating their 30th Anniversary this year! The card offers preferred rates all year long, and all card holders are eligible to play the Big Money Tour to win thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes. There has never been a better time to hold the Big Summer Golf Card! Golf has continued to be a constant during the past few years, as the pandemic has encompassed our lives and it has given us an oasis where we can safely spend time outside with loved ones and friends. We hope that Golf Coast Magazine can be your guide on all that Southwest Florida has to offer in the golf community. You can visit us at GolfCoastMagazine.com to keep up to date on all the latest golf stories, local golf news, and tips. You can also subscribe to our free e-newsletter that goes out every week. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter as well! We hope that you will enjoy your time on Florida’s beautiful West Coast! Fairways and greens,

Mary Raimondo, Ryan Ruppert and Rose Ruppert

COVER FROM THESTORY EDITOR

Herons Glen Golf and Country Club 18-holes of newly renovated Ron Garl splendor

Herons Glen Golf and Country Club

in North Fort Myers has recently reopened their 18-hole golf course after an extensive $6 million renovation. Designed by Lakeland, Florida based golf course architect Ron Garl and opened in 1992, the 6,500 yard- par 72 course received a wall-to-wall upgrade of tees, greens, bunkers and fairways.

players of all skill levels.” said General Manager J.B. Belknap.

The upgrades included installing TifEagle Bermuda grass on the greens, and Bimini grass on the fairways and Bimini grass on the tees, fairways and rough. The greens, which had shrunk over the years, were returned to their original size and now average over “We were very fortunate to work with 6,000 square feet per green and Ron and Clarke Construction during some of the contours were softened the redesign. Our members are to accommodate the increased ecstatic with all of the enhancements green speed capability associated that were made to the course. With with TifEagle. Most of the original six sets of tees, we feel it will provide design was kept intact except for a memorable golfing experience for the relocation of the 10th green GolfCoastMagazine.com

COVER STORY

to accommodate the new 5,000 square foot fitness center and some fairway contouring was done to improve drainage. The course winds throughout the community around lakes and wetlands a full three and a half miles from one end of the property to the other. With a good mix of hole lengths from long par 5s to short par 3s, the golf course is more of a shot makers layout than a big hitting bombers design. Picking the correct tees, avoiding the numerous hazards and picking the right club for approach shots are the keys to a good score at Herons Glen. Prior to the renovation, Garl

met with focus groups from the membership to hear what changes they wanted to see. “It’s their golf course,” said Garl, “they play it every day and talk from the heart.” Some of the changes that grew from those discussions were the installation of more forward tees and what Garl referred to as “gap tees”, tees placed in between some of the prior tees to create more options and angles to play from. Not only were many of the existing bunkers renovated but several were eliminated both in the fairways and several greenside bunkers as well. “We took out several greenside

COVER FROM THESTORY EDITOR

bunkers that closed off the fronts of greens.” said Garl. “It gives players options to play the ball along the ground rather than having to fly it in to carry over bunkers. It also helps tremendously for pace of play.”

square foot clubhouse anchors the community which provides a fullservice restaurant and features a hefty schedule of social events.

Herons Glen Golf & Country Club is a gated community bordering Lee and Charlotte counties. Along with an 18-hole championship golf course, the club boasts amenities such as a new state of the art Fitness Center with on-site physical therapists, a community swimming pool, Har-Tru tennis courts, Pickleball, Bocce, and Shuffleboard. An expansive 45,000

The Herons Glen Recreational District is a governmental entity. Florida law calls it a Special District. Special Districts serve a specific geographical area and are governed by an elected Board of Supervisors. Special Districts are very similar to municipalities, but Special Districts are set up to perform more specific and limited functions.

The golf course renovation is the first of several upcoming capital projects at The membership was so pleased with Herons Glen. This summer, the Club the results that they invited Garl to be is also scheduled to redesign the dining the featured speaker at their annual facilities, build additional pickleball Member-Guest tournament banquet. courts and upgrade the sports complex.

GolfCoastMagazine.com

COVER STORY

Because Herons Glen is legally a Special Recreation District it can issue tax exempt bonds in order to raise capital for special projects. Most recently in 2020, the residents voted to take advantage of favorable interest rates and reissue the bond. This reissuance raised $12.9 million for future capital projects, including the $6 million golf course renovation. The additional funding costs each homeowner an additional $130 per year.

The homeowners had the wisdom and foresight to realize that Herons Glen is in competition with other golf course communities and, again according to Belknap, “In order to stay relevant and stand the test of time, we need to reinvest in our community.”

Herons Glen is conveniently located on US 41 just four miles North of the Shell Factory in Lee County, just South of the Charlotte County line. Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach, Port Charlotte Even though not every resident is & Sanibel are just minutes away. For required to be a golf member, the more information, reach out to the majority recognized the golf course Golf Pro Shop at (239) 731-4520; the to be, in J.B. Belknap’s words “The anchor amenity of the community and Restaurant & Lounge at (239) 7314545 or check out their website at the home values are proportional to heronsglencc.com. the course conditions.”

COURSES

COLLIER | LEE

p! shi ted! r e a wn nov w o re Neewly N

Public Golf Course

MAP #230

Bonita Springs

TEE INFORMATION

Bonita Fairways Golf Club

COURSE FACTS

Bonita Fairways is an 18-hole executive golf course and is one of the few public golf courses in our area that has been part of the community for many years. It is the only public course in Bonita Springs.

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 3388 / 60.1 / 101 White: 2785 / Red: 2338 / Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Gordon Lewis PGA Golf Pro: Travis Snyder

COURSE AMENITIES

• Tee Times up to 7 days in advance • Men’s and Ladies Leagues • PGA Professional Travis Snyder on site for lessons • Available for Tournament and Corporate Outings • Full size putting green • Fully stocked pro shop • New Bobcat Cafe now open

In the last year, the residents of Bonita Fairways have played a major part in restoring the beauty of the course by hiring Lifestyle Management Group of Florida to oversee the operation and give the facility a full makeover. This includes a complete re-grass of the golf course, expansion of our café, beautification of the property, and a new fleet of golf carts. Designed by Gordan Lewis, the natural beauty of the nature preserve and abundance of lakes challenge your short game as well as your long game.

26740 Sammoset Way Bonita Springs, FL 34135 (239) 947-9100 www.bonitafairways.net

GolfCoastMagazine.com

REVIEW

Cape Royal Golf Club Prepare yourself for a unique golfing experience!

