Discovering the Roots of Grande Oaks Golf Club
Nestled in the lush, green heart of Davie, Florida, the Grande Oaks Golf Club neighborhood stands as a living tribute to the town’s unique blend of history, nature, and Southern charm. For longtime residents and newcomers alike, walking down the tree-lined streets of Grande Oaks evokes a sense of timeless elegance—where stories of old Floridian heritage quietly echo amidst carefully manicured fairways.
From Dairy Farms to Dream Fairways
The story of Grande Oaks begins long before its first golf swing was taken. Decades ago, the land that now cradles one of South Florida’s most prestigious golf communities was part of Davie’s vibrant agricultural backbone. Early in the 20th century, as settlers purchased acres for citrus groves and dairy farms, the gently rolling terrain and sprawling oak hammocks provided an idyllic setting for ambitious dreams.
The area that would become Grande Oaks was originally known as Rolling Hills—a name inspired by the topography unusual to otherwise flat South Florida. In the late 1950s, developer Ben Tobin saw untapped potential in these fields and initiated plans for a golf-centered residential sanctuary. By 1968, Rolling Hills Golf & Country Club opened its doors, plantings its roots deep into Davie’s community fabric.
The Hollywood Connection: “Caddyshack” and a Legendary Name Change
In 1979, fate gave the neighborhood its claim to Hollywood fame. The golf club grounds were selected as the primary filming location for the cult-classic comedy “Caddyshack,” starring Chevy Chase and Bill Murray. For months, the usually quiet club buzzed with the excitement of film crews and celebrities, forever tying Rolling Hills to cinematic history.
Just two decades later, a new era dawned. In 1999, the rolling fairways and historic oaks were reimagined under new ownership. A transformative renovation ensued, modernizing the course while preserving the tranquil character of the neighborhood. Alongside these changes came a new name: Grande Oaks Golf Club—a reflection of the majestic live oak trees that have long defined the landscape along Nova Drive and Pine Island Road.
Notable Landmarks and Local Treasures
Grande Oaks is not just a golf club, but a friendly neighborhood woven into the everyday rhythm of Davie. Its most iconic landmark, the Grande Oaks Clubhouse, greets residents and visitors at 3201 W Rolling Hills Circle. The low-slung, white-washed structure with its classic Southern architecture serves as the social hub of the community, hosting everything from Sunday brunches to milestone celebrations.
Wander a bit further and you’ll notice the stately old-growth oaks, for which the club is named, lining streets such as Ashley Lane and Grande Oaks Boulevard. These remarkable trees are not just decorative; they are recognized by local preservationists as living links to Davie’s agricultural past.
Nearby, residents enjoy the proximity to Bamford Sports Complex and Tree Tops Park—two of Davie’s best-loved green spaces perfect for family picnics, horseback riding, and catching glimpses of Florida wildlife. The neighborhood’s access to educational institutions, including Nova Southeastern University just across Davie Road, makes it appealing for families looking for academic excellence and lifelong learning.
Evolution Through the Decades
What began as pastureland has blossomed into a peaceful enclave where Southern graciousness meets active living. Over the decades, Grande Oaks has evolved with meticulous care—new walking trails, enhanced security, and architectural guidelines have ensured that the community stays both beautiful and secure. Yet, throughout it all, the neighborhood’s spirit of camaraderie and respect for the land endures.
- The golf course itself, redesigned by PGA Tour legend Raymond Floyd, remains at the heart of community life, drawing both avid golfers and nature enthusiasts.
- Annual events, such as the Grande Oaks Pro-Am Tournament, foster a lively, close-knit neighborhood culture.
- An active homeowners’ association maintains the community’s immaculate appearance and friendly atmosphere.
Streets like Rolling Hills Circle and College Avenue are now home to families who embody the neighborhood’s neighborly feel, gathering for cookouts, holiday festivities, or simply waving from front porches shaded by century-old oaks.
Grande Oaks Today: A Blend of Heritage and Harmony
Ask any resident and they’ll tell you: what makes Grande Oaks special is its ability to honor the past while embracing the present. You’ll find neighbors who have lived here for decades side-by-side with newcomers drawn to the area’s peaceful ambiance and prime location between Davie’s historic downtown and bustling University Drive corridor.
The neighborhood’s blend of stately homes, natural beauty, and storied past is rare in fast-growing Broward County. As development continues around Davie, Grande Oaks remains a haven—a place where roots run deep and memories grow year after year, much like the towering oaks that frame every sunset.
Why Grande Oaks Endures
Grande Oaks Golf Club is more than a place to play a round on championship greens. It’s a neighborhood where history is cherished, traditions are celebrated, and each street has a story to tell. Whether you’re teeing off on a dewy morning, walking your dog beneath a canopy of ancient oaks, or sharing laughter with friends at the clubhouse, Grande Oaks offers an irresistible sense of home—a piece of Davie’s heart that only grows richer with time.