Renowned for its stunning beauty, World Golf Village’s King & Bear Golf Course reopened on October 4, 2024 after an extensive 5-month restoration. The $2.5 million project was managed by MacCurrach Golf Construction of Jacksonville, Florida – known for their efficiency and preservation of history and character. A key component in the course’s rejuvenation was to resurface all 18 greens with TifEagle Bermuda grass, an excellent choice for southern golf greens that was developed to be healthy year-round and drought and disease resistant. The smooth and durable grass was installed in the putting and chipping areas as well. Bunkers feature new sand, and irrigation and drainage systems have been upgraded to help with water conservation. All improvements promise to enhance the playing experience, whether you’re a scratch golfer or new to the game.

King & Bear first opened in November 2000, and has been since known for its playability and demanding character. The world class course was designed by two of golf’s greatest legends, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. It was the only course designed collaboratively by the pair, and named appropriately after them, whose nicknames are The King and The Golden Bear, respectively. They are both World Golf Hall of Fame members, inducted in the inaugural class in 1974.

The course is known as one of the best in Northeast Florida, and Golfweek’s Best of 2024 rated it as the Top Public-Access Golf Course in Florida. It is a par-72 championship course that measures 7,279 yards from the back tees and 5,119 yards from the forward tees. Coquina rock paths bring you from tee to tee, weaving through shady 200-year-old oak trees, towering loblolly pines, and picturesque lakes. King & Bear is located at 1 King and Bear Drive St., St. Augustine, Florida at World Golf Village. Learn more and book a tee time at the restored King & Bear at www.golfwgv.com/ or by calling 904-940-6200.