For those subscribing to the media-fueled hysteria of the challenges facing the housing and credit markets, allow us to point out the positive. 

There’s upside to be found throughout the state of Florida, described by some as the “epicenter” of these market corrections:

A September report from Fishkind & Associates, one of Florida’s premier economic consulting firms, indicated that the state’s housing markets had stabilized. The Fed’s interest rate cuts in September helped kick-start an inventory reduction that will eventually restore market stability. The report further stated that in Orange County (Orlando area), existing home prices were actually on an upward trend.

Throughout Florida, both conventional and jumbo loans were readily available at highly competitive rates. According to Robert D. Ashby, a mortgage specialist in Pembroke Pines, rates had actually dropped on conventional loan packages. “There are many changes in the way we do mortgages … due to recent events,” said Ashby. “But keeping things in perspective shows that these changes will not bring the world to an end, (but) rather follow a cyclical pattern as it has in the past.”

In the Tampa area, the number of single-family listings continues to decrease and sales have subsequently stabilized. (continued) “Single-family home listings (have) gone down since March, which may indicate that overpriced homes are now removed from the market," said Ann Guiberson, president and CEO of the Pinellas Realtor Organization.

A study released in July by the University of Florida indicated that 95% of homeowners in the state believed that their home values would either increase or remain stable during the next five years. UF economists weren’t surprised. “The last time housing prices fell and didn’t recover within five years was during the Great Depression,” said Jonathan Hamilton, chairman of the university’s economics department.

The Bottom Line Florida remains a viable, attractive and prudent choice for those seeking a short-term getaway as well as a long-term investment or relocation opportunity. The selection has never been more diverse, and the values have never been greater.

This section has been divided into 6 sections:

• Northwest Florida (pg. 2)
• Northeast Florida (pg. 3)
• Central Florida (pg. 5)
• Southwest Florida (pg. 7)
• Southeast Florida (pg. 8)
• Multi-Regional (pg. 10)

Northwest

The sand doesn’t get any whiter, and the water…well, they don’t call it the Emerald Coast for nothing. Great golf, incredible charter fishing, year-round festivals…all embraced with a laid-back ambiance amid extraordinary natural beauty.
 

SANDESTIN GOLF & BEACH RESORT
In the sleepy, but stunningly beautiful coastal region of northwest Florida known as the Panhandle, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort opened in 1973 with one hotel and one golf course, idyllically sandwiched between Choctawhatchee Bay and one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

No longer a hidden gem, Sandestin has grown into a self-contained resort destination of extraordinary scope. Much of the expansion can be attributed to Intrawest, the Canadian firm best known for its upscale ski resorts throughout North America. Since its purchase of Sandestin in 1998, Intrawest has added a fourth golf course and the Village of Baytowne Wharf, a pedestrian-friendly waterfront complex with a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, resort amenities and services.

Sandestin now encompasses more than 2,400 acres, and the resort is so comprehensive in its offerings—1,800 lodging options, 38 restaurants, 7 bars and pubs, 48 retail stores, etc.—guests never have to leave the property. Nor do they need a car. A complimentary tram service is available to shuttle guests anywhere on property, including Sandestin’s four golf courses.

Having first brought national attention to the Panhandle as a golf destination, Sandestin has earned a reputation for delivering a nice mix of top-shelf golf at highly competitive rates. The Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed Raven Golf Club has hosted the PGA Champions Tour’s Boeing Championship at Sandestin since 2006. Brother Rees Jones is also represented with Burnt Pine, a mid-1990s design with extensive mounding and pot bunkers. The surrounding water is mostly aesthetic at Baytowne Golf Club, a Tom Jackson layout featuring junior tee boxes, but water comes more into play on The Links course, Jackson’s original course at Sandestin that plays directly on the bay.

As they like to say at Sandestin, “we’re off in our own little world.” But there’s nothing little, and certainly nothing insipid, about this special destination.

where Northwest Florida, between Pensacola and Panama City on the Gulf Coast Golf course architects Robert Trent Jones Jr., Rees Jones, Tom Jackson

amenities Four 18-hole golf courses; tennis courts of hard, natural grass and Hydrogrid clay surfaces; fitness center; salon and day spa; full-service marina; water sports; and more than seven miles of beach and bay frontage.

accommodations 1,800 condominiums, villas, townhomes, hotel rooms and suites.

packages Wide array of golf, tennis, romance, shopping, water sports and custom-designed packages available.

contact  877-870-5917; sandestin.com/links.aspx

 

 

TURNBERRY HARBOUR
Turnberry Ltd. has been in the development business long enough to understand the subtle, yet sweeping differences between selling someone a new home and transforming the way people live.

With 40 years and an impressive portfolio of upscale developments to its credit, the company is making a formidable impression on the Florida Panhandle with Turnberry Harbour. An exclusive development that offers prestige without pretension, Turnberry Harbour seems a perfect fit with Destin’s laid-back ambiance and extraordinary natural beauty.

Situated on 80 acres along the Choctawhatchee Bay, Turnberry Harbour will consist of several residential buildings and an array of amenities and services usually found at five-star resorts. The hub of activity will be a spacious and luxurious residents-only clubhouse, housing a spa and fitness center, tennis and swim club, and a restaurant offering both casual and fine dining. Winding through Turnberry Harbour are the pristine fairways of Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club with memberships available to Turnberry Harbour residents. 

