Aside from being renowned for miles of pristine, white sand beaches, Destin is home to some of the finest golf courses in Florida. From a short round of nine holes to 18-hole combinations to stay-and-play resort packages, find everything you're looking for at this premier Emerald Coast destination.
18 Holes
The Robert C. Walker-designed Regatta Bay Golf Course plays over 6,894 yards to a par 72. Hole one offers you a decent opening with a dogleg left presenting an opportunity for a birdie, while the 18th hole is an ultimate risk-reward closer requiring a hard drive to reach the two-tiered green.
Playing over 6,802 yards and designated a par 72, Emerald Bay Golf Club offers challenges for all skill levels with water coming into play throughout the layout's level fairways and gently sloped greens.
18-Hole Combinations
Indian Bayou Golf and Country Club provides three, nine-hole courses, each a par 36, offering combinations from which golfers can select varied 18-hole play. Most challenging is the second hole on the Creek course, with a dogleg right and water coming into play on either side of the fairway. To avoid hidden water to the left of the fairway on hole four at the Seminole course, hit left center off the tee. With only two par-3 holes, the Choctaw course requires concentration and control. The longest par 3, the eighth hole requires players to show enough club to carry over the front bunkers.
Stay-and-Play Golf Resorts
Streamlined fairways wind through lush forest and calm lakes at Seascape Resort's 18-hole course. With 6,100 yards of play featuring water on 15 holes, you'll need to bring your "A" game to make the par 71. All condo rental rates include free daily golf.
At Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort choose the number of nights' stay and rounds you want to play, and then customize a package to suit your needs. The resort offers play on four, 18-hole championship courses, the Raven, Burnt Pine and Baytowne golf clubs, and the Links Course.
Nine Holes
Play the executive par-29 course at the Golf Garden of Destin. Gradual fairways and smooth greens play over 1,630 yards with three sets of tees provided on each hole. Several water hazards come into play on this seven-par-3, two-par-4-hole layout, so bring an extra sleeve of balls. The course features night lighting from June through August, a practice facility, putting course and a miniature golf course.
Golf Essentials
Before hitting the links check your bag to ensure you have all the essentials for playing in Florida's climate. Stay hydrated by using a thermal insulated water bottle, like Polar, to keep liquids cool. Polarized, wraparound sunglasses are a must to prevent losing errant balls in the sun's glare. Often overlooked, a well-fitted glove can make a difference in your swing by providing extra traction to your grip on hot days when palms perspire.
Member Comments