Emerald Dunes GC
West Palm Beach, FL
1990. Tom Fazio
Gold 7006, 73.8, 133, 72
Blue 6558, 71.7,129, 72
White 6120, 69.7,125, 72
Fees: ~$150
#39 Golf Magazine 2000 Top 100 You Can Play
Golfcourse.com Review: This course blends a touch of Scotland and the feel of the Carolinas in a lush, tropical FL setting. The best and most unique feature is the "Super Dune," which rises over 50 feet high. At its peak, you'll have a panoramic view of the entire course. 3 tees and 3 greens that are elevated, and 2 waterfalls were built into the beautiful centerpiece that serves as the hallmark for this outstanding course. The course can be very challenging because water hazards come into play on 16 holes.
Where To Grub (See also: The Reserve @ PGA GC): Primanti Bros. Sandwiches of Pittsburgh has a store in Fort Lauderdale (901 N A1a). A 'Burgh tradition for many years, these sandwiches feature a hearty stack of grilled lunchmeat on Texas Toast, covered with vinegrette cole slaw, and thick French Fries on the sandwich. Sounds gross but it's great stuff. A Must Eat. T&L Golf recommends Prawnbrokers Grill (3754 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart; 561-288-1222), a place with comfortable booths, a brief but affordable wine list and a terrific kitchen. Try the Stone Crabs (year-round), a FL delicacy. Farther into Stuart, in a section of the old downtown where the turn-of-the-century architecture has been restored, is the Flagler Grill (47 SW Flagler Ave; 561-221-9517). It has an ambitious wine list and menu, but the period decor cries out for martinis and rare steak. One street north, across from the Lyric Theater, is the Black Marlin (53 West Osceola Street; 561-286- 3126), small, friendly, unannounced-- there is no sign outside, only a stuffed marlin--and a real find. Try the grouper fingers and crab cakes. The most acclaimed fare can be found at 11 Maple Street (3224 NE Maple Avenue, Jensen Beach; 561-334-7714). Newcomers may feel a strong inclination to try everything on the appetizer list--the pan-fried conch with balsamic vinegar and lime is a signature starter. The entrees are equally compelling, from vegetarian selections to duck, striped sea bass, venison and tuna. For eating with a bib, there's Smoky's Real Pit Bar-B-Q (1002 SE St. Lucie Blvd, Bridge Plaza, Port St. Lucie; 561-337-6365)--a symphony in Formica and bright enough for a police interrogation, but the ribs are great.
Where To Stay: Within 15 mins. of Hutchinson Island's beachside Indian River, Plantation Marriott Resort is definitely the place to stay. Travel Channel's Best Value is Hotel Viva ($79 + up), a great revamped motor lodge with vintage space-age retro decor, uber-colorful rooms, and hot late-night parties.
Further Distractions: Citywalk is an affluent outdoor shopping and restuarant district worth taking in.