Among the first residential offerings at Turnberry Harbour is a 19-story condominium tower with 24-hour valet service and security personnel as well as its own fitness center and lushly landscaped pool deck overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay. Designed to accommodate retirees seeking low-maintenance luxury or growing families on the way up, the 136 Tower suites range from just under 2,000 square feet to nearly 7,000 square-foot penthouses. The common denominator is an array of opulent appointments that include Snaidero “Certosa” Italian kitchen and bath cabinetry, Giallo Light granite kitchen and master bath countertops, Thermador appliances and expansive private balconies, many with summer kitchens. 

Turnberry Harbour also offers a unique maisonette option for those who prefer the exclusivity of a single-family home without the maintenance concerns. A pair of low-rise buildings each contains six residences that range from 2,728 to 3,483 square feet and offer the same lavish finishes as the Tower homes.

Service, quality and a legacy of excellence. A new level of luxury living has arrived in Destin, and while the pace may be somewhat slower at Turnberry Harbour, the standards are never relaxed.

where Destin, on the Florida Panhandle

amenities  34,500-square-foot clubhouse; spa and fitness center; tennis club; and casual and fine dining restaurants. Memberships are available to the adjacent Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club.

real estate  Condominium tower residences and maisonette building residences with prices ranging from the $900s to $2.5 million.

contact 850-650-4500; turnberryharbour.com

Northeast

From where it all began (St. Augustine) to the modern-day home of American golf (Ponte Vedra). The is an area bathed in history yet one that also features some of the state’s most lavish new resorts and private communities. An intriguing blend of past, present and future.

SAWMILL CREEK
If your idea of “going green” requires a sacrifice of creature comforts in the name of saving the environment, there is good news. Two words:  Sawmill Creek. Sawmill Creek is a 1,000-acre oasis in the heart of Palm Coast Park, a sprawling mixed-use development a couple of well-struck drives from the Atlantic beaches of Palm Coast. The community is testament to the peaceful co-existence of residential development and environmental preservation. The evidence is everywhere.

Sawmill Creek was built around, and named for, the Hulett Branch waterway that carried lumber from John Hewitt’s sawmill to the bustling seaport of St. Augustine during Colonial times. Much of the property remains as it did then, navigable today by an extensive system of trails that connect to Sawmill Creek’s amenities and, at designated points, extend beyond the community’s boundaries to a variety of parks and future adjoining retail shops and services.  

Sawmill Creek will be the first golf course designed by Jim Furyk with the assistance of renowned architect Michael Beebe. Certified by the Audubon Society as part of its Silver Signature Program, the course meanders through the natural landscape and topography as if it, too, has always been there. The Resident’s Club, the community hub and amenity center, is being built and certified under LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) guidelines, innovative standards for design and construction that use earth-friendly materials and reduce negative environmental impact.

This is all not to suggest, however, that Sawmill Creek will be more rustic retreat than lap of luxury. The range of amenities is impressive, with literally something for everyone. There are five distinctive styles of single-family homes from which to choose, designed to leverage the natural surroundings through the use of airy, open spaces and outdoor entertainment areas. Perhaps most impressive is that Sawmill Creek’s traditional master plan features several neighborhoods situated around an expansive village center with retail and commercial space, community parks and a K-8 school. Just outside the community are Crescent and Flagler beaches and historic St. Augustine.

Historically rich, environmentally sensitive, pedestrian friendly and eminently livable. Sawmill Creek sounds like a place to feel right at home.

where Palm Coast

amenities 18-hole golf course designed by Jim Furyk and Michael Beebe; golf clubhouse and extensive practice facilities; resident’s club with media room, billiards, fitness center, arts & crafts, internet café, outdoor spa, heated lap pool and super pool. 

real estate Homesites beginning in the $140s, with a variety of single-family styles and floor plans.

contact  866-868-4089, 386-445-2178; sawmillcreekfla.com

AMELIA NATIONAL
Destined to usher in a new tradition of prominence to Amelia Island, Amelia National Golf and Country Club is a private club community for the 21st century on many levels.

Amelia National was designed for those acquainted with, and appreciative of the world’s finest golf clubs. Yet while built upon the tenets of privacy and prestige, Amelia National also exudes a beach retreat atmosphere that speaks to the rich legacy of Amelia Island itself. Pampered leisure, if you will. Surrounded by remarkable natural beauty, exquisite homes and first-class amenities, Amelia National is a striking balance of sophistication, conviviality and blissful escape.

Noteworthy among those amenities is a Tom Fazio-designed golf course that is spread out over 215 acres of lush coastal forest. Fazio is no stranger to this area—he also did the private Long Point Club on Amelia Island—and he has created an outstanding members’ course at Amelia National. With a masterful routing and breathtaking vistas at virtually every turn, this is a course one could easily play for a lifetime.

Amelia National’s new clubhouse, an inspiring and warmly regal French Provincial design, is a masterpiece in its detail, from hand-glazed tiles to crystal chandeliers to the commanding views and vistas from virtually every window. Within this elegant setting is a casual camaraderie and conviviality—another nod to the grand tradition of golf’s best private clubs. Yet, the club caters to the non-golfer as well with an expansive pool complex, a state-of-the-art fitness area, three Har-Tru lighted tennis courts and a children’s play lot.

