Golf

The Claw at USF. Named for its many dog-legged fairways, this University of South Florida course is one of the most challenging public courses in the area. Live oaks as well as cypress and pine trees line the tight twists and turns of the fairways. This is one of the few places in Tampa Bay where you'll find deer grazing along the fairway (especially early in the morning) and gators sunning themselves next to the course's ponds. You'll also find a driving range and a golf shop. After you play, grab a beer at Rocky's Sports Grill, where you'll be able to catch the game on one of several flat- or plasma-screen TVs. 13801 N. 46th St., North Tampa, Tampa, Florida, 33613. 813/497–2023; www.theclawatusfgolf.com. From $22.

Saddlebrook Golf Club. This expansive complex half an hour northeast of Tampa offers not one but two courses designed by Arnold Palmer. The Palmer Golf Course's hilly terrain contrasts with Tampa Bay's generally flat landscape, and it makes you think you're playing on a course somewhere in New England. With its Spanish moss–draped cypress hammocks, the Saddlebrook Golf Course has more of an Old Florida feel to it. As you make your way past this course's green ponds, keep an eye out for turtles—and gators. There's also a golf shop, driving range, on-site pros, and, if you're aching from a grueling day on the course, a luxury spa on the resort property. Saddlebrook Resort, 5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel, Florida, 33543. 813/729–8383; www.saddlebrook.com. From $39.

Tournament Players Club of Tampa Bay. A stop along the PGA Champion's Tour, this public course sits about 15 miles north of Tampa. It was designed by Bobby Weed with consultation from Chi Chi Rodriguez and is laid out along natural wetlands, which means you can spot plenty of local wildlife as you play. The course was designed to be challenging while still giving novices a fair shake. Practice ahead of time at the driving, chipping, or putting range. There's a golf shop on-site as well as the Cuatro, where you can grab a sandwich and a cold one after your game. 5300 W. Lutz Fern Rd., Lutz, Florida, 33558. 813/949–0090; www.tpctampabay.com. From $75 (varies seasonally).