King & Bear Golf Course
King & Bear Golf Course offers a distinctive 18-hole layout co-designed by Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, blending parkland terrain with strategic water hazards. Located within World Golf Village, it provides a varied and approachable test framed by historic golf legacy and natural Florida scenery.
Course Overview
The King & Bear Golf Course in St. Augustine, Florida, offers a unique 18-hole golfing experience that blends two legendary design philosophies. Co-designed by Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, it stands as the only course in the world to feature signature holes from both golf icons, creating a layout that challenges and inspires players across all skill levels. Set within the historic World Golf Village, the course takes advantage of gently rolling terrain interspersed with oak-lined fairways and natural water hazards, offering a parkland-style layout that pairs strategic play with a relaxed Floridian atmosphere.
On approach, golfers will notice the course’s wide fairways that reward accuracy off the tee, while the greens present a demanding surface due to their undulating contours. The King & Bear demands thoughtful club selection as water comes into play on seven holes, testing shot placement and nerve. The course’s conditioning can vary, with recent reviews noting periods of aeration and firm greens, so planning visits during the cooler months may provide more consistent turf performance.
The World Golf Village facility complements the golfing experience with amenities including a well-stocked pro shop, practice areas that feature a driving range and putting greens, and dining options designed for post-round relaxation. For those who prefer walking, the terrain is manageable with several shaded stretches, though soft spikes and comfortable shoes are recommended for the best footing.
The target audience ranges from serious golfers seeking a championship layout to vacationers looking for a memorable round in Northeast Florida. While the pace of play can be a consideration depending on the day, the course’s scenic diversity—from bold bunkering to water features—offers engaging challenges and a taste of classic golf architecture.
Visitors should note that tee times and walk policies are managed through the World Golf Village and that the course occasionally hosts tournaments, which may impact availability. Whether seeking to play through the legacy of Nicklaus and Palmer or simply enjoy a round amidst Florida’s natural beauty, King & Bear provides a distinctive course experience framed by history and thoughtful design.
Course Highlights
The only golf course in the world co-designed by Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, featuring wide fairways framed by towering oaks and seven holes incorporating water hazards. The course’s greens are notably undulating, demanding precise approach shots and putting. Located within World Golf Village, it combines a championship test with convenient access to a full range of practice and leisure amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Grant McDonald
Planned a birthday round with a few friends. I was very underwhelmed with the conditions and 6 hour pace of play. The greens are hard as rock and look terrible. The fairways are decent and the areas around bunkers aren’t very suitable for play. Bunkers were in good shape. Probably wouldn’t recommend either WGV course right now as every staff member said that king and bear is way nicer than slammer. $200 a round should have grass on the entire green.
Mike Crum
I didn't get to golf here but it's definitely on my list if I make it back to St Augustine. What a great facility. The pro shop was awesome. I would highly recommend this place. Close to Costco and Bucees.
Greg Thibault
David Woo
Perhaps Slammer and Squire has better management, but this course was not up to par for the price and prestige. Barring the freshly aerated course, which was disclaimed on the booking site, I could not find any positives to note here. There were NO Beverage Carts (not one) on a Sunday AM, zero briefing from the Starter, no courtesy bag shuttling, no coffee at 8AM, ultimately, at nearly 200 dollars, it was not a great experience. Coming here with my friends to play golf, Slammer and Squire absolutely met expectation, King and Bear absolutely fell short. We will not visit this course again.
Brent Adamson
Beautifully manicured golf course with the all-out club experience worth every penny
Tim Krothe
This is a bucket list golf course. Outside staff are courteous and professional.
David Woo
Perhaps Slammer and Squire has better management, but this course was not up to par for the price and prestige. Barring the freshly aerated course, which was disclaimed on the booking site, I could not find any positives to note here. There were NO Beverage Carts (not one) on a Sunday AM, zero briefing from the Starter, no courtesy bag shuttling, no coffee at 8AM, ultimately, at nearly 200 dollars, it was not a great experience. Coming here with my friends to play golf, Slammer and Squire absolutely met expectation, King and Bear absolutely fell short. We will not visit this course again.
Jesse Herrera
Great course with fast greens, I can't wait to come back.
Kurt Wiese
The King & Bear is a beautiful course that I was fortunate to play while on a Florida vacation a number of years ago. Excellent conditions and fun to play!
Sam Zhong
$50 day pass available to use its practice areas. Friendly staffs , well-maintained facility!
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Course Details
Access & Location
1 King and Bear Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32092, USA
World Golf Village Clubhouse featuring a pro shop and dining facilities
Walking is allowed and encouraged; course terrain is predominantly level with some rolling hills. Comfortable golf shoes recommended.
Reservations recommended, especially during peak seasons; walk-ins may be accommodated weekdays off-peak.
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