Indeed, life at Amelia National is abundant. But there’s more to this rewarding lifestyle than what’s contained within the community’s gates. The legendary charms of Amelia Island—its glorious ocean beaches, world-renowned sport fishing, and the restaurants, shops and art galleries of historic Fernandina Beach—are just minutes away. A bit further, but still easily accessible, are the myriad offerings of downtown Jacksonville: arts, culture, shopping, professional sports and an international airport just 30 minutes away.

Those interested in this idyllic opportunity can experience Amelia National first-hand, with a three-day, two-night stay at the nearby Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and a round of golf on the Fazio course. All it takes is a glimpse of this special sanctuary, where a long legacy of excellence is being elevated to new heights.

where Highway A1A (exit #373 off I-95) in Fernandina Beach, near Amelia Island

amenities 18 holes of golf designed by Tom Fazio, tennis, swimming pool with cabana bar, fitness club, children’s play area, and clubhouse with private dining and lounge areas.

A variety of memberships are available for both residents and non-residents. 

real estate Homesites with a variety of views, as well as home/homesite packages and custom homes designed by an exclusive collection of area builders.

contact 877-349-3516; amelianationalgolf.com

 

PLANTATION BAY
Contrary to conventional thought, you can please everyone. Or, at the very least, you can make a considerable commitment toward universal satisfaction.

Consider Plantation Bay, a thriving 3,650-acre community about an hour north of Orlando and just ten minutes from the Atlantic beaches. This is one of Florida’s most successful private communities, and for good reason. If there is such a thing as “quintessential” Florida living, Plantation Bay is its headquarters.

The community’s park-like setting lends itself to all things outdoors, but the natural beauty is rivaled only by the warmth and camaraderie of the people. Here’s a concept: the residents of Plantation Bay actually socialize with their neighbors, gathering for cocktails or card games at one of the two clubhouses, or working out together at the new fitness center. Members navigate their own private golf carts around three distinctly different 18-hole courses, or enjoy a little friendly competition at the tennis center. At times, an entire group of these jovial souls will venture down roads flanked by palms and old oaks to the historic town of Ormond Beach, where John D. Rockefeller and family wintered for nearly twenty years.

Plantation Bay offers a special three day/two night package that includes accommodations, golf, tennis and meals for $399 per couple. Not surprising, most folks who visit usually want to stay for good. ICI Homes is eager to please with myriad housing choices at Plantation Bay that include club home villas with courtyards, town homes, single-family homes and estates. In other words, something for everyone.

where Ormond Beach on Florida’s East Central Coast, between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach.

amenities Three private country clubs with 54 holes of golf; two full-service clubhouses with restaurants and lounges; new spa and fitness center; tennis, swimming; bike paths and walking trails.

real estate  Homes and townhomes from the $300s .

contact  877-604-1280; plantationbaygolf.com

AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION
There is a legacy of master-planned development along the East Coast, conceived in the mid-1950s by Charles Fraser at Hilton Head Island’s Sea Pines Plantation, in which development was done in concert with, and not intrusive upon, its natural surroundings. It was a revolutionary concept, and one which literally set a standard for master-planned communities around the world.

Fraser’s thumbprint was ultimately cast on Amelia Island Plantation and, more than 35 years after its creation, the north Florida development remains a model of the harmonious marriage between man and nature.

Maintaining a delicate balance between its residential and resort communities, Amelia Island remains as alluring as ever. Acres of pristine wetlands, miles of Atlantic shoreline and canopies of century-old oaks serve as a backdrop for some of the finest amenities anywhere—72 holes of golf, including oceanfront holes designed by Pete Dye and Tom Fazio; a full-service spa; the prestigious Amelia Island Club; and the new Amelia Island Plantation Golf School.

Amelia’s residential mix is equally enticing; an array of homesites and villas to multi-million dollar homes, in neighborhoods where old friends congregate and new generations are welcomed as stewards of a truly extraordinary lifestyle.

where  Amelia Island, approximately 30 miles north of Jacksonville

amenities 72 holes of golf designed by Pete Dye, Bobby Weed, Tom Fazio and Tom Jackson; Amelia Island Plantation Golf School; Racquet Park with 23 Har-Tru tennis courts; full-service spa; nature and recreation programs; shopping and dining; and the private Amelia Island Club, with all resort amenities, oceanfront clubhouse, swimming and dining.

accommodations  Amelia Inn & Beach Club with 249 rooms; one- to three-bedroom villas.

real estate Homesites, homes and villas in a variety of settings beginning in the $300s.

contact 866-218-5259; aipfl.com

Central

Yes, it has the world’s most popular family destination. But venture outside of Orlando and discover quaint river towns, natural springs, rolling hills and miles of pristine waterways that flow all the way to the Gulf of Mexico’s Nature Coast.

SOLIVITA
There are residential communities created for “active adults,” and there are those where boundless activity is simply a way of life. The latter is exemplified at Solivita, and the Central Florida community shows no signs of slowing down.

