WCI, in a partnership with Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, sought the expertise of golf legend Raymond Floyd to design 27 golf holes and make history, as Raptor Bay becomes the first resort course in the world to receive Audubon International's Gold Signature Certification. The first 18 holes opened for play in September 2001 and feature multiple tee locations, so the course can play from a variety of lengths and angles. Fairways are very wide and feature one height of cut throughout the course. Unique to Raptor Bay is the use of native sand and palmetto areas, which are incorporated into the design of waste areas. The course is devoid of any sand bunkers; instead, golfers will selectively encounter these sandy native areas adjacent to greens and fairways. Surrounding the course are 22 acres of lakes and more than 200 acres of native vegetation and nature preserve areas, giving some lucky guests a chance to glimpse a bald eagle or gopher tortoise.