You’ve probably heard the rumors or read the old forum posts. People love to talk about the "glory days" of Florida golf, and Martin Downs Golf Club Palm City usually ends up right in the center of those conversations. Some folks will tell you it’s a private relic of the 70s, while others swear it’s the best-kept public secret on the Treasure Coast.
The truth? It’s a bit of both, and honestly, that’s what makes it interesting.
If you’re driving down SW Martin Highway, you might miss the turn if you aren't looking for it. This isn't one of those flashy, neon-signed resorts. It’s tucked away in a gated community that feels like real Florida—think massive oaks, actual elevation changes (rare for this state), and a history that includes hosting PGA Tour and U.S. Open qualifying rounds.
The Identity Crisis Everyone Talks About
Let’s clear the air on the biggest point of confusion. For a long time, Martin Downs was known for having two distinct courses: Osprey Creek and Crane Creek.
👉 See also: Darien Porter Iowa State: The Speedster Who Flipped the Script
If you search for Crane Creek today, you’ll find it’s basically morphed into the Crane Watch Club, which operates somewhat independently under the "Evergreen" umbrella. So, when people talk about playing at the actual Martin Downs Golf Club nowadays, they’re almost always talking about the Osprey Creek course.
Designed by Charles Ankrom and opened back in 1979, Osprey Creek is the heart of the operation. It’s a par-72 championship layout that sprawls over 185 acres. While it was once the height of private exclusivity, it’s now a semi-private facility. This means you can actually book a tee time without knowing a member, though members definitely get the perks like 14-day advance booking and those sweet 10% discounts at the pro shop and spa.
Why This Layout Bites Back
Don't let the 7,000-yard measurement from the back tees fool you. On paper, it looks like a standard long ball hitter's dream. In reality? The prevailing easterly winds coming off the Atlantic make this course play significantly longer than the scorecard suggests.
I’ve seen guys with single-digit handicaps get absolutely humbled on the back nine because they didn't account for the "Martin Downs Breeze."
The Course Character
The greens here are famously fast. Even in early 2026, the maintenance team under Jesus Romero has kept the surfaces rolling true, though—to be fair—the course has had its seasons of struggle. Recent reviews from January 2026 show a mix of experiences. Some players have raved about the "excellent value" and "friendly staff," while others have noted that certain tee boxes can get a bit patchy during the peak winter transition.
It’s a classic Florida layout but with a twist. You’ve got:
- Eight distinct lakes that come into play more often than you’d like.
- Five sets of tees, making it accessible for your 25-handicap uncle or your scratch-golfer buddy.
- Strategic bunkering that forces you to actually think about your approach rather than just "grip it and rip it."
Honestly, the #2 hole is a beast. It’s a 373-yard par-4 that sounds easy enough, but it’s ranked as the #1 handicap for a reason. If you miss the fairway, you’re basically negotiating with trees or sand for the rest of the hole.
Ownership and Cultural Shift
There is a piece of history here that most casual golfers miss. In 2021, Stanley Campbell bought the club. At the time, this made him one of the only Black golf course owners in the state of Florida, joining the likes of Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan.
This wasn't just a business transaction; it was a shift in the club's energy. Under Campbell’s leadership, there’s been a push to make the club a community hub. They’ve got a very active Women’s Golf Association that meets every Thursday, and the "Village Club and Preserve" nearby offers everything from pickleball to bocce for residents.
The "Real Talk" on Conditions
Look, if you’re expecting a $500-a-round Masters-level experience, you’re in the wrong place. Martin Downs Golf Club Palm City is a "golfer’s golf course."
Is it always perfect? No. In late 2025, some players complained about crabgrass in the fairways and spotty greens on the front nine. But by early 2026, reports started coming in that the back nine was looking "much better" and the value for the $85–$100 greens fee range was hard to beat in Martin County.
You’re paying for the layout and the history. You're playing where legends once tried to qualify for the Tour. There’s a weight to that that you don't get at the local municipal par-3.
What to Expect Off the Green
The clubhouse isn't just for checking in. The restaurant—headed by Chef Randy Radecki—is actually a local favorite. It’s open 365 days a year. You can literally walk in on Christmas Day, grab a club sandwich, and watch the groups come in on 18.
Quick Amenities Check:
- Practice Facilities: They have a full putting green and chipping area. Use them. The speed of the greens will catch you off guard if you head straight to the first tee.
- Pro Shop: Jennifer Davis runs the shop, and they’re surprisingly well-stocked with gear that doesn't just have the club logo slapped on it.
- The Spa: Yes, there’s an on-site spa managed by Sharon Lightbourne. It’s a bit of an anomaly for a semi-private course in this price bracket, but it’s a lifesaver if you’ve spent four hours fighting the wind.
How to Play It Smart
If you're planning a trip to Palm City, don't just show up and expect a 3-hour round. It's a popular spot. While the rangers try to keep the pace of play around 4 hours, peak season can get a little backed up.
📖 Related: Barcelona vs. Bayern de Múnich Explained (Simply): The Rivalry That Broke the Internet
Pro Tip: Look for the "afternoon rates" or summer programs if you’re a local. The prices drop significantly, and if you can handle the Florida humidity, you’ll have the place to yourself.
Also, keep an eye on the "The Squeeze." While it's a separate 10-hole concept often mentioned in the same breath as Treasure Coast golf, the core 18 at Martin Downs remains the primary draw for those looking for a traditional round.
Practical Next Steps for Your Visit
If you're ready to tackle the Osprey Creek course, here is how you should actually handle it:
- Book via their website or GolfPass: You’ll see real-time rates. If it’s over $120, wait for a weekday. If it’s under $90, grab it immediately.
- Check the Wind: Seriously. Download a weather app. If the wind is gusting over 15 mph from the East, pack an extra sleeve of balls. You’ll need them on the water holes.
- Eat at the Turn: The food is better than your average snack bar. Grab something from the grill; it’s one of the perks of the club being a community staple.
- Respect the Gates: Remember, this is a gated community. Have your ID ready at the security kiosk and tell them you’re there for golf. They’re used to it, but being polite gets you through the gate a lot faster.
Martin Downs isn't trying to be the most expensive course in Florida. It’s trying to be a challenging, historic, and welcoming place for people who actually give a damn about the game. Whether you’re there for the 7,000-yard challenge or just a burger at the clubhouse, it’s a piece of Palm City history that’s still swinging.