One of Florida’s best-selling communities for those 55 or better, Solivita’s combination of amenities, services and programs makes every day a new adventure. Its Mediterranean-style Village Center is alive with activity from art workshops to yoga classes. Outdoors, the property’s lush 4,000-plus acres features stocked lakes, two championship golf courses, bocce ball courts and softball field. Scheduled to open in December is The Palms, a stunning 19,000-square-foot complex with fitness and aerobics studios, lap and splash pools, spas and activity courts.  

Equally vibrant are the neighborhoods of Solivita, where the homes further reflect the community’s Mediterranean flair. Thirteen distinct Model Homes offer a variety of floor plans, and monthly homeowner fees include lawn service and landscape maintenance. Plus the Grand Opening of four new furnished models in the Courtyards at Montlena. The Courtyards, one of Solivita’s newest product lines, has single-family homes attached on one side.

Solivita offers a special “Discovery Days” package for those interested in this post-55 paradise. Just get plenty of rest beforehand.

where  Poinciana, approx. 30 minutes south of Orlando

amenities  Two 18-hole golf courses and clubhouse at Stonegate Golf Club; Village Center with Riviera Spa and Fitness Center, social and arts activities and two restaurants; The Palms amenity complex (slated to open in December) with clubhouse, fitness center, aerobics studio, swimming pools, spas and sports courts; fishing and boating; walking paths; and softball field. 

real estate  Detached and attached single-family homes from the upper $100s to over $500,000.

contact  877-889-7098; solivita.com

 

HARBOR HILLS
Water is one of the alluring aspects of the Florida lifestyle, and it’s not limited to the coasts. Central Florida is noteworthy for its pristine lakes, and the abundance afforded by these freshwater gems is on full display at Harbor Hills.  

It doesn’t take long to understand why Harbor Hills is unique among country club communities in the Sunshine State. An array of beautiful homes, a luxurious clubhouse and lush fairways overlook Lake Griffin, one of the largest lakes in the state. Connected with eight other lakes in the Lake Harris Chain and accessible to the Atlantic via the St. Johns River, Lake Griffin lends an unparalleled ambiance to Harbor Hills as well as being a recreational wonderland.  

Also noteworthy is the elegant, two-story Georgian- style clubhouse, the centerpiece of the community and a hub of social activity. The club overlooks a Lloyd Clifton-designed golf course with a rolling topography that enhances the views of the lake.  An active membership conducts an extensive slate of events (including its own version of the Ryder Cup).

The new Bella Vista enclave is set atop the highest point in Harbor Hills, featuring oak-lined streets and homesites overlooking the golf course and Lake Griffin. With a variety of home styles created by Affiniti Architects—well known for its homes in Fisher Island, Coconut Grove and Coral Gables—as well as the option for custom homes, Harbor Hills is the epitome of the Florida country club lifestyle with a twist. Or, more appropriately, a splash.

where  Lady Lake, about an hour north of Orlando

amenities  18-hole semi-private golf course designed by Lloyd Clifton; 35,000-square-foot lakefront clubhouse; fitness center, indoor racquetball court, junior Olympic pool, lighted Har-Tru tennis courts and tournament stadium court; and 12-slip marina on Lake Griffin.

real estate  Lake-view and golf-front homes from the $300s to more than $1 million.

contact  800-822-5558, 352-753-8700; harborhills.com

GLENLAKES
When looking for value in a Florida home, it’s wise to begin with what is outside as opposed to inside. A great place to start is Central Florida’s Nature Coast, and perhaps the best place to finish is GlenLakes Golf & Country Club.

A private gated community, GlenLakes’ emphasis on conservation and low density complements one of the state’s most pristine landscapes. This is an area where water reigns supreme in both quality and quantity. GlenLakes is surrounded by spring-fed lakes, pristine rivers, and miles of state- owned nature preserves. And the Gulf beaches are just a short drive away.

Within this Eden-like setting, GlenLakes offers a vibrant, adult-oriented club lifestyle centered on a spectacular 35,000-square-foot clubhouse with pool, tennis courts, fitness room, restaurants and lots of social activities. A Ron Garl-designed golf course offers impeccable greens and is accommodating to all skill levels.

GlenLakes offers a broad mix of lifestyle options, with an array of home plans that can be customized to the owner’s specifications. All residences are of impeccable quality and include standard features normally found in higher-priced homes. And GlenLakes is close enough, yet peacefully secluded from metro Tampa, in an area largely unaffected by traffic or crime, but abundant in natural beauty and serenity. That’s a value proposition that money can’t buy!

where  Florida’s west coast, three miles from Weeki Wachee, just north of Tampa and west of Orlando. 

amenities  18-hole golf course designed by Ron Garl; clubhouse with pool, clay tennis courts, fitness room, restaurants, banquet facilities and social activities.

real estate  New golf course homesites from $100s to $175s; lakefront homesites from $175s to $250s. Maintenance-free homes (homesites not included, priced from $50,000) start at $240,000; custom estate homes (homesites not included, priced from $54,000) start at $329,000.

contact  800-222-9003; glenlakes.com

 

TERRA VISTA
Florida’s draw as a retirement destination for aging baby boomers bodes well for those developers who can proactively anticipate the needs and desires of potential owners. A case in point is Terra Vista of Citrus Hills, a country club community that has clearly been positioned ahead of the curve.  

