St. Augustine is among the most romantic towns in the country. So, if you haven’t visited The Ancient City, it's time to plan a visit! Neighboring St. Augustine, the coastal town of Ponte Vedra Beach hosts The Players Championship, a premiere PGA Tour golf event. But The Players isn’t just about world-class athletics. It’s a celebration of leisure, entertainment and the good life.
Whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand along the scenic fairways, indulging in gourmet food and craft cocktails, engaging in interactive fan experiences or enjoying premium hospitality, this popular tournament makes for an epic date destination for couples. You won't regret making the drive from Orlando.
FYI, The Players Championship (or TPC) is part of what’s known as the “Florida Swing” of the PGA’s schedule. This 2026 line-up includes The Cognizant Classic in Palm Beach Gardens (February 25-March 1), Arnold Palmer Invitational (March 2-8), The Players Championship (March 10-15) and Valspar Championship (March 16-22).
Feel the Beat
The golfers entertain with their skill and, surprisingly, so do chart-topping musical acts. At the 2026 event, multi-Platinum recording artist and three-time GRAMMY® award winner Ludracris will headline the THE PLAYERS Championship – Military Appreciation Concert on Tuesday, March 10. This means that all ticket holders can enjoy a full day of practice rounds followed by the concert in the evening.
[FYI: All active duty, retired, reserve and national guard members and one dependent are provided access to complimentary tickets.]
Leisure Love
There’s something inherently romantic about walking alongside your love through the lush, meticulously maintained fairways of TPC Sawgrass, an iconic 18-hole course. The Players Championship is known for its picturesque setting, with shimmering water features, towering pines and sweeping views of some of the most famous holes in golf.
The 17th hole, for example, with its iconic island green, provides the perfect backdrop for a couple’s selfie, capturing a memory to last a lifetime. Sunset strolls along the course add a magical touch, creating a serene atmosphere where couples can enjoy each other’s company while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Cousins Maine Lobster, a popular vendor in St. Augustine, is available at The Players Championship | courtesy of PGA Tour
If you’d prefer to enjoy the experience with smaller crowds, attend on Tuesday or Wednesday (practice rounds). Thursday through Sunday comes with more attendees and more energy.
Gourmet Food and Craft Cocktails
Food lovers will be delighted by the extensive culinary options at The Players Championship. The tournament hosts a variety of gourmet food trucks and pop-up restaurants featuring local flavors and international cuisine. Whether you and your partner prefer fresh seafood, artisan pizzas or decadent desserts, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Near the 11th green / 12th tee, food options include: Cousins Maine Lobster, Mojo BBQ, Ajua Mexican Kitchen and Pele’s Wood Fired–all of which are Jax locals. Delish chain Bonefish Grill is by hole 9.
When thirst strikes, find refreshments at several branded bars: Dobel Tequila Club at The Grove behind the 17th tee; the Bushmills Irish Whiskey Bar in its new location in Sawgrass Square; Tito's Place near hole 15; and The Bier Garden presented by Hoptinger, located behind the 16th green.
Wine lovers can explore a variety of curated selections at the on-course wine lounges, perfect for enjoying a relaxing moment away from the crowds too. Craft beer stations and specialty coffee stands also provide great options for couples looking to sip and savor the experience with one another.
Interactive Games and Fan Experiences
The Players Championship goes way beyond watching the pros' impressive golf game. It offers interactive fan experiences that make for a fun and engaging couples’ outing.
The tournament features high-tech golf simulators where you and your partner can test your swings on famous holes from around the world. The putting challenges and closest-to-the-pin contests offer friendly competition, allowing for great bonding.
Additionally, couples can enjoy live music performances at designated fan zones throughout the course. These entertainment hubs provide a lively atmosphere where you two can dance, relax or simply appreciate the excitement.
Premium Hospitality and VIP Experiences
For those looking to elevate their experience, The Players Championship offers exclusive hospitality options that provide an extra touch of luxury. Couples may book VIP tickets that grant access to climate-controlled lounges with gourmet dining, private viewing areas and concierge service. The Players Club is among the most sought-after hospitality venues, providing the perfect setting to enjoy world-class golf in a refined and intimate environment.
Check out options for an array of elevated experiences. Most options tend to book up quickly so plan accordingly.
Exploring Ponte Vedra Beach and Beyond
Attending The Players Championship is also a great opportunity to explore the charming surroundings of Ponte Vedra Beach, St. Augustine, and Jacksonville. Couples can extend their getaway by staying at one of the luxurious beachfront resorts, enjoying spa treatments, or taking a sunset cruise along the Atlantic coast.
Fine dining options abound, with oceanfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and a candlelit ambiance for the perfect romantic dinner.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets are available online, starting at $55. All youth (15 and under) are entitled to FREE grounds access when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
- Scope out the course ahead of time to find interesting spots throughout the grounds.
- Parking is tricky! Uber is recommended.
- The Players has volunteer opportunities.
Go ahead and take a swing at experiencing The Players Championship! Golf may normally be a foursome but, for this getaway, a twosome is awesome.
