Walt Disney World Golf has received a prestigious honor from the The National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA). The NGCOA has awarded the resort’s golf courses with the 2026 NGCOA Resort Course of the Year. This award recognizes Disney World’s 63 holes of golf as the “pinnacle of resort-level golf experiences.”
Cathy Harbin, President of the NGCOA Board of Directors, spoke about the award as seen on FirstCallGolf.com.
“Walt Disney World® Golf represents the pinnacle of resort-level golf experiences, establishing a benchmark for service, design, and industry leadership. The APGM team members at Walt Disney World® Resort are passionate about our industry, providing first-class experiences and inspiring others. It is a privilege to recognize their dedication to golf and shine a spotlight on their achievements.”
Cathy Harbin, President NGCOA Board of Directors
This award is new for 2026. Each year, the award “honors a resort golf course that delivers an exceptional experience across all facets of operation—from turf management to guest engagement.
Disney World is home to three 18-hole golf courses (Disney’s Palm, Magnolia, and Lake Buena Vista) as well as the 9-hole Oak Trail course. The Magnolia course recently completed an extensive renovation in 2023. Known as a championship-quality course, the Magnolia now boasts a tough stretch between holes 14 and 17 called Grumpy’s Gauntlet.
Both the Palm and Lake Buena Vista courses are also considered outstanding challenges for golfers. Water hazards and bunkers are abundant at Disney World’s courses despite the area being called the Happiest Place on Turf.
The award also celebrates Disney’s commitment to grow the sport of golf. The Oak Trail course is welcoming to guests of all ages, and even offers foot golf on select days. Disney also partners with Youth on Course, a nonprofit that aims to make golf more affordable for junior golfers.
We think Disney World’s golf courses are underrated compared to the destinations that are usually considered the best golf destinations in America. We’re not saying Disney World’s links are better than say Pinehurst, Big Cedar Lodge, or others, but we think Disney deserves more recognition. The courses are outstanding.
