
PGA National Champion Course
Iconic championship golf course and resort, famous for the 'Bear Trap' and hosting professional tournaments.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal weather for golf.

PGA National Champion Course
Best Time
Ideal weather for golf.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic championship golf course and resort, famous for the 'Bear Trap' and hosting professional tournaments.
"The staff are excellent; polite, welcoming and attentive to every need."

Book Tee Times Early
Secure your spot on the Champion Course well in advance, especially during peak season. :calendar:
Explore Resort Amenities
Don't miss the thermal pools and diverse dining options, even if you're not a golfer. :swimming_pool:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Champion Course
PGA National Resort & Spa
Iconic championship golf course, home to the Honda Classic. Known for its challenging layout and signature holes.

The Estates Course
PGA National Resort & Spa
A more forgiving yet strategic test of golf, offering a different challenge from the Champion Course.

The Palmer Course
PGA National Resort & Spa
Designed by Arnold Palmer, this course provides a classic golf experience with beautiful landscaping.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tee Off with Confidence
Beyond the Fairway
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tee Times Early
Secure your spot on the Champion Course well in advance, especially during peak season. :calendar:
Explore Resort Amenities
Don't miss the thermal pools and diverse dining options, even if you're not a golfer. :swimming_pool:
Consider Golf Packages
Look for bundled deals that include green fees and accommodation for potential savings. :moneywithwings:
Check Course Conditions
Inquire about course conditions, especially after major tournaments or weather events. :weather_forecast:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tee Times Early
Secure your spot on the Champion Course well in advance, especially during peak season. :calendar:
Explore Resort Amenities
Don't miss the thermal pools and diverse dining options, even if you're not a golfer. :swimming_pool:
Consider Golf Packages
Look for bundled deals that include green fees and accommodation for potential savings. :moneywithwings:
Check Course Conditions
Inquire about course conditions, especially after major tournaments or weather events. :weather_forecast:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
PGA National Resort & Spa is lauded for its beautiful scenery, excellent staff, and wonderful dining experiences, with many guests highlighting the attentiveness of the service. However, some visitors have encountered issues with dated rooms, inconsistent bellman service, and significant billing errors, which have detracted from their overall stay.
"We were there for the Kellers Williams Symposium in October 2025. From the moment we got an email from Allison the Concierge, we knew were were in good hands. Teresa and Ricard at the front desk were wonderful. Derick and Brittany at the coffee counter were also great. Everyone went the extra mile. The servers worked long long shifts because we saw them early morning and late at night. My partner said the food was great and there were even vegan options for me. A great choice and we want you to know!"
Marie Hoffman
"Stayed at the PGA 2 weeks ago and it was an experience. We were not there for golf, we decided to stayed there due to the location and on the website seemed like a great placed to stay. We went with our boat which parking was great for it. Rooms are a little bit dated but good. The reason I’m giving it 2 stars was the bellman services. On September 12 we arrived, we check in, which tat staff was great. Since we had our boat it needed to be parked far aways so we needed a luggage cart. We took one and the bellman yell at us that we could not take it, where we were going, we tried to explain but he kept yelling that it was a liability issue, which I completely understand, but he never offer to help and ended up yelling: “ahhh do whatever you want” to my boyfiend. That was so uncalled for. Sunday we got to go on our boat and needed a cart to bring our cooler to the boat, I was told again I could not use the cart and no one offer to help. When we arrive from the beach we stop at the vallet/lobby are to unload our cooler and beach bag and vallet immediately said: “this will be fast right?” when actually not even one minute passed and I was already done with my stuff. Monday was different they had an amazing bellman which finally was able to help us and we were able to check out with an amazing blonde lady who tried her best to provide us the best service, too bad we saw her on our check out. They need to improve service, people will come to stay and they may look different than a golf player but they deserve the same amazing service."
