News Summary
Panama City is seeing significant growth in its golf and hospitality sectors, with new resorts, golf courses, and entertainment venues aimed at attracting leisure travelers and golf lovers. The Buenaventura Resort and The Santa Maria Hotel now feature golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, while a new course named The Third is set to open soon in Panama City Beach. Additionally, Topgolf has opened a new location, enhancing entertainment options for visitors. Local officials are also considering new regulations for golf carts, further improving transport options in neighborhoods.
Golf and Hospitality Developments in Panama City and Surrounding Areas
Panama City is experiencing notable advancements in its golfing and hospitality sectors, with new offerings aimed at attracting both leisure travelers and golf enthusiasts. Several upscale resorts, new golf courses, and entertainment venues are being introduced to enhance the region’s appeal as a premier destination for relaxation and sport.
Buenaventura Resort Enhances Vacation Experiences with a Jack Nicklaus Golf Course
The Buenaventura resort in Panama City is positioning itself as a prime location for memorable vacations, prominently featuring a golf course designed by renowned architect Jack Nicklaus. Guests staying at the resort can enjoy a round of golf included in their stay, with one complimentary round per person available the day after check-in. To reserve a tee time, visitors must contact the resort at reservations@buenaventuraresort.com, ensuring a reservation is made at least 24 hours in advance.
The resort amenities extend beyond golf, offering breakfast for two, options for self or valet parking, and complimentary access to recreational facilities including bicycles, tennis courts, and volleyball courts, subject to availability. These offerings aim to provide a full-service experience combining leisure, sport, and comfort for guests.
The Santa Maria Hotel & Golf Resort: Another Premium Golf Destination
In addition to Buenaventura, the Santa Maria, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort in Panama City offers an 18-hole, par-72 golf course also designed by Jack Nicklaus. Guests at Santa Maria benefit from deluxe accommodations, daily breakfast, and enjoy one round of golf included for each paid night’s stay, making it a competitive choice for travelers seeking luxury combined with golf activities.
Marriott’s Global Golf Division Expands Presence
Marriott’s Global Golf Division manages an extensive portfolio of 45 golf courses across 14 countries on five continents, with nearly 1,000 holes of championship golf available worldwide. With a history dating back to 1970, Marriott leverages decades of experience in integrated resort and golf operations to maintain high standards of service and quality in its golf properties.
New Golf Course Announced in Panama City Beach
Set to open on March 20, Watersound Club in Panama City Beach will unveil a new 18-hole golf course named The Third. Designed by renowned golfer Davis Love III, this course becomes part of a private membership club, expanding the club’s total to 54 holes, joining existing courses Shark’s Tooth and Camp Creek.
The new course will feature six sets of tees, making it accessible to golfers of all skill levels. Members and guests at the Camp Creek Inn will have access to the course, which aims to further bolster the area’s reputation as a golf destination. In addition to golf, Watersound offers amenities including a wellness center, tennis and pickleball courts, a pool complex, and various dining options, creating a comprehensive leisure environment.
City Considering Updated Regulations for Golf Carts
Local authorities in Panama City are reviewing a proposed ordinance to allow golf carts in several neighborhoods. The regulation aims to improve transportation options, with safety measures being considered for children under five who may ride in the carts. Currently, golf carts are distinguished from low-speed vehicles, which are already permitted on city streets, and the new rules could expand cart usage within residential areas.
Topgolf’s New Location in Panama City Beach
Recently opened on June 27, Topgolf has become a new entertainment hub behind Walmart in Pier Park, Panama City Beach. The venue had a VIP launch before launching to the public, offering free gameplay from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on opening day, alongside live entertainment and giveaways.
Topgolf features two main floors dedicated to golf, along with dining areas, TopTracer game technology, and free Wi-Fi. To ensure safety, guests under 16 are required to be supervised by a guest aged 21 or older, with supervision extending after 9 p.m. This facility aims to provide a convenient, entertainment-focused experience for both locals and visitors, reducing the need for long travel to find quality golf and entertainment options.
Overall, Panama City and its surrounding areas continue to develop with a focus on upscale golfing experiences, improved recreational amenities, and new entertainment venues, reinforcing their status as attractive destinations for leisure, sport, and luxury tourism.
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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 RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake 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 North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
