Thanks to a wonderfully sunny climate and naturally picturesque landscape, Miramar Beach and Fort Walton Beach, Florida, are major vacation and golf destinations.
Whether you’re an avid golfer looking to test your skills or simply looking for a break from the beach or #OhanaDestin pool, the golf courses on our list will not disappoint.
Situated in Miramar Beach the Sandestin Golf Resort features four award-winning golf courses: Baytowne Golf Club, Burnt Pine Club, The Links Golf Club, and Raven Golf Club. With 72 holes spanning the beach to the bay, every course boasts spectacular views and a peaceful setting. Iconic golf course designers like Tom Jackson and Robert Trent Jones, Jr. had a hand in creating the unrivaled experience and unbeatable aesthetic throughout Sandestin Golf Resort.
Aptly nicknamed the Jewel of the Emerald Coast, Kelly Plantation Golf Club’s greens are as visually stunning as they are challenging and impressive. The semi-private golf club features miles of waterfront, wide fairways and well-manicured greens, making it one of the best golf courses in Destin. Long-hitters are put to the test as the course stretches 7,099 yards from the back tees, while novice golfers are encouraged to use the forward tees.
Looking to save a buck or two? Book online to receive special promotional rates or schedule a tee-time at twilight for more affordable rates. All rates include 18 holes of golf, access to a cart, complimentary range balls, and use of high-tech GPS technology.
Land and sea meet on the grounds of the Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club, and its pristine, natural setting provides a peaceful escape for golfers all year long. It’s one of the best golf courses in Destin for all skill levels, and the 6,894-yard, par-72 course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The challenging course was designed by Robert C. Walker, the former lead architect for Arnold Palmer. His flawless design blends natural vegetation with course hazards creating the ultimate risk-vs-reward golf experience. Get a feel for the course’s more demanding holes by taking a virtual tour online before hitting the links. If you prefer to be surprised, schedule your tee time online and show up with your game face on. Before each drive, visualize the ball sailing through the bright blue skies on the way to the flagstick so you can attack each hole with the utmost confidence. Hole number two will try to trip you up in the beginning, but you’ll be in a groove by the time you reach the back nine.
If you flock to Destin during the winter for an extended stay, consider purchasing a winter golf package so that you can maximize your time out on the course and save some money.
“Put this course on your Destin A-list. Tees, fairways and greens were all what you would expect from a top level course. This is the best course we have played in Destin.” – TripAdvisor Traveler
With a classic Florida landscape on the front nine and breathtaking bay views on the back, it’s no surprise that Emerald Bay Golf Club is considered one of Northwest Florida’s premier golf courses. Its long, flat holes wind through the exclusive gated community, treating visitors to total privacy and tranquility. The Emerald Bay golf course was designed by famed course architect, Bob Cupp, and underwent a complete renovation in 2014 to improve the overall experience for locals and seasonal guests.
Emerald Bay Golf Club offers the very essence of Florida golf at every hole, so whether you make par or bogey, don’t forget to take in your surroundings.
“This is a treasure in Destin – 27 holes, well-maintained and beautiful layout. Each nine have their own challenges and will test your skills.” – TripAdvisor Traveler
Indian Bayou Golf Club offers three worthy layouts: Seminole Course, Choctaw Course, and Creek Course. Each consists of nine immaculate holes and puts golfers to the test amidst nature at its best. Wide, forgiving fairways, majestic greens, sparkling lakes, and undulating pines that sway with every coastal breeze can be found throughout Indian Bayou Golf Club’s 27 holes.
Power through Choctaw Course, known for its long, straight holes that reward distance and accuracy. Prepare yourself for hole seven, which is deeper than it looks and moves to the right. Plan on at least four shots here before you can move on to the next hole. Choose Seminole Course if you prefer far-reaching fairways and a variety of pin placements that keep you on your toes. Large greens throughout this course provide opportunities for birdie or par. On Creek Course, water alongside several fairways makes each hole beautiful, but challenging. The second can be especially problematic for less-experienced golfers–but anyone who has less than meticulous ball placement might lose a few balls to the bayou.
While it’s possible to play a round of only nine holes here, you’ll save big when you book a tee time for 18 holes. Who wouldn’t want to spend a few extra hours on the golf course, anyway?
Enjoy!