Florida Golf Courses To Visit This Winter By Steve Pike Hammock Beach Resort & Spa Hammock Beach has been a major attraction of the Palm Coast, just south of Jacksonville, since it opened in 2000 with the Nicklaus Ocean Course, a Jack Nicklaus Signature course features six holes right on the Atlantic Ocean. The course was completely renovated by Nicklaus following Hurricane Matthew. The final four holes are known as the “Bear’s Claw.’’ The 18th hole, a 465-yard par-4, plays with the ocean along the left side and into an elevated green. It’s a great way to finish on one of Florida’s more memorable tracks. The second course at Hammock Beach, The Conservatory course was designed by Tom Watson and is one of the Southeast’s most unheralded layouts. It features streams, waterfalls, an island green, a plethora of bunkers and undulating greens. The Conservatory shows off Watson’s love of links-style golf and a feel for the Northeast Florida terrain. That combination makes the Conservatory one of Watson’s best designs and an absolute delight to play. Many feel it is better than the Ocean Course. The Nicklaus Ocean Course and the Watson’s Conservatory give Hammock provide two excellent courses at one location. Ohio Golf Journal
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