What Are the Best Golf Courses in Clearwater?

Clearwater is known for its white-sand beaches, sunny weather, and relaxed Gulf Coast lifestyle. It is also one of the top destinations in Florida for golfers. Whether you are planning a weekend trip or a long seasonal stay, the area offers courses for every skill level.

Many visitors choose Clearwater vacation rentals so they can stay close to the beach while enjoying easy access to local fairways. From historic clubs to public courses with waterfront views, Clearwater has several standout places to tee off. Here are some of the best golf courses to explore during your stay.

Countryside Country Club

Countryside Country Club is one of the area’s most respected private golf facilities. The club features 27 holes divided into three separate nine-hole layouts. This setup keeps play fresh and gives golfers different challenges throughout the round.

The course is known for:

  • Mature trees and rolling fairways
  • Fast, well-kept greens
  • Water hazards that reward smart play
  • Practice areas for improving your short game

The club has hosted professional tournaments in the past, which speaks to the quality of the course conditions. Golfers who enjoy traditional Florida layouts with a competitive feel often rank this among the top options for Clearwater golf.

Clearwater Country Club

Founded in 1920, Clearwater Country Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in Florida. The course has a classic design that focuses more on accuracy and course management than sheer distance.

This course stands out because of its:

  1. Walkable layout
  2. Historic charm
  3. Friendly atmosphere
  4. Central Clearwater location

The fairways are narrower than some modern courses, which creates a fun challenge for experienced players. Beginners also enjoy the relaxed pace and approachable setup.

Because the club sits close to downtown Clearwater, it is convenient for travelers staying in nearby condos or beach homes. Visitors searching for quality Clearwater rentals often appreciate that many of our rentals are just minutes from golf courses and the Gulf Coast shoreline.

Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club

Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club offers something unique compared to other courses in the area. Named after the famous PGA golfer, the course combines excellent play conditions with a strong community mission.

This public course is operated alongside a youth education foundation that supports local students. Golfers enjoy knowing their round helps fund important educational programs.

Highlights include:

  • Wide fairways for forgiving play
  • Scenic lakes throughout the course
  • Smooth greens with moderate speed
  • Affordable rates compared to private clubs

The course layout works well for golfers of all abilities. It is especially popular with vacationers looking for a relaxed round without the pressure of a championship-style setup. If you are traveling with family or mixed skill levels, this is one of the easiest courses to enjoy together.

Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your golf getaway, plan your visit ahead of time and book a luxury Clearwater vacation rental with Rent Premier to secure premium lodging just minutes from the area’s best courses.

The Landings

The Landings Golf Club is a smaller executive-style course that focuses on shorter holes and quicker rounds. While it may not have the size of larger country clubs, it remains a favorite for players who want to sharpen their short game.

The course features:

  • Par-3 and shorter par-4 holes
  • Faster rounds for busy schedules
  • Beginner-friendly play
  • Affordable tee times

This course is ideal for travelers who want a casual golf day between beach outings, shopping, or dining around Clearwater.

Many guests staying in nearby vacation homes enjoy adding a quick round here before spending the afternoon on the water. Its laid-back atmosphere makes it approachable for newer golfers while still offering enough challenge to keep experienced players engaged.

Cove Cay Golf Club

Cove Cay Golf Club delivers some of the best waterfront scenery among local Clearwater golf courses. Located along Tampa Bay, the course gives players beautiful views throughout the round. Several holes run directly beside the water, creating memorable photo opportunities and added challenges from coastal winds.

Golfers often praise Cove Cay for:

FeatureWhy It Stands Out
Waterfront holesScenic bay views throughout play
Practice facilitiesHelpful for warming up before a round
Course conditionsWell-maintained greens and fairways
Convenient locationEasy access from Clearwater and Tampa

The course offers a balanced mix of challenge and playability. Beginners can still enjoy the experience, while skilled golfers appreciate the strategy required on several water-lined holes. Its location also makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring both Clearwater and nearby Tampa attractions.

Final Thoughts

Clearwater offers a strong variety of golf experiences, from historic private clubs to scenic public courses along the bay. Whether you prefer championship-style layouts or relaxed executive courses, there is something here for every golfer.

Countryside Country Club delivers a polished country club atmosphere. Clearwater Country Club brings history and classic design. Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club combines golf with community impact. The Landings offers casual play, while Cove Cay stands out for its waterfront scenery.

Planning your stay near these top courses makes it easier to enjoy everything the area has to offer, including beaches, restaurants, shopping, and outdoor activities. Book a Clearwater Beach rental with Rent Premier and secure premium lodging near all the best golf in Clearwater.

Book Your Clearwater Vacation Rental with Rent Premier

Rent Premier offers luxury vacation homes designed for comfort, convenience, and personalized service. Whether you are planning a golf getaway, a seasonal stay, or a family vacation, our properties place you close to Clearwater’s best courses and Gulf Coast attractions.

Browse our collection of upscale Clearwater vacation homes and find the perfect place to relax after a day on the greens.

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