Palmetto Golf Course

Palmetto Golf Course sits in the heart of Miami, designed by Dick Wilson and opened in 1957. Wilson, one of Florida's most prolific mid-century architects, shaped this layout during a period when he was establishing his reputation for strategic design and bold bunkering. The course occupies relatively flat terrain typical of South Florida, where Wilson's skill in creating interest through green complexes, hazard placement, and routing becomes essential to the challenge. The design reflects Wilson's characteristic approach: generous fairways that reward accurate driving, substantial bunkering that frames landing areas and greens, and putting surfaces with enough contour to demand precise approach play. Water comes into play on several holes, as is common in the region, but the course relies more on Wilson's architectural craft than on forced carries. The layout tests players through strategic options rather than overwhelming length, making club selection and course management central to scoring. Palmetto serves as a municipal facility, providing accessible golf in a metropolitan area where public courses face pressure from development. The course has hosted local and regional amateur events over the decades, contributing to Miami's golf community. Its longevity speaks to Wilson's thoughtful routing and the enduring appeal of his design principles, even as the surrounding city has transformed dramatically since the 1950s.