Another must-do activity on any Florida vacation is to play a round — or two, or three — on an impeccably manicured golf course. and the Space coast’s delightful half-dozen courses don’t disappoint. For details and deals, visit the Florida Space Coast Golf Association website, spacecoastgolf.com, or call one of the Golf Vacation packages specialists at 866- 745-4735. featuring properties like the golf-centric Holiday Inn Viera (holidayinn.com, 321-255-0077), situated between the Duran and Viera east golf clubs, and the welcoming Hampton Inn Titusville (hamptoninn.com, 321- 383-9191), they’re sure to find the perfect package for your Space coast getaway. For those looking for an ocean view, consider the Crowne Plaza (cpmelbourne.com, 321-799- 4100) in melbourne Beach, Hilton cocoa Beach oceanfront (hiltoncocoabeach.com, 321-799-0003), or ron Jon cape caribe (ronjonresort.com, 321-799-4900) in Cape Canaveral.
The Cocoa Beach Country Club enjoys a prime location overlooking the Banana river lagoon. Open to the public, the club has three ninehole courses — river, Dolphin and lakes — that can be played in three 18-hole combinations. in addition to stunning views, the cocoa Beach country club also offers golf-cart rentals, a driving range, a snack bar and a pro shop.
golfcocoabeach.com, 321-868-3361
In the master-planned community of Viera — where the Washington nationals conduct their spring training — you’ll find the Duran Golf Club. Built on what was once a sod farm, Duran boasts 18 holes of championshipcaliber golf that will provide a worthy test for golfers of all levels. the club also offers golfers ample opportunity to sharpen their game at the 30-acre Development center and the academy of Golf.
durangolf.com, 321-504-7776
Also in Viera, the Viera East Golf Club offers 18 championship-quality holes on a course designed by noted golf-course architect — and native son — Joe lee. after you’ve tested your skills on the scenic but challenging course, stop in at mulligan’s Grill for refreshments, a relaxing lunch or an early dinner; breakfast is also available.
vieragolf.com, 321-639-6500
As its name implies, The Habitat in Valkaria is a haven for florida fauna as well as golfers. as a certified audubon cooperative Sanctuary, the 18-hole course delivers both a championship golfing experience and plenty of opportunities to spot native birds such as sandhill cranes and scrub jays. laid out to take advantage of the site’s natural beauty, the Habitat provides a sense of serenity and solitude.
golfthehabitat.com, 321-952-6312
Merritt island’s The Savannahs is also a certified audubon cooperative Sanctuary as well as a challenging 18-hole championship course. Situated along a hardwood forest and graced with a variety of water features, the course attracts a wealth of water birds, including ibis and cranes. But don’t let nature sightings distract you from the task at hand, particularly the seventh hole, which has been rated one of central florida’s hardest holes to play.
golfthesavannahs.com, 321-455-1375
A bit closer to Orlando, Wedgefield Golf Club is a local favorite. its 18 holes, bordered by moss-draped cypress trees, provide variety and command your attention and skill — especially the last four. A driving range and putting green offer opportunities to practice, and there’s also a pro shop and restaurant.
wedgefieldgolf.com, 800-573-3118
