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Welcome to Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club, where timeless elegance meets exceptional recreational experiences in the heart of Tampa, Florida. Nestled within the vibrant community of Palma Ceia, our historic and prestigious club has been a beloved destination for golf enthusiasts, socialites, and families for over a century.

With a rich tradition of championship golf, world-class dining, and an array of luxurious amenities, Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club offers a sanctuary of leisure and camaraderie that sets the standard for refined living in Tampa Bay. Join us as we explore the captivating world of Palma Ceia, where southern charm and modern sophistication blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.

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Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club History and Founding

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club, located in Tampa, Florida, boasts a storied history that traces its roots back to the early 20th century. Founded in 1916, this esteemed institution was the brainchild of a group of visionary individuals who aimed to create a premier golf and social club in the heart of Tampa.

One of the key figures behind the establishment of Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club was the renowned golf course architect, Donald J. Ross. Ross, a prolific designer of his time, is celebrated for crafting some of the most iconic golf courses in the United States. His masterful touch can be seen throughout Palma Ceia’s layout, with meticulously designed fairways, challenging greens, and a strategic use of the natural landscape. Ross’s influence on the course’s design has left a lasting legacy, making it a favorite among golf aficionados.

Over the years, Palma Ceia has evolved into a multifaceted country club, offering not only exceptional golf but also a wide range of social and recreational amenities. Its rich history and dedication to providing a top-tier experience have solidified its status as one of Tampa’s premier private clubs, where members and guests can enjoy the perfect blend of tradition and modern luxury.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club

The most famous golf tournament held at Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club in Tampa, Florida is the Gasparilla Invitational. It is a national amateur golf tournament that has been played annually since 1956. The tournament is named after the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, which is a major event in Tampa.

The Gasparilla Invitational is a 72-hole stroke play tournament that is open to amateur golfers of all ages and skill levels. The tournament is played on the Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club course, which is a Donald Ross design. The course is known for its challenging greens and narrow fairways.

Some of the most famous golfers to have won the Gasparilla Invitational include Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, and Tiger Woods. The current champion is Scottie Scheffler, who won the tournament in 2023.

Other golf tournaments that have been held at Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club include:

The Florida State Amateur Championship (1923, 1935, 1940, 1952, 1972, 1991, 2006)
The US Amateur Public Links Championship (1961)
The US Senior Amateur Championship (1987)
The US Mid-Amateur Championship (1995)
The US Women’s Amateur Championship (2018)

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club is a historic golf course that has hosted many of the most prestigious amateur golf tournaments in the United States. It is a challenging course that is sure to test the skills of even the best golfers.

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club Membership Costs and Dues

The initiation fees and monthly dues at Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club in Tampa, Florida are not publicly available. However, there are some estimates and rumors that can give you an idea of the costs involved.

Initiation fee:

The initiation fee is rumored to be in the range of $50,000 to $100,000.
However, some sources say that the initiation fee can be waived for members who live in the immediate area or who have a family member who is already a member.

Monthly dues:

The monthly dues are estimated to be around $1,000 to $2,000.
The specific amount of the dues will vary depending on the type of membership and other factors.

Here are some other factors that may affect the cost of membership at Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club:

The type of membership. There are different types of memberships available, each with its own set of benefits and privileges. The initiation fee and monthly dues will vary depending on the type of membership.
The age of the member. The initiation fee and monthly dues may be lower for younger members.
The length of the commitment. Members may be required to make a long-term commitment to the club. This could affect the initiation fee and monthly dues.

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club Amenities

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club offers a wide range of amenities and facilities to cater to the needs and interests of its members.

Here are some of the amenities commonly associated with Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club:

Championship Golf Course: The club boasts a meticulously designed golf course, often designed by the renowned golf course architect Donald J. Ross. This course is a centerpiece of the club and offers a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience for members.
Practice Facilities: To help golfers refine their skills, Palma Ceia typically provides practice areas such as a driving range, putting greens, and chipping areas.
Tennis: The club often features tennis courts and facilities for members interested in tennis, including organized play and lessons.
Fitness Center: A well-equipped fitness center can be a part of the club’s offerings, allowing members to maintain their health and wellness.
Swimming Pool: A swimming pool and poolside amenities are typically available for members and their families to enjoy.
Dining and Socializing: Palma Ceia typically features dining options, ranging from casual to fine dining, where members can enjoy meals and social gatherings. These areas often include elegant dining rooms, lounges, and bars.
Social Events: The country club often hosts a variety of social events and activities throughout the year, fostering a sense of community among its members.
Private Event Spaces: For special occasions and private events, the club may offer event spaces and catering services.
Pro Shop: A pro shop can be available for golfers to purchase equipment, apparel, and accessories.
Clubhouse: The clubhouse serves as a central hub for members to relax, socialize, and enjoy the club’s amenities.

