The Ultimate Stay & Play Guide: Why Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is the Golfer's Oceanside Dream

If you are looking for the perfect pairing to a bucket-list round at TPC Sawgrass, or simply want a luxury golf getaway where the ocean breeze hits you on the first tee, look no further than the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club (PVIC).

While TPC Sawgrass gets the global headlines, PVIC is the historic soul of Ponte Vedra Beach. Since 1928, this AAA Five-Diamond resort has set the standard for "Old Florida" luxury. For our clients at Sawgrass Insider, we often recommend PVIC as the home base for a trip because it offers something TPC's Marriott doesn't: direct oceanfront access combined with 36 holes of historic golf right on the property.

Here is your deep dive into rates, courses, dining, and why this should be your next corporate retreat or family golf vacation.

The Golf: 36 Holes of History

PVIC isn't just a hotel with a course; it's a serious golf club with two distinct layouts. As a resort guest, you get full access to these members-only tracks.

1. The Ocean Course

**Vibe:** Historic, seaside links-style, wind-swept.

**The Scoop:** This is the big brother. Originally designed by Herbert Strong in 1928, it was the site of the Ryder Cup that never was (cancelled due to WWII). It recently underwent a major renovation by Bobby Weed to restore its classic glory.

**Playability:** It's a par-71 that defends itself with wind. The fairways are generous (you won't lose a dozen balls off the tee), but the green complexes are fascinatingly complex with swales and run-offs.

**Signature Feature:** The 9th hole "Island Green." Long before TPC Sawgrass had the 17th, PVIC had its own island green—a fun, short par-3 that sets the tone for the round.

2. The Lagoon Course

**Vibe:** Strategic, target golf, water-heavy.

**The Scoop:** A masterpiece co-authored by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Joe Lee. It's shorter (par-70, ~6,000 yards), but don't let the yardage fool you.

**Playability:** As the name implies, water is everywhere. It requires precision over power. It's the perfect "warm-up" round on arrival day or a relaxing afternoon emergency 9 after tackling the Ocean Course in the morning.

Cost & Packages

**Green Fees:** A la carte rounds for resort guests typically range $250–$325+ depending on the season, but the real value is in the package.

**Sawgrass Insider Tip:** Book the "Birdies & Breezes" Package. It typically includes your room, two rounds of golf, cart fees, club storage, range balls, and a $50 retail credit in the pro shop (perfect for grabbing a logo hat).

The Rooms: Where to Stay

PVIC is a sprawling property with different buildings offering vastly different vibes. Choosing the right room is key.

**Historic Inn Rooms:** Located in the main building above the lobby and shops. These have a charming, 1920s Gatsby-era feel. Great if you want to be close to the coffee shop and the first tee.

**Superior Oceanfront (Highly Recommended):** These are in the newer buildings directly on the sand. You walk out your sliding glass door, and you are steps from the Atlantic.

**Rate Check:** Expect $550 - $900+ per night depending on season (Spring/Players Championship week is peak).

**Insider Tip:** Ask for a ground-floor room if you want to walk straight from your patio to the beach. Ask for a 2nd or 3rd floor if you want privacy and a better view of the sunrise.

Dining: From Flip-Flops to Fine China

You never need to leave the property to eat well.

**The Seahorse Grille:** The resort's crown jewel. It sits atop the Surf Club with panoramic ocean views.

**The Vibe:** Upscale but not stuffy. Jackets are preferred for men but not always mandatory (check current dress code).

**Order This:** The Pan-Seared Scallops or the Chef's Cut Steak. The center of the room features a stunning wrap-around aquarium that kids (and adults) love.

**The Surf Deck Grille:** Located right on the sand.

**The Vibe:** Casual, open-air, upscale beach bar.

**Order This:** The Blackened Shrimp Rice Bowl or the Grouper Sandwich. It's the perfect spot for a post-round Transfusion cocktail while watching the waves.

Why It's Perfect for...

Corporate Retreats

We see a lot of groups default to standard conference hotels, but PVIC offers a different energy.

**Meeting Spaces:** They have over 25,000 sq. ft. of meeting space. The Conference Center is standalone, meaning your meetings feel private and focused.

**The "Wow" Factor:** Hosting your welcome reception on the Oceanfront Courtyard or the Ponte Vedra Ballroom Terrace overlooking the golf course guarantees high attendance.

**Activities:** Beyond golf, your team can do group clinics, beach Olympics, or guided kayak tours.

Family Getaways

If you are a golfer but the rest of the family isn't, this is the safest bet in Florida.

**For the Non-Golfer:** The Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is legendary. It's a full-service, 20,000-square-foot sanctuary with ocean-view treatment rooms. Your spouse can spend the morning getting pampered while you're on the course.

**For the Kids:** The resort offers supervised kids' programs, beach activities, and multiple pools. There's even a dedicated "Kids' Club" during peak seasons.

The Verdict

Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is the perfect complement to your TPC Sawgrass experience. It offers historic golf, oceanfront luxury, and a level of service that makes every guest feel like a member.

Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, a family vacation, or a buddies' golf trip, PVIC delivers an experience that goes far beyond just a place to sleep.

Ready to plan your stay? Contact Sawgrass Golf Experiences, and we'll handle every detail to create your perfect oceanside golf getaway.