50 by 50 and Beyond

A Patriotic Approach to Travel

Man takes a swing at a golf ball at a golf course in Destin, FL
Florida

Best Public Golf Courses in Destin Florida (FL)

Destin is a hotspot for championship golf courses on the Emerald Coast of northwest Florida!  Whether you are looking for a round of golf with stunning views of windswept dunes, or simply out looking for nine-hole courses with accessible tee times, we have got the course for you.  We have carefully assembled seven of the best golf courses in Destin, Fl for players of all skill levels.  There is one for every day of the week!

Man lines up his putter with a golf ball at a golf course in Destin, Fl
Photo by Mick De Paola on Unsplash

Best Golf Courses in Destin, Fl

Emerald Bay Golf Course:  4781 Clubhouse Dr, Destin, FL

Description:  Emerald Bay Course:  18 holes:  7050 yards; Driving range; Cost:  Estimated at $129.  

In this prestigious golf course community, golfers will be able to enjoy many amenities including a full-service golf pro shop and amazing food and drink options.  This beautiful course has picturesque views of Choctawhatchee Bay and with a 2014 redesign, the course has become a must-play on any trip to Destin!

What are reviewers saying about Emerald Bay Golf Course? 

Pros: Players have frequently describe the course layout as challenging and creative, with scenic views, especially on the back nine. The recently renovated clubhouse and its amenities, such as the pro shop and The Grille, are well-regarded.

Cons: Several reviewers criticize the condition of the greens, describing them as slow, bumpy, or having bald spots and weeds. 

Tee Times:  https://emeraldbaygolfclub.com/

Ariel view of a man taking his final put into the hole
Photo by Lukáš Opekar on Unsplash

Indian Bayou Golf and Country Club (2 courses) 1 Country Club Dr E, Destin, FL

Description:  Indian Bayou Golf Club:  18 holes:  7,078 yards, par-72 course;  Driving range; cost: Estimated at $170.  

This hidden gem is known for its length and wide fairways!  It also has several holes with water hazards so watch out! 

What are reviewers saying about Indian Bayou Golf and Country Club?

Pros: Many reviewers praise the course for being in excellent condition. Comments often mention well-manicured fairways and greens that roll true and fast. The course is described as fun with not much trouble from hazards, making it accessible to golfers of various skill levels.

Cons: There are no major criticisms, but some reviewers note that the course has sold one of its original nine holes to a developer, so it now operates as an 18-hole course rather than the original 27 holes.

Tee Times:  https://indian-bayou-golf-club.book.teeitup.com/?course=6669&date=2024-10-29&max=9999

Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club:  465 Regatta Bay Blvd, Destin, FL

Description:  18 holes:  6,894-yard, par-72 course; Driving range; cost:  Estimated at $177.  

Just a short distance from Indian Bayou Golf and Country Club, this impressive championship golf course has breathtaking nature preserves and stunning views of the Choctawhatchee Bay.  It was designed by Robert C. Walker who was one of Arnold Palmer’s main golf course architects.  This is certainly a must-play course for the golf enthusiasts!

What are reviewers saying about Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club?

Pros: There is a significant divide in opinions about the greens. While some reviewers found them to be in excellent shape, others described them as slow, bumpy, or having rough spots. Everyone agrees that the clubhouse is nice. It is staffed by friendly people and the amenities are excellent.

Cons: Some reviewers mention that they had to hit off mats instead of grass, which was a minor disappointment. Others comment that  there is a need for better signage.

Tee Times:  https://www.regattabay.com/tee-times/

Photo by Soheb Zaidi on Unsplash

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort:  9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W, Miramar Beach, FL

Description:  4 courses (18 holes each): 1. Raven Golf Club, 2. Baytowne Golf Club, 3. The Links Golf Club, 4. Burnt Pine Club (private); Driving range; cost: Estimated $109.

