Few golf course architects have left as distinctive a mark on the sport as Joe Lee. You may not recognize the name, but if you’re a golf fan, chances are you’ve played—or at least seen—one of his courses.
Known for his fair but demanding layouts, creative use of bunkers, and greens that reward precision without punishing beginners, Lee designed or renovated more than 200 courses throughout his career. His work has hosted PGA Tour legends and everyday players alike, with a reputation for offering a test that’s challenging, but never unfair.
One of the best ways to experience his signature style today is by playing Palm Beach National Golf Course & Country Club, a beloved 18-hole South Florida layout crafted by Lee himself.
Who Was Joe Lee?
Joe Lee is famously known as “the greatest golf course architect you never heard of.” After serving in the US Navy during World War II, he began pursuing an education degree at the University of Miami. Determined to balance his education and his love of golf, Lee took classes at night so he could spend his days on the course. He eventually crossed paths with fellow legendary architect Dick Wilson. That connection changed his life.
Lee began working on courses with Wilson and even ended up completing many of his mentor’s projects after Wilson’s death. From there, Lee forged his own path, quietly becoming one of the most influential designers in the game. He was instrumental in creating five courses that became longtime PGA Tour venues:
- La Costa in Carlsbad, California
- The Blue Monster at Doral in Miami, Florida
- Cog Hill outside Chicago, Illinois
- Warwick Hills near Detroit, Michigan
- Bay Hill in Orlando, Florida
What Makes Joe Lee Golf Courses Special?
Joe Lee had a gift for turning ordinary land into a memorable golf experience. His early career saw him work with flat terrain, which shaped his approach. His designs use elevation changes, mounding, and green complexes to give each hole definition and character. His bunkers stand out not only for their size but also for how they frame shots and create visual depth, helping golfers read the hole before committing to a swing.
Water is another feature Lee incorporated. He often placed water hazards near greens or fairways to create risk-and-reward situations. At the same time, he believed golf should always be enjoyable for every player, so he typically included a safer route that allowed beginners and higher handicappers to avoid hazards and obstacles.
Above all, Lee disliked “trickery” in course design. He aimed to build layouts that challenged skilled players without overwhelming newcomers. That balance cemented his legacy.
Palm Beach National: A Classic Joe Lee Design
Built in 1962 by Joe Lee and Porter Gibson, Palm Beach National Golf Course & Country Club is a great example of Lee’s player-friendly philosophy in action. The Nash’s layout is filled with playable challenges, giving golfers of all skill levels a chance to test themselves. Tifdwarf Bermuda grass lines the greens, while fairways are framed by a lush South Florida landscape that adds beauty and strategy to every round.
Some signature Joe Lee holes include:
- Par-3 Third Hole: The island green, ringed by water and bunkers, is both visually striking and a test of accuracy.
- Par-4 Fifth Hole: Demands precision off the tee with its tree-lined fairway, rewarding those who can shape their shots.
- 14th and 15th Hole Doglegs: Showcasing Lee’s knack for strategic shots, these force golfers to weigh risk and reward.
- Par-4 18th Hole: A memorable finishing hole that combines beauty and strategy, bordered by water hazards and a protected wildlife preserve.
As a whole, Palm Beach National is an experience. Unlike many traditional clubs, it embraces a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that puts fun first. Whether you’re a local looking for a regular game or a visitor squeezing in a vacation round, the club offers golf without the stuffiness.
The Nash is also home to modern amenities and a social atmosphere. Golfers can sharpen their game at the Toptracer-powered driving range or unwind at the tiki bar and patio. Clubhouse improvements are underway, and once finished, will feature a full-service bar and grill, music, and comfortable seating. From the first tee shot to the last drink on the patio, Palm Beach National captures the essence of what a Joe Lee course is meant to be.