Having spent some time in South Florida working as a golf professional, I know how popular this part of the country can be for golf during the winter. Every year we would see a spike in our population from the cold northern parts of the country and the main reason was the great weather.

Realistically, Florida can be divided into three major areas: Northern, Central and Southern. Each section of the state has distinctive golf courses and attractions. I have a personal bias toward the Central part of the state only because it is home to the Disney World Resort. What can I say - I am a kid at heart!

The golf courses in Florida are well maintained and feature large bunkers and deep water hazards, not surprising for a state that's bordered on three sides by water. The winter season is the perfect time to visit this state as the temperatures are mild and the humidity is low. With over 1,000 golf courses to choose from it can be tough to select the best that you can play. Here is my list of favorite golf courses from around the state. Check one of them out on your next trip to the Sunshine State.

1. Pine Barrens Course at World Woods - This distinctive golf course is fashioned after Pine Valley in New Jersey. Large sand traps and tall pines highlight this fantastic golf course.

2. Bay Hill Golf Club - Home annually to the Arnold Palmer golf tournament on the PGA Tour. The few times I have played it the golf course was in great shape and was much more difficult than how it is depicted on TV. Also take a shot from the Robert Gamez plate on the 18th hole.

3. Delray Beach Golf Club - Located in South Florida this golf course was designed by Donald Ross and is a treat to play. Built in 1923, the course is not to long at only 6900 yards, but it will certainly test all aspects of your game.

4. The Blue Course at Doral - This is one of the favorite annual stops on the PGA Tour among the players. For years golfers have been trying to tame the 18th hole on this wonderful golf course. Why not give it a try yourself?

5. Ballantrae Golf and Yacht Club - Located a short drive from Palm Beach, this Jack Nicklaus-designed track meanders its way through rugged swampland and is always in good shape. Be sure to be sharp with your high, floating long irons.

During the winter the golf courses in Florida are busy so you should plan on booking your reservations early. There is really nothing in the United States that can compare to the winter temperatures and outdoor fun you can have in Florida.

Also check out these fantastic Florida golf courses:

• Legends Golf & Country Club
• Westchase Golf Club
• Celebration Golf Club
• Amelia Island Plantation
• The Biltmore Golf Resort
• PGA National Resort and Spa
• Saddlebrook Resort

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