Old Corkscrew Golf Course — Local services in Florida

Please Read Entire Post. Lengthy but must know if you plan on playing there.

Let me first start by saying this course is fabulous! The condition was fantastic and greens are top notch with great speed and very true roll. The design and layout is very challenging, it is not easy by all means. If I was just rating the course and condtion it would get 5 stars!!

My review and star rating reflects how we were treated by the "Ranger" on the course. As aforementioned this course is challenging for all level of skilled players. Our group consisted of seasoned players with handicaps of 2, 5, 5, and 7. It is especially hard for people playing it for the first time as we were. Most fairways are tree lined and many are also narrow.

We were on #3 a Par 5 with 2 players to the right in the trees when the "Ranger" approached us. We were completely shocked when he barked at us that we were 4 minutes behind pace and needed to speed up. Not the typical "Hey guys, enjoy your round and try to keep pace with the group in front of you." The correct way to convey the point.

Again #3 and only 4 minutes behind, because we looked and found a couple of balls and the "Ranger" was giving us attitude. Anyone who plays golf, especially a "Ranger", knows the Ebb and Flow of the game. In a hole or so we would be back on pace and still had the group in front of us in sight. This is when our round started to sour.

Again, Shocked at the attitude, players became flustered and rushed which only made it worse. The scores on the next two, three holes or more for other players reflected the unnecessary pressure and attitude the "Ranger" placed upon our group. Remember Hole #3!! 4 minutes behind!!

We made the turn in 2 hr 15 minutes. All was good until #14, when again we were looking for a couple of balls and fell back a couple minutes. As we approached #15 tee the "Ranger" aggressively told us that we were way behind the group in front of us and that "If we did not speed up we were going to have to SKIP #17" a Par 3. To that point we always had the group in front of us in sight.

Absolutely Shocked again!! Threatening us with having to skip a hole was infuriating! All of the enjoyment we were able to salvage from the round was now gone. We voiced our frustration, told him "Not a chance" we would skip #17 and that his attitude was counterproductive by rushing us which creates more pressure in turn having to spend more time looking for balls.

"Rangers" Attitude on #3 was Unprofessional, but the aggressive attitude on #14 was Extremely Unprofessional and unacceptable. By #17 we caught the group in front of us and ultimately completed the round in 4 hr 35 minutes. Anyone, who has played this course for the first time knows that pace of play is completely acceptable and that the attitude and pressure from the "Ranger" was uncalled for.

We knew several of the groups behind us and as they finished they echoed the exact experiences with the "Ranger" barking at them on #2. Telling them that our group, first off, was the problem and we talked back. We also heard that the "Ranger" made derogatory comments about a player in the third group. Completely Unprofessional!!!

Our representative spoke with the GM, who worked with him in setting up this group, and he surprisingly defended his "Ranger". This was as big of a shock as the uncalled for attitude of the "Ranger".

In conclusion, when playing this course be prepared to not look at the beautiful setting. Do not spend more than 30 seconds looking for a ball. Do not expect to have fun unless you can hit the ball straight as an arrow every single shot. Do not fall more than 5 minutes behind or you will be verbally assulted by the "Ranger". If this does happen DO NOT hold back what you think of the "Ranger". We just wanted to enjoy a beautiful course on a Saturday.

All "Ranger" reference in quotes because his cart should read...

I recently had the chance to tee it up at Old Corkscrew Golf Course in Estero, and it quickly became one of my favorite rounds in Florida. This is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design, and you can feel his fingerprints on every hole – strategic angles, risk-reward choices, and beautifully framed shots that test every club in the bag.

Course & Layout

Old Corkscrew is not attached to a housing development, so you’re playing through a pristine nature preserve. There are no rooftops or backyards, just fairways winding through cypress and pine, natural wetlands, and plenty of wildlife. The routing has a classic flow: each hole feels distinct, with a good mix of doglegs, long par-4s, reachable par-5s, and one of the strongest sets of par-3s in the state. The Nicklaus bunkering is both beautiful and intimidating – placement is everything here.

Conditions

The course was in immaculate shape. Fairways were lush and tight, the ball sat up beautifully, and the greens rolled fast and true with subtle breaks that can fool you. Tee boxes were perfectly level. Even the rough and waste areas looked manicured without losing their natural character. Pace of play was excellent; the staff seems to keep things moving without making you feel rushed.

Practice & Facilities

The practice area is generous and well-maintained, with a full driving range, large putting green, and short-game area that mirrors the course conditions. It’s a great place to warm up or work on your game. The clubhouse is understated but comfortable, with a pro shop stocked with quality gear and friendly staff who seem genuinely happy you’re there.

Service & Atmosphere

Every staff interaction was positive. From the bag drop to the starter to the beverage cart, everyone was welcoming and efficient. There’s no pretense here – it feels like a pure golf club built for people who love the game. The vibe is tranquil and almost secluded, which makes the round feel like a retreat rather than a crowded public track.

Difficulty & Strategy

Make no mistake: Old Corkscrew is a challenging course, especially from the back tees. Water and sand come into play on many holes, and Nicklaus demands accuracy and good course management. But it’s also fair – plenty of width off the tee if you pick the right line, and generous landing areas on lay-up shots. Choose the right set of tees for your game and you’ll have a memorable experience rather than a beat-down.

Overall Impression

Old Corkscrew Golf Course delivers a pure Florida golf experience without distractions. It’s scenic, impeccably conditioned, and intellectually engaging – the kind of course you can play again and again and still discover new nuances. Whether you’re a serious golfer looking to test yourself or just someone who appreciates a beautiful, quiet round, it’s worth making the trip. I left impressed by how well it balances challenge, beauty, and hospitality, and it’s now firmly on my “must-play” list for...

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing Old Corkscrew Golf Course, and I must say, it’s an absolute gem for avid golfers like myself! From the moment I stepped foot on the course, I was blown away by its beauty and challenging design.

The course itself is a masterclass in golf course architecture, with each hole offering a unique and strategic layout that tests every aspect of your game. The fairways are well-maintained, and the greens are true and fast, providing an authentic and enjoyable golfing experience.

One aspect that sets Old Corkscrew Golf Course apart is its stunning natural setting. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, the course seamlessly blends into its surroundings, creating an immersive and tranquil atmosphere that enhances the overall golfing experience.

The staff at Old Corkscrew Golf Course is exceptional, providing top-notch customer service from the moment you arrive until the end of your round. Their warm hospitality and attention to detail make you feel like a valued guest.

Additionally, the facilities are excellent, with a well-stocked pro shop and clubhouse offering a variety of amenities to enjoy before or after your round. The dining options are superb, providing a perfect place to relax and relish the memories of a fantastic day on the course.

Whether you’re a scratch golfer seeking a challenging round or a casual player looking for an unforgettable experience, Old Corkscrew Golf Course delivers on all fronts. It’s a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.

In conclusion, I can confidently say that Old Corkscrew Golf Course deserves a solid 5-star rating. The combination of a world-class course, beautiful scenery, outstanding service, and excellent facilities make it a true golfing paradise. If you have the opportunity to play here, don’t hesitate - you won’t be...