FEATURE STORY

New Year's in Miami combines great parties with exceptional golf

By S. Adam Cardais,
Staff Writer

When people think about getting in the mix of things at New Year's, they often think New York City or Paris. But Miami can be just as fun.

South Beach gives Miami one of the most vibrant, action-packed stretches of oceanfront in the country, with world-class restaurants and more trendy bars and clubs than you'll be able to handle in one night.

Michigan native Mark Soskolne said the combination of great nightlife and weather persuaded him to spend last New Year's in South Beach.

"We had heard South Beach had the parties like New York City but none of the freezing cold and unattractive people," he said. He was equally impressed by the South Beach dress code. "Everyone wears next to nothing, even the guys."

Get your New Year's on in Phoenix-Scottsdale Tradition and PGA Tour treasures await in Florida Top golf options for a long Miami layover Doral's Blue Monster is back in action Florida course reviews

For golfers the good news is Miami is also home to great golf courses, the most notable being the five tracks at Doral Golf Resort & Spa. Doral and other resorts are offering stay and play packages that'll have you ringing in 2007 in style. Here are a few of the best.

Championship Golf Package, Doral Golf Resort & Spa: This deal gets you 18 holes on Doral's championship Red, Gold or Silver course, a $25 gift certificate per night, unlimited use of the driving range and an introductory golf clinic. From Dec. 21 to April 28 the package goes for $279 a person per night (based on double occupancy).

Call 866-521-2331 to book this package or click here for an online quote.

Blue Monster 2 Night Stay Package, Doral Golf Resort & Spa: With this offer, you'll stay two nights in a garden-view room and get 18 holes of golf on the famed (and newly renovated) Blue Monster course, which reopened earlier this year after a renovation, and the Great White course.

You'll also get complimentary replay on the Red, Gold or Silver, a $25 gift card, unlimited time on the driving range and an introductory golf clinic. From Dec. 21 to April 28 the package costs $379 a person per night (based on double occupancy).

Call 866-521-2331 to book this package or click here for an online quote.

The Perfect Golf Package, Don Shula's Hotel & Golf Club: Along with deluxe accommodation at Shula's Hotel, this offer includes 18 holes a day at the Senator Course, daily breakfast and unlimited use of the practice facility. It can be supplemented with resort's spa package, which includes a daily 50-minute daily spa service. The rate is $166.25 a person through New Year's Eve.

Call 866-521-2331 to book this package.

December 15, 2006

Any opinions expressed above are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the management. The information in this story was accurate at the time of publication. All contact information, directions and prices should be confirmed directly with the golf course or resort before making reservations and/or travel plans.