The courses are each as unique their names.  The views include tall pine trees, coastal scenery and views of the Choctawhatchee Bay.  All four courses offer a unique experience for golfers of all skill levels.  

What are reviewers saying about Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort?

Pros:  “This dramatic Robert Trent Jones, Jr. design is the star public layout at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, a 73-hole golf mecca known for its beauty and excellent value compared to other premier Florida destinations. Over the years, Jones has used the Raven name as a mini-brand for a select few of his top public-access courses. The par-71 Sandestin Raven Golf Club is full of drama and variety as it is tucked in the amidst marshes, wetlands and pine forests.”

Cons:  Some have found the greens are poor on some of the holes. 

Tee Times for the Links:  https://www.sandestinlinks.com/teetimes/

Tee Times Raven:  https://www.sandestinraven.com/teetimes/

Photo by Johnny Such on Unsplash

Kelly Plantation Golf Club:  307 Kelly Plantation Dr, Destin, FL

Description:  Kelly Plantation Golf Course: 18 holes; 7,099 yards, par 72.  Driving range; cost:  Estimated at $145.  

This Fred Couples designed course has a rich history and boasts some stunning views of the Choctawhatchee Bay.  This seascape golf course has got something for every golfer!

What are reviewers saying about the Kelly Plantation Golf Club?

Pros: The course is praised for its scenic appeal, with panoramic views across the Choctawhatchee Bay and gorgeous vegetation like magnolias and palmettos. Everyone agrees that the greens are in excellent condition, noting well-manicured fairways that roll well.

Cons: This is a well regarded course, but there are some minor criticisms regarding pace of play, amenities, and value for money.

Tee Times: Call:  (850) 650-7600

Man takes a swing at a golf ball at a golf course in Destin, FL
Photo by Courtney Cook on Unsplash

Rocky Bayou Country Club:  600 Golf Course Dr, Niceville, FL

Description:  18 holes:  6715 yards of golf for a par of 72; Course rating is 72; lope rating of 129; Driving range 

Rocky Bayou Country Club is a premier 18-hole championship golf course nestled across 115 acres of stunning landscape. The course features wide fairways, perfectly managed greens, and five spring-fed lakes, creating an exceptional recreational golf destination on the Emerald Coast.

Cost:  Estimated at $79 for 18 holes.  This is a nice course that is also a great value.   

Tee Times:  https://www.rockybayoucc.com/

What are reviewers saying about Rocky Bayou Country Club?

Rocky Bayou Country Club seems to offer a quality golfing experience with well-maintained facilities and a range of amenities. However, some aspects of the club’s atmosphere and course design may not appeal to everyone. The club’s rich history and community involvement are notable positives, while the dated interior and potentially exclusive atmosphere are areas that some reviewers have criticized

A white tee flag stands straight in a hole.
Photo by Robert Baird on Unsplash

The Golf Garden of Destin:  12958 US Highway 98 W, Destin, FL

Description:  9 holes:  1,630 yards, par 29; Driving range and lighted course

Cost:  Estimated at $39 for 9 holes. The whole family can have a great time with the 18 hole putt-putt course!  This is a great course for those just starting out in the game!  This is another hidden gem that is a great value!

What are reviewers saying about The Golf Garden of Destin?

While some visitors find it a decent budget option for casual play or family entertainment, others strongly recommend avoiding the course due to its condition and maintenance issues.

Tee Times:  Call:  (850) 837-7422

Why golf in Destin, Fl?

The Destin area is filled with championship courses for the avid golfers who are looking fora great course with the most beautiful views.  It is also a haven for the casual players just looking for an executive course with a friendly and fun atmosphere.  Either way, you can’t go wrong in Destin!

A set of clubs in the back of a golf cart
Photo by sydney Rae on Unsplash
Two teachers with 45 years of combined classroom experience and many years curating travel experiences for ourselves and others are on a mission to showcase the beautiful corners of our amazing country. No passport needed!