Streamsong Red
So Streamsong is the Florida version of Bandon and Arcadia but not on an oceanfront (or big ass lakefront) property. It’s a remote, golf-only property that is all about the walking-only classic golf experience. Like the others it is located in the middle of nowhere. They now have three courses the Red, Blue and Black and if you ask three people who have played there which is their favorite, you’re likely to get an even split among them as to which one it is. For me, it’s pretty even between the Red and Blue and the Black is a d – i – s – t – a – n – t third.
The property was an old phosphate mine and as they were mining for phosphate they took the spoils and built what appear to be five-story high dunes (well they are but they appear to be natural). Then they brought Coore & Crenshaw, Doak and later Gil Hanse in to design individual golf courses within the resort. Of course there are no houses out here or anything to spoil the spoil-based dunes and golf course views. Take high profile designers like that and give them a canvas like Streamsong and you know you will get something pretty special.
I do rank Red #1 of the three. Why? Well, both Blue and Red are really similar and both are top 100 so it’s pretty close. It all probably comes down to the weather when I played and while that is unfair. it made the Red the better experience though Golf Digest agrees also ranking it Red, Blue and Black by what they call the tiniest of margins. The site, The Fried Egg provides a really good review of Red and they have several nice drone pix. That’s the next thing I need a drone-phone so I can toss my phone in the air and get some nice aerials.
I played Red in 2016 with my work buddies Jeff, Rob and Don. This was my second time there and played Blue first. Thirteen and sixteen are my Red favorites though it’s tough to call any hole here an unfavorite. Even if you’re day-tripping to here from Tampa or Orlando I strongly recommend you stay at least one night. The rooms are modern. The Restaurant 59 is really, really good as is SottoTerra. Both have a great wine list. And the Fragmentary Blue bar on the sixth floor is a great place for a drink and a view.
Golf Scrapbook 