Cape Royal features 27 holes of championship golf and was designed by golf course architect Gordon Lewis, who has designed more than 80 courses in the Sunshine State. This unique facility features five sets of tees, so there’s sure to be one that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. As you make your way around this layout you’ll find 180 acres of sparkling lakes, natural wetlands, and all kinds of Florida wildlife including wood storks, ibis, egrets, and herons, both on the fairways and in the community’s preserves. The course is an easy one to walk and to make it even easier, now offers several of the new Tempo Walk carts from Club Car. Tempo Walk is an autonomous caddie that offers carries bags, coolers, and other accessories. When it comes to memberships, Cape Royal Golf Club offers something for everyone, whether you live locally or are only in the area for a short time. Choose from 3, 6, or 12-month memberships. As a member, you’ll receive unlimited greens fees as well as full use of all club facilities, advance tee time bookings,

discounts on merchandise, food and beverage, and special rates on cart and range pass. And, as a member of a Troon facility, you’ll be a part of Troon Advantage, which allows you and up to 3 guests to take advantage of preferred rates at Troon resorts and daily fee facilities worldwide. As clubhouse restaurants go, Cape Royal’s Caloosa Club sets a new standard. They offer casual dining in a laid-back atmosphere that includes a wide variety of food not typically found at a golf course. Chef Andrew and his culinary staff have created a menu of unique and tasty appetizers and dishes including Duck Fat Popcorn, Buffalo Cauliflower, and their signature dish, Taste of Florida Grouper, a large piece of fresh Grouper served over sauteed greens and charred corn puree and topped with a citrus corn salsa. Trust us, this is not your typical golf clubhouse menu! 11460 Royal Tee Circle Cape Coral, FL 33991 239-283-5522 www.caperoyalgolfclub.com

COURSES Public Course

COLLIER | LEE MAP #229

TEE INFORMATION

Naples

Eagle Lakes Golf Club

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Teal: 7144 / 74.5 / 134; Black: 6436 / 71.1 / 127; White: 5952 / 68.2 / 122; White/Grey: 5448 / 66.2 / 116; Grey: 5221 / 64.9 / 110; Red: 4466 / 65.3 / 108

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Gordon Lewis General Manager: Josh Brunet, PGA Head Golf Professional: Justin Rountree, PGA

COURSE AMENITIES

• Casually elegant dining and banquet space for up to 100 guests • Fully equipped pro shop • Men’s and women’s private locker rooms • Golf Lessons - Justin Rountree, Total Game Management, $85/HR • Covered hitting mats on full driving range plus short game area

GolfCoastMagazine.com

Located minutes from Olde Naples and Marco Island Florida, Eagle Lakes Golf Club is a new 7,150-yard, par 72 championship course that will match-up well against the lowest handicappers while providing casual players with a one-of-a-kind Everglades golf experience. Abundant wildlife, including a pair of American Bald Eagles, will accompany you as you make your way around the track. We offer the best value for public golf in Naples with 18 holes, 6 sets of tees and 7100 yards of beautiful golf. 18100 Royal Tree Parkway Naples, FL 34114 239-732-0034 www.eaglelakesgofclub.net

COLLIER | LEE Public Course

MAP #203

TEE INFORMATION

COURSES

Naples

Hibiscus Golf Club Fre Go quen lf P t Pl rog aye ram r

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6476 / 71.1 / 131; White: 6103 / 69.0 / 125; Gold Mens: 5300 / 65.5 / 114; Gold Ladies: 5300 / 70.1 / 114; Red: 4925 / 68.2 / 113

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Dave Wallace Director of Golf: Mike Smuniewski, PGA General Manager: Brian Diver, PGA Superintendent: Robert Trebilcock, GCSAA

COURSE AMENITIES

• Home Course of the Dennis Meyer’s Golf School • Exceptional Practice Facility including Driving Range, Short Game Area, and Putting Green • Mulligan’s Bar and Grill

Hibiscus Golf Club is an 18-hole public golf course located in beautiful Naples, Florida. Built in 1969, with renovations to the course and clubhouse completed in 2007, this splendidly conditioned layout is one of the few courses in the Naples area open to the public. Hibiscus is a golfer’s dream with 18 totally different experiences for both the high and low handicap golfer. Wide fairways, bunkered greens and numerous lakes and streams make each hole a new challenge and a pleasure to play. In addition, we offer one of the few public practice facilities in Southwest Florida. 5375 Hibiscus Drive Naples, FL 34113 239-774-0088 www.hibiscusgolf.com

The art of fine golf shoe making

We are offering a rare opportunity to distribute a luxury product of European golf fashion/golf shoes, for the USA! We are one of the leading European suppliers of fashionable golf shoes in classic Italian design and are looking for a business partner to act as a distributor in the USA. Above average profits are achieved with our exceptional products! Our future business partner receives all necessary information and support from us in setting up sale including temporary help on site.

AerogreeN® is our registerd US & EU Trademark

or SKYPE at: aerogreen

OUT OF BOUNDS

Unfinished By Jeff Thoreson, Golf and Travel Writer j.thoreson@comcast.net

If Schubert couldn’t finish his symphony,

how can we be expected to finish golf? The game is music to our ears, a rainbow to our eyes. We chase the pot of golf gold. But we can’t find it. It’s not there. Or is it there, somewhere? We run through the spectrum looking for an end, for a completeness to the natural circle of start to finish. But the game doesn’t provide that. Golf is forever unfinished.

sion on Monday after work and then think you have it all figured out for the next Wednesday afternoon. But you don’t, so it goes on and on. We can’t just write the last note and call it finished.

A single round may end with a definitive number in the far right-hand box on the scorecard, but that number is never good enough. We celebrate the Other things begin and end – careers, first time we break 100, and then we eye 90. We check off 90 and put 80 marriages, lives. In golf, there is in our sights. Few get there, but those always another shot to be hit. There is always another round to be played. who do, dare they even dream about 70? They must. It’s almost a requireThere is always another pile of striped ment of this game that won’t end, this balls to be practiced.You work your game that constantly demands more. way through an entire pyramid on the And we are happy to give more, to practice tee only to have the range seek more, to pursue the gold. But, boy show up and build another one like the rainbow, there is no end. There for you.You play your Wednesday af- is only more, and more and more. ternoon game and then look forward The first time I broke 70 came just a to your Saturday morning game. month after the first time I shot level You hit balls on Sunday afternoon; squeeze in a chipping and putting ses- par. Both came as a surprise. I didn’t GolfCoastMagazine.com

OUT OF BOUNDS

think my game had yet gotten to that level. These are the rounds that move you on. It’s not so much that the game demands more from you, it’s that you demand more from the game.You can’t shoot 99, 89, 79 or even 69 and think you’re finished.Your career best round had room for improvement. There was a putt that lipped out; an iron shot that wasn’t pure. There was a loose drive or a careless blast from a greenside bunker. There was the chip-in for birdie on a green you missed, and you know that to maintain this level that really needs to be a GIR and one-putt.

attaches itself to our souls and becomes part of us so that by the time you realize you’re no longer as good as you once were, you accept it as another way nature nudges you along her timeline. You say you will recommit; recapture past glory and reason that if a professional can still be good after 50, so can you at your own, lesser level.You feel it still, the game inside you hasn’t changed, but maybe you’re just not yet far enough down the glacial spiral to recognize your new station in golf.

Maybe we accept decline the same way we accept success, in incremental I love golf, but I hate the game because steps sometimes so small you hardly it can’t end on my terms. There will be know you’re going up – or down. no final victory; no last tip of the cap Maybe that’s another attraction of the and no Bobby Jones-like walk off into game.You don’t wake up one mornthe sunset. The game takes you to the ing and realize that the competition peak of your career, however indisis too young, too quick, too strong, tinguishable that may be from the rest but you’re happy to play on; to seek a of your career, then spirals you down new level, and then a few years later at such a painfully glacial pace that another, then another. you’re not sure if you are in permanent There is always more; never an end, decline or just a temporary lull. so we will all leave the game as At any time you can quit; just give up Schubert left Symphony No. 8 in B and walk away, but that is the game minor – unfinished. forcing you out. That is you leaving knowing there was more to be done. That is less an end and more a dismissal. We are not quitters, so we hang in there, clinging to our belief that we can still be better, digging it out of the dirt until we are finally dug into the dirt. Golf is the game – the frustration – of a lifetime. It

COURSES

COLLIER | LEE Thr New ees ly and Reno Dri vate vin d P g R ar ang e!