The rolling hills of Central West Florida are an attractive change of pace, offering a Carolinas-like setting with Florida’s temperate year-round climate. In this setting—where elevations can rise up to 250 feet—Terra Vista offers an upscale community with an extensive array of amenities and a housing mix that is as varied as any gated community in the state. And the community is virtually surrounded by water, from Florida’s “Nature Coast” along the Gulf of Mexico to the Silver Lake Recreation Area and Weeki Wachee Springs. 

The developers of Terra Vista eschewed pricey signature golf courses and instead opted for three solid and well-maintained layouts that can accommodate novices and low handicappers alike. Recently opened is an expansive 42,000-square-foot BellaVita Spa & Fitness Center. Perhaps most importantly, the amenity centers at Terra Vista are run by a team of experienced managers whose primary objective is providing an unparalleled level of member service.

The personal touch is extended to Terra Vista’s real estate operations as well. The community is actually divided into several gated neighborhoods, each reflecting a distinct character and housing options from maintenance-free villas to palatial estate homes. There are more than 20 models from which to choose, but all can be customized to meet the owner’s individual preferences.

It’s a degree of flexibility rarely found in master planned communities. And it’s why you hear Terra Vista residents constantly describe their experience with words like “leadership,” “professional” and “honesty.” Now that’s thinking ahead of the curve.

where  Citrus County on Florida’s Gulf Coast, north of Tampa

amenities  Three golf courses, two tennis centers, three clubhouses with restaurants and lounges; new spa and fitness center.

real estate  Single-family homes and detached maintained homes priced from the mid-$300s to the $900s.

contact   800-511-0814; citrushills.com

MYSTIC DUNES RESORT & GOLF CLUB
There’s a delicate balance to be maintained when serving as a highly regarded family resort and a reputable golf resort. Orlando’s Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club has handled the task admirably.

Mystic Dunes certainly has the family angle well covered. Carved from rolling orange groves and native protected wetlands, the resort encompasses more than 600 acres and offers a wide array of resort amenities and services. The spacious, well-appointed villas comfortably accommodate broods large and small. In fact, in addressing the de rigueur requirements of family travel—space, convenience and service—Mystic Dunes is as good as it gets. The Walt Disney World® Resort is just two miles away, and the seemingly endless array of other Central Florida attractions and activities are easily accessible as well. 

Golfers will find plenty to like here as well, first and foremost being the highly rated Mystic Dunes Golf Club. With 80-foot elevation changes, rolling sand dunes, mature oaks and large wetland areas, the Gary Koch-designed course offers two distinctly different nines. The "Lowcountry" style front nine is reminiscent of classic Carolina courses, meandering through native wetlands and marsh areas, and bordering oak and cypress forests. The back nine features the characteristics of a British Isles links course, with extensive perimeter mounding and pot bunkers, and lush, rolling fairways. Mystic Dunes Golf Club also features a 60,000-square-foot practice facility and a clubhouse featuring the resort’s signature restaurant, Kenzie’s Steak House…a tribute to legendary golf course designer Dr. Alister MacKenzie.

With a variety of packages and activities, one can be as active as desired at Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club from exhilarating golf to fun in the sun at one of the four resort pools, bike riding or simply strolling the lushly landscaped grounds. Or perhaps just sit back in front of your big-screen television, sip lemonade and wonder how one place can do everything this well.

where Orlando

accommodations  717 villa accommodations in one-, two- and three-bedroom configurations.

amenities  18 holes at Mystic Dunes Golf Club, designed by Gary Koch; four resort pools including the newly expanded Dunes Lagoon water recreation area; tennis, basketball, miniature golf, and a wide range of resort activities and activity packages; on-site dining. 

contact  877-747-4747; mystic-dunes-resort.com

Southeast

Nicknamed the Gold Coast, and for good reason: The Palm Beach area has been regarded for centuries as the state’s home of exclusivity, wealth and culture. Today, Old Florida sophistication blends with a stimulating metropolitan dynamic to make this area as fashionable as ever. 

MARINER SANDS
Unlike the glitz and glamour of neighboring Palm Beach, the city of Stuart stands out for its refreshing charm, historic downtown district and scenic St. Lucie River shoreline. Equally alluring is the country club community of Mariner Sands, a testament to the laid-back lifestyle of the Sunshine State. 

Its Treasure Coast location brings ocean breezes into play on Mariner Sands’ pair of 18-hole courses, recently renovated designs from Tom Fazio and longtime Palmer associate Frank Duane. There’s also a new 31-station driving range and short game practice area. With less than 500 golf members, Mariner Sands affords the rare commodity of uncrowded conditions, and this leisurely ambiance pervades the club’s excellent fitness and tennis centers as well as its award-winning dining room.

In fact, the community as a whole has retained a low-density ambiance notably absent from other established developments in the region. Teeming with mature tropical landscaping, shimmering lakes and emerald fairways, Mariner Sands is a Treasure Coast gem for those seeking a slice of classic Florida living.

where  Stuart, on the Treasure Coast

amenities  Two golf courses designed by Tom Fazio and Frank Duane; nine Har-Tru tennis courts (seven lighted); swimming pool; clubhouse with fitness center, pool and dining.

real estate  Cottages, patio homes, condos, detached homes and custom-built homes from the $250s to more than $1 million.

contact 877-283-0203, 772-221-7300; marinersands.com

 

PERFECT DRIVE VILLAS AT PGA VILLAGE
For those who regard the “perfect” golf trip as 36 holes a day with brief interludes for food and sleep, we’ve got just the place.

