Destin, FL, is home to some of the most scenic and challenging golf courses in the region, catering to players of all skill levels.
The top five picks are Burnt Pine Golf Club, Kelly Plantation Golf Club, Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club, Emerald Bay Golf Club, and Indian Bayou Golf & Country Club.
Keep reading to discover what makes each course unique and find the perfect spot for your next round.
Burnt Pine Golf Club at Sandestin
Nestled within the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Burnt Pine Golf Club is a semi-private course that delivers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and strategic golfing challenges.
Designed by the legendary Rees Jones, this course is a favorite among players seeking a memorable and rewarding round of golf.
Course Overview
Burnt Pine Golf Club combines the serene beauty of its coastal setting with a layout that demands thoughtful strategy.
While semi-private, it welcomes members and Sandestin resort guests, making it accessible without compromising exclusivity.
Rees Jones' design integrates the area’s natural landscapes, creating a course that feels both challenging and harmonious.
Course Highlights
The course is divided into two distinct experiences across its front and back nine holes.
The front nine is enveloped by dense pine forests and wetlands, offering a peaceful, secluded atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the back nine opens to the stunning vistas of Choctawhatchee Bay, where wide-open spaces and water views create a striking contrast.
Water hazards come into play on 14 of the 18 holes, making accuracy a key factor in scoring well.
Signature Hole
The par-4 14th hole stands out as a defining moment on the course.
With a tight landing zone for tee shots and an approach that requires crossing a water hazard, this hole tests both precision and nerves.
Its breathtaking setting and strategic complexity make it unforgettable.
Facilities and Amenities
The club’s facilities are designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
A luxurious clubhouse offers a comfortable retreat before and after your round, while the practice areas are meticulously maintained to help golfers fine-tune their game.
Personalized service ensures every visit feels special, whether it’s your first or your fiftieth time playing.
Who Will Enjoy This Course?
Burnt Pine Golf Club is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate a mix of beauty and challenge.
The course’s strategic demands reward careful planning and precise execution, making it especially appealing to those looking to test their skills in a picturesque setting.
Kelly Plantation Golf Club
Kelly Plantation Golf Club is a semi-private gem offering a refined golfing experience in Destin, FL.
Designed by Fred Couples and Gene Bates, this course is set on the grounds of a historic turpentine plantation, blending modern playability with rich history and breathtaking views.
Course Overview
This semi-private course is accessible to the public for a fee, making it an inviting option for both locals and visitors.
The layout is thoughtfully designed to provide a balanced experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Wide, forgiving fairways welcome newer players, while strategic bunkers and undulating greens challenge seasoned golfers.
The course’s setting along Choctawhatchee Bay adds to its appeal, providing a serene and scenic backdrop throughout.
Course Highlights
The layout of Kelly Plantation Golf Club strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and challenge.
The generous fairways encourage confident tee shots, making it beginner-friendly, while the approach shots demand precision, particularly with the well-guarded greens.
The wetlands and bay views enhance the experience, offering both visual and technical interest as you navigate the course.
Signature Hole
The par-4 5th hole is a standout for its strategic demands and stunning views.
A challenging dogleg design requires careful club selection and placement, with the bay serving as a picturesque backdrop.
The approach shot calls for accuracy, as the green is both well-protected and visually dramatic.
Facilities and Amenities
Kelly Plantation boasts top-notch amenities designed to elevate your visit.
The on-site restaurant is perfect for unwinding after a round, offering a variety of dining options with exceptional service.
A fully stocked pro shop ensures you have everything you need, and the practice range is well-maintained to help you hone your game before heading to the first tee.
Who Will Enjoy This Course?
Kelly Plantation’s design caters to a wide range of golfers.
Newer players will appreciate the forgiving fairways and clear sightlines, while experienced golfers will enjoy the challenging pin placements and strategic nuances.
With its excellent customer service, pristine greens, and scenic setting, this course is a favorite among both travelers and locals looking for a memorable round.
Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club
Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club is a premier golf destination in Destin, FL, offering a meticulously designed course that challenges and delights players with its blend of natural beauty and strategic play.
Designed by Robert C. Walker, the course provides a dynamic experience, seamlessly integrating elevation changes and water hazards into its layout.
Course Overview
The semi-private Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club is open to the public, making it accessible to all who want to experience its expertly crafted design.
Its layout takes full advantage of the surrounding environment, incorporating protected wetlands and lush forests to create a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
The course’s narrow fairways and thoughtfully placed hazards test a golfer’s precision and course management, ensuring a round that’s as mentally engaging as it is physically enjoyable.
Course Highlights
Regatta Bay stands out for its unique mix of elevation changes, water features, and natural beauty.
The course weaves through protected landscapes, allowing players to immerse themselves in a tranquil setting while facing strategically challenging shots.
Precision is key here, as narrow fairways and water hazards demand careful planning from tee to green.
These features not only elevate the difficulty but also enhance the overall aesthetic of the course, making every hole memorable.
Signature Hole
The par-5 8th hole is a true test of skill and strategy, embodying the course’s signature challenges.
This long dogleg hole features water running along the left side, culminating in a peninsula green that requires an accurate and well-timed approach shot.
Successfully navigating this hole is as rewarding as it is challenging, leaving players with a sense of accomplishment.
Facilities and Amenities
Regatta Bay is known for its exceptional amenities, which complement the high-quality golf experience.
The luxury clubhouse offers a relaxing space to unwind, with the “Clubhouse Grille” serving delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Recent upgrades to the greens and cart paths ensure that every aspect of your game, from practice to play, is supported by top-tier facilities.
These touches make Regatta Bay a standout option for golfers who value comfort and convenience.
Who Will Enjoy This Course?
This course is ideal for intermediate and advanced golfers seeking a balance of beauty and difficulty.
Its challenging layout requires precision, making it a great choice for players looking to test their skills in a picturesque and serene environment.
With its combination of strategic play, outstanding facilities, and stunning views, Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on all who play here.
Emerald Bay Golf Club
Emerald Bay Golf Club is a semi-private course in Destin, FL, that offers a harmonious mix of playability and scenic beauty.
Designed by Bob Cupp, this course is ideal for golfers of all skill levels who enjoy a relaxing yet engaging round of golf alongside breathtaking views of Choctawhatchee Bay.
Course Overview
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Choctawhatchee Bay, Emerald Bay Golf Club is a thoughtfully designed course that caters to a broad range of golfers.
Its semi-private status ensures a welcoming and well-maintained experience for both members and visitors.
With an emphasis on providing an enjoyable round for everyone, the layout balances moderate challenges with accessible fairways, creating a stress-free yet satisfying game.
Course Highlights
The course features newly renovated greens and bunkers, ensuring optimal playability and smooth putting surfaces.
Its layout combines elements of challenge and relaxation, offering forgiving fairways for casual golfers while incorporating subtle strategic tests to keep seasoned players engaged.
The bay views and gentle breezes add a touch of tranquility, making each hole an enjoyable experience.
Signature Hole
The par-4 12th hole exemplifies the course’s charm and challenge.
Situated along the bay, this hole presents players with crosswinds and water hazards that demand both accuracy and confidence.
The scenic beauty of the setting