Public Course

MAP #207

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue 6465 / 71.0 / 121 White 6074 / 69.3 / 117 Gold 5692 / 67.5 / 112 Red 5196 / 65.1 / 107 Silver 4512 / 61.6 / 103

Green 4049 / 59.8 / 99 COURSE FACTS

General Manager/ Head Pro: Gary Keating, PGA Golf Course Superintendent: Jason Craft, GCSAA

GOLF LESSONS

Private Lessons $50 for 30 mins or $90 for 1 hour Group Lessons & Clinics Also Available. Call for Pricing.

AMENITIES

• Fully stocked pro Shop • Multiple practice facilities including all grass aqua driving range. • Chipping and sand practice area • Snack bar with full liquor bar • Club Repair

GolfCoastMagazine.com

For t Myers

San Carlos Golf Club

San Carlos Golf Club strives to have the most affordable rates in Southwest Florida throughout the year while providing excellent course conditions. Nestled in the community of San Carlos Park, San Carlos Golf Club is one of the oldest established clubs in Southwest Florida. It was developed in 1971 by the San Carlos Park Community and in 1981 was purchased by local area golfers. This traditional layout has received rave reviews for its playability from professionals and amateurs alike. Practice facilities include an aqua driving range, pitching and chipping area, practice bunker and a large putting green. The teaching professionals at San Carlos Golf Club specialize in personalized instruction tailored to your skill level. From the golfer just taking up the game to the experienced player trying to take the game to the next level, golfers will receive plenty of individual instruction. San Carlos Golf Club was voted ‘Best Public Golf Course’ by the readers of the Fort Myers News Press in 2015. 7420 Constitution Circle Fort Myers, FL 33967 239-267-3131 www.sancarlosgolfclub.com proshop@sancarlosgolfclub.com

COLLIER | LEE

Public Golf Course

MAP #209

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Mens/Green: 7007 / 74.1 / 128 Mens/Blue: 6658 / 72.3 / 125 Mens/White: 6167 / 69.0 / 122 Mens/Gold: 5468 / 65.7 / 110 Ladies/Gold: 5468 / 70.7 / 114 Ladies/Red: 4786 / 66.4 / 113

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: J. Drew Rogers PGA Golf Pro: Nick Stokke Superintendent: Dominic Wachena

COURSE AMENITIES • All Grass Driving Range • Golf Lessons • Clubhouse and Pro Shop • Large Practice Greens • Full-Service Bar & Restaurant • Golf Club Rental

COURSES

Naples

Valencia Golf & Country Club Four Star Rated by Golf Digest The readers of the Naples Daily News have rated Valencia Golf and Country Club the Best Public Golf course 3 years in a row! This 18-Hole golf course, driving range and practice facility is open to the public and includes a full-service Pro Shop and PGA Golf Professional available daily and 30 station public driving range and practice facility. A variety of monthly memberships are available. Noted golf course architect J. Drew Rogers recreated this masterpiece, taking advantage of the pristine natural beauty and carving out a spectacular course, which has quickly become one of Naples’ premier public golf courses. Highlighting the unique features of the landscape and native plants, the course features undulating fairways, sparkling lakes and lush stands of palms, pines and cypress preserves. Work on your game at the best public practice facility and driving range in Naples, FL. Located just 9 miles east on Immokalee Rd, within minutes of Bonita Springs, Fort Myers and Immokalee. 1725 Double Eagle Trail Naples, FL 34120 239-352-0777 www.ValenciaGolfNaples.com

REVIEW

It Took an Expanded Search to Find The Top Golf Products for 2022

By Tony Leodora To say that the 69th PGA Show at the massive Orange County Convention Center in Orlando was a bit different this year would be an understatement of epic proportions. But the best news is that the annual gathering of the golf industry took place … generated interest … and provided some energy that will carry throughout the year. Yes, the vendor count was down – about half of the normal 1,000 companies exhibiting their wares. And the number of attendees followed suit. But those who attended this year’s scaled-down edition of the PGA Show found golf industry people who were invigorated by the new boom in golf – in terms of rounds played, GolfCoastMagazine.com

equipment sold, lessons scheduled and trips booked. That energy led to a good business climate, despite the lesscrowded aisles. And a number of great new products were rolled out. Many took to the grand stage of the PGA Show to make their debut. Others were launched on Demo Day – or through massive social media and e-mail campaigns. It may have entailed a more dogged search to compile the list of all-stars ... but nobody ever said this job was going to be easy. At least there was no need for hand-to-hand combat to get through the aisles en route to discovering and analyzing the new products. Without further fanfare, here are the eye-catching new products of 2022.

REVIEW

The secret behind the rise of Tour Edge in the golf equipment industry is simple. The Batavia, Illinois-based company leads in time and money spent on research and development. And that effort produces continued innovation. The latest innovation can be found in the Tour Edge Exotics line of 722 drivers. This line takes innovation from last year’s 721 driver and divides it into two models – C722, E722 – each designed specifically to accommodate the needs of a specific segment of golfers. “Different strokes for different folks,” says Jon Claffey, VP of marketing for Tour Edge. “These are top of the line, ultra-premium, tour quality drivers but made for different swings.” The C722 is made for players with clubhead speed over 105 mph. Players with slower swing speeds are using the E722. “We debuted these drivers and immediately had four Champions Tour players using them,” explains Claffey. “Hard swingers (Alex Cejka, Scott McCarron) are playing the C722 driver and players with more tempo (Berhnard Langer, Mike Weir) are playing the E722.” The Tour Edge question for 2022: “Are you an E or are you a C?” www.touredge.com

Bridgestone Golf focuses on trying to produce the best golf ball for all golfers. And a lot of the technology comes from the roots of the company … rubber. That technology produced the new Tour B series of golf balls, a lineup that was the talk of the PGA Show. “We’re a rubber company,” explains Elliot Mellow, manager of golf ball marketing. “Changing the polymer (rubber) is a big deal to us. That’s what we’ve done with our new Tour B series, which features our new reactive IQ cover that reacts to the impact of each shot. “What that means is, off the driver, the cover actually firms up, producing more distance. The flip side is, with a 9-iron or wedge, the ball has some shock-absorbing properties and stays on the face longer and imparts more spin.” Bridgestone calls it “the smarter tour ball.” It is available in RX and RXS for under-105 mph swing speed, and the X and the XS for high-speed players like Tiger Woods and Bryson DeChambeau. Plus Bridgestone has a unique fitting system on their website to determine the best ball for each player. www.bridgestonegolf.com

REVIEW

The scene is a familiar one. A golfer heads to the range to prepare for golf and sees that the hitting area is limited to artificial golf mats. And the grumbling begins. No more. TurfHound is a company dedicated to producing a performance golf mat – one that replicates the experience of hitting balls off natural turf. Simply put, it is not a carpet or a piece of plastic made into a golf mat … it is the finest performance golf mat in the industry. Made in the USA, completely from American-sourced materials, TurfHound mats are now found in more than 900 high-end golf clubs across the country. “Our founder, Rick Reynolds, set out to design a product that would feel as realistic as grass,” explains Brian Golden, senior VP of sales and marketing. “We have a dual-density foam system that is injection molded and patented. Members like hitting off our mats as much as they like hitting off natural turf.” To make the mat experience even more realistic, TurfHound mats have an area that is similar to hitting off the fairway and another area that is like hitting out of the rough. www.turfhound.com

