Looking for the best golfing on the Emerald Coast? Destin, Miramar Beach, and 30A offer some of the most scenic and well-designed golf courses in Florida. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual weekend golfer, this stretch of the Florida Panhandle is a golfer’s paradise. With year-round sunshine, emerald waters, and lush landscapes, the Emerald Coast has become one of the top golf destinations in the Southeast.
Why Golf on the Emerald Coast?
The Emerald Coast isn’t just about white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. It’s also home to award-winning golf courses designed by legends like Fred Couples, Rees Jones, and Robert Trent Jones Jr. Here, golf meets natural beauty with courses nestled among coastal dunes, pine forests, and freshwater lakes. Whether you’re in Destin, Miramar Beach, or along scenic Highway 30A, you’ll find world-class golf experiences tailored for every skill level.
Top Golf Courses in Destin
1. Kelly Plantation Golf Club
Located in the heart of Destin, Kelly Plantation Golf Club is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in Florida. Designed by Fred Couples and Gene Bates, this semi-private 18-hole course features wide fairways, challenging greens, and panoramic views of Choctawhatchee Bay. With its immaculate conditions and friendly staff, Kelly Plantation is a must-play for anyone visiting the Emerald Coast.
2. Indian Bayou Golf Club
Another Destin gem, Indian Bayou Golf Club offers 27 championship holes split among three nine-hole courses: Creek, Choctaw, and Seminole. With tree-lined fairways, smooth greens, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s perfect for a relaxed round with family or friends. This course is a favorite among locals and vacationers alike.
Golfing in Miramar Beach
3. The Raven Golf Club at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Miramar Beach’s Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort boasts four championship courses, but The Raven Golf Club stands out for its unique layout and lush conditions. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., The Raven has hosted PGA Champions Tour events and is known for its strategic water hazards and undulating fairways.
4. Baytowne Golf Club
Also part of the Sandestin Resort, Baytowne Golf Club offers a more forgiving layout, making it ideal for beginners and intermediate golfers. But don’t let its approachable design fool you—there are still plenty of challenges to keep seasoned players on their toes. Plus, the back nine offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Scenic 30A Golf Experiences
5. Camp Creek Golf Club
For those venturing down scenic Highway 30A, Camp Creek Golf Club in Watersound is a premier destination. Designed by Tom Fazio, this 18-hole masterpiece is a private course offering pristine fairways, strategic bunkers, and a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. If you’re lucky enough to play here, it’s an unforgettable experience.
6. Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club
Tucked between the Gulf and Choctawhatchee Bay, Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club is a true hidden gem. This semi-private course features 18 holes of championship golf with holes that run right along the Gulf of Mexico—a rare sight in Florida golf. The course is known for its friendly vibe, walkability, and beautiful coastal scenery.
Plan Your Golf Trip to the Emerald Coast
With its variety of top-tier golf courses, breathtaking views, and southern hospitality, the Emerald Coast is a perfect golf getaway. Whether you’re teeing off in Destin, enjoying the resort experience in Miramar Beach, or soaking in the serenity along 30A, you’ll find unforgettable golf experiences at every turn.
Pro Tip: Book your tee times in advance, especially during peak season (spring and fall), and consider a golf package through one of the many resorts in the area for added value.
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