When planning your next golfing adventure, the best golf courses Gulf Shores Alabama has to offer should be at the top of your list. This coastal region is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant wildlife, and top-tier golf courses. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just looking to enjoy a relaxing game, Gulf Shores has something for everyone.
To make your stay Gulf Coast golfing vacation memorable, consider booking with Gulf Shores Rentals. Our vacation rentals provide the perfect home base for your golfing getaway, offering comfort, convenience, and stunning views. Let’s dive into the details of the top five must-play golf courses in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and see why they are highly rated by golf enthusiasts.
Top Golf Courses in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Kiva Dunes Golf Resort: A Premier Golfing Experience
Kiva Dunes Golf Resort is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. Designed by U.S. Open Champion Jerry Pate, this links-style course offers 7,092 yards of challenging play, complete with water hazards and sand dunes. It's frequently recognized as one of the best golf courses in Alabama.
The course is set against the backdrop of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, providing stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The dynamic tee-time pricing strategy allows for flexible and affordable play, making it accessible for golfers of all budgets.
Kiva Dunes stands out for its meticulously maintained greens and fairways, offering a pristine golfing experience. The course is designed to test the nerve, skill, and patience of even the most experienced golfers. One of the standout features is the iconic 17th hole, which requires a precise 215-yard shot across the water. This challenging hole often determines whether you end your round with a great score or a humbling experience.
The resort also offers excellent facilities, including a clubhouse, practice areas, a pro shop, a restaurant, and beach access. After a round of golf, players can relax and enjoy a meal at the clubhouse, or take a stroll along the beautiful beach. The combination of challenging golf and luxurious amenities makes Kiva Dunes a top choice for golfers visiting Gulf Shores.
Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club: Scenic and Challenging
Located on the Fort Morgan Peninsula, Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club boasts 27 holes divided into three 9-hole courses: Cypress, Lakes, and Marsh. Each course offers unique challenges and breathtaking views.
The Cypress course is particularly known for its strategic play, with several opportunities to improve your score but also potential pitfalls. The Lakes course features undulating greens and scenic holes, such as the iconic short par-3 8th hole, which is an intimidating tee shot even for the most confident golfers. The Marsh course provides a natural setting with frequent wildlife sightings, including alligators and eagles, adding an element of excitement to your round.
Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club is consistently rated highly by Golf Digest for its memorable and enjoyable layout. The club offers a variety of facilities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, restaurant, practice facilities, tennis courts, and a fitness center. The multi-million-dollar renovation has enhanced the course’s beauty and playability, ensuring that golfers of all skill levels can enjoy a top-notch golfing experience. The secluded feel of the course, set among live oaks, cypress trees, and marshlands, makes it a unique and serene destination for golfers.
Craft Farms Golf Resort: Arnold Palmer's Masterpiece
Craft Farms Golf Resort is home to two Arnold Palmer-designed courses: Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend. Both courses offer a blend of Southern hospitality and natural beauty, making them favorites among golfers.
Cotton Creek features rolling fairways and large undulating greens, providing a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf. Cypress Bend, on the other hand, offers wide landing areas and numerous water hazards that are both strategic and aesthetic. The combination of these two courses provides golfers with a diverse and exciting golfing experience.
The Cotton Creek course stretches over 7,127 yards, while Cypress Bend measures 6,848 yards from the back tees. Both courses are known for their championship challenge, requiring precision and strategic play. Arnold Palmer’s influence is evident throughout the course design, with several risk-reward holes that test the bravery and skill of golfers. The undulating greens are particularly challenging, rewarding only the best golfers with low scores.
Craft Farms Golf Resort also offers excellent facilities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, restaurant, practice areas, and event hosting. The historic Cotton Creek Clubhouse is a testament to Southern hospitality, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for golfers. The resort’s commitment to maintaining high standards of service and course quality makes it a top choice for golfers visiting Gulf Shores.
Gulf Shores Golf Club: Affordable Excellence
Gulf Shores Golf Club is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Designed by Jay and Carter Morrish, this 18-hole course features challenging doglegs, bunkers, and water features. The course yardage ranges from 4,822 yards to 6,856 yards, providing a variety of play options for golfers of all skill levels. The course is known for its scenic yet challenging layout, rewarding quality shots with opportunities to shoot a low score.
The club offers excellent practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and chipping green. These facilities provide golfers with the opportunity to hone their skills before heading out on the course. The clubhouse, pro shop, and restaurant offer additional amenities, ensuring that golfers have everything they need for a great day on the greens.
One of the standout features of Gulf Shores Golf Club is its affordability. Despite offering a top-quality golfing experience, the course remains accessible to golfers on a budget. The combination of challenging play, beautiful scenery, and affordable prices makes Gulf Shores Golf Club a must-play course for anyone visiting the area.
Orange Beach Golf Center - Perfect for Practice
For those looking to fine-tune their game, the Orange Beach Golf Center is an excellent choice. This 9-hole course with a lighted driving range is perfect for short rounds and practice sessions. The course yardage is 1,120 yards, making it ideal for beginners and those looking to improve their accuracy and short game.
The center offers annual memberships, making it a great option for frequent visitors. The memberships provide unlimited rounds for the duration of the membership, making it a cost-effective choice for avid golfers. The driving range features both grass tees and mats, allowing golfers to practice in all conditions. The nearby practice green offers the perfect location to work on your short game.
The facilities at Orange Beach Golf Center include a clubhouse, practice green, and pro shop. The center’s affordable prices and excellent practice facilities make it a great option for golfers of all standards. Whether you’re looking to practice your swing or enjoy a quick round of golf, Orange Beach Golf Center has everything you need.
Conclusion
The best golf courses Gulf Shores Alabama has to offer provide a diverse and exciting golfing experience. From the challenging links-style layout of Kiva Dunes to the scenic beauty of Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club, there is something for every golfer.
To make the most of your golfing vacation, book your stay with Gulf Shores Rentals. Our vacation rentals offer the perfect blend of luxury and convenience, ensuring you have a comfortable and memorable stay. Our properties are ideally located, allowing you to enjoy the best golf courses while experiencing the natural beauty and attractions of Gulf Shores.
Gulf Shores Rentals offers a variety of vacation homes and condos, each equipped with modern amenities and stunning views. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a solo golfing trip, our rentals provide the perfect home away from home. Enjoy easy access to the top golf courses, pristine beaches, and vibrant local attractions.
Ready to hit the greens and experience the best golf courses Gulf Shores Alabama has to offer? Book your stay with Gulf Shores Rentals today and enjoy luxurious accommodations just minutes away from these top-rated courses. Reserve now and start planning your ultimate golfing adventure!