Saltleaf Golf Preserve: Your Next Must-Play Florida Golf Course

Dr. Reanna Crooks DVM 23 Jul 2025

Imagine a place where the greens meet the bay, where every swing feels like a breath of fresh air, and the course itself is a tribute to nature's beauty. That, in a way, is the heart of Saltleaf Golf Preserve. This new spot, quite frankly, is changing how people think about golf in Florida, offering something truly special for anyone who loves the game. It is a destination that promises more than just a round of golf; it offers an experience you will remember.

Located in Bonita Springs, Florida, this course is a fresh face on the golf scene. It was designed by the well-known pro golfer Raymond Floyd and, as a matter of fact, is looked after by Troon, a name many golfers trust. This place lets you play golf right next to Estero Bay, which is Florida's very first aquatic preserve. It's built in a way that keeps things natural, with no formal bunkers and only a few changes made to the land itself.

In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes Saltleaf Golf Preserve stand out. We will talk about its unique design, what it's like to play there, and all the cool things you can find at the course. So, if you are thinking about your next golf trip, or if you just want to know more about this exciting new place, you will find plenty of helpful information here.

Introduction to Saltleaf Golf Preserve
A Unique Design by Raymond Floyd
Playing by Estero Bay: A Natural Experience
From Raptor Bay to Saltleaf: A New Look
Course Details and Playing Experience
Clubhouse and Amenities for Everyone
Planning Your Visit: Tee Times and Specials
Frequently Asked Questions About Saltleaf Golf Preserve
Ready to Play? Your Invitation to Saltleaf Golf Preserve

Introduction to Saltleaf Golf Preserve

Saltleaf Golf Preserve is, quite simply, a brand new place for golfers to visit in Bonita Springs, Florida. It's been made with care and thought, aiming to give people a memorable time on the greens. This spot is a daily fee course, which means it is open to the public. Anyone can come and play a round here, which is rather nice.

It is situated in Southwest Florida, right in the town of Bonita Springs. This area is known for its pretty coastal views and relaxed feel. The course itself is part of a bigger project, a new coastal village called Saltleaf on Estero Bay. This makes it a central part of a new community, too.

What makes this golf preserve really special, you might ask? Well, it is one of those rare golf spots where you will not see a single home nearby. This means your focus stays on the game and the nature around you, which is a big plus for many players. It offers a unique challenge and a memorable experience for golfers of all skill levels, really.

A Unique Design by Raymond Floyd

The design of Saltleaf Golf Preserve comes from the mind of Raymond Floyd, a professional golfer with a lot of experience. His vision for the course was to create something that works with the land, rather than against it. This approach, you see, is what gives the course its special feel.

Floyd's design principles are clear here: minimal changes to the natural landscape. This means the course feels very much like it belongs right where it is. It is managed by Troon, a company known for handling top-tier golf courses, which ensures the course is always kept in great shape. This partnership, in some respects, brings a high level of care to the property.

The course itself, as a matter of fact, has been thoughtfully laid out. It has seven tee boxes for each hole, which means players of different abilities can find a comfortable starting point. This variety allows for different lengths and challenges, making each round feel a little different. It is a course that truly invites everyone to play.

Playing by Estero Bay: A Natural Experience

One of the most defining features of Saltleaf Golf Preserve is its closeness to Estero Bay. This bay, for those who do not know, holds the distinction of being Florida's first aquatic preserve. Playing golf beside it gives you views that are, quite frankly, stunning. You get to enjoy the game with the natural beauty of the bay as your backdrop.

The design choice to have no formal bunkers on the course is a direct nod to this natural setting. Instead of sand traps, the course uses the land's natural contours and hazards. This makes the game feel more organic and, in a way, more connected to the environment. It is a different kind of challenge, one that relies on clever shot-making rather than avoiding sand.

The course spans 144 acres, and this large area allows for a feeling of openness. You are playing golf right next to a vibrant natural area, and this really adds to the calm atmosphere. It is a place where you can truly focus on your game while being surrounded by peaceful scenery, which is very appealing.

From Raptor Bay to Saltleaf: A New Look

Saltleaf Golf Preserve is not entirely new ground; it sits on the site of what was once known as Raptor Bay Golf Club. The transformation, you see, has been quite significant. Raymond Floyd took the existing layout and completely redesigned it, giving it a fresh identity and an updated playing experience.

The redesign brought about some important changes to the course's measurements. The length of the course grew from about 6,400 yards to a longer 7,075 yards. Also, the par for the course increased from 71 to 72. These adjustments, in a way, make the course a bit more challenging and modern for today's players.

