The golf course at the former Banyan Cay Resort and Golf facility in West Palm Beach, Florida, has been completely overhauled and will open in autumn 2024 as a new private club, Dutchman’s Pipe, whose name derives from a flowering vine that attracts butterflies.
Acquired by the Witkoff Group and Access Industries earlier in 2024, the property has been transformed with a $10 million investment. The newly envisioned Dutchman’s Pipe is positioned as an elite private club with initiation fees starting at $300,000.
“Dutchman’s Pipe will be the first new private golf club to open in West Palm Beach in 25 years,” said Alex Witkoff, co-CEO of Witkoff Group. “Land in this area is extremely scarce, rendering new golf clubs within five miles of Palm Beach Island exceedingly rare. The opportunity to control 220 acres in the heart of West Palm Beach is generational and will allow us to deliver a transformative golf club experience.”
Nicklaus Design returned to reimagine the layout at the former Banyan Cay Resort and Golf (also known as The President Country Club), which was initially completed in 2017. The 2024 project includes extensive renovations to bunkers, greens, landscaping and the extension of the course to 7,300 yards.
New bunkers have been added along with the renovation of all existing bunkers. All have been designed to frame holes well and provide a challenge. Capillary Concrete has been installed to minimise washouts, soil contamination and plugged ball lies. The course has also been regrassed with bimini except for greens, which feature TifEagle.
Significant erosion control measures have been implemented around lake beds, preserving the natural beauty of the landscape and integrating existing water features more seamlessly into the course design. New waste areas have been strategically created to enhance the course’s aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability.
“Our goal was to create a golf course that is both playable for everyday enthusiasts and challenging for the world’s best players,” said David Armitage, the club’s director of golf. “The added bunkers and reimagined layout are designed to heighten the excitement and offer a truly memorable experience.”
Landscaping has been a focal point of the project, with a heavy emphasis on introducing native vegetation, which contributes to both the course’s visual appeal and its ecological health. “Our landscaping efforts are ongoing,” said Armitage. “We are dedicated to enhancing all waste areas and the course perimeter to craft an enclave that feels like a private oasis for our members.”
The practice facilities at Dutchman’s Pipe have been completely revamped. “What was once a nondescript driving range has been transformed into a state-of-the-art facility with four advanced target greens and a comprehensive wedge matrix,” said Armitage. A dedicated two-acre short-game area has also been introduced, designed to help members refine every critical shot needed on any green complex around the globe.
“World-class instruction will be a cornerstone of the Dutchman’s Pipe experience, ensuring that members receive top tier coaching to elevate their game,” said Armitage. “Intensive cultural practices are being implemented to optimise the health and playability of the course, including aeration, topdressing and rolling, all leading up to the grand opening.
“Dutchman’s Pipe aims to offer not just a new golf course, but a transformative golfing experience, combining advanced technology, exquisite design, and unparalleled luxury to set a new standard for private clubs in West Palm Beach.”