REVIEW

The Philadelphia manufacturing company, Greenkeepers, has a long history of successful product launches. Their injection-molded plastic products include the Four Yards More Tee, the Survivor Tee and the new training aid, the Bottle Tee. Now they have entered the world of putters by partnering with Bloodline. The new Vale Putter by Bloodline uses the stand-alone alignment technology that drove Bloodline’s launch, but added spaceage polymer to lessen overall weight and increase feel. Another benefit of adding polymer to the putter – suggested retail dropped from $500 to $299. “The whole concept was to insulate any vibration during the putting stroke into your hands,” explained Frank Carroll, president of Greenkeepers. “Unlike machined or milled metal putters, in this putter, no metal surfaces touch the golf ball. So you get no vibration and true roll.” Despite the fact that the Vale Putter is new, it is already getting noticed on the pro golf tours. Ernie Els is using it on the Champions Tour. The Bloodline stand-alone patented technology allows golfers to set the line of the putt, walk behind the putter as it stands alone, and check to make sure alignment is correct – in practice or during competition. www.bloodline.golf

REVIEW

High Heat – the line of drivers, fairway woods and hybrids developed by Knuth Golf – is known for producing golf clubs for amateur golfers. Their innovations have made them an award-winning company that serves the largest segment of the golf market. This year, they entered into a marriage with another well-known company. The new line of High Heat drivers and fairway woods are now equipped with the Fujikura shaft – a shaft that High Heat co-founder Steve Trattner calls “the finest golf shaft in the business.” Dean Knuth developed the heads that made High Heat famous. Fujikura designed a shaft that is specifically made to work well with those heads. “Let’s face it, amateurs need a different center of gravity,” explains Trattner. “They need our three-trampoline technology, where players get the same distance no matter where they hit it across the face. And they need our 257 Turf Glider Sole, which eliminates fat shots and thin shots.” Now that the head has been matched with a shaft that works best for players with lower swing speeds than tour pros and elite amateurs, High Heat has once again captured the attention of educated golfers. www.highheatgolf.com

The “belt with no holes” – Nexbelt – continues to bring new innovation and style to a product that already is a market leader. While there are a number of ratchet belts, following Nexbelt’s lead, no company has been able keep up with the development of new styles and materials. This year’s focus is on two new belts. The first is a Bison belt, made from 100 percent American bison. Not only does the belt have a rich look, there is also a rich, supple feel that works in either a dress or casual setting. The second is the Cayman belt, an impressive addition to Nexbelt’s line of dress belts. While these new belts are similar to the crocodile and alligator styles, they feature striking accent colors and come in navy, black and grey. “All of our belts feature the custom sizing, cut-to-fit system that made Nexbelt famous,” comments Barrett Martens, global sales manager. “The new designs just add to our huge line of styles and colors that can be worn both on and off the golf course.” And, despite the great style and quality, Nexbelt is affordably priced – starting at $56.99. www.nexbelt.com

Private Golf Clubs Private Membership Offers Many Advantages

Welcome to our Private Country Club section — A Guide to the Country Club Lifestyle in Southwest Florida Olde Hickory Golf & Country Club, Fort Myers

It’s Not Just About the Golf Nothing is more constant than change, as the old saying goes, and that certainly applies to many of the private country club The Club at Gateway, Fort Myers, FL and golf course communities in and sports programs, massage and Southwest Florida. Over the years, spa services, events like concerts and residents lifestyles have changed and culinary classes, cabanas by the pool evolved requiring clubs to upgrade and value-adds such as preferred their facilities and broaden their pricing on wine, theme park passes activities to stay relevant in a highly and other offsite events and services. competitive market. Golf Coast Magazine has researched Clubs across the region recognize some of the best that expanded food and More than ever, clubs Private Clubs the Florida beverage recognize that food, Southwest area has to offer. offerings, beverage, amenities In this issue refreshed and and programming are of Golf Coast reimagined spaces the primary drivers for Magazine we Olde oriented to a member satisfaction. feature, Hickory Golf and more casual Country Club lifestyle and and The Club at programming are now the primary Gateway in Fort Myers. Both have drivers for member satisfaction. recently completed multi-million While golf course quality and dollar renovations and enhancements conditions remain a priority, a to their properties. resort-style approach has replaced Stay tuned in future issues for more the strictly golf-dominated ones. information about the impressive That can mean on-site fitness renovations under way at many other facilities, healthy casual dining options, childcare, junior enrichment area private clubs.

REVIEW

Olde Hickory Golf & Country Club Olde Hickory Golf & Country Club hits the sweet spot in every way. By Wayne Mills

When it comes to golf and country

club communities in Southwest Florida, Olde Hickory Golf and Country Club hits the sweet spot in every way. It just checks all the boxes for anyone looking for that perfect lifestyle here in paradise. While the recent perfect storm of circumstances has created unprecedented interest in Florida golf communities, Olde Hickory, with its rather unique bundled community, keeps things cozy inside the gates of this special place. Two major things assure residents of ready access to all the amenities, while keeping the entire community financially stable. All homeowners can enjoy a variety of activities that include golf, tennis, pickleball, fitness opportunities, and social gatherings. If you want to play golf almost every day, you will find available tee times, even in season, because there are only 561 residences in the community. Secondly, Olde Hickory is a bundled golf community in which membership GolfCoastMagazine.com

is included with every home purchase, also known as Common Interest Realty Association (C.I.R.A). All members/ homeowners may participate in any activity revolving around the Clubhouse and the golf course. Every homeowner is a full member of the Club with all privileges, whether or not you play golf. If golf is your game, Olde Hickory’s 18-hole Ron Garl designed course will challenge and delight you. It has seven different sets of tee boxes to appeal to golfers of any level ranging from 3605 yards to 6504 yards. Garl, who has designed over 250 golf courses in 18 states and 10 countries, also assisted in the complete renovation of the course in 2013 using TifEagle Bermuda Grass for the greens, which provides for increased putting speed and consistency. Celebration Bermuda Grass was planted in the fairways and rough, which has greater wear tolerance, drought resistance, and shade tolerance. The entire irrigation system was also replaced with Toro’s state-

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of-the-art computer controlled irrigation system. Olde Hickory features a very healthy golf program. There are weekly games in the 9 & 18-hole Women’s Golf Associations, as well as the 18-Hole Men’s Golf Association. On top of that, the calendar is full of many stroke play and match play golf events for golfers of all levels. The professional staff provides clinics and private lessons to the members of Olde Hickory. The clinics range from green reading to full swing - if you need help with any part of your game it can be sought from any of the PGA Professionals at the Club.

highly trained food and beverage team have been recognized by the membership for providing great service along with a variety of casual and more formal dining experiences. The 2020 Clubhouse renovation features a new large oval bar with eight large TVs for viewing sporting events while enjoying cocktails, dining, and fabulous views. Olde Hickory’s bar is also a great place for golfers to gather following a round or to watch their favorite sports team on one of the many large screen TVs. The new Outdoor Terrace provides members with the option for al fresco dining on the covered terrace overlooking the golf course and driving range. Members can enjoy cocktails and camaraderie around the Terrace’s fire pit while watching the Fort Myers sun drop into the Gulf.

