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Course Report
Bay Hill has served as the home of the Arnold Palmer Invitational since 1979 and was the personal winter residence of Arnold Palmer himself.
About
Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge is a championship golf course in Orlando, Florida, designed by Dick Wilson and later refined by Arnold Palmer. Stretching over 270 acres along the scenic Butler Chain of Lakes, Bay Hill is renowned for hosting the PGA Tour's Arnold Palmer Invitational and offers an exclusive, private-club experience for resort guests.
Caddie Tip
Keep your tee shots in play, as Bay Hill's fairways are tree-lined and the rough can be penal. Water hazards come into play on many holes, especially on the closing stretch, so aim for the center of the greens and avoid short-siding yourself.
The Main Challenge
The greatest test at Bay Hill is the closing three-hole stretch, with water hazards and swirling winds making approach shots treacherous. Precision off the tee is vital, as mistakes are punished by lakes, thick rough, and deep bunkers, especially under tournament conditions.
The Good
Golfers consistently praise Bay Hill for its immaculate conditioning, storied history, and strong layout. Playing the same course as PGA Tour stars provides an unforgettable, bucket-list experience, and the closing holes offer intense, memorable drama that keeps players coming back.
The Not So Good
Some guests find the course maintenance can lag behind just prior to tournament preparation, with certain fairways or bunkers showing wear. The Florida heat and humidity in summer can also make play less comfortable, and pace of play can be slow during busy periods.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th hole at Bay Hill is a challenging par 4, known for its dramatic finish alongside the lake. The tee shot must avoid water to the left, while the second shot requires precision to a well-guarded green. This hole often determines the outcome of the Arnold Palmer Invitational with its risk-and-reward challenge.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse offers fine dining in multiple restaurants, a lounge, fully stocked pro shop, locker rooms, a luxurious spa, large pool, tennis courts, and fitness center. Resort guests enjoy full club privileges during their stay and access to all amenities.
Practice Facilities
Bay Hill provides top-tier practice areas with a spacious driving range, multiple short-game greens, putting green, and access to the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy for instruction. The facilities are well-maintained, suitable for both serious practice and casual warm-ups.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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