Last updated August 19, 2026
Snapshot
- World Golf Village St. Augustine is a golf destination on Florida's First Coast, home to championship courses designed by the game's legends near historic St. Augustine.
- Play the two signature courses, King & Bear, the world's only course co-designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, and Slammer & Squire, Bobby Weed's par-72 threading through native flatwoods.
- Stay near the fairways at the World Golf Village Renaissance, Hilton Vacation Club or Homewood Suites, all within reach of both courses.
- Base yourself downtown at the Renaissance Historic Downtown, Casa Monica Resort & Spa or Hilton Historic Bayfront, close to Matanzas Bay dining and galleries.
- Head to the coast at Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach for oceanfront suites or Sawgrass Marriott in nearby Ponte Vedra Beach.
If golf had a hometown, World Golf Village would be it. Just off Florida’s First Coast, between Jacksonville and historic St. Augustine, World Golf Village is where legendary course designers and storied fairways link up (no pun intended).
Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen all left their mark here, crafting courses that challenge the seasoned player and thrill newcomers alike.
Think sunlit lakes that mirror perfectly manicured greens, loblolly pines that frame strategic bunkers, and the whispers of history that drift in from nearby cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture.
Every round feels like playing through golf history. And with beaches, galleries and centuries-old forts close at hand, St. Augustine keeps the focus on the game without sacrificing character. Take a look below at the courses that define this crown jewel of a golf getaway.
World Golf Village St. Augustine: Tee Time, Your Way
From the strategic precision of Nicklaus to Palmer’s airy, links-inspired design, the fairways at World Golf Village offer challenges and surprises for every skill level.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or soaking in the scenery, these are the two must-play courses that place World Golf Village St. Augustine on the map.
King & Bear
The King & Bear golf course is a nod to the men behind the design. Arnold Palmer, long known simply as “The King,” and Jack Nicklaus, whose “Golden Bear” nickname followed him throughout his career. This is the only course in the world, by the way, co-designed by these two legends.
The front nine channels Palmer’s fast greens, while the back nine embodies Nicklaus’s trademark precision, with loblolly pines, coquina rock and water hazards that keep you honest. Renovated with meticulous care, King & Bear stretches 7,279 yards and rewards both strategic thinkers and those who like to let the driver fly.
Slammer & Squire
Slammer & Squire honors Sam “The Slammer” Snead and Gene “The Squire” Sarazen, two Hall of Famers whose combined 14 major championships helped define modern golf. Bobby Weed’s par-72 design threads through native flatwoods, hardwood hammocks and carefully preserved wetlands, creating a course that feels both challenging and in harmony with the landscape.
Tricky par-3s and subtly rolling terrain make it clear why this course consistently earns high praise. The back nine treats players to sweeping views of the World Golf Village towers, a reminder that history and contemporary design coexist beautifully here.
World Golf Village St. Augustine: Where to Stay
Get ready to pack your clubs and explore America’s oldest city. We’ve rounded up eight exceptional stays for your next World Golf Village St. Augustine vacation.
1. World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine Resort
Right in World Golf Village, this resort puts golfers close to the action. Rooms are spacious, beds ridiculously comfortable, and balconies frame either lakes or fairways. After your round, tantalize your palate with distinctive fare at the hotel restaurants and bars. Free parking and proximity to downtown St. Augustine add practicality to style.
2. Hilton Vacation Club St. Augustine
Ideal for families or extended stays, the all-suite accommodations offer full kitchens, separate living areas and private patios. A heated pool and hot tub make post-round relaxation simple, while tennis, basketball and volleyball provide alternatives to golf. Hilton Vacation Club is steps from dining, shopping and both championship courses, plus historic downtown and Atlantic beaches are just minutes away.
3. Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel
Waterfront and boutique, this hotel immerses you in the city’s Spanish colonial charm. Rooms mix contemporary comfort with historic touches, many overlooking Matanzas Bay. Golf is a short drive away, but downtown temptations—cafés, galleries, waterfront dining—make lingering worthwhile. The rooftop bar elevates sunsets to a proper spectacle.
4. Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach
Ocean views, two-room suites and direct beach access make this a family favorite. Start the day with a hearty breakfast, swing by the championship courses, and return to the beachfront pool or hot tub. Evening receptions with complimentary drinks and snacks are the perfect prelude to nearby dining and shopping.
5. Casa Monica Resort & Spa
Gilded Age glamour lives on at Casa Monica. Built in 1888, the resort and spa dazzles with hand-painted ceilings, marble bathrooms and furnishings that feel custom-made for indulgence. The Poseidon Spa soothes sore muscles, while the rooftop bar provides sweeping city views. Golf is a scenic drive away, but downtown’s history, restaurants and art-filled streets make every off-course moment memorable.
6. Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront
Wake up to sunrise over Matanzas Bay from a room with a private balcony. A rooftop pool and martini bar offer indulgence after rounds, and being steps from historic attractions and dining keeps evenings lively. World Golf Village is a short drive away, but this bayfront location ensures your stay pairs championship golf with downtown culture.
7. Homewood Suites by Hilton St. Augustine San Sebastian
Extended-stay comfort with golf convenience. One- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, living areas and workspaces make longer trips effortless. Complimentary hot breakfast and evening socials add perks, while the outdoor pool provides a breather between rounds. Golfers and families will appreciate the proximity to both courses and historic downtown.
8. Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa
Located in nearby Ponte Vedra Beach, Sawgrass Marriott works well as a complementary stay for golfers centered on World Golf Village. The ambiance is relaxed and refined, with multiple pools, a full-service spa and dining options that make it easy to unwind after a day on the course. Beach access via the Cabana Beach Club adds another layer of appeal, while the proximity to World Golf Village keeps the focus on its legendary fairways.
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