The Grille Room offers a casual and enjoyable dining atmosphere with various styles of cuisine and theme nights and both lunch and dinner. Year round, members For those who don’t golf and need more than participate in festive dinner dances, themed just golf, you will find that there is plenty to buffet nights and live entertainment. do. The tennis courts and pickleball courts For the perfect Florida country club are always active. There are many social lifestyle, look no further than Olde Hickory nights that feature bocce and cornhole on Golf and Country Club. the range. The fitness center has a plethora of equipment to break a sweat. Also, you can find yourself in many of the fitness classes offered at the Club. At Olde Hickory, members enjoy wonderful creations by the Club’s Certified Executive Chef and wine pairings by our sommelier. The professional and

Dan Lavallee, Executive Chef The Club at Gateway

There is something special about the exceptional cuisine offered to our Members here at The Club at Gateway. We credit this to our renowned Chef, Dan Lavallee. Chef Dan grew up in Manchester, New Hampshire, then moved to central Florida as a teen. He graduated High School from Oveido H.S. then attended the American Culinary Federation in St. Augustine, FL where he attained his Culinary Arts Degree in 1994. Chef Dan has over 25 years in the culinary field at award winning resorts and Country Clubs. He has developed his innovative techniques and personalized approach to cuisine through using the freshest seafood and locally grown ingredients that Southwest Florida has to offer. He has been the Executive Chef here at The Club at Gateway since 2016. Chef enjoys sharing different ideas and working closely with his culinary team and also has a great relationship with our front of house. He truly believes that The Club at Gateway has the best members anywhere, which is one of the many reasons that he loves creating amazing dishes specific to their requests. Our Members truly enjoy and appreciate his willingness to accommodate special diets or restrictions, and his desire to exceed their expectations. Some of his favorite creations include unique daily soups and creative sauces. Chef celebrated his 6th anniversary at Gateway this February, and he sees himself continuing to working here for a long time to come. Visit GatewayGolf.com for more dining information.

NEW MEMBER SPECIALS! It’s a Lifestyle!

JOIN TODAY

Meet Sean McGinness, PGA “Toss” your ball when chipping and pitching Hello, my name is Sean McGinness, the new Director of Golf at Olde Hickory Golf & Country Club, located in Fort Myers, Florida. I have been working in Southwest Florida for the past 15 years and I am a graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University PGM/PGA program. My recent positions have been at The Club at Renaissance (Fort Myers) and Foxfire Golf and Country Club (Naples). Teaching the members at my clubs has always been one of the best parts of my job. Getting to see students find success on the lesson tee or on the course is a thrill. Tips about the short game Too often around the greens we get very technical and mechanical. Teaching feel and learning feel is something that his hard to quantify. One of the best ways I try to put “feel” into a student’s mind is to have them toss me a golf ball. I’ll stand 5 yards away and that student will toss that ball right into my hands. Most of us can do this without even thinking – yet there are many movements that take place in that motion. If you can get yourself to put those movements into your chipping and pitching motion, then you may find yourself a more consistent and natural movement that promotes feel. Picture yourself playing catch with a 4-year-old that is standing 10 feet away. You will do everything in your power to get the ball to them but with as little force as possible. While picturing this, think about the pressure in your hands, the motion in which your arm swings, the footwork that you create. All of those “feels” should also be in your short game swing as well. Let’s get away from the ole 9 o’clock to 3 o’clock motion and start tossing that ball onto the green. www.oldehickory.cc

HOMES

Evaluating Southwest Florida Private Golf Communities By Joe Morgan-GOLF HOME GURU ® ”What is the best private golf community

in Naples and Southwest Florida?” This is—by far—the question that I get asked most frequently. My answer is always the same…there’s not just one; there are a large number of private golf communities that appeal to the varying needs and wants of our world-wide assortment of buyers. But finally, a few years ago, I decided to develop a “Top 25 Southwest Florida Golf Communities” list that would allow my thousands of website (GolfHomeGuru. com) visitors and my many customers to narrow down our 100+ private golf communities, and focus on the few that come the closest to being their #1 option. From there, the final selection of the ideal private golf community becomes a lot easier. My exclusive “Top 25” list has been Download the new

GOLF HOME GURU® iPhone/iPad App from the Apple App Store!

fine-tuned over time, and it’s now based on 15-years of showing and comparing properties in 80+ different golf communities, and ultimately selling in 50 of these communities. It essentially consists of a compilation of the communities most often chosen by my buyers, whose diligent, well-researched buying decisions have been predicated on a number of very important considerations. Although my individual buyers had different rankings of the elements that were most important to them in choosing a private golf community, the following ten are probably the most worthy of consideration for YOU to select the one in which you want to buy. I’ve also indicated key questions/points that you should address for each one. LOCATION—Do you want to be close to…the Gulf of Mexico and beaches; shopping and dining; 5th Ave. in Naples; the River District in Ft. Myers; near Southwest Florida International Airport; etc.? COMMUNITY HISTORY— Who is/was the developer of the community; how old is it; what is its financial condition; how progressive is it; how active and involved are its members?

HOMES

COMMUNITY SIZE—How many homes does it have; will it be tough to develop friendships, and organize activities groups? GOLF COURSE—How many holes do they have; who designed the course(s); how “player friendly” is it…for both men & women; how recently was it renovated; are there any existing, or planned, special assessments for golf course renovation? GOLF MEMBERSHIP—Is a golf membership mandatory or optional; is there an initiation fee…if so, how much is it and is it refundable; are there any new member purchase incentives; can you sell your golf membership to someone who is buying your home; how much is the annual golf fee; what is the maximum number of golf members; how many golf members do they currently have; how hard is it to get on the course in peak season (ie January thru April); can you have your own golf cart…if so, how much is the annual trail fee; how extensive is the off-season reciprocal list? MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS—What types of non-golf memberships do they offer; are there initiation fees for them…if so, how much is each and are they refundable; are there any new member purchase incentives; how much are the annual membership fees; what amenities does each type of membership allow you to utilize; are the non-golf memberships mandatory or optional; do they have separate memberships for private beach clubs and/or boat storage? CLUBHOUSE—Has it been updated recently; is it big enough to accommodate the size of the community; are there adequate dining facilities; are there any special assessments? AMENITIES & FACILITIES—Do they have a full array of amenities and facilities, including today’s “hot” items… an updated outdoor bar/dining area, pickle ball, and bocce’ ball; what key amenities are they missing…and are there plans to add them in the near future; if so, will there be a special assessment, and how much; do they have a private beach and/or beach club on the Gulf; do they have boat docks and/or boat storage onsite; are there any special assessments for recent renovations? GolfCoastMagazine.com

HOMES

TYPES OF HOMES AVAILABLE— Do they have single family estate homes, slightly smaller single family homes, attached villas, coach homes, carriage homes, verandas, basic condos; do their condos have garages; do they have new construction; what are the HOA or Condo fees for each type of home; what are the real estate taxes for each type of home? HOUSING SALES HISTORY— What’s the average age of homes in the community; how many homes have sold in the past year; how many are currently for sale…and what is their average number of days on the market? Undoubtedly, it’s going to be too timeconsuming for you to get answers to all of these questions. However, if you focus on the ones you deem the most important to your efforts to select the private golf community that will best fit your personal budget, golfing habits and ability, and family lifestyle, you’ll be well on your way to making a

solid, long-term decision. Or, in golf jargon…no “mulligan” necessary! Joe Morgan—aka the GOLF HOME GURU®— specializes in real estate sales in Naples/SWFL golf communities. He’s an 11-year winner of Gulfshore Life magazine’s “FIVE STAR Client Satisfaction Award”, and an annual “Platinum Producer” for Downing-Frye Realty Inc., in Naples, Florida. Please visit his comprehensive, user-friendly website, GolfHomeGuru.com, and check out his EXCLUSIVE “GURU Top 25 SWFL Golf Communities” website page. To further simplify your searches, please download his new GOLF HOME GURU® App for iPhones/ iPads. Just go to the Apple App Store and search for “GOLF HOME GURU”. You can contact the GURU at 239/438-6426 (Cell/Text), and Guru@GolfHomeGuru.com, to assist you with buying/selling a SWFL golf community home.

