The routing through the Bonnet Creek preserve is what makes the Waldorf Astoria Golf Club truly stand out. There’s a genuine sense of escape here. Jones successfully laid out a design that winds organically through the wetlands and cypress groves, almost feeling as if it’s always been there. You won’t find yourself navigating the distracting housing that plagues so many Florida layouts. The front nine is quite open off the tee, encouraging a confident strike, but as you make the turn, the challenge subtly shifts. The back nine is arguably more demanding, particularly with its winding paths around the water.

You’ll find the real strategic challenge is always around the greens. They’re fast and pure, but the subtle undulations and small run-offs punish any slightly missed approach, requiring a precise short game to score well. It’s easy to see why the short par-3 12th hole is quite memorable; its shallow green demands absolute accuracy, a pretty little test of nerve before the final few holes. This course is a quiet round, polished and ideal for players who appreciate thoughtful design over flashy dramatics.