If you haven't golfed on Sanibel Island, then you haven't experienced the melding of an exciting round of golf against a backdrop of natural wildlife.
Sanibel, along with its sister island, Captiva, are barrier reef islands tucked off the western coast of Florida combining breathtaking beaches with first-class golf amenities.
Sanibel Island features three spectacular golf courses, and despite its reputation as an exclusive enclave, two of the courses are semi-private and open to the public.
Beachview Golf & Tennis Club Nestled along the Sanibel River, this semiprivate club features 6,400 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 71.
Designed by Ray Fenton, the course rating is 70.
8 with a slope rating of 127 on Bermuda grass.
Following the curves and scenic beauty of the Sanibel River, Beachview is open to the public and offers a challenging and rewarding golf experience for players of all skill levels.
As a member of theAudubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, Beachview is able to preserve the beautiful, natural Sanibel landscape.
This conservation effort positions Beachview of one the most desirable courses on sanibel Island.
The club recently reversed the nines to give the course a new feel.
The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club Lush tropical links and perfectly contoured fairways and greens all contribute to the golfing experience at this semi-private club.
You can hone your skills on the aqua driving range in preparation for a game -- a good idea as water comes into play on every hole.
Golfers who have played the Dunes frequently describe it as "a beautiful but tough, short course.
"The back 9 holes are tucked within a wildlife preserve and home to several species of native birds.
A glance at these striking birds can't compensate for a missed shot but eases the tension in a highly competitive game.
Redesigned in 1995 by Mark McCumber, the 18-hole, par-70 course features the only complete practice facility on Sanibel.
The Sanctuary The 18-hole Sanctuary course features 6,806 yards of golf from the longest tees with a par of 72.
The course rating is 73 with a slope rating of 138 on Bahia grass.
Bordering the renowned J.
N.
"Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, the course balances world class golf amenities with panoramic nature views and glimpses of rare birds.
Luxury has its price, however.
Those that have experienced the Sanctuary gush that the club is one of the best kept secrets on Sanibel.
As the Sanctuary is a private club, you must know someone to play there.
This is a narrow course with typical Florida flat terrain with some mounding.
The signature hole is #4, a 197-yard, par 3, with a spectacular view of the Gulf of Mexico.
All of the golf clubs include first rate dining facilities on the premises, many overlooking the course or water.
Tennis facilities and assorted resort and spa services assure other travelers or visitors can pursue their own interests while the golf fanatics enjoy a first rate golf destination.