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University Park Country Club

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All Big Summer Golf Card holders are automatically eligible to play the tour and every round of golf played counts toward potential prize winning. Each month, May thru October, thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes are awarded! Since 2013 almost 600 golfers have shared in over $300,000 prize winnings. Go to Bigsummergolf.com for full details on how to take part.

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Big Summer Golf Card is valid all year long with benefits available throughout the year. While the main season is May thru October plenty of courses offer special rates and access the rest of the year, including fall and winter If you are not yet signed up, do so at BigSummerGolf.com. Don’t miss out on great opportunities, check your inbox for Hot Deals and specials and visit the website regularly for updates on rates and other offers. Other benefits include Private Club access for Play Dates and Special Events. Watch for regular access to tournament style play in all regions. Use the BSGC to play outside your area and enjoy some great golf in the Orlando area with some new “Stay and Plays” coming soon.

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World Woods Golf Club To Be Rechristened Cabot Citrus Farms New ownership will bring course renovations and lodging to beloved 30-year-old property

For more than 30 years, golfers have been captivated by the rolling topography and gnarly, moss-covered live oaks at World Woods Golf Club. Its two Tom Fazio courses – Pine Barrens and Rolling Oaks – are popular among Florida-bound travelers and in-state enthusiasts alike. One of those travelers is Ben CowanDewar, co-founder and CEO of Cabot, the golf resort development company behind Cabot Cape Breton, the resort in northern Nova Scotia whose Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs courses have become some of the most sought-after by avid traveling golfers in North America over the last decade. Cowan-Dewar, who hails from Canada himself, had visited the property several times, returning repeatedly over 20 years to its unique-for-Florida mix of rolling terrain and quiet environs. World Woods is no longer just a place for Cowan-Dewar to visit. His company recently purchased the property, with the intent to rechristen it Cabot Citrus Farms and take it to new heights. World Woods’ transformation into Cabot Citrus Farms will get underway this spring. GolfCoastMagazine.com

The search for the architects who will renovate the property’s golf complement is finishing up. The plan is to overhaul both championship courses simultaneously during much of 2022 and 2023, with an eye toward welcoming golfers back to the property later next year. Lodging, a component long missing from the mix at World Woods, will help turn Cabot Citrus Farms into a new stay and play mecca. Expect a real estate component to emerge, too, though not until the golf is settled. And with an undeveloped 600 acres as part of the sale, a brand-new golf course could follow in the coming years. Whereas most golf resort and real estate developers focus first on maximizing the lodging and housing possibilities, Cabot takes the opposite tact, as golfers have seen at Cabot Cape Breton and as they will see at Cabot Saint Lucia (opening in 2023) and Cabot Revelstoke in British Columbia (opening 2024). Pre-Renovation tee times for Pine Barrens and Rolling Oaks are available. [Excerpted from the article “WorldWoods Golf Club sold; to be rechristened Cabot Citrus Farms” by Tim Gavrich, GolfPass, January 10, 2022]

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DIRECTORY

SHOPPING | SERVICES/ENTERTAINMENT | INSTRUCTION MAP PAGE 48

SHOPPING AeroGreeN info@areogreen.biz | Ad Page 17

DOMUM www.domumexperience.com | Email:ryan@domumexperience.com | 941-702-1231 | Ad Page 60

Bloodline - Vale Putter www.Bloodline.golf | Ad Page 28

Exodus Travels www.ExodusTravels.com | (844) 672-8667 | Ad Page 24

Bridgestone www.BridgestoneGolf.com | (844) 672-8667 | Ad Page 27

Florida Aerial Services Team www.fastaerial.com | (800) 723-7425 | Ad Page 50

Edwin Watts 5247 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 | www.edwinwattsgolf.com | (941) 922-1006 | Ad Page 63

Golf Home Guru - Joe Morgan www.golfhomeguru.com | Email: Guru@GolfHomeGuru.com | (239) 438-6426 | Page 64

Golf & Casual Shop 11900 South Cleveland Avenue, Ft. Myers | www.ftmyersgolfshop.com | (239) 936-8753 | Map #216, Ad Page 3

Mission Inn Resort 10400 CR 48, Howey-In-The-Hills, FL | 352-324-3101 | Ad Pages 22

St. Vincent de Paul, Naples 4451 Mercantile Ave, Naples, FL | www.SVdPNaples.org | (239) 775-2907 | Ad Page 16, 46-47

COURSES COLLIER | LEE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COURSES

Alden Pines Country Club

(239) 283-2179 P 14261 Clubhouse Dr, Bokeelia

Alico Family Golf

(239) 334-4653 P 16300 Lee Road, Fort Myers

Arrowhead Golf Course Audubon Country Club

(239) 596-1000 P 2205 Heritage Greens Dr, Naples (239) 566-9800 PR 625 Audubon Blvd, Naples