Cristina Tatis
"I was really hoping not to leave a negative review, but after giving plenty of patience and time for resolution, I feel it’s only fair to share our experience.
I recommended this resort for my sister’s birthday because my husband and I had stayed before and really enjoyed it. This trip, there were nine of us across multiple suites, all with reserved spa services. The staff on the ground was kind and accommodating, but unfortunately, the rest of the experience fell short.
I booked one of the Club Houses (#210), which had an unpleasant “old” smell—not worth complaining about—but the shower pressure was so weak we had to stand inches from the wall to catch water. With toddlers settled in and another working shower available, we decided to manage.
My sister’s room wasn’t ready at check-in, even though her reservation was supposed to be linked with ours. She was given a temporary room, and the hotel promised to move her belongings once the suite was ready. During that transfer, her Stanley cup went missing.
At the spa, my brother-in-law booked a 90-minute massage but encountered a roach crawling across his foot while in the sauna. The staff apologized and offered a “free entry” spa pass, but that hardly makes up for the experience.
Then came the billing issues and this is where things truly fell apart.
-My sister was charged four times for one massage service, totaling over $2,000.
-The next day, while we were having breakfast, she was charged again, another $1,600. She spent days afterward trying to resolve it with management and only got partial clarity by Tuesday.
Our birthday dinner at Butcher’s Club was another disappointment. The service was rushed, the server was difficult to understand, and basic menu details (like whether the steaks were USDA Prime or Choice) were met with irritation when asked.
Despite these issues, I still tried to focus on the positives—the poolside and grounds staff were wonderful, attentive, and polite.
However, days later, I discovered an incorrect $1,900 charge on my husband’s card, which was only supposed to cover incidentals and resort fees. When I contacted the front desk, they admitted it was a double charge and said a manager would call me back. It’s now Friday, no call, no refund, and after multiple follow-ups, I’ve spent over an hour on hold being told “2–3 minutes” repeatedly. With a long holiday weekend ahead, that means I won’t see the refund until next week.
For a resort of this caliber, charging guests thousands of dollars in errors and failing to follow up is unacceptable. We could have looked past the other inconveniences, but this level of disorganization and lack of accountability ruined what should have been a celebratory trip."
Angelica Extramil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The PGA National Champion Course is located within the PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts in the region.
The resort is conveniently located near major airports like Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), which is about a 20-minute drive away. Rental cars are readily available at the airport.
Yes, ample parking is available at the PGA National Resort & Spa for guests and golfers. If you're arriving with a boat, they have great parking for it as well.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for reaching the PGA National Champion Course and the resort.
While specific shuttle services may vary, many guests find it easiest to arrange transportation through their accommodation or use ride-sharing apps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost to play the PGA National Champion Course, or green fees, can vary significantly based on the season, time of day, and whether you are a resort guest. Expect higher rates during peak season. It's best to check their official website or call for the most current pricing.
Tee times for the PGA National Champion Course can be booked directly through the PGA National Resort & Spa's golf reservations department or via their website. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times.
PGA National Resort & Spa often offers various golf packages that may include rounds on the Champion Course, accommodation, and other amenities. Keep an eye on their promotions page for potential deals.
Walking the course may be permitted, but it's essential to confirm with the pro shop when booking your tee time, as policies can change and it's a challenging course.
The golf courses at PGA National Resort & Spa typically open early in the morning and close around dusk. Specific hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check with the pro shop.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
The Champion Course is renowned for its challenging layout, featuring water hazards on many holes and strategically placed bunkers. It's known for its demanding par-3s, including the infamous 'Bear Trap' stretch. A course map or scorecard can provide detailed hole-by-hole information.
Yes, scorecards for the PGA National Champion Course are readily available at the pro shop. You can also often find digital versions or hole-by-hole guides online.
The most famous stretch is the 'Bear Trap,' comprising holes 15, 16, and 17, known for their difficulty and dramatic water features. These are often highlighted in course flyovers.