The aptly named Perfect Drive Golf Villas at PGA Village offer spacious two- and three-bedroom, fully furnished villas and town homes, and are about a driver and a wedge from a truly legendary venue. PGA Village features three terrific 18-hole courses designed by Tom Fazio and Pete Dye (both Fazio courses were renovated in 2006; the Dye Course reopened in October following its own renovation). The Village is also the home to the PGA Historical Museum, a memorable shrine to the history of professional golf, as well as the expansive PGA Learning Center, one of the largest teaching and practice facilities in the U.S.

The Perfect Drive Villas are, well, perfect for stays from a weekend to a month, with many offering magnificent golf course views. There’s also a six-hole short course open from dawn to dusk (free of charge), three restaurants in PGA Village, and a wide variety of attractions and amenities just outside the Village in Port St. Lucie.

where  Port St. Lucie

amenities  54 holes of championship golf designed by Tom Fazio and Pete Dye; a six-hole short course; PGA Learning Center; PGA Historical Museum; swimming pool; tennis; walking trails; nearby restaurants, lounges and attractions.

packages  Fall Packages from $346.50 per person including two nights, two rounds and breakfast. Please call for availability and more information. 

contact 877-805-7113; perfectdrivevillas.com

SAILFISH POINT
As luxury real estate goes, Sailfish Point has a legacy without peer. More than two decades after being unveiled by Mobil Land Development, this ultra-private enclave continues to astound with its almost incomprehensible beauty.

Sailfish Point is situated on a stunning spit of land at the southernmost end of Hutchinson Island, just off the coast from Stuart in Southeast Florida. Enveloped by the St. Lucie Inlet, the Indian River and the Atlantic, the community has 520 residences, a posh oceanfront clubhouse, and a 77-slip deepwater marina. But the main attraction to Sailfish Point has always been its golf course, with perhaps none more smitten with the property than Jack Nicklaus.

Nicklaus was still actively playing–five years before his legendary win at the ‘86 Masters, his last major—when he crafted the original Sailfish Point 18-hole course, one of his first solo designs. After 25 years of wear and tear from wind, sand and sea, Sailfish Point members came calling for a restoration in 2005, and Nicklaus was more than happy to return.  

“The changes that were made to this course, though they focused heavily on aesthetics, have enhanced the beauty and the playability of this course tremendously,” said Victor Tortorici, director of golf at Sailfish Point. “With every hole replaced and re-greened, the course looks refreshed. It’s constantly changing. It’s a different course every day.”

The restoration of Sailfish Point wraps up this fall, with much of the work involving topographic enhancement. By creating some refreshing elevation changes and reconfiguring much of the bunkering, Nicklaus has added an exciting new character to the course that complements its spectacular setting. Many holes view all three surrounding bodies of water, and ponds and canals come into play on 15 holes.

It’s not an experience shared by the masses. Sailfish Point has just 320 golf members, all of whom own property within the community, and membership itself runs into six figures. But such is the nature of Sailfish Point, which embarks on its next 25 years as close to perfection as ever.

where  On the southern tip of Hutchinson Island, between the St. Lucie Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean, north of Palm Beach.

amenities  18-hole Signature golf course by Jack Nicklaus, eight Har-Tru tennis courts, full-service deepwater marina and 60,000-square-foot oceanfront clubhouse.

real estate  Oceanfront condominiums, riverfront townhomes, single-family villas and estate homes from $800,000.

contact  772-225-6200; sailfishpoint.com

Southwest

The elegant style of Naples and all of the trappings of this privileged playground—flawless beaches, outstanding golf courses, posh resorts, and a thriving arts environment. And yet, this bastion of culture is just minutes from Florida’s most untamed resource, the Everglades.

 

THE NAPLES BEACH HOTEL & GOLF CLUB
As a teenager Michael Watkins spent his summers washing dishes and busing tables at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. Such is the nature of a family-run business; everyone young and old has a role.

Today, Michael serves as president of the venerable Gulf Coast landmark, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and father. The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has grown dramatically since Henry Broadwell Watkins Sr. bought the old Naples Hotel in 1946. What hasn’t changed is the Watkins family’s attention to detail and dedication to guest service, a 60-year standard that has never wavered.

Indeed, the family’s investment runs deep in this beachfront landmark. Millions of dollars have been spent to enhance the resort. A six-year, $40 million enhancement and expansion was completed in 2006. Today, the Naples Beach Hotel reflects the ambiance of a relaxed, yet refined Florida beach house. And it’s the only beachfront Southwest Florida resort with its own on-site 18-hole golf course, spa and tennis center.

It’s no surprise that many guests who vacationed here as children often return with their own kids, greeted by some of the same employees. At The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, they’re all part of the family.

where  Beachfront, in the heart of Olde Naples

amenities  18-hole championship golf course; tennis center; spa; miles of white sand beaches and beachfront swimming pool; fitness center; supervised children’s activity program; an Orchid House; seven restaurants and lounges.

accommodations  318 rooms and suites

contact  888-271-1456, 239-261-2222; naplesbeachhotel.com

 

WILDCAT RUN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Every January, a special legion of men gather to take up a long-standing fight in the name of its legendary leader. It’s far from a military action, but for the gentlemen golfers of Wildcat Run Golf & Country Club, the cause is just as noble.