Bay Colony Golf Club

(239) 592-9515 PR

Bear’s Paw Country Club

(239) 263-3007 PR 2500 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples

Bentley Village Golf Club

(239) 513-1125 PR 2550 Golfside Drive, Naples

Bonita Bay Club

(239) 495-0200 PR

26660 Country Club Drive, Bonita Springs

Bonita Bay Club East

(239) 455-7535 PR

2700 Wildwood Blvd, Naples

Bonita National Golf & Country Club

(239) 908-0704 PR 17481 Bonita National Blvd, Bonita Springs

Bonita Fairways Golf Club

(239) 947-9100

Calusa Pines Golf Club

(239) 348-2220 P 2000 Calusa Pines Drive, Naples

Cape Royal Golf Club

(239) 283-5522 PR 11460 Royal Tee Cir, Cape Coral

Cedar Hammock Golf & Country Club

(239) 793-1134 PR

8660 Cedar Hammock Blvd., Naples

The Club at Gateway

(239) 734-4474 PR

12091 Gateway Greens Dr., Ft. Myers

The Club at Grendézza

(239) 948-3569 PR

11481 Grande Oak Blvd., Estero

The Club at Mediterra

(239) 254-3000 PR

15755 Corso Mediterra Cir, Naples

The Club at Olde Cypress

(239) 596-4797 PR

7165 Treeline Dr., Naples

Club Pelican Bay

(239) 597-1183 PR

707 Gulf Park Drive Naples

The Club at Renaissance

(239) 561-4170 PR

12801 Renaissance Way, Ft. Myers

The Club at the Strand

(239) 592-7710 PR

5840 Strand Boulevard Naples

9740 Bent Grass Bend, Naples

E 26740 Sammoset Way, Bonita Springs

Colliers Reserve Country Club

(239) 597-7200 PR 11711 Colliers Reserve Dr, Naples

Colonial Country Club

(239) 768-9421 SP

9181 Independence Way, Ft. Myers

The Colony Golf and Country Club

(239) 390-4720 PR

4101 Pelican Colony Blvd., Bonita Springs

Copperleaf Golf Club

(239) 390-2027 PR

23101 Copperleaf Blvd, Estero

Coral Oaks Golf Course

(239) 573-3100 P 1800 Northwest 28th Ave, Cape Coral

Country Club of Naples

(239) 261-1032 PR

185 Burning Tree Drive, Naples

Countryside Golf Club

(239) 353-1780 PR

600 Countryside Drive, Naples

Cross Creek Country Club

(239) 768-1922 P

13050 Cross Creek Blvd, Ft. Myers

Crown Colony Golf & Country Club

(239) 590-9044 PR

8851 Crown Colony Blvd, Ft. Myers

Cypress Lake Country Club

(239) 481-3222 PR

6767 Winkler Road, Ft. Myers

Cypress Woods Golf & Country Club

(239) 592-7860 P

3525 Northbrooke Dr. Naples

Del Tura Golf Club

(239) 731-7814 P

18621 North Tamiami Trl, North Ft. Myers

The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club

(239) 472-3355 P

949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel Island

Eagle Creek Golf & Country Club

(239) 793-0500 PR 11 Cypress View Drive, Naples

Eagle Lakes Golf Club

(239) 732-0034 P

GolfCoastMagazine.com

18100 Royal Tree Parkway, Naples

COURSES COLLIER | LEE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COURSES

Lake Fairways Country Club

(855) 209-3684 PR

19371 N Tamiami Trl North Ft. Myers

Lakewood Country Club

(239) 775-0765 PR

4235 Lakewood Blvd, Naples

Landings Yacht, Golf & Tennis Club

(239) 482-3211 PR

4425 S. Landings Dr, Suite 100, Ft. Myers

LaPlaya Golf Club

(239) 254-5001 PR 9891 Gulf Shore Drive Naples, FL

Legends Golf & Country Club

(239) 561-8740 PR

8600 Legends Blvd Ft. Myers

Lehigh Resort Club

(239) 368-2022 P

231 Joel Boulevard, Lehigh Acres

Lely Resorts

(239) 732-1200 SP

8004 Lely Resort Blvd, Naples

Lexington Country Club

(239) 437-0404 PR

16257 Willowcrest Way Ft. Myers

The Links of Naples

(239) 417-1313 P

16161 Tamiami Trail E, Naples

Magnolia Landings Golf & Country Club (239) 543-4146 P

3501 Avenida del Vera N. Ft Myers

Majestic Golf Club

(239) 369-8216 P

350 Homestead Rd S. Lehigh Acres

Marco Shores Country Club

(239) 394-2581 PR

1450 Mainsail Dr Naples

Miromar Lakes Golf Club

(239) 390-5128 PR

18520 Miromar Lake Blvd, Miromar Lakes

Moorings Country Club

(239) 261-0909 PR 2500 Crayton Road Naples

Myerlee Country Club

(239) 481-1440 PR

1380 Myerlee CC Blvd, Ft. Myers

Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club

(239) 435-2475 SP

851 Gulf Shore Blvd North, Naples

Naples Grande Golf Club

(239) 659-3711 SP 7335 Premier Drive, Naples

Naples Heritage Golf & CC

(239) 417-2555 PR

8150 Heritage Club Way, Naples

Naples Lakes Country Club

(239) 919-1150 PR

4784 Naples Lakes Blvd., Naples

Naples National Golf Club

(239) 775-3468 PR

9325 Collier Blvd, Naples

Old Corkscrew Golf Club

(239) 949-4700 P

17320 Corkscrew Road, Estero

Olde Florida Golf Club

(239) 353-7667 PR

9393 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples

Old Collier Golf Club

(239) 597-9898 PR

790 Main House Drive, Naples

Olde Hickory Golf & Country Club

(239) 768-2400 PR

14760 Olde Hickory Blvd, Ft. Myers

Palmetto-Pine Country Club

(239) 574-2141 SP

1940 Southwest 9th Court, Cape Coral

Palmira Golf Club

(239) 949-4466 PR

28501 Matteotti View, Bonita Springs

Panther Run Golf Club

(239) 304-2835 P

6005 Anthem Pkwy, Ave Maria

Pelican Marsh Golf Club

(239) 597-3000 PR

1810 Persimmon Drive, Naples

Pelican Preserve Golf Club

(239) 985-1707 PR

9802 Pelican Preserve Blvd, Fort Myers

Pelican Sound Golf & River Club

(239) 948-4331 PR

4561 Pelican Sound Blvd, Estero

Pelican’s Nest Golf Club

(239) 947-2282 PR

4450 Pelicans Nest Drive, Bonita Springs

The Plantation Golf & Country Club

(239) 561-8650 PR

10500 Dartington Drive, Fort Myers

Quail Creek Country Club

(239) 597-2831 PR

13300 Valewood Dr, Naples

Quail Run Golf Club

(239) 261-3930 PR

1 Forest Lakes Blvd, Naples

Quail Village Golf Club

(239) 598-2815 PR

11719 Quail Village Way, Naples

Quail West Golf & Country Club

(239) 593-4100 PR

5950 Burnham Road, Naples

The Quarry Golf Club

(239) 260-3748 PR

8950 Weathered Stone Drive, Naples

Raptor Bay Golf Course

(239) 390-4600 P

23001 Coconut Point Resort Dr, Bonita Springs

COLLIER | LEE

COURSES

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COURSES River Hall Country Club

