Alan C. Alford Red Reef Family Golf Course
Alan C. Alford Red Reef Family Golf Course is a nine-hole, 1,357-yard public executive layout set between the Atlantic and Intracoastal. It features Seashore Paspalum grasses on tees, fairways, greens for premium playing surfaces. Amenities include electric cart rental, pull carts, practice putting green, club rental and vending machines. The course also supports organized leagues, outings, and advance tee time reservations. Restrooms are available on the course for player convenience.
The golf course lies in a scenic coastal section of Boca Raton along U.S. Highway A1A, between Palmetto Park Road and Spanish River Boulevard. This area is known for oceanfront residences, beach parks, and tranquil waterfront views. Community living here blends resort-style ambiance with accessibility to downtown Boca. Residents enjoy walking, biking, and easy access to Red Reef Park and local attractions. The neighborhood appeals to coastal lifestyle enthusiasts seeking both recreation and serenity.
Red Reef Golf Course
The Alan C. Alford Red Reef Family Golf Course is an executive 9-hole layout designed by Joe Palloka. It plays just 1,357 yards from the back tees to a par 32. The course uses Seashore Paspalum on tees, fairways, and greens, giving lush and consistent surfaces. The conditions are typically well maintained, with coastal breezes influencing play. Hazards include several bunkers and water features framing multiple holes.
The scorecard shows hole lengths ranging from about 64 to 227 yards, totaling 1,357 yards. The slope and rating are modest, emphasizing shotmaking over length. Of the nine, the signature hole could be the long par-4 of 227 yards or one with water. The layout rewards precision on shorter approach shots and punishes errant ones near water. Every hole presents a strategic challenge in a compact, scenic coastal setting.
Red Reef Membership Cost and Initiation Fees
The Alan C. Alford Red Reef Family Golf Course in Boca Raton, Florida, is a public facility. It does not require traditional initiation fees for access. Residents qualify for a discounted program via annual payment. The resident discount costs $50 yearly for lower rates. Non-residents pay full fees without membership options.
Public operation means no equity memberships or dues. Annual resident fee unlocks savings on greens. This setup promotes family and beginner play. Contact pro shop for discount enrollment details. Affordable access draws local golfers year-round.
Red Reef Guest, Greens and Cart Fees
Guests who walk pay about $27 for 9 holes during summer, while non‐residents riding a cart pay $41. Residents qualify for discounted walk and cart rates at $17 and $31 respectively. Junior green fees are as low as $10 walking and $17 walking plus cart. Pull cart rental costs $7 and club rentals run about $10. Replay fees are generally in the $5–$6 range.
Alternative sources suggest a base 9-hole green fee near $25 for general public. Some listings show a cart rental fee of $13. GolfDigest notes $44 as a listed rate, though variable by time. Rates may differ by season, time of day and residency status. Always confirm with the pro shop before booking.
Red Reef Family Golfing Staff and Members
The facility is run municipally through Boca Raton’s parks and recreation department. The course’s design is often attributed to Joe Palloka and occasionally Charles Ankrom depending on source. It has undergone renovations, including one in 2001 to refresh conditioning. An interesting fact: the nine holes stretch across A1A between Intracoastal and ocean zones.
Another curious aspect is that views of the ocean are mostly blocked by vegetation, despite its beachfront location. The course historically functioned along with Red Reef Park and a nature center. It was once part of a small par-3 layout associated with a former Sun & Surf Club. The course is maintained as an accessible municipal offering in a scenic coastal setting. It hosts local leagues, outings, and community programs supporting public recreation.