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club Event Information and Dining Options

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club typically offers a variety of events and dining options for its members.

Here’s a general overview of what you might expect:

Events and Activities:

Golf Tournaments: Palma Ceia often hosts a range of golf tournaments and events throughout the year, including member-only tournaments, charity events, and special competitions.
Tennis Events: The club may organize tennis tournaments, leagues, and social tennis events for members who enjoy the sport.
Social Gatherings: Palma Ceia is known for its vibrant social scene, which may include themed parties, holiday celebrations, and other special events.
Private Functions: Members often have access to private event spaces for hosting personal gatherings such as weddings, anniversary parties, and corporate events.
Clubhouse Activities: The clubhouse is often a hub of activity, featuring events like wine tastings, live music, and other entertainment.

Dining Options:

Fine Dining: The club typically offers an elegant fine dining experience, where members can enjoy gourmet cuisine in a refined atmosphere. This may include à la carte menus and chef’s specials.
Casual Dining: For more relaxed dining, there is often a casual dining option where members can enjoy a diverse menu in a less formal setting.
Lounge and Bar: Many country clubs have a lounge or bar area where members can relax, have drinks, and socialize.
Poolside Dining: If there’s a pool on the premises, poolside dining may be available for a more relaxed and outdoor dining experience.
Special Events: The club may host special dining events like wine tastings, themed dinners, and holiday brunches.

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

Dress codes and guest policies at Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club, like at many private clubs, are typically in place to maintain a certain level of decorum, uphold the club’s traditions, and ensure a pleasant experience for all members and guests.

Here’s a general overview of what you might expect:

Dress Code:

Golf Attire: Proper golf attire is typically required on the golf course. This often includes collared shirts, slacks or golf shorts, and golf shoes with soft spikes. Denim and cargo shorts are typically not permitted on the golf course.
Clubhouse and Dining: The clubhouse often has specific dress code requirements. In the dining areas, members and guests are generally expected to wear neat, upscale, and appropriate attire. This typically means collared shirts and non-athletic footwear for gentlemen and similar levels of formality for women. Denim, flip-flops, and athletic wear are often discouraged in the dining areas.
Pool and Fitness Center: If the club has a pool and fitness center, there may be separate dress code rules for these areas. Swimsuits are typically allowed only at the pool, and appropriate fitness attire is expected in the fitness center.
Special Events: Certain events and dining areas may have specific dress code requirements, especially for formal occasions and themed events.

Guest Policy:

Private clubs often have guest policies in place to regulate the access of non-members to the club’s facilities.

Here are some common aspects of guest policies:

Guest Privileges: Members typically have the privilege to invite guests to the club. The number of guests allowed, guest fees, and frequency of guest visits may vary by club and membership type.
Registration: Guests are usually required to be registered by the member inviting them. This registration process may include providing guest names and contact information.
Dress Code for Guests: Guests are expected to adhere to the club’s dress code policies while on the premises.
Reciprocal Clubs: Some private clubs have reciprocal agreements with other clubs, allowing members to access these clubs as guests. Rules for reciprocal guests can vary.

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club stands as a timeless beacon of elegance, community, and recreation in the heart of Tampa, Florida. With its rich history, meticulously designed golf course, a range of luxurious amenities, and a commitment to maintaining its esteemed traditions, Palma Ceia offers its members a haven of refined living and camaraderie.

Whether you’re an avid golfer, a lover of fine dining, or seeking a vibrant social scene, this historic club embodies the essence of Southern charm and modern sophistication. Discover the legacy and experience the exceptional hospitality that Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club continues to provide to its members and guests.

Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club Tampa FL | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting