Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa Review – a little slice of Florida paradise

In this guest post, my assistant Nancy, who is a keen golfer, shares her recent stay at Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa which we won in the Passports with Purpose Giveaway.

Life in the central United States offers a variety of climate changes. Stormy spring weather quickly morphs to the hot and steamy “dog days” of summer. Autumn brings relief with mild temperatures and colorful foliage. Then, often suddenly, comes the cold, sleet and snow. It’s then that Midwesterners seek respite from the grueling winter weather.

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For many the perfect escape is sunny Florida. That’s why my husband and I were thrilled to be gifted a two-night stay for two at Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. Located in the Florida community of Ponte Vedra Beach and close to the Atlantic shore, it’s a perfect winter break location.

A serene oasis

Marriott Sawgrass resort is located in an oasis of nature, just off the scenic A1A highway. The serene setting immediately put us into a tropical state of mind. After checking into our room with a lovely pool view, we set off to explore the Audubon rated grounds.

We strolled around the edges of the lake bordered by cozy villas nestled among lush plantings, where a gazebo provided a wide view of the main hotel building. Crossing the lake bridge, we approached an expansive outdoor deck. After a drink from the outdoor bar we settled in to watch ducks paddle around a waterfall in the distance. Signs indicated the possibility of an alligator sighting, but we were not so lucky. This seemed the perfect Florida setting, with gentle breezes, bright blue sky and Spanish moss-draped live oak trees.

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Continuing our tour, we sauntered around the two pools surrounded by colorful plantings and sun loungers. Although still a bit cool for us, some hardy souls were splashing about.

Sharing your vacation experience

Nearing the lobby we encountered one of Sawgrass Marriott’s “Selfie Spots”. Guests are encouraged to frame themselves against the picturesque background and post the photo on social media using the tag #onlyatsawgrass.

Complimentary wireless in the lobby and public areas of the resort make this a snap. This spot featured the opportunity to hit a golf ball to the green on the small island in the lake beyond. Although we are avid recreational golfers, we declined to attempt the shot. We imagined the employee designated to take the paddleboat across the lake to confirm a potential hole-in-one was not disappointed.

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As evening approached we obtained our complimentary cocktails, the signature Sawgrass RumRunner. Finding a spot around the lower level outdoor fire pit, we toasted to an enjoyable first day in paradise.

Heading to the sand

Bright and early the next day we boarded the complimentary shuttle for the short ride to the resort’s beach access. The Cabana Beach Club, situated on Ponte Vedra Beach, boasts sugar-fine white sand, Olympic-size pool, and beach side dining. Although brave enough only to roll up our trousers and walk at the edge of the surf, we did partake of another Selfie Spot with the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean in the background.

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Returning to the resort, we boarded a chauffeured cart that transported us to the adjacent TPC (c) Sawgrass clubhouse where we were met by one of Marriott’s volunteer “Storytellers”. We thoroughly enjoyed the intimate guided tour of this elegant facility rich with golf history, artwork and memorabilia.

After browsing the pro shop we returned to the golf cart for a tour of the Stadium Course. We marveled at hole 17, perhaps the most recognizable hole in golf, with its heart-shaped island green. Proof that this hole is challenging to even the best golfers are the many thousands of balls retrieved each year from the surrounding water. This day, however, we heard no one call “fore”, as the course was closed in preparation for the famous Players Championship held annually in May.

Who is Sawgrass Marriott best for?

Serious and casual golfers alike will find an abundance of courses nearby. The resort is within easy driving distance to the beaches of the Atlantic Coast, and St. Augustine, America’s oldest city, is a short drive away.

Getting there

The resort is conveniently located an easy 40 minute drive from Florida’s Jacksonville airport.

To book Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa

Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa website | Check prices and book here

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Thanks to Marriott for providing* our stay at Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa through their donation to Passports with Purpose, a travel blogger initiative designed to raise funds for various causes around the globe.

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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