This redesign means that even if you played at Raptor Bay before, Saltleaf Golf Preserve offers a completely different feel. It is a new challenge, a new experience, and a fresh start for this piece of land. People who have played there have shared their thoughts, and you can, in fact, read reviews from golfers who experienced this new version.

Course Details and Playing Experience

When you come to Saltleaf Golf Preserve, you will find a course ready for a good game. It measures 7,075 yards from the longest tees and plays as a par 72. The surfaces for play, including the tees, fairways, and greens, are all made with Bermuda grass. This type of grass is often chosen for its durability and good playing conditions in warm climates, which is nice.

As mentioned earlier, the course has seven different tee boxes. This means that golfers of all skill levels can pick a starting point that suits their game. Whether you are a beginner or a very seasoned player, there is a length that will give you a fair challenge. This thoughtful setup, you know, makes the course welcoming for everyone.

The overall design focuses on a natural feel, with minimal alterations to the land. This means you will find a course that flows with the existing terrain, offering a unique set of challenges without the typical formal bunkers. It is a course that encourages strategic play and smart decision-making, rather than just raw power. You can also view photos of the course layout and even see a scorecard online to get a better idea of what to expect, too.

Clubhouse and Amenities for Everyone

A great golf course often has a great clubhouse, and Saltleaf Golf Preserve is no exception. The clubhouse here is planned to be a complete facility for golfers and visitors alike. It will have a restaurant, providing a place to grab a meal or a snack before or after your round. There will also be places for people to gather, which is very useful.

For your golfing needs, the clubhouse will include a golf shop where you can find gear, apparel, and other golf essentials. Locker rooms will also be available, offering a convenient spot to change and prepare for your game. These facilities are designed to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable, you see.

Beyond the main course and clubhouse, Saltleaf Golf Preserve offers a range of other amenities. You can find power carts for getting around the course, and rental clubs are available if you do not bring your own. There is a driving range to practice your swings and a short course for working on your game or for a quicker round. For those looking for more, lodging and a spa are also part of the wider Saltleaf on Estero Bay village, providing a complete experience. The course also allows walking, which is a nice option for those who prefer it.

Planning Your Visit: Tee Times and Specials

Saltleaf Golf Preserve is now open, having opened on the site of the former Raptor Bay Golf Club. This means you can start planning your visit right away. Booking a tee time is simple; you can do it online, which is very convenient. Just search for "Saltleaf Golf Preserve tee times" and you will likely find the booking portal.

It is a good idea to check their schedule, as they do have specific hours for different seasons. For instance, from June 1 through September 30, Saltleaf Golf Preserve will switch to its summer hours. This is something to keep in mind when planning your visit, you know.

The preserve also offers special summer savings. These can include discounted tee time rates and sometimes even free swag. It is always a good idea to explore these offers before you book, as they can make your visit even better. You can view photos of construction progress and events on their official channels to get a feel for the place before you arrive, too. For more details and to plan your visit, you can check out their official website or social media pages. Learn more about golf in Florida on our site, and link to this page for more Bonita Springs attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Saltleaf Golf Preserve

Is Saltleaf Golf Preserve open to the public?

Yes, Saltleaf Golf Preserve is a daily fee course, which means it is open for public play. Anyone can book a tee time and come to enjoy a round of golf here. It is designed to be accessible to all golfers, really.

Who designed the Saltleaf Golf Preserve course?

The course was designed by the well-known professional golfer Raymond Floyd. He put his touch on the layout, creating a course that works with the natural landscape and offers a unique playing experience. His vision, you see, shaped this entire property.

Are there any special features about the course design?

A notable feature of Saltleaf Golf Preserve is its design without formal bunkers. Instead, it uses the natural contours of the land for challenges. It is also located right next to Estero Bay, Florida's first aquatic preserve, offering beautiful views and a natural setting for your game. This focus on minimal alterations, in a way, makes it quite unique.

Ready to Play? Your Invitation to Saltleaf Golf Preserve

Saltleaf Golf Preserve stands as a fresh and inviting destination for golf lovers in Southwest Florida. With its thoughtful design by Raymond Floyd, its connection to the natural beauty of Estero Bay, and its range of amenities, it offers a complete and enjoyable experience. The course, too, is a public one, making it easy for anyone to come and play.

It is a place where you can find a unique challenge, enjoy beautiful surroundings, and make lasting memories on the greens. Whether you are looking for a new spot to play, or planning a golf trip to Bonita Springs, Saltleaf Golf Preserve is certainly worth considering. Come play by the bay, and see for yourself what makes this course so special.

You can book a tee time today and start planning your visit to this remarkable golf destination. For more information, including reviews from other golfers and photos of the course, you can visit their official site or check out resources like Troon Golf's website, which manages the preserve.

Saltleaf Golf Preserve | Troon-Managed Golf Course

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