News Summary
Panama City is enhancing its allure for golf enthusiasts with the introduction of new resorts, including the Buenaventura and Santa Maria. These premier destinations feature championship golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus along with extensive luxury amenities. Furthermore, the Watersound Club is launching a new 18-hole course, and Topgolf recently opened, adding to the region’s recreational offerings. The city is also considering the allowance of golf carts in residential areas, making it a vibrant hub for golfers and vacationers alike.
Panama City is set to enhance its appeal to golf enthusiasts with several new offerings and developments in the region. These new additions include premier resorts featuring championship courses, a newly planned golf development, and a popular entertainment venue now open to the public.
New Developments in Golf Resorts
The Buenaventura resort in Panama City has announced its commitment to creating exceptional vacation experiences for its guests. A major draw is its Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, which stands out as a highlight of the resort. Guests can enjoy one complimentary round of golf per person during their stay, with the condition that prior reservations are made at least 24 hours in advance. For tee time bookings, guests are encouraged to reach out via email at reservations@buenaventuraresort.com.
Guests at the Buenaventura resort can also take advantage of amenities such as breakfast for two, self or valet parking, and complimentary use of bicycles and sports courts, including tennis and volleyball, subject to availability.
The Santa Maria Luxury Collection
Another noteworthy addition is The Santa Maria, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort, which is also located in Panama City. This resort features an 18-hole par-72 golf course, designed by the same renowned architect, Jack Nicklaus. Guests will benefit from deluxe accommodations, daily breakfast, and one round of golf included for each paid night, further enhancing the luxury experience offered.
Marriott’s Global Golf Division manages a vast portfolio of golf courses around the globe, overseeing 45 courses across 14 countries and five continents. This division has a strong history in integrated resort and golf operations dating back to 1970.
New Golf Course Opening in Watersound Club
The Watersound Club in Panama City Beach is set to open a new 18-hole golf course, named “The Third,” designed by Davis Love III. Scheduled to open on March 20, this course will be accessible to members and guests of Camp Creek Inn, adding to the club’s impressive total of 54 holes of championship golf, which already includes the Shark’s Tooth and Camp Creek courses. The new course will feature six sets of tees to cater to golfers of various skill levels.
Amenities at Watersound Club include a wellness center, multiple tennis and pickleball courts, a pool complex, and various dining options, contributing to an all-encompassing recreational atmosphere for its members.
Golf Cart Ordinance Consideration
In addition to these new developments, Panama City is considering an ordinance to permit golf carts in various neighborhoods. The proposed safety measures include regulatory guidelines for children under five who may ride in them, distinguishing golf carts from low-speed vehicles, which are currently allowed on city streets.
Topgolf Opens in Panama City Beach
Further enriching the local golf scene, Topgolf has opened its doors to the public as of June 27, following a VIP launch. Located behind Walmart in Pier Park, this venue features free gameplay from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on its opening day, along with live entertainment and giveaways for guests. Topgolf boasts two main floors dedicated to golf and dining, equipped with TopTracer technology for games and free Wi-Fi for visitors.
To ensure safety, guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older. Additionally, younger guests must be supervised after 9 p.m. This initiative aims to bring convenience and entertainment to the Panama City Beach area while reducing long commutes for golf enthusiasts.
With these new developments and offerings, Panama City is poised to become an increasingly attractive destination for golf lovers and vacationers alike, promising a blend of luxury, sport, and entertainment.
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Additional Resources
- The News Herald: Panama City Beach Welcomes New Golf Course
- WJHG: Panama City Expanding Golf Cart Access
- The News Herald: Topgolf Opening Day in Panama City Beach
- Google Search: Panama City Golf
- Topgolf Press Release: Panama City Beach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf Resorts
Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
