Retirement is a milestone that deserves to be celebrated in style, and many retirees are choosing to mark this new chapter with travel.
A “retirement-moon” combines the joy of a honeymoon with the milestone of retirement. For those planning the perfect retirement-moon, Northeast Florida offers an ideal mix of scenery, history, and world-class golf experiences.
SIX REASONS TO BOOK YOUR RETIREMENT-MOON ON FLORIDA’S FIRST COAST OF GOLF
1. WORLD-CLASS GOLF COURSES
The region has over 71 world-class coastal golf courses, resorts, and vacation rentals, making Florida’s First Coast of Golf the perfect backdrop for your retirement trip. Many of the area’s golf courses are situated along 100 miles of scenic Atlantic coastline, so you can take in spectacular views and enjoy days full of golf, not meetings. Yeah, you could get used to this!
2. PRISTINE BEACHES
The area is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful and less-crowded beaches. Amelia Island has 13 miles of unspoiled beaches, perfect for relaxation and beachcombing. Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches provide 19 miles of serene coastline, ideal for peaceful walks and enjoying the ocean breeze.
3. HISTORY AND CULTURE
In St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., you’ll find many historical sites, including the Castillo de San Marcos and the historic district with its cobblestone streets. Amelia Island’s Fernandina Beach features Victorian architecture and the Museum of History, plus miles of trails and unparalleled views at Fort Clinch State Park. Jacksonville’s downtown is one of the oldest in the state, with influence that pays homage to the area’s indigenous settlements and early explorers. These destinations provide a perfect blend of leisure and learning, perfect for any retirement trip.
4. LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS
Northeast Florida has luxurious accommodations perfect for a retirement-moon, including oceanfront luxury at Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa, exclusive access to TPC Sawgrass at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, and golf-focused stays at Renaissance World Golf Village Resort in St. Augustine and Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Palm Coast. These properties offer relaxation, coastal scenery, and direct access to top-tier courses, making them ideal for celebrating your new chapter.
5. GOLF DEALS AND PACKAGES
Florida’s First Coast of Golf offers exclusive packages for discounted golf and accommodations across the region, including packages for veterans. These packages provide access to world-class courses and resorts, making planning a seamless trip easier. You can also save with a senior discount when you book through the AARP Travel Center.
6. YEAR-ROUND MILD CLIMATE
Northeast Florida enjoys a mild climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination regardless of the season and the best choice for any retirement trip. Year-round pleasant weather is perfect for golfing, beach activities, and outdoor exploration.
UNIQUE GOLF EXPERIENCES IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Jacksonville offers classic and modern courses suited to all skill levels. Favorites like Jacksonville Beach Golf Club provide a traditional golf experience with well-maintained fairways and greens. Other popular spots include Cimarrone Golf Club (known as “The Wild One”) and Queen’s Harbour Yacht & Country Club.
Amelia Island’s golf scene features serene, low-traffic courses in stunning settings. Amelia River Golf Club and Oak Marsh at Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa are courses with panoramic views of marshlands and waterways. Enjoy the game at a relaxed pace and take in the natural beauty that creates a peaceful environment perfect for retirement-moon golf.
Ponte Vedra is home to some of the region’s most prestigious courses. The area boasts beautifully designed courses, like The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass, that weave through natural habitats and coastal dunes.
St. Augustine has historic charm and excellent golf offerings. The World Golf Village courses combine elements designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus with a mix of open, links-style layouts, beautiful rolling greens, and massive pine trees.
Clay County’s courses are known for their riverfront paths and nature trails. Eagle Landing Golf Club stands out for its natural beauty, surrounded by Southern pine and palmetto trees and challenging holes across 7,037 yards. Courses here offer a relaxed but engaging golf atmosphere, ideal for retirees looking to enjoy the game in a peaceful setting.
Palm Coast offers coastal golf experiences, such as the Hammock Beach Resort courses. Ocean breezes and water hazards add to the challenge and enjoyment. The courses balance strategic play with scenic views of the Atlantic, making each round memorable.
GOLF TIPS FOR SENIORS
Maybe you have enough golf experience to be considered a local legend on your home course, or perhaps golf is a new retirement hobby and you’re picking up clubs for the first time. With these tips, you can improve your technique or learn some skills to hit the links for the first time like a pro.
EMPHASIZE SHORT GAME PRACTICE
As distance may decrease with age, honing skills within 100 yards becomes crucial. Focus on chipping and putting to save strokes and maintain lower scores.
ADJUST YOUR STANCE FOR BETTER MOBILITY
Slightly flaring your feet can help you achieve a fuller backswing, accommodate reduced flexibility, and enhance swing mechanics.
INCORPORATE DAILY FLEXIBILITY EXERCISES
Regular stretching routines can improve range of motion, leading to a more fluid and comfortable swing.
USE CLUBS WITH GRAPHITE SHAFTS
Consider switching to graphite shafts, which are lighter and can help increase swing speed while reducing strain on joints.
PRACTICE THE 9 TO 3 DRILL
This drill focuses on controlling the swing from waist-high back to waist-high forward, promoting consistency and control in your shots.
MAINTAIN LIGHT GRIP PRESSURE
A relaxed grip can enhance feel and control, especially in the short game where touch is vital.
TAKE A LESSON
Northeast Florida is home to the PGA TOUR headquarters and some of the top-rated golf academies in the country, where you’ll find expert instruction and cutting-edge teaching technology at premier golf schools. Your retirement-moon can combine championship courses with personalized lessons tailored to any skill level.