The Honda Classic: 2023 Insider’s Guide

The Honda Classic returns to PGA National February 23rd through 26th, 2023. The exciting annual event attracts people from all over the country who make their way to The Palm Beaches to experience world-class golf with some of the best players in the world.
 
After an extended “west coast swing,” the Honda Classic is part of a winter tour of Florida for the PGA Tour that becomes somewhat of a homecoming for many of the game’s brightest stars. A number of local residents such as Justin Thomas, Rickie Fowler, and Rory McIlory have each won the event in recent years – which dependably offers both a highly competitive field of players as well as a very challenging course. It’s a great warm-up for the game’s best as the season kicks into gear in preparation for the first of the year’s major championships. 
 
“The Champions Course” as it is known has served as a center stage to high drama for many exciting tournaments in recent years, with the daunting “Bear Trap” holes offering must-see TV. However, the tournament is best appreciated up close and personal.

Where to stay…

The event itself is held at the PGA National Resort which is a wonderful hotel if staying onsite. There are a number of other tremendous places to stay nearby in and around Palm Beach Gardens like the Jupiter Beach Club. Chem them out here. The key is staying somewhere on or near PGA BLVD which will keep you around 5-10 minutes away from the resort. If you are looking to add to your experience at the Honda Classic by staying on the beach, there are also great locations on Singer Island or Jupiter beach that is only about a fifteen to twenty-minute drive. Anywhere you choose to stay in The Palm Beaches will offer the sense of vacation with a hint of luxury that will make you sure to want to return.

What to wear… 

First off, we’re in Florida. So, whether you dress to impress or take a beach day, you’ll be in good company just the same. Typical wear for women spans everything from sundresses and “feeling fancy” to athletic wear and golf attire. The key is to make sure that you’re comfortable and confident moving around and can tolerate both more sun than expected as well as sometimes more wind. You want to keep in mind that wearing comfortable shoes such as running shoes or your favorite pair of flats is a good idea, as you will be walking quite a bit. 
Men, you know the drill. Look like a golfer and you’ll do fine. Make sure to bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. 

Ticket Options:
Head to Hondaclassic.com to explore ticket options that are right for you. The most basic option for admission is known as a “grounds ticket” which will give you full range to explore or follow your favorite PGA Pro for the day. If you are planning to attend Wednesday through Sunday, you should consider purchasing the weekly Grounds ticket. If you are looking for a more premier experience at the Honda Classic, there are options available for the Bear Trap, Waterford Club, Champions Club, and Legends club. Keep in mind, kids under 15 get in free with the purchase of an adult ticket. 
 

Permitted Items:

PGA Tour has great safety measures at every event; therefore, you should be aware of the items that are permitted on site. Your personal item, such as a purse or bag must be 6” by 6” or smaller. If you would like to bring a bigger bag it must be clear and cannot exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. At the tournament’s discretion, you may bring food in a clear bag no bigger than a gallon zip lock. Fold-up chairs are permitted if you would like to set up your spot on the course. All of the other permitted and non-permitted items are online at Hondaclassic.com.

What’s nearby… 

Beaches… beaches are nearby. When coming to the Honda Classic, you have to make time to explore the water. The Palm Beaches are home to some of the coolest water scenes in all of Florida, with ample fishing, waterfront entertainment, and beaches around. 

DISCOVER OUR TOP BEACHES

Within a five-mile radius from PGA National are some of the tastiest restaurants and most happening spots in town. The PGA Commons, Midtown Plaza, Downtown at the Gardens, and Legacy Place are all local favorites. If you are feeling Mexican food or craving a good margarita, be sure to head to Rocco’s Tacos or Avocado Cantina. A bit more traditional? The Cooper is the place to go for American cuisine. The following additional options will make you popular when suggesting to friends:

• Saito Japanese Steakhouse
• J Alexander’s Restaurant
• The Capital Grille
• Voodoo Bayou
• Twisted Trunk Brewing
• Seasons 52 
• The Waterway Cafe

… And, Jupiter.

The saying goes that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. But, golfers are from Jupiter. You might not know this, but the true home of golf is just a few miles away in Jupiter. If you want to know some of the local Jupiter spots, check out the Square Grouper, Utiki, Lucky Shuck, The Beacon, or Guanabanas.
 
All other information about The Honda Classic can be found at Hondaclassic.com