For guests visiting Walt Disney World, the “magic” often extends far beyond the theme parks and resort hotels. It can also be found on the fairways and greens of the property’s extensive golf facilities. In a significant recognition of its quality and service, the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) has named Walt Disney World Golf as the recipient of the 2026 Resort Course of the Year Award. This accolade highlights the commitment to excellence maintained by the resort and its management team, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for golfers of all skill levels.
A Prestigeous Recognition from Industry Leaders
The National Golf Course Owners Association is the leading trade association for golf course owners and operators in the United States. Its “Resort Course of the Year” award is not handed out lightly; it recognizes a facility that demonstrates outstanding quality in all aspects of operations. According to the NGCOA, Walt Disney World Golf was selected for providing an exceptional experience to guests while simultaneously contributing to the growth and vitality of the sport.
Walt Disney World® Golf represents the pinnacle of resort-level golf experiences, establishing a benchmark for service, design, and industry leadership. The Arnold Palmer Golf Management team members at Walt Disney World Resort are passionate about our industry, providing first-class experiences and inspiring others. It is a privilege to recognize their dedication to golf and shine a spotlight on their achievements.
Cathy Harbin, President of the NGCOA Board of DirectorsThe award specifically honors the efforts of the Arnold Palmer Golf Management team, which operates the courses. Their dedication to creating first-class experiences was a driving factor in securing this honor. The award is scheduled to be formally presented at the Golf Business Conference 2026 in Orlando, Florida.
Doug Howe, the Chief Operating Officer of Century Golf Partners, the organization behind Arnold Palmer Golf Management (APGM), shared his response:
This prestigious award, naming Walt Disney World® Golf as NGCOA Resort Course of the Year, affirms the cohesiveness that exists when the Walt Disney World® Resort entrusts a management team dedicated to operational excellence. The success of APGM is rooted in our commitment to quality, consistency, and integrity in all we do. This ensures that every operational detail, from agronomy to our guest experience, meets the highest standards, and we are incredibly honored by this recognition from the NGCOA.
Doug Howe, Chief Operating Officer of Century Golf PartnersWorld-Class Facilities for Every Golfer
The “Happiest Place on Turf” comprises four distinct golf courses, offering a total of 63 holes across the resort property. These facilities cater to a wide range of abilities, from seasoned professionals to families looking for a relaxed afternoon activity.
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course
Often considered the flagship course, the Magnolia is the longest of the Disney courses. It features wide fairways and elevated tees, designed in the classic tour style.
Disney’s Palm Golf Course
Known for its natural beauty, this course features shimmering lakes, tropical sands, and palm trees. It presents a formidable challenge with water hazards and bunkers strategically placed throughout the 18 holes.
Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
This course winds through pastel villas, pine forests, and palmettos. It has hosted PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, and USGA events, offering a classic country club feel.
Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course
A 9-hole walking course designed for families and junior golfers. It provides a fun, less intimidating environment for beginners to learn the game or for a quick round.
Recent Updates and Improvements
The award comes on the heels of significant investments in the courses’ infrastructure and design. Walt Disney World Golf has been proactive in maintaining and upgrading its facilities to ensure they meet modern standards and guest expectations.
Recently, Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course underwent a comprehensive renovation. This project included redesigns of various holes, improved landscaping, and a rebranding effort that gave all 18 holes names with Disney-centric references. These updates aim to blend the challenge of championship golf with the immersive storytelling guests expect from a Disney experience.
Similarly, Disney’s Palm Golf Course has seen attention to its agronomy. It recently closed for extensive aerification, a crucial maintenance process that improves air and water flow in the soil. This dedication to turf health results in consistent playing conditions that rival top private clubs.
Tee Time!
The designation of Walt Disney World Golf as the 2026 Resort Course of the Year serves as a testament to the hard work and strategic vision of the operations team. For Disney enthusiasts and golfers alike, it confirms that the resort offers a recreational experience that matches the high standards set by its theme parks. Whether you are looking to challenge yourself on a championship layout or enjoy a leisurely walk on a 9-hole course, Walt Disney World Golf continues to prove itself as a top-tier destination in the golfing world.
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Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