Banding together as Arnie’s Army, the collective holds its annual fund-raising tournament in the fight against prostate cancer. As for Arnold Palmer himself, the cause and the host site are both near and dear. Palmer has rallied his “Armies” nationwide to raise millions of dollars for prostate cancer research and prevention. And Wildcat Run is Palmer’s first Southwest Florida design and one of his finest courses in the state, a parkland-style beauty immersed in majestic palms and tall pines, cypress preserves and sparkling lakes.

You don’t have to be a golf legend to fall in love with Wildcat Run. Nestled within a gated community of just 514 acres, Wildcat Run epitomizes the ambiance and style of a traditional country club. In addition to great golf, the member-owned club offers outstanding tennis and fitness programs, fine and casual dining under the direction of Executive Chef Greg Grattarola, and a warm, embracing environment that’s fit for, and in celebration of, a King.

where  Estero, between Naples and Fort Myers

amenities 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer; full-service clubhouse with dining, tennis and fitness. 

real estate  Homesites, villas, carriage homes and estate homes are available beginning in the $300s.

contact 239-947-6066; wildcatruncc.comGREY OAKS COUNTRY CLUB
Preserving a family’s legacy takes on an entirely new dimension when you live in Southwest Florida and bear the name “Collier.” But Judy Collier Sproul has handled the duty quite admirably. In fact, the imprint that she has made throughout Grey Oaks Country Club is nothing short of extraordinary.

The granddaughter of pioneering landowner and businessman Baron Collier, Sproul has meticulously created a private club community that is exquisitely understated, yet one that flirts with perfection at almost every turn. Having overseen every detail of Grey Oaks since development began in 1990, Sproul has ensured that the family’s century-old dedication to the Naples area will remain intact for generations to come.

Grey Oaks reflects the quiet sophistication of the Naples lifestyle, but it also raises the bar within Florida’s ultra-luxury residential market. And it’s all in the details. Linear parks line the main roads, roadways are elevated so golf carts may pass beneath and existing canals have been scalloped into the property creating islands and vistas.

The club’s array of amenities is centered on 54 outstanding holes of golf: 36 holes by Clifton, Ezell, Clifton resplendent with the area’s lush tropical foliage, and a terrific 18-hole signature design by Bob Cupp within the private Estuary enclave. There’s also an 18-hole putting course built to USGA specifications and as immaculately maintained as the regulation courses.

Grey Oaks also offers tennis, swimming and an expansive fitness facility as well as a children’s playground and junior golf program. These youth-oriented amenities, coupled with proximity to exceptional private and public schools, makes Grey Oaks Country Club as suitable to families as retirees.

The neighborhoods of Grey Oaks are another testament to Sproul’s meticulous planning. Using several different homebuilders, she nurtured each phase of the development and created neighborhoods with their own distinct character, subtly hidden from the main thoroughfares.

Unveiled this year was Traditions, The Golf Residences at Grey Oaks, an elegant offering of spacious coach homes that include a full golf equity membership. Adjacent new neighborhoods of Miramonte and Torino, as well as the Villa neighborhoods of Estuary at Grey Oaks, all feature exceptionally crafted and spacious homes. And custom estate homes located throughout the community represent the stylish grace of the Naples lifestyle—one with which Sproul is eminently familiar.

It was Baron Collier’s vision that transformed this area and laid the foundation for the luxurious lifestyle enjoyed at Grey Oaks Country Club. It’s the sense of place created at Grey Oaks by Judy Collier Sproul that will carry forth this rich tradition for generations to come.

where  Just north of Golden Gate Parkway on Airport Pulling Road in Naples

amenities  Three 18-hole golf courses, an 18-hole putting course, two clubhouses, tennis center, fitness center, and swimming pool.

real estate  Luxury villas and detached single-family homes from just under $1 million to more than $7 million.

contact  239-262-5557, 800-294-2426; greyoaks.com

 

TREVISO BAY
The prestige associated with a Tournament Players Club facility brings an enhanced credibility to its host community or resort. Treviso Bay in Naples has risen above its competitive set with championship caliber golf, but its TPC affiliation is just one of the elements that give the community its world-class pedigree.

In a market largely defined by a long-standing tradition of style and sophistication, Treviso Bay is Naples’ first lifestyle community; a community for the 21st century. True, it features the only TPC facility in Southwest Florida. But while golf is very special here, Treviso Bay is more about lifestyle. The differences are noteworthy. From the beginning, Treviso Bay was designed around the needs and desires of Baby Boomers and their families rather than retirees or empty nesters. In addition, there are two contiguous commercial components that will offer the residents an array of upscale services. Unlike many of the other country club communities on the perimeter of the metro area, Treviso Bay is a true Naples address, just minutes from the historic Downtown District and private jetport—a definite advantage for commuters. And the entire amenity program at Treviso Bay was strategically planned for both young and old, from the expansive club and spa facility and full-service marina to the adjacent 110,000-acre Rookery National Estuarine Reserve.

