Top Emerald Coast Golf Courses: Plan Your Golf Trip

emerald coast golf course

The Emerald Coast of Florida is a golfer's paradise, boasting some of the most picturesque and challenging golf courses in the country. For those planning a golf-centric vacation, FunVacay Luxury Rentals offers the ideal vacation rentals to complement your trip. With top-tier amenities and prime locations, our vacation rentals ensure you have a comfortable and luxurious stay while enjoying the best golf courses on the Emerald Coast.

Golfers from around the world flock to this region for its perfect blend of world-class golf, stunning coastal views, and luxurious vacation rentals. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll highlight the top Emerald Coast golf courses and everything you may want to know to prepare for your trip, ensuring your golf vacation is nothing short of spectacular.

Discover the Top Emerald Coast Golf Courses

The Emerald Coast is home to a variety of top-rated golf courses perfect for players of all skill levels, each offering unique challenges and stunning views. Here are some must-visit courses:

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort:

With four championship courses—Raven, Baytowne, The Links, and Burnt Pine—Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort provides a diverse golfing experience. Each course is meticulously designed to offer both enjoyment and challenge, making it a favorite among golf enthusiasts.

  • Raven Golf Club Sandestin: Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this course is renowned for its marshes, wetlands, and pine forests. It has a rating of 74.1 and a slope rating of 131, demanding precision and strategy from golfers of all skill levels.
  • Baytowne Golf Club: This Tom Jackson-designed course offers a mix of coastal and inland holes, providing varied challenges and stunning views of Choctawhatchee Bay. Its multiple tee boxes make it accessible for golfers of all levels.
  • The Links Golf Club: Known for its traditional links-style layout, this course provides panoramic views of the bay and requires players to navigate sharp doglegs and water hazards.
  • Burnt Pine Golf Club: Exclusive to resort guests and members, this Rees Jones-designed course features lush forests, wetlands, and strategic bunkering, with a course rating of 72.6 and a slope rating of 139.

Kelly Plantation Golf Club Destin:

Designed by Fred Couples and Gene Bates, Kelly Plantation Golf Club is renowned for its lush landscapes and views of Choctawhatchee Bay. The course's layout caters to all skill levels, offering a blend of challenging holes and scenic beauty.

  • Features: The course spans 7,100 yards with a rating just under 75 from the tips, making it a formidable challenge for even the most seasoned golfers.
  • Scenic Views: The course winds through wetlands, marshes, and along the bay, providing breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club:

This Robert C. Walker-designed course is known for its pristine conditions and natural beauty. With marshlands and protected natural preserves, Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club offers a serene golfing experience.

  • Course Layout: The course features meticulously maintained fairways and greens, with a variety of hole designs that challenge both precision and power.
  • Renovations: A $2.25 million enhancement project in 2019 updated the greens and bunkers, further elevating the playing experience.

Emerald Bay Golf Club:

Recently renovated, the Emerald Bay Golf Club features new greens and tee boxes, providing an enhanced golfing experience. Designed by Bob Cupp, this course offers scenic views and a challenging layout.

  • Redesign: The 2014 renovation included larger greens, new bunkers, and additional water features, making it one of the premier courses in the region.
  • Playability: The course's blend of straightaway and doglegging holes takes players through pine forests and wetland areas, offering a mix of difficulty and beauty.

Shark’s Tooth Golf Club:

Designed by Greg Norman, this exclusive course at WaterSound Club offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and a challenging layout.

  • Features: The course boasts well-manicured greens and requires strategic thinking and precise shots, with a course rating of 73.4 and a slope rating of 139.
  • Accessibility: While primarily for members, guests staying at WaterSound Club can also enjoy this top-rated course.

Camp Creek Golf Club:

Another Tom Fazio design, Camp Creek Golf Club is known for its exceptional course design, immaculate conditions, and fantastic customer service.

  • Course Layout: The course weaves through natural dune formations and native vegetation, providing a unique and visually stunning golfing experience.
  • Difficulty: With a course rating of 74.7 and a slope rating of 138, Camp Creek offers a challenging Par 72 layout suitable for skilled golfers.

Bay Point Resort Golf Club:

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Bay Point Resort Golf Club is a top-quality championship golf destination along The Emerald Coast.

  • Course Design: The course features narrow, tree-lined fairways, tight landing areas, and multiple forced carries, challenging even the most skilled players.
  • Scenic Views: Located alongside St. Andrew’s Bay, the course offers stunning waterside vistas and abundant natural beauty.

Enjoy Luxury Vacation Rentals with FunVacay

After a day on the greens, unwind in one of FunVacay’s luxurious vacation rentals. Our variety of Emerald Coast vacation rentals are strategically located near these top golf courses, ensuring a short commute and more time to relax and enjoy your stay.

Comfort and Convenience:

Each rental is fully equipped with modern amenities, including high-speed internet, gourmet kitchens, and spacious living areas. Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or with a group, FunVacay has the perfect rental to suit your needs.

  • Amenities: Enjoy features such as private pools, beachfront access, and expansive patios with stunning views, making your stay as comfortable and relaxing as possible.
  • Variety: Choose from a wide range of Emerald Coast vacation rentals, from cozy condos to large beachfront villas, ensuring there is something for every preference and budget.

Prime Locations:

Our vacation rentals are situated in prime locations, providing easy access to the beach, shopping, dining, and other recreational activities. Enjoy the best of the Emerald Coast with FunVacay.

  • Accessibility: With properties located close to major attractions and golf courses, you’ll spend less time traveling and more time enjoying your vacation.
  • Scenic Surroundings: Many rentals offer picturesque views of the Gulf of Mexico or the bay, providing a serene backdrop for your stay.

Plan Your Perfect Golf Vacation

Planning your golf vacation is easy with FunVacay. Here are some tips to ensure you make the most of your trip:

Book Tee Times in Advance: Given the popularity of these courses, it's advisable to book your tee times well in advance to secure your preferred slots.

Pack Accordingly: The coastal weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing. A rain jacket can also be handy.

Take Advantage of Packages: Many courses offer golf packages that include multiple rounds and other perks. Check with each course to see what deals are available.

Explore Beyond Golf: While golf is the main attraction, the Emerald Coast offers plenty of other activities. From fishing and boating to shopping and dining, there’s something for everyone. Our concierge services are always available and happy to point you in the direction of a great day in the Emerald Coast when not on the course.

World-Class Courses & Rentals Paired Together

The Emerald Coast offers an unparalleled golfing experience, with world-class courses and stunning scenery. Complement your golf trip with a stay at one of FunVacay Luxury Rentals’ premium properties. Book your vacation rental today and enjoy the best the Emerald Coast has to offer.

Ready to plan your perfect golf vacation? Book your stay with FunVacay Luxury Rentals and tee off at the best Emerald Coast golf courses!

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