It might surprise you to learn that over 1/3 of people in the US play golf. And this number isn’t just restricted to adults — this includes everyone aged 5 and up (National Golf Foundation).
Regardless of your experience level as a golfer, there’s a beautiful course calling your name. Complete with expansive lengths of rolling green fairways and picturesque scenery, golf in Tampa Bay is ideal for all those who are interested in playing the sport.
But with so many wonderful golf courses to choose from, how do you pick just one? And what sets each course apart from the competition? This helpful guide walks you through some of the most popular golf courses in Tampa Bay to enjoy on your next golf outing, along with benefits for seniors looking to take up this sport.
Benefits of Golf for Seniors
Seniors looking for local golfing in Tampa Bay will benefit from all that golf has to offer. From physical movement to social interaction, golf has something for everyone.
Consider the following benefits:
Balance and Coordination
Beginning at around age 50, a person’s balance begins to decline (UCLA Health). But gold is a great way of enhancing balance while also promoting control over movement.
Golf requires the use of a person’s hips and thoracic spine, which means that it’s excellent for movement as long as a person’s physician says there isn’t any reason they can’t physically play.
Great Cardio Workout
According to data from the CDC, adults aged 65 and over need a minimum of 150 minutes of exercise weekly. This should be moderate intensity.
Golf is an ideal way of getting in some cardio while having fun and enjoying the scenery. For those who skip the golf cart (for at least part of the course), they’re getting in some of their required daily cardio.
Have Fun and Make Friends
One of the best reasons for social activities such as golf or seniors is the friendships that form. When out on the green, golfers can socialize and connect with other lovers of the game.
This, in turn, works to reduce feelings of loneliness in older adults. And seeing as upwards of 34% of older adults report feeling lonely, it’s more important than ever to compact these feelings (National Poll on Healthy Aging).
Fresh Air
Older adults looking to get out and connect with nature will love everything that golfing has to offer. These courses boast beautiful scenery and plenty of fresh air for everyone to enjoy.
Golf tips for seniors who also love bird watching or photography, for example, might be to bring a camera with them to the golf course, turning this sport into a complete outdoor excursion.
The Best Golf Courses in Tampa Bay
Seniors looking to enjoy golf will find some of the best courses in Tampa Bay. Check out any of these great courses:
Innisbrook Resort: Copperhead Course
One of the great things about this golf course is that it’s known for its beauty, so anyone looking for something scenic won’t be disappointed. As such, this course is where the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship is filmed here every March.
Golf enthusiasts in Tampa Bay won’t want to miss an opportunity to golf among fairways lined with pine trees, especially if they want a challenge.
Innisbrook also has other locations, including:
- Island Course
- North Course
- South Course
Heritage Harbor Golf & Country Club TAMPA
This semi-private golf course is also known for its challenging course, but that’s ideal for anyone looking to up the ante on their golf game. The well-manicured course is perfect for anyone looking for a picturesque day.
East Bay Golf Club
This is another one of the best Florida golf courses, as it’s said to be a great value for what golfers can expect. It also offers amenities such as brand-new golf carts, perfect for seniors not looking to walk the entire course.
Regardless of a person’s skill level, this course offers something for everyone, thanks to its water features that make it a bit more challenging.
University Park Country Club
Tampa Bay attractions include this golf course, complete with competitive pricing. Besides the price point, golfers love University Park Country Club because of its scenic greens, making the entire experience unforgettable.
The Groves Golf and Country Club
This 18-hole public golf course is set amidst 200 acres of beautiful wetlands, ensuring the area’s natural beauty is an integral part of the course itself. Despite the course being champion-length, golfers can still play it within four hours.
The Groves boasts itself on being player-friendly, encouraging golfers of all experience levels to come and play. It also features:
- Putting greens
- Chipping greens
- An Aque driving range
Timber Greens Country Club
This golf course is known for its prompt tee times, ensuring golfers hit the ground running as they play. It features excellent golf carts, complete with GPS and yardage. Some holes are more challenging than others, encouraging golfers of all ability levels to come out and test their skills.
Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club
Another excellent option is the Chi Chi Rodriquez Gold Club, as it offers wide fairways to help golfers of all skills fine-tune their game. Although seasoned pros can play at this golf course, it’s more popular among beginner golfers, as its layout makes the course ideal for everyone.
The Best Golf in Tampa Bay
Seniors looking to golf in Tampa Bay have plenty of options, and the courses listed in this helpful guide are among the most popular choices in the area. Each golf course offers something for everyone, from wide fairways for beginner golfers to beautiful pine trees offering a sense of peace and relaxation.
Seniors looking for other ways to connect with friends while staying active would benefit from Aston Gardens at Tampa Bay. Our location makes us an ideal independent senior living community for those looking to be close to golf courses. We also offer wonderful activities and events, so you or your loved one can make new friends to get out and enjoy local golf courses with.
Contact us today to speak with someone from our dedicated staff and to learn more about our exclusive senior living programs, floor plans, living options, and more.
