St. Pete is home to more than 150 parks, offering a wide variety of possible activities. There are more than 100 picnic areas, 80 playgrounds, 44 miles of fitness trails, 30 basketball courts, 21 boat ramps, 11 softball fields, six dog parks, five beaches, three skate parks, two disc-golf courses, and one jai alai court. We also have 76 tennis courts. 33 football/soccer fields, 31 baseball fields, nine volleyball courts, four historic sites, three nature preserves, and one splash pad. And, still, there’s more! Simply put, choose an activity (or choose to just relax), and there’s a city park that fits your needs.
Finding the Right Course
If you’re looking to play golf, you’ve come to the right place! Florida offers more courses than any other state in the nation. Which one is today’s perfect match? Look no further than St. Petersburg’s three municipal courses. Maintained by the city and open to the public, they offer something for every level of play and everybody’s schedule. From the challenges of the 18-hole championship course at Mangrove Bay to the quicker pace of Twin Brooks’ nine-hole, Par-3 course and the family-friendly atmosphere at Cypress Links, the courses offer year-round opportunities to learn, play, and practice.
Mangrove Bay & Cypress Links
One location and two courses offer good options. If you’re looking for a championship-level course, then Mangrove Bay’s 18 holes of Par72 golf are for you. Sustainable USGA-modified Platinum Paspalum greens stay beautiful throughout the year while also allowing golf balls to sit up in the fairways for better shots. With all the amenities you’d expect from a championship course, Mangrove Bay is among Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play.” Golf for Women lists it among its “Top 100 Most Women Friendly Golf Courses.” A recent review posted on golfpass.com by a frequent golfer says it all: “Everything about the course is great. Greens roll true and not a bad one on the course. Fairways 5 stars… Best Muni ever!!” If you’re looking for something less challenging, then Cypress Links (located at the entrance to Mangrove Bay) is a great option. With shorter holes (from 105 to 187 yards), this nine-hole, Par-3 course can offer lower rates and shorter playing times, making it ideal for family outings, beginners, and experienced players with limited time.
Twin Brooks
Sometimes you can’t spare five hours to play 18 holes, but you still want the opportunity to play a challenging course or improve your game. Rent a cart or walk as you enjoy playing the beautiful tree-filled nine-hole, Par-3 course. It’s the perfect place if you’d like to get in a quicker round in the morning or early evening. It also offers an 18-station driving range, three practice holes, and two putting greens. Looking for a regular game with like-minded players or a place for your future golf star to fine-tune their game? Twin Brooks has leagues and junior programs and offers a pro shop, snack bar, and PGA instruction for groups and individuals.
To Play
For more information about locations, rates, hours, and online booking visit www.golfstpete.com For information about any other of St. Pete’s many parks visit www.stpeteparksrec.org or call (727) 893-7441.
