Haines City

Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club

Championship golf course living in a gated, master-planned community.

Live the MaxLife.

$329K

Median Price

$245K$523K

26

Homes

$63–$876

Monthly HOA

1993

Established

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Background

A brief history

Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club was established in 1993 as a championship golf course designed by renowned architect Steve Smyers. The 18-hole, par-72 course stretches 7,219 yards and quickly became recognized as one of Florida's most prestigious residential golf communities. Built on over 600 acres in Haines City, the community developed around the championship course as a master-planned, gated residential enclave. Since its inception, Southern Dunes has attracted homeowners seeking premium golf course living and resort-style amenities in Central Florida.

The community continued to expand its residential offerings throughout the 1990s and 2000s, adding both single-family homes and townhome options. Today, Southern Dunes represents a mature, well-established golf course community with a strong sense of place and a committed resident base that values both the championship course and the exclusive gated environment. The course maintains its standing as a public-play championship venue while remaining the centerpiece of the residential community.

The feel

What it's like to live here

Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club exudes exclusivity and resort-style living. The gated entry, championship course architecture, and carefully maintained grounds create an atmosphere of prestige and tranquility. Tree-lined fairways, championship-quality greens, and the iconic Steve Smyers design philosophy make the landscape both challenging and visually stunning. Homes showcase golf course and pond views throughout the community, creating picturesque settings for both residents and daily golfers.

The community's character is defined by its golf-first identity. Whether residents play or not, living here means surrounding yourself with championship course views, club amenities, and a lifestyle-focused neighborhood. The clubhouse, fitness center, tennis courts, and pickleball facilities foster an active, engaged resident culture. Seasonal visitors from the North bring additional vitality during winter months, while year-round residents enjoy a quiet, well-maintained sanctuary with professional grounds management and attentive security.

The details

What to expect

Architecture & Homes

Southern Dunes features a mix of single-family homes and townhomes, all oriented toward golf course views or pond views. Homes range from classic Florida ranch styles to contemporary Mediterranean and golf-course modern aesthetics. Most properties were built in the 1990s–2000s, reflecting mature landscaping, established neighborhoods, and well-maintained structures. Pool homes are common, as are covered patios overlooking fairways. Townhomes typically offer lower HOA fees for buyers seeking golf course amenities without extensive home maintenance. Lot sizes vary, but golf-front properties command premium attention.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Southern Dunes is centered on its championship 18-hole course (7,219 yards, par 72, designed by Steve Smyers). The community clubhouse serves as the social hub, featuring dining, lounge facilities, and event space. A state-of-the-art fitness center with cardio, weights, and studio classes is available to residents. Additional amenities include four tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball court, resort-style swimming pool, community park, and children's playground. Golf membership options range from full golf included in HOA to golf-optional memberships for non-golfers. The gated entry with 24/7 security provides controlled access and peaceful residential streets.

Schools

Southern Dunes is served by Polk County Public Schools, which earns a B rating from Niche. Nearby elementary schools include Eastside Elementary, Alta Vista Elementary, and Sandhill Elementary. Daniel Jenkins Academy of Technology Middle School and Shelley S. Boone Middle School serve the middle grades, while Haines City Senior High School is the local high school. All schools are within 5–10 miles of the community. Polk County has made significant improvements to school quality and safety in recent years, though families seeking top-tier schools may explore private options or magnet programs.

Location & Access

Southern Dunes sits in central Haines City, just off US-27, approximately 7 miles south of the I-4 interchange. This positioning offers quick access to greater Orlando, Tampa, and Lakeland while maintaining a rural, golf-course feel. Downtown Haines City (shopping, dining, services) is 10 minutes away. The I-4 corridor provides a 30–45 minute commute to downtown Orlando for those working in the metro area. Polk County's transportation network is improving, and the community's US-27 location makes it a natural hub for both local and through traffic. Winter Haven (10 miles) and Lakeland (20 miles) provide additional shopping and entertainment options.

Community

Amenities

  • Championship 18-hole golf course (7,219 yards, par 72, designed by Steve Smyers)
  • Clubhouse with dining and event facilities
  • State-of-the-art fitness center with cardio, weights, and studios
  • Four tennis courts
  • Pickleball courts
  • Basketball court
  • Resort-style swimming pool
  • Community park and playground
  • 24/7 gated security and controlled access
  • Professional grounds maintenance
  • Pond and golf course views

Know Before You Buy

HOA rules worth knowing

  • Membership in Southern Dunes Master Community Association is required
  • Golf membership optional for non-golfers (full golf or golf-optional plans available)
  • Architectural review and approval required for exterior modifications
  • Homeowner responsibility for lawn maintenance and landscaping (or HOA-contracted service)
  • No short-term rentals or vacation rentals permitted (residential only)
  • Pets allowed with breed and size restrictions per CC&Rs
  • Gated entry and security system compliance required
  • Community pool and fitness center access included in HOA fees
  • Tennis, pickleball, and basketball court access included in HOA fees
  • Clubhouse use and amenities access included in HOA fees

Market Commentary

What the market is doing

Southern Dunes represents strong value for Central Florida golf course living. At a median of $329,000 with prices spanning $245,000 to $522,500, you get championship course proximity and gated security without the premium price tags of coastal or resort-destination courses. The per-square-foot value of $217 reflects the mature market, strong inventory turnover (52 home sales in the past year), and robust local demand. What I've observed selling in this market: golf course view homes command respect, HOA transparency matters deeply to buyers, and townhome inventory moves faster than single-family homes. The community's 1993 establishment means mature landscaping and proven infrastructure—no growing-pains surprises for your buyers. Winter activity peaks sharply, so timing your listing October through April maximizes exposure. Haines City's proximity to US-27 and the I-4 corridor keeps commuting reasonable for Orlando workers.

— Ryan Solberg, Broker · MaxLife Realty · License #BK3354351

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IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.

Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of June 3, 2026. All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.

Ryan Solberg, Broker · MaxLife Realty LLC · FL License #BK3354351 · Equal Housing Opportunity · Full disclaimer · DMCA