And, of course, there’s the golf program. Managed by PGA TOUR Golf Course Properties, Treviso Bay comes to the table with impressively high standards for golf course conditions, club amenities and personalized service. Arthur Hills and PGA TOUR Player Consultant Hal Sutton collaborated on TPC Treviso Bay’s “core” design; where there is no real estate encroaching the layout’s interior. The result is a course that’s strong enough to challenge the best players in the world—securing a TOUR event is on the Treviso Bay agenda—yet one that is comfortable for players of all ages and abilities. The same accommodations were made in the club’s extensive practice areas. And perhaps best of all, walking is allowed and encouraged—another welcome departure from the standard golf community norm.  

Price points at Treviso Bay are understandably at the top of the luxury market, but the housing mix caters to style preferences and lifestyle needs ranging from low maintenance coach homes to luxury tower residences.

A total of 1,200 residences are planned. And while only 385 can enjoy the benefits of Golf Membership at TPC Treviso Bay, the rewards of ownership within this special community—one which is filled with amenities for the non-golfer as well—are extensive and enviable.

where  Minutes from downtown Naples

amenities 18-hole TPC Treviso Bay; 55,000-square-foot golf clubhouse; a 33,000-square-foot multi-purpose lifestyle center, fitness club and spa with multiple swimming pools; marina club with access to the Gulf of Mexico; commercial centers with retail stores and professional services; adjacent Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. 

real estate  Grand villas, attached villas, coach homes, executive homes, custom estate homes and tower residences, with prices range from the $700s to more than $5 million.

contact  239-643-1414, trevisobay.com; tpc.com

 

Multi-Regional

ULTIMATE RESORT
It’s always fascinating to read about a person who starts a company because they couldn’t find exactly the right product or service to meet their own needs. Such is the story of Jim Tousignant, founder and CEO of Ultimate Resort.

In Tousignant’s case, he was looking to join a destination club and became intrigued at the business model and the myriad choices that existed. What he also found was a need for a club that was positioned as a great value, one accessible to anyone who enjoyed luxury travel. He believed that combining outrageous customer service and experiences with great value and flexibility was the recipe for success. And he was right.

True to its name, Ultimate Resort delivers a truly unparalleled value proposition to club members. This is everything that one would expect from a destination club: an incredible selection of destinations with world-class amenities, impeccable service and elegant accommodations. But Tousignant has upped the ante even higher with Ultimate Resort. Members have a warranty that assures them of generous and flexible availability. More benefits and less blackouts, in other words. Members can change membership plans annually as their travel needs change, and membership privileges can be shared with members of your extended family.

Ultimate Resort offers 25 resort and metropolitan locations throughout the U.S., Mexico, Europe and the Caribbean. Soon, following the recent $200 million merger with Private Escapes, the new combined company will boast 50 destinations, 140 homes and 1,200 members.

Premier golf destinations in Naples, Orlando and Palm Beach are included in the club’s portfolio as well as Kiawah Island, S.C., La Quinta, Calif., Scottsdale, Ariz., and Maui, Hawaii. In fact, all of the club’s destinations—including those in the Caribbean and Mexico, as well as Mountain locations such as

Telluride, Vail and Park City—offer access to championship golf. Whatever the destination, an Ultimate Concierge will arrange everything from tee times to spa appointments and dinner reservations.

While Ultimate Resort primarily draws families and couples for leisure use, interest is growing from singles who use the club to travel with friends, and from companies who offer use to employees and clients as incentives. Whatever the market, whatever the destination… Ultimate Resort can transform a vacation into a unique and unforgettable experience.

what members-only luxury destination club

locations  variety of luxuriously appointed residences in 50 resort and metropolitan locations throughout the U.S., Mexico, Europe and the Caribbean.  

services  The Club provides both a Member Services team and an on-site Ultimate Concierge at every destination to make all arrangements, reservations, etc.

memberships  Ultimate Resort offers two distinct destination clubs, Ultimate Resort and Ultimate Resort ELITE, each with five tiers of membership.

contact  877-955-1900;  ultimateresort.com

 

TEE TIMES USA
The new paradigm for booking a golf vacation involves accessibility, convenience and service, and none provide true one-stop shopping in Florida quite as effectively as Tee Times USA.

The leader in custom golf vacations and advanced tee times, Tee Times USA has unveiled a comprehensive new website, teetimesusa.com, that elevates its stature as “the” source for information and reservations throughout the Sunshine State. Quickly and easily book tee times at more than 300 golf courses throughout the state as well as all-inclusive packages at hotels and resorts, from five-star hotels to vacation villas and condominiums. They’ll even handle your rental car reservations.

If you’re simply seeking information on Florida’s world-class golf vacations, Tee Times USA is the No. 1 resource to get complete, unbiased information. Tee Times USA also handles reservations for groups of all sizes.

From the Panhandle to South Beach, Naples to Jacksonville, Tee Times USA is the one stop for the perfect Florida golf getaway.

what  Full-service golf reservations center specializing in custom Florida golf vacation packages and advanced tee time reservations via telephone or internet.

services  Advance tee times at 300+ Florida golf courses and all-inclusive golf packages at courses and resorts throughout the state.

resources  Toll-free reservation center staffed by golf specialists; 24-hour interactive website offering comprehensive information on courses and packages, special offers, and free, no-hassle quotes.

group capabilities  A special group desk specializes in travel plans for golf groups of all sizes.

contact  800-374-8633; teetimesusa.com