Golf at The Breakers: An Experience Above Par

Two distinctive courses, a premier academy and spectacular surroundings create one of Florida's most iconic resort golf destinations

Since debuting Florida's first nine-hole golf course in 1897, The Breakers Palm Beach has carried forward the sport’s rich heritage, welcoming generations of players for more than a century.

Today, the legendary resort offers two 18-hole courses: the historic Ocean Course and the contemporary Breakers Rees Jones® Course, available exclusively for hotel guests and club members. Each location presents its own test of skill and strategy, appealing to everyone from PGA professionals and avid enthusiasts to those seeking a leisurely round during their stay.

Complementing the impeccably maintained landscapes are personalized service, genuine hospitality and expert instruction from the John Webster Golf Academy. Whether refining technique, lowering scores or simply enjoying a day on the greens, players benefit from the same attention to detail and commitment to excellence that define the resort. The experience culminates at Flagler Steakhouse, the acclaimed restaurant overlooking the Ocean Course fairways from the Golf & Racquet Clubhouse.

Ocean Course at The Breakers

Established in 1897 as Florida's first nine-hole golf course, the Ocean Course seamlessly blends historic significance with modern playability. Reimagined by acclaimed golf course architect Rees Jones in 2018, the layout preserved the course's classic character while introducing intricately contoured greens, custom wooden bulkheads, native landscaping and salt-tolerant turf, elevating both its beauty and performance.

Designed to reward precision and thoughtful shot-making over sheer distance, the course offers strategic variety while remaining enjoyable for players of all skill levels. Each hole presents a distinct personality, creating an engaging and memorable round framed by tropical scenery and occasional glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean.

Environmental stewardship is equally integral to the experience. A groundbreaking reverse-osmosis irrigation system purifies well water drawn from 1,000 feet below ground, conserving more than 80 million gallons of water annually by reducing reliance on surface water sources.

The Ocean Course also represents an important chapter in golf history. Its original design was conceived by Scottish-born Alexander H. Findlay, one of the game's earliest pioneers and a figure often regarded as the "Father of American Golf." A contemporary of Henry M. Flagler and John D. Rockefeller, Findlay was commissioned to create the course for the Palm Beach Golf Club at the Palm Beach Inn, the forerunner to The Breakers.

Findlay's impact on the sport was profound. As his grandson, Richard Findlay, reflected, “golf was virtually unknown in America when Alexander arrived from Scotland, yet by the time of his passing, more than five million Americans were playing the game.” Today, the Ocean Course stands as a lasting tribute to that remarkable legacy and a rare link to the earliest days of golf in the United States.

The Breakers Rees Jones® Course

Located 10 miles from the resort at Breakers West Country Club, The Breakers Rees Jones® Course was comprehensively reimagined by its namesake architect in 2022. Championship-caliber in design and playability, the course features gentle contours, subtle elevation changes and impeccably manicured fairways, all enhancing the natural terrain and encouraging multiple approaches to each hole. TifEagle and Celebration Bermuda grass playing surfaces are framed by pines, oaks and native vegetation, creating a visually striking setting. 

Debuting in 1968 as Breakers West Golf Course, the property first collaborated with Jones in 2004; it was later renamed in recognition of his lasting influence.

“The longstanding partnership between The Breakers and Rees Jones reflects a shared commitment to the integrity and continued evolution of our courses,” said Barry Manners, The Breakers’ Resort Manager. “Through each transformation, his vision has elevated the quality of play, inspiring loyalty and repeat rounds among players.”

John Webster Golf Academy at The Breakers

The John Webster Golf Academy offers personalized, year-round instruction supported by advanced learning centers at both locations, state-of-the-art swing-analysis technology, fitness assessments and custom club-fitting services. Led by PGA Class-A Professional John Webster, the academy's team of teaching professionals provides private lessons and golf schools, with specialized coaching for players of all ages and abilities, from juniors and recreational participants to accomplished competitors.

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About The Breakers Palm Beach
An enduring icon of American luxury, The Breakers Palm Beach is a grand Italian Renaissance–style resort set on 140 acres of pristine oceanfront on the island of Palm Beach, Florida. Founded in 1896 by visionary industrialist Henry M. Flagler, the legendary property remains proudly independent of chain affiliation, continuing to operate under its original family ownership. A sustained annual investment averaging $30 million reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to thoughtful revitalization—balancing historic preservation with modernization to ensure relevance across generations.

Inspired by Rome’s Villa Medici, the eight-story architectural centerpiece encompasses 534 guest rooms and suites, including the ultra-exclusive Flagler Club, a private-access boutique hotel occupying the top two floors. World-class amenities complement The Breakers’ gracious service and refined seaside glamour, from distinctive dining led by award-winning chefs and Master Sommeliers to an exclusive, Mediterranean-inspired beach club featuring four pools, 25 private bungalows, and a selection of watersports.

Additional offerings include two 18-hole golf courses, 16 racquet courts, a tranquil indoor-outdoor spa, a 6,000-square-foot fitness center, 13 signature boutiques, and family activities with imaginative programming for children of all ages. Beyond the resort, Via Flagler by The Breakers, an al fresco plaza, extends the brand experience through a curated collection of boutiques, eateries, and galleries.

Recognized for its social impact, The Breakers has earned numerous accolades reflecting its longstanding commitment to team member well-being, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. For reservations or additional information, call 888 BREAKERS (273 2537) or visit thebreakers.com.