Absolutely! PGA National offers lessons with experienced professionals. One reviewer highly recommended Billy Stewart for his thoughtful guidance and ability to make golf fun for beginners.
Besides the Champion Course, PGA National Resort & Spa features the Estates Course and the Palmer Course, offering diverse golfing experiences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
PGA National Resort & Spa offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual to fine dining. Birdie's Diner is highly recommended for breakfast or brunch. Butcher's Club is a popular steakhouse, though some guests have noted rushed service.
Yes, the resort aims to cater to various dietary needs, with one reviewer mentioning that vegan options were available and great.
Dining atmospheres range from elegant to relaxed, depending on the venue. The resort staff are generally praised for their attentiveness and service.
Typically, resort restaurants are open to the public, though reservations are often recommended, especially for popular spots or during peak times.
Yes, there is a coffee counter where staff like Derick and Brittany are noted for being great.
📸 📸 Photography
The signature holes, especially those on the 'Bear Trap,' offer dramatic backdrops. The manicured fairways and water features provide excellent photographic opportunities throughout the course.
Drone usage is typically restricted at golf courses and resorts due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to check the resort's specific policies before attempting to fly a drone.
The resort grounds themselves are beautifully landscaped, and the thermal pools offer a relaxing and picturesque setting for photos.
Early morning or late afternoon, during the 'golden hours,' often provide the most flattering light for landscape and golf course photography.
Yes, the resort's elegant architecture and grounds are quite photogenic. Feel free to capture the ambiance of the hotel and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Champion Course is a challenging golf experience, families might also consider the other courses at the resort, which can be more forgiving. For non-golfing family members, exploring the resort grounds, enjoying the spa, or participating in group exercise classes can be enjoyable activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the resort offers fine dining, exploring local eateries outside the resort can also be a more budget-friendly option for meals. Taking advantage of the resort's amenities like the pools can provide entertainment without additional cost.
🏌️ Golf Enthusiasts
Beyond the Champion Course, explore the Estates Course and Palmer Course for varied golfing experiences. Many visitors opt for golf packages that offer better value and include accommodation, making the most of their golfing getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mastering the Champion Course
When planning your round, understanding the PGA National Champion Course layout is crucial. The course demands accuracy off the tee and precise approach shots. Water is a prominent feature, and strategically placed bunkers can penalize errant shots. For those looking to improve their game, lessons with experienced professionals like Billy Stewart are highly recommended, as they can provide personalized tips and help beginners enjoy the game more.
Green fees for the PGA National Champion Course can be substantial, reflecting its championship status. It's advisable to look into PGA National Champion Course tee times and potential packages well in advance, especially during the peak winter season. While the cost is an investment, many golfers find the experience of playing such an iconic course to be well worth it.
Beyond Golf: Resort Amenities
The resort also features a diverse range of dining options. From the highly recommended Birdie's Diner for breakfast and brunch to more upscale choices like the Butcher's Club, there's something to satisfy every palate. The staff are frequently praised for their politeness, attentiveness, and willingness to go the extra mile, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
Even if you're not a golfer, the resort's location and amenities make it an attractive destination. Parking is ample, and the resort is equipped to handle various needs, including those arriving with boats. The rooms, while noted by some as being a bit dated, are generally comfortable and well-maintained, with effective climate control.
Navigating Service Experiences
Billing issues have also been a point of concern for some visitors. Instances of incorrect charges, including double billing for services and significant amounts, have been reported. While the resort acknowledges these errors, the resolution process has sometimes been slow, leading to frustration for guests, especially when dealing with extended hold times and delayed refunds.
Despite these isolated incidents, the majority of reviews commend the staff for their politeness, attentiveness, and dedication. The concierge, front desk, and poolside staff often receive specific praise for their efforts to ensure a positive guest experience. It appears that while service is generally excellent, consistency across all departments remains an area the resort is working to perfect.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit