With year-round sunshine and plenty of places to tee off, choosing between golf courses in Tampa can be harder than playing them. Some courses are private, some cost more than others, and not every layout suits every skill level. This guide walks through what to look for so you can pick the right course for your game, your budget and your schedule.
Public vs. Private Golf Courses in Tampa
The first decision is whether you need a membership. Private clubs limit play to members and their guests. Public courses are open to anyone who books a tee time.
Northdale Golf & Tennis Club is a public golf course in Tampa, and no membership is required. You can book online, walk in or call ahead, which makes it easy to play once, play weekly or bring friends who have never been before.
What to Look for When Comparing Golf Courses in Tampa
Price and Value
Green fees vary by day, time and season. Weekday and late-afternoon rounds are usually the best value. Northdale offers twilight and weekday specials, and our guide to golf green fees in Tampa explains what affects the price of a round, including carts and twilight rates.
Tee Options for Your Skill Level
A course with several sets of tees lets every player choose a length that matches their game. Northdale has four sets of tee boxes, so beginners can play a shorter setup while stronger players move back. Here is how to go about choosing the right tees.
Course Layout
Layout shapes the whole experience. Northdale is an 18-hole, Par 72 course designed by Ron Garl that winds past scenic ponds. If you want to understand how a layout affects your strategy, read about course layout and strategy and how slope rating works.
Practice Areas
A place to warm up helps you start your round with more confidence. Northdale has a practice green for putting before you tee off. See our short game practice guide for how to use your warm-up time well.
Easy Booking
The best courses make it simple to get a tee time. At Northdale, you can book a tee time online through Chronogolf, walk in or call (813) 962-0428.
Food, Drinks and Things to Do After Your Round
A good clubhouse turns a round into a full outing. Northdale’s Restaurant & Bar serves burgers, wraps, local craft beer and signature cocktails, with indoor and patio seating. Pickleball players can also visit Pickle Social Lounge, located at Northdale.
When Is the Best Time to Play Golf in Tampa?
Tampa’s climate allows golf all year, but timing still matters. Summer afternoons bring heat and storms, so early tee times are usually more comfortable from late spring through early fall. Find out the best time to play golf in Tampa, and get our tips for playing in the summer heat.
Golf Courses in Tampa for Beginners and Seniors
Newer golfers and seniors usually look for a relaxed pace, forward tees and a course that does not require a membership. Northdale checks all three. Read our guides to golf for beginners in Tampa and golf for seniors at Northdale.
Leagues, Outings and Group Golf
If you want to play regularly with the same people, look for a course with leagues and events. Northdale hosts leagues and tournaments, including a Sunday Men’s League. Learn how golf leagues work in Tampa.
Planning a group event? Northdale hosts corporate outings, charity tournaments and golf group days. Compare tournament formats or visit our Outings & Private Events page.
Visiting Tampa for Golf?
If you are planning a golf trip, our Tampa golf vacation guide covers how to plan your rounds around your stay.
Why Golfers Choose Northdale
- Public course with no membership required
- 18 holes, Par 72, designed by Ron Garl
- Four sets of tee boxes for every skill level
- Practice green, cart rentals and pro shop essentials
- Twilight and weekday specials
- Leagues, tournaments and weekly social events
- Restaurant and bar with indoor and patio seating
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there public golf courses in Tampa?
Yes. Northdale Golf & Tennis Club is a public golf course in Tampa, and anyone can book a tee time without a membership.
How do I choose a golf course in Tampa?
Compare price, tee options, layout, practice areas and how easy it is to book. Choose a course with tees that match your skill level and tee times that fit your schedule.
How many holes is Northdale Golf & Tennis Club?
Northdale is an 18-hole, Par 72 course designed by Ron Garl, with four sets of tee boxes.
Can I play golf in Tampa all year?
Yes. Tampa’s climate allows year-round golf. In summer, early tee times help you avoid the afternoon heat and storms.
Does Northdale have a restaurant?
Yes. The Northdale Restaurant & Bar serves burgers, wraps, local craft beer and signature cocktails, with indoor and patio seating.
Book Your Round at Northdale
The right course among the many golf courses in Tampa is the one that fits your game. If you want a public course with no membership, four sets of tees and food and drinks after your round, book your tee time at Northdale.