Nestled in the heart of sunny Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, PGA National Resort & Spa is one of the most iconic golf resorts in the world. Renowned for its world-class golf courses, luxurious accommodations, and hosting of prestigious golf tournaments like the Honda Classic, PGA National is much more than just a resort—it’s a haven for golfers and a destination that embodies the spirit of the sport.

The resort has been a pillar in the golf world for decades, attracting both professionals and amateurs eager to take on its challenging courses, including the famous Champion Course. But what makes PGA National truly special is its ability to blend elite golfing experiences with top-tier luxury, offering something for everyone who visits.

What is PGA National?

PGA National is an expansive golf resort that boasts five championship golf courses, making it a golf lover’s dream. Each course presents a unique challenge, from the rugged bunkers of the Fazio Course to the narrow fairways of the Squire Course. However, the most famous of all is the Champion Course, which hosts the annual Honda Classic, a marquee event on the PGA Tour.

Beyond its world-class golf, the resort also offers a stunning array of luxury amenities, including a full-service spa, fine dining restaurants, tennis courts, and fitness facilities. Whether you’re visiting for a round of golf, a relaxing getaway, or a major golf tournament, PGA National provides an unparalleled experience in the heart of Florida’s golf scene.

PGA National’s World-Class Golf Courses: Five Unique Challenges

PGA National is home to five distinct golf courses, each with its own character and set of challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an amateur looking for a good test, PGA National’s courses deliver some of the best golf Florida has to offer.

• The Champion Course: Arguably the crown jewel of PGA National, the Champion Course is famous for its Bear Trap—a three-hole stretch (holes 15, 16, and 17) that ranks among the toughest in professional golf. It’s the centerpiece of the Honda Classic and offers a true test for any golfer.
• The Palmer Course: Designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer, this course features wider fairways but also numerous water hazards, making for a strategic round.
• The Fazio Course: Formerly known as “The Haig,” this course is a tribute to George and Tom Fazio, combining modern course design with a classic feel.
• The Squire Course: Named after Gene Sarazen, “The Squire” is the narrowest course at PGA National, putting a premium on accuracy and shot-making.
• The Estate Course: Located off the main resort property, the Estate Course offers a scenic, relaxed golfing experience, with wide fairways and beautiful landscapes.

Each course provides a distinct flavor of Florida golf, from the manicured greens to the abundant water hazards, ensuring that every round at PGA National is an exciting challenge.

The Champion Course: Home of the Honda Classic

The Champion Course is the crown jewel of PGA National and one of the most recognizable courses on the PGA Tour. Designed by Tom and George Fazio and later redesigned by Jack Nicklaus, the Champion Course is best known for its Bear Trap, a notorious three-hole stretch that has humbled even the world’s best golfers.

The Honda Classic, held annually at the Champion Course, draws some of the biggest names in golf. Its challenging layout, combined with the Florida heat and unpredictable winds, makes for a thrilling tournament every year. Golfers must navigate tight fairways, water hazards, and tricky greens, all while trying to avoid disaster at the Bear Trap.

The course’s par-72 layout stretches over 7,100 yards, offering a stern test for professionals and amateurs alike. The Champion Course is a must-play for anyone looking to experience championship-level golf.

Famous Golf Tournaments at PGA National: A Legacy of Competition

While the Honda Classic is the most famous event at PGA National, the resort has hosted numerous other prestigious tournaments over the years. Some of these include:

• Ryder Cup (1983): PGA National hosted the dramatic 1983 Ryder Cup, where the United States narrowly defeated Europe in a thrilling competition.
• PGA Championship (1987): Another significant milestone in PGA National’s storied history, the resort hosted the 1987 PGA Championship, won by Larry Nelson.
• Senior PGA Championship: PGA National has been a frequent host of the Senior PGA Championship, attracting some of the greatest golfers over 50.

These tournaments, along with countless amateur events and corporate outings, cement PGA National’s reputation as one of the premier destinations for competitive golf.

The Bear Trap: Golf’s Ultimate Test

Few stretches of golf are as infamous as the Bear Trap on the Champion Course at PGA National. Consisting of holes 15, 16, and 17, the Bear Trap is widely regarded as one of the toughest sequences in professional golf.

• Hole 15: A par-3 that requires precision off the tee to avoid water hazards on both sides.
• Hole 16: A narrow par-4 where accuracy is key to staying out of trouble.
• Hole 17: Another par-3 with water and wind playing crucial roles in how difficult the hole becomes.

Jack Nicklaus, the course’s designer, once said, “It should be won or lost right here.” The Bear Trap has ended many a golfer’s run at the Honda Classic, but it also provides opportunities for those willing to take the risk and attack the pins.

PGA National Resort & Spa: More than Just Golf

While PGA National is primarily known for its world-class golf, the resort offers far more than just tee times. Its luxury spa is a sanctuary for relaxation, featuring a variety of treatments including massages, facials, and body therapies, perfect for unwinding after a round of golf.

For dining, PGA National boasts several high-end restaurants, offering everything from casual bites at Bar 91 to fine dining at Ironwood Steak & Seafood. The resort is also home to a state-of-the-art fitness center, swimming pools, and tennis courts, providing ample options for recreation and relaxation.

Whether you’re a golfer or just someone looking for a luxury retreat, PGA National delivers on all fronts, offering a complete resort experience.

Golf Schools at PGA National: Elevating Your Game

PGA National isn’t just for professionals; it’s also a place where golfers of all levels can improve their game. The resort offers golf schools and clinics, led by top instructors who use cutting-edge technology to analyze and improve every aspect of your swing.

With programs available for beginners, intermediate players, and advanced golfers, PGA National’s golf schools are among the best in the country. Participants can take advantage of the resort’s high-tech training facilities, ensuring that everyone leaves a better golfer than when they arrived.

PGA National Real Estate: Living in a Golfer’s Paradise

For those who want to make PGA National a permanent part of their life, the resort offers a range of luxury real estate options. Residents can enjoy access to the resort’s world-class amenities, including golf courses, pools, fitness centers, and dining venues, all within a beautifully landscaped, gated community.

Homes at PGA National range from condominiums and villas to custom-built luxury homes, offering something for everyone who wants to live in one of Florida’s premier golf communities.

Conclusion: PGA National’s Enduring Legacy in Golf

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend warrior, PGA National offers an unrivaled golf experience in a luxurious setting. From its championship courses, including the world-renowned Champion Course, to its luxury spa, fine dining, and top-tier golf instruction, PGA National is a destination that has earned its place as one of the crown jewels of American golf.

As it continues to host world-class tournaments like the Honda Classic and maintain its status as a premier golf resort, PGA National remains a must-visit for anyone with a passion for the sport. Its blend of history, challenge, and luxury ensures that every visit leaves a lasting impression.