Monroe Golf Club is one of the most prestigious golf clubs in America. With the notable exception of Jack Nicklaus, who happens to be the CEO of Monroe, no other golfer was able to hold a candle to him during his playing days. Since his retirement in 1992, the course has been impeccably maintained and is still considered one of the greatest golf courses in the United States. Unfortunately, the membership cost is more than what most folks can afford. In this article, we will discuss how much is membership at Monroe Golf Club. So, let’s get started.
Table of Contents
The Course
Monroe is a 9-hole golf course that features an excellent reputation and high degree of difficulty. The course opened in 1914 and was originally designed by the legendary Donald Ross. Since then, it has undergone several renovations and relocations. It was originally built in the Florida Keys and later moved to South Florida (Miami, essentially). It’s had three different courses over the years, including the famous ‘Monroe Gold’ (now the Jack Nicklaus Course), the ‘Monroe White’ (now the Pete Dye Course), and the ‘Monroe Blue’ (now the Tom Fazio Course). However, in 2019 it was announced that the course would be closing temporarily to make way for an expansion. While the courses are closed for construction, there is still light at the end of the tunnel as a few of the holes have already been opened. The course will reopen in the summer of 2021 with 10 new holes. In the meantime, members can still enjoy the unique atmosphere of one of golf’s most famous courses.
The Member
One of the best things about Monroe is the unique blend of celebrity and affluence it attracts. Celebrities from A-list movie and television starlets to international royalty and high-profile business people are spotted here frequently. It is not unusual to see a member walk down the street holding a baby stroller or push a golf cart while on a shopping trip. The well-heeled memberships at Monroe are highly sought after. In fact, the membership cost is so steep that many people can only dream of belonging.
The Amenities
On top of the fairways, greens, and magnificent vistas, the course is also graced by several iconic buildings and structures. One of the most recognizable buildings on the course is the clubhouse, which served as the inspiration for the song ‘I Love Lucy’ by the comedy group The Marx Brothers. It is a three-story wooden building with a distinctive tile roof and walls that are covered in tropical plants. The third floor of the building is dedicated to a private cocktail lounge and restaurant called ‘The Vineyard’, which is open to members and their guests.
West of the clubhouse is the swimming pool, surrounded by sun decking and covered terrace. To the south is Pete Dye’s original 19th century golf course, which is now a part of the Nicklaus Course. Directly adjacent to the Pete Dye Course is the Jack Nicklaus Course, named after the famous golfer and CEO of Monroe. The Nicklaus Course is an entirely separate entity and features an impressive brick garage built in 1922 that is now a part of the North golf course. A few feet from the southern boundary of the Nicklaus Course is the ‘Monroe Putting Green‘, a grassy area surrounded by large palms and shrubs. It’s not quite the same as the real thing, but it’s the closest most people will ever get to it. Also adjacent to the Nicklaus Course is the 18-hole Tom Fazio Course, which is named after the renowned golf course architect. The last of the three courses is the 15-hole ‘Old Course’, which is most commonly used by local golfers and is a ‘throwback’ to Ross’ original design. Monroe’s primary golf club house is not far from the Old Course, adjacent to the Pete Dye Course. It was originally constructed in the 1950s and offers members and their guests a wonderful blend of history and luxury.
Reservations
The last point we’llmake about the course is that it is, in fact, considered one of the most difficult courses in the country. The set of Trespassing co-stars Dennis Quaid and James Woods actually shot the scene for which the film is named in their back yard. It’s not easy getting a tee time here, especially in the summer, so if you do, be sure to make the most of it. In addition, the pro shop is open daily at 1 p.m., with the exception of Wednesdays, when it is closed. For more information, you can go through the club’s website. However, in today’s world of connected smartphones and tablets, there is no need to. By simply logging on to the GolfLink app, you can access all the information you need about the course and its memberships. Additionally, by viewing the course’s opening times and reserving your spot in advance, you can ensure you don’t lose out due to increased demand. So, with all that said, how much is membership at Monroe Golf Club? Let’s find out.
The Overall Cost
Anyone even considering joining this exclusive club better be prepared to spend thousands of dollars. It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional golfer or a part-time player looking for a pastime; this is not the place for budget-minded people. Even the cheapest membership costs thousands of dollars per year. This is due in part to the cost of the real estate as well as the cost of the excellent food and beverage served at the club’s restaurant. Overall, for those looking to avoid huge financial burdens, it might not be the best place to join. However, if you can afford it, then there are many benefits to be had.
Room With A View
One of the main benefits to being a member of Monroe is the magnificent view of the golf course. From the spacious and elegant clubhouse to the dining room and even the pro shop, you can look out at the greens, the fairways, and the majestic blue ocean from nearly every room. While you are a guest, you will not have access to these areas, as they are reserved for members. However, the memberships afford you access to all the amenities, which include the spectacular view. If you are looking for a luxurious yet still affordable place to enjoy a round of golf, then Monroe is the place for you.
Access To Exclusive Clubhouse
Another great thing about being a member of Monroe is the access to their exclusive clubhouse. As previously stated, this is a wonderful place to enjoy a round of golf as well as spend some time with friends and family. In addition to the magnificent view, the interior of the clubhouse is also adorned with beautiful plant life and plenty of elegant woodwork. Anyone who has ever seen the movie ‘Memoirs Of An American Marriage’ starring Bette Midler and Robert Redford, will know exactly what we mean. The interior design and ambience of the clubhouse is somewhat reminiscent of the old ‘Ethel M. Wood’s’ house, which was the model for the beloved ‘Garden Club’ in the film. However, in reality, the clubhouse is probably much nicer than the one shown in the vintage film. Even if you aren’t a member, the clubhouse is open to the public for tours Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tee Times And Weather
What makes a round of golf more enjoyable is the ability to play whenever you want. If the weather is nice, you can play outside. If it’s raining, you can play inside. When it’s nice out, you can play on one of the courses. In warmer climates, you can play in the morning or afternoon, and in colder climates you can play in the evening. This is important to keep in mind if you are planning on playing during certain periods. For example, the club isn’t open in the winter, so you might want to avoid playing then. However, all members can enjoy a decent selection of daily tee times throughout the year, with more being added during peak periods, like summer or early morning hours in the winter.