Golf in Miami and Miami Beach

Greater Miami has more than 30 private and public courses. Costs at most courses are higher on weekends and in season, but you can save by playing on weekdays and after 1 or 3 PM, depending on the course—call ahead to find out when afternoon-twilight rates go into effect. To get a "Golfer's Guide for South Florida," (800/864-6101) which includes information on most courses in Miami and surrounding areas, call The 18-hole, par-71 championship Biltmore Golf Course (1210 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables, 33134. 305/460-5364), known for its scenic layout, has been restored to its original Donald Ross design, circa 1925. Greens fees in season range from $145 to $165 for nonresidents. The optional cart is $27. Overlooking the bay, the Crandon Golf Course (6700 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne, 33149. 305/361-9129) is a top-rated 18-hole, par-72 public course in a beautiful tropical setting. Expect to pay $150 for a round in winter, $33 in summer, cart included. Twilight rates from $40 apply after 3 PM. Don Shula's Hotel & Golf Club (7601 Miami Lakes Dr., 154th St. Exit off Rte. 826, Miami Lakes, 33014. 305/820-8106. www.donshulahotel.com), in northern Miami, has one of the longest championship courses in the area (7,055 yards, par-72), a lighted par-3 course, and a golf school. Greens fees are $134-$175, depending on the season. Hotel guests get discounted rates. You'll pay in the lower range on weekdays, more on weekends, and $45 after 3 PM. Golf carts are included. The par-3 course is $12 weekdays, $15 weekends. The club hosts more than 75 tournaments a year.

Among its five courses and many annual tournaments, the Doral Golf Resort and Spa (4400 N.W. 87th Ave., 36th St. Exit off Rte. 826, Doral, Miami, 33178. 305/592-2000 or 800/713-6725. www.doralresort.com), just west of Miami proper, is best known for the par-72 Blue Monster course and the PGA's annual World Golf Championship. (The week of festivities planned around this tournament, which offers $8 million in prize money, brings hordes of pro-golf aficionados in late March.) Greens fees range from $95 to $325. Carts are not required. For a casual family outing or for beginners, the 9-hole, par-3 Haulover Golf Course (Haulover Beach Park, 10800 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 33154. 305/940-6719) is right on the Intracoastal Waterway at the north end of Miami Beach. The longest hole on this walking course is 120 yards; greens fees are only $7, plus $5 for parking. Hit the links in the heart of South Beach at the lovely 18-hole, par-72 Miami Beach Golf Club (2301 Alton Rd., Miami Beach, 33139. 305/532-3350. www.miamibeachgolfclub.com). Greens fees are $95 in summer, $200 in winter, including mandatory cart.