(239) 313-4653 SP

3500 River Hall Pkwy, Alva

Riviera Golf Club

(239) 774-2011 P

48 Marseilles Drive, Naples

Riverbend Golf Course

(239) 240-8125 P

6270 River Club Court North, Ft. Myers

The Rookery at Marco

(239) 642-2796 PR

3433 Club Center Blvd, Naples

Royal Palm Country Club

(239) 775-1315 PR

405 Forest Hills Boulevard, Naples

Royal Poinciana Golf Club

(239) 261-3968 PR

1600 Solana Road, Naples

Royal Wood Golf & Country Club

(239) 774-2213 PR

4300 Royal Wood Blvd, Naples

Sabal Springs Golf & Racquet Club

(239) 731-0101 P

3410 Clubview Drive North Ft. Myers

San Carlos Golf Club

(239) 267-3131 P 7420 Constitution Circle, Ft. Myers

The Sanctuary Golf Club

(239) 472-6445 PR

Sanibel Island Golf Club

(239) 472-2626 P 1100 Par View Drive, Sanibel Island

Seven Lakes Golf & Tennis

(239) 481-6560 PR

1965 Seven Lakes Blvd, Ft. Myers

Shadow Wood Preserve

(239) 947-4552 PR

7101 Shadow Creek Blvd Fort Myers

Shell Point Golf Club

(239) 433-9790 SP

17401 On Par Boulevard, Ft. Myers

Six Lakes Country Club

(239) 995-0595 PR

9151 Littleton Road, North Ft. Myers

Spanish Wells

(239) 992-5100 SP

9801 Treasury Cay Lane Bonita Springs

Spring Run Golf Club

(239) 992-3811 PR

9501 Spring Run Blvd, Estero

Stonebridge Country Club

(239) 594-5200 PR

2100 Winding Oaks Way, Naples

Stoneybrook Golf Course

(239) 948-3933 P 21251 Stoneybrook Golf Blvd., Estero

2801 Wulfert Road Sanibel Island

Talis Park Golf Club

(239) 514-1051 PR

16475 Talis Park Drive, Naples

Terraverde Country Club

(239) 433-7733 P

17000 Terraverde Ct., Ft. Myers

Tiburón Golf Club

(239) 593-2200 P 2620 Tiburón Drive, Naples

TPC Treviso Bay

(239) 302-5738 PR

9800 Treviso Bay Blvd, Naples

TwinEagles Golf & Country Club

(239) 354-1700 PR

11330 Twin Eagles Boulevard Naples

Valenicia Golf & Country Club

(239) 352-0777 P

1725 Double Eagle Trail, Naples

Vanderbilt Country Club

(239) 348-2662 PR

8250 Danbury Blvd Naples

Vasari Country Club

(239) 596-0645 PR

11250 Via Del Vasari Drive, Bonita Springs

Verandah Country Club

(239) 694-7229 PR

12201 River Village Way Fort Myers

Villages at Country Creek

(239) 561-1444 PR 21180 Country Creek Drive, Estero

Vineyards Country Club

(239) 353-1500 PR 400 Vineyards Blvd, Naples

West Bay Club

(239) 444-2310 PR 4606 W Bay Blvd Estero

The New Westminster Golf Club

(239) 368-1110 SP

2199 Berkley Way, Lehigh Acres

Whiskey Creek Country Club

(239) 481-3021 SP

1449 Whiskey Creek Drive, Ft. Myers

Wildcat Run Golf & Country Club

(239) 947-6066 PR

20300 Country Club Drive, Estero

Wilderness Country Club

(239) 261-5505 PR

101 Clubhouse Drive, Naples

Windstar on Naples Bay

(239) 775-3400 PR

1700 Windstar Blvd, Naples

Worthington Country Club

(239) 495-2278 PR

13550 Worthington Way, Bonita Springs

Wyndemere Country Club

(239) 263-1700 PR

700 Wyndemere Way, Naples

The Hills

nd f accuracyskaills. A true testao nt e m e g a n course m 414

941-697-2

Long Marsh Book online at www.rotondagolf.com

by reens framed Maintained g and palms. pines, oaks 918

941-698-0

The Palms

’s most o of Floridas. le Featuring tw o h demanding

18 941-697-81

The Links

80 acre rs 35 of thrsise. ve co r te a W u executive co

77 941-697-88

Pinemoor n irways and a Tree lined fa of sand traps. abundance 06

941-697-70

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE Semi-Private Golf Club

MAP #172

TEE INFORMATION

Par 70: Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 5836 / 68.9 / 124 White: 5424 / 66.9 / 115 Gold: 4942/ 64.8 / 113 Ladies Gold: 4942 / 69.0 / 121 Red: 4746 / 68.3 / 119

COURSES

Punta Gorda

Deep Creek Golf Club

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Mark McCumber General Manager/PGA: Todd Evans Superintendent: Josh Czarnecki

COURSE AMENITIES

• Clubhouse - Restaurant • Practice Facilities • Short Game Area • Walking Allowed • Golf Club Rental • Five Day Advanced T-times • PGA Instruction • 5 Day Advanced T-Times

Executive

TEE INFORMATION

MAP #119

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 3976 / 59.3 / 100; White: 3445 / 57.2 / 93; Red: 2840 / 56.0 / 85

COURSE FACTS

Now in its 36th year of operation, Deep Creek GC has been voted one of the best golf courses in the Charlotte County area year after year. A Par 70, 18 hole layout designed by PGA Tour player Mark McCumber is truly an enjoyable experience with a friendly welcoming staff. From tee to green, whether high or low handicap your experience will be top notch. Public play is welcome, and a variety of memberships options are offered at an exceptional value. Our restaurant and lounge serves only the best quality food and drinks under a casual setting to enhance your experience. 1260 San Cristobal Avenue Punta Gorda, FL 33983 941-625-6911 www.deepcreekgolf.com

Nice People, Great Golf!

Englewood

Oyster Creek Golf Club S LUB AL LCABLE T N RE AVAI

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Ted McAnlis General Manager: Denny Burnham

COURSE AMENITIES • Clubhouse • Practice Greens • Pro Shop • Snack Bar - Lunch • Golf Club Rental

Not your typical executive golf course, Oyster Creek, designed by Ted McAnlis, is both challenging and scenic. Accuracy off the tee is important as water comes into play on 13 of the 18 holes. Distance is critical on only a few of the par 4s, but even low-handicap golfers find they play to their handicap. Oyster Creek offers meticulouslymanicured greens surrounded by environmentally-protected natural wetlands. 6651 Oriole Blvd. Englewood, FL 34224 941-475-0334 www.oystercreekgolfclub.com

ur Y IP O ut TAR RSpHly o Ab IMEN MBEMay Ap l l Ca PL MEstrictions M F Re CO GO/L30/22 -4 IALExpires R T

27 holes of Championship Golf Rated 4 1/2 stars by Golf Digest *Premier facility with Best Value Between Fort Myers and Sarasota

Annual Practice Facility Memberships are available. A 25-acre practice facility and learning center with 4 USGA spec TifEagle practice putting and 3 short game holes, that is without question the largest and finest in the region with multiple areas to develop your game. Range membership comes with 4 complimentary twilight rounds of golf.

Try our Complimentary Trial Golf Membership www.heroncreekgc.com by calling Richelle at 941-423-6955 or email Call for Tee Times Membership@heron-creek.com

*Restrictions may apply

(941) 423-6955

Member for a day rates: Nov, Dec, & April $79 June - September $59 May & October $69 Name___________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________________________ Email____________________________________________________________________________

All Member For A Day Rates Exp:12/31/2022

Practice Fac. Food Rental Clubs Pro Shop Lessons Page

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Type: P=Public PR=Private, SP= Semi-Private, R=Resort, E=Executive

Par

Map Number

CHARLOTTE | COLLIER | LEE

Type Hole

COURSES

CHARLOTTE COUNTY Deep Creek Golf Club (941) 625-6911 SP 18 172 1260 San Cristobal Ave., Punta Gorda, FL ; Exit 170 off I-75, east on Kings Hwy, R on Sandhill, R on SanCristobal

5836-4746/70 • • 59

Heron Creek Golf & Country Club (941) 423-6955 SP 27 157 5301 Heron Creek Blvd., North Port, FL 34287; Take I-75 to Exit

6869-4820 • • 61

Oyster Creek Golf & Country Club (941) 475-0334 E 18 119 66511 Oriole Blvd, Englewood, FL; I-75 to Exit 191 River Road to Pine, left on Pine to SR776, left on 776, south 2 miles

3976-2840/60 • • 59

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Long Marsh (941) 698-0918 SP 18 121 100 Rotonda Circle, Rotonda West, FL 33947; Exit 191 off I-75, Country Road 775 just north of Boca Grande Island

27 Holes/72 • • 58

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Palms Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Hills Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Links Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Pinemoor

72 72 63 70

6511-4669/72 • • 58 6304-5072/72 • • 58 4197-3190/60 • • 58 6000 • • 58

182 Sumter Blvd continue on to Heron Creek Blvd

(941) 697-8118 (941) 697-2414 (941) 697-8877 (941) 697-7006

SP SP SP SP

18 18 18 18

157

172

119

121

GolfCoastMagazine.com

Golf Coast Magazine Southwest Florida Spring 2022

Articles inside

CHARLOTTE COUNTY COURSES