Best golf courses in Miami

The sunshine state is known for its ideal environment and climate for golf, and the courses on offer in Miami further enhance its appeal. Below, we have hand-picked the nine best golf courses in Miami that we think are very worthy candidates to be part of your next golf holiday.

With over 50 years of PGA TOUR history, the Blue Monster at Trump National Doral Miami Resort provides a wonderful test on one of the most acclaimed courses in the area. In 2013/14, course architect Gil Hanse successfully transformed the revered layout into a modern work of art; re-positioning bunkers, enlarging some greens and manoeuvring fairways closer to the multiple hazards.

It’s a tough test, and to post a good score you’ll need to stay out of the thick Bermuda rough, avoid the water and putt well on deceptively contoured greens! The round concludes with the infamous 473-yard, par-4 18th, which has been accredited as one of the ‘Top 100 Holes in the World’ by GOLF Magazine.

Length: - Back tees: 7590 yards - Front tees: 5463 yards Par: 72 Architect: Dick Wilson, Raymond Floyd and Gil Hanse Founded: 1962 Course type: Florida style

While the Red Tiger at Trump National Doral may be overshadowed by its Blue Monster big brother, the thoughtful redesign by Gil Hanse in 2015 has bolstered its appeal. The renovation work saw an improvement on bunkering and introduced water hazards on none other than 14 holes!

At only 6,395 from the back tees, the Red Tiger is not a long course, however, the narrow fairways and small greens put a premium on accuracy and the undulating putting surfaces demand the golfer’s full attention. The signature hole is often considered the par-5, 5th. A sweeping dogleg cut around the lake with the approach shot played to an island green – a chance for birdie, but there is plenty of danger if you stray offline.

Length: - Back tees: 6395 yards - Front tees: 4525 yards Par: 72 Architect: Robert von Hagge, Gil Hanse and Rick Robbins Founded: 1964 Course type: New England style

The Golden Palm at Trump National Doral pays homage to the predominant palm trees found throughout the golf course (and there are plenty of them to avoid!). Similarly to the Red Tiger and Blue Monster, Gil Hanse was tasked with the redevelopment of the Golden Palm and the final product mirrors closer to the Monster.

There’s a nice blend of wide, open fairways whilst others will require precise accuracy from the tee. The bunkers are of unique style; tightly cut with clean edges from the fairway and heavy rough around the back side of each one. The design and quirkiness of the course results in it being an absolute must-play and with a variety of tee boxes this championship layout can accommodate golfers of all abilities.

Length: - Back tees: 7012 yards - Front tees: 4858 yards Par: 71 Architect: Robert von Hagge, Raymond Floyd, Gil Hanse, Jan Bel Jan and Rick Robbins Founded: 1967 Course type: Florida style

The Soffer Course is the premier layout of the two courses on-site at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Raymond Floyd is responsible for the redesign of the Soffer and since its creation, it has hosted several LPGA Tour and South Florida PGA events.

The true epitome of risk and reward, precision will reign over distance as you battle your way through this challenging layout. It is vital that you avoid the creeks that cross several fairways and pay close attention to the lagoons that wait patiently for any mis-hit shots. The greens have recently been upgraded to Tif Eagle grass providing excellent putting surfaces. Another great Miami golf course at a first-class resort.

Length: - Back tees: 7021 yards - Front tees: 4537 yards Par: 71 Architect: Robert Trent Jones, Raymond Floyd and Gus Grantham Founded: 1971 Course type: Parkland style

The Miller Course might not have the sizzle that the Soffer boasts, but it does provide an enjoyable and slightly more relaxing round of golf. The true characteristics of the Miller are contoured fairways, doglegs, elevation shifts and well-positioned bunkers.

The layout is also brimming with wildlife, as the large ponds are full of ducks, swans, pink flamingos and the occasional alligator! It is shorter than its sibling and requires accuracy from the tee as the rolling fairways are framed by mature ficus, banyan and olive trees. Originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., both courses at this JW Marriott Resort were reworked by Raymond Floyd and have since played host to several professional events.

Length: - Back tees: 6120 yards - Front tees: 4231 yards Par: 70 Architect: Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Raymond Floyd Founded: 1971 Course type: Resort style

Miami offers some of the best golfing conditions especially during the winter months and there is an array of quality courses, golf resorts and accommodations to enjoy. Away from the course there’s so much to experience; from the beaches to the shopping, great restaurants, bars and nightlife. In summary, a golf vacation in Miami is hard to beat.