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Hidden Lakes Golf Club in New Smyrna Beach is the kind of course where players come to relax, have fun, and enjoy the game without feeling intimidated. According to General Manager and PGA Director of Golf Robert Schwab, the goal has always been to create an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable — whether they’re longtime members or visiting for the first time.
“I think we've done a nice job of creating a culture where everybody's welcome,” Robert explains. “It's about coming to Hidden Lakes, having a good time with some friends and maybe not taking yourself so seriously while playing this difficult game.”
The course operates as a public facility with membership options available, giving regular players the opportunity to feel like they truly belong while still welcoming daily public play.
A Fun, Varied Layout for All Skill Levels
Hidden Lakes plays as a par 69 and is slightly shorter than many traditional courses, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. The layout includes six par threes and three par fives, creating a mix of holes that reward accuracy and thoughtful shot selection.
Robert describes the course as “fun” but notes that some of the par threes can be surprisingly demanding. “We have some par threes that basically eat your lunch because of the length and the difficulty.”
The variety in hole design keeps rounds interesting for players of all skill levels. While newer golfers appreciate the approachable length, more experienced players find plenty of challenge, especially from the back tees.
The Hole Everyone Talks About: Number 14
Ask players what they remember most after their round, and Robert says the conversation almost always turns to hole number 14.
It’s a short par five that offers a classic risk-reward opportunity. The tee shot must carry over water, then the hole doglegs around a large lake. From the white tees, players face about a 175-yard carry to reach the fairway if they choose to go for it.
“It's one that if you play well, you can make a birdie, but you can also make a seven or eight on it really quickly as well,” Robert explains. That balance of opportunity and danger makes the hole memorable, and often the most talked-about part of the round.
Tips for First-Time Players
For golfers visiting Hidden Lakes for the first time, Robert offers simple advice: keep the ball in play.
“If you spray the ball, you’re going to have a tough day,” he says. “We've got some holes that are pretty narrow. And so if you hit it straight, you're going to do fine. And if you're wild off the tee, you better find a club that you're not so wild with because it's going to be a long day or a high score.”
The course rewards accuracy and course management, and players who focus on staying in play tend to have the best experience.
Course Conditions and Ongoing Improvements
Course maintenance is one of the club’s biggest priorities. Robert credits superintendent Mark Leedy and the maintenance team for keeping the course in strong condition year-round, even through challenging weather stretches.
Over time, the focus has been on improving “greens, tees, and fairways, in that order,” and Robert says the course continues to get better each year. With greens rolling smoothly and consistent attention to detail across the property, many players comment on the quality of the conditions after finishing their round.
A Social, Community-Focused Club
Hidden Lakes isn’t just about golf, it’s about creating a fun environment where people enjoy spending time. The club hosts a variety of leagues and events that bring players together throughout the week, along with junior programs that help introduce younger golfers to the game.
The range has also become a popular gathering spot. Robert shared “We just put in a Toptracer range, which has all the technology and different gameplay and things like that,” which allows players to track shots and enjoy a more interactive practice experience. It’s just one more way the club keeps things engaging for both regulars and newcomers.
Robert also mentioned “We put a 15 bay covered tee area on our driving range. So it'll be shaded in the summertime and we have some tables and chairs out there. And we have fans.”
Between leagues, casual rounds, and social events, there’s always something happening at the course. That steady activity helps create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where players feel at home.
A Place Players Want to Return To
Hidden Lakes attracts a mix of local golfers, seasonal residents, and visitors to the New Smyrna Beach area. Many discover the course for the first time while in town and make a point to return on future trips. Robert believes the welcoming atmosphere is what sets the course apart.
Visit Hidden Lakes Golf Club
Hidden Lakes Golf Club is located at:
35 Fairgreen Ave.
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
To learn more, call: 386-427-4138
