Walt Disney World’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course (Review)
Staying at the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista (my FAVOURITE Disney area hotel by the way) I took a look at the map and proximity to the golf course straight from the resort through Disney Springs, and walked just a few minutes to the golf course entrance. It was as handy as I could have asked! This Arnold Lee–designed course winds through pastel villas at Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, Disney’s Port Orlean’s Riverside and French Quarter resorts as well as the Treehouse Villas. But that first-step feeling was special Disney magic meets classic country-club charm.
Walking through the clubhouse, check-in was easy and welcoming. Staff offered directions to tee boxes, confirmed tee times, and made sure I had water and sunscreen. The course motto “Happiest Place on Turf” kicked in early, and I was eager to see if the experience lived up to it. One nice touch was the driving range with a replica of the ‘island green’ you’ll eventually face - a nice confidence boost.
Lake Buena Vista is an 18-hole Par 72 measuring around 6,745 yards from the tips (other tees range from ~5,177 to 6,281 yards) with a slope ~133 / rating ~72.3, offering challenge without intimidation.
Front Nine
The front nine opens with a gentle par-4, flanked by lakes and clusters of villas. By the third, you’re teeing over water, mostly canal traffic from the Sassagoula River Cruise below instead of wildlife. The fourth hole threads through Old Key West villas on one side and mature pines on the other, blending Disney theming with natural Florida landscaping. Hole 7 is the standout, a stunning island green that teases your nerves with bunkers and tree cover, but still feels approachable
Back Nine
On the back nine, elevated greens and dense woods dominate. The driveable par‑4 tenth invites big hitters, but narrow landing zones punish overconfidence. Several holes dogleg gently through palmettos and lakes; water intervenes more often here, demanding focus. Green complexes are slightly elevated, making approaches feel tactical, miss your line and you're left with tricky recovery shots
The course is thoughtfully routed, there’s enough variety to keep each nine distinct, a few birdie chances for the bold, and plenty of risk-reward decisions nestled between large fairways and tight corridors.
Everything felt well-maintained: lush Bermuda fairways, immaculate greens, and clean bunkers. While some mid-summer reviews mention dry patches or slower roll on greens, on my visit everything flew true and rolled firm. Signs of frequent upkeep were clear. Comfort stations placed mid-course offered water, restrooms, and shelter a thoughtful touch during Florida’s unpredictable weather.
Carts were brand-new electric models with touch-screen GPS, coolers, and USB ports very handy when paired with someone’s playlists or in-ride snacks. Pace of play was smooth, even as a single player paired into a foursome. Golfers were paired with care, and marshals kept us at a steady tempo without unnecessary pressure.
The vibe was peaceful, serene, and full of natural beauty. Pastel villas peeked through pines, and wetlands reflected azure skies. I loved hitting a chip shot, and tipping my cap after a great result to the couple out on their patio enjoying breakfast. Palmettos and cypress trees created a coastal Floridian feel, while vantage points overlooked Disney Springs and beyond. Wildlife sightings were modest some birds and small waterfowl but nothing crowded the course. Overall, the setting felt more secluded and tranquil compared to the busier Palm or Magnolia courses.
The clubhouse includes full locker rooms, showers, and a pro shop stocked with Disney-themed gear, clubs, and apparel. Complimentary cart service included GPS-equipped carts with built-in coolers, sand bottles, windshields, and rain covers plus helpful marshals throughout.
Practice facilities include a driving range—hitters aim over a front-end water hazard, which mirrors similar risk-reward features on the course itself—plus short-game areas and putting greens. Refreshment carts float around the course serving drinks and sandwiches. After your round, changing spared a lot of hassle before heading back to Disney Springs for dinner or entertainment
Getting there is a breeze: walk from the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort, take the Sassagoula River Cruise ferry from Disney Springs, or drive from any Disney resort parking is free. Ferries connect key resort areas, and Disney transportation services buses between resorts and Disney Springs, making access easy without needing a car. I took the Sassagoula River Cruise ferry back to Disney Springs in time for my 12:30PM lunch at Marimoto Asia with time to spare!
The course weaves through many Walt Disney World resorts including Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, and Treehouse Villas resorts creating a scenic, layered routing with villas integrated into the layout rather than dominating it
At around $75–$125 per round (depending on season/time), with carts, GPS, and clubhouse access included, the value is solid especially when balanced with the scenic layout and Disney-level service
If you’re looking for relaxed Florida golf, beautiful scenery, variety in layout, and easy access to Disney Springs post-round (boat + walking = my favorite combo), this course is an excellent pick. It’s gentle enough for mid-handicap casual rounds, yet offers enough challenge to keep it engaging.
Would I play again? Absolutely. As someone who appreciated the walk from Disney Springs, the convenience of resort-integrated transit, and a course that’s easy on the eyes and challenging enough to stay interesting, this route is a winner. A classic, scenic Disney round that’s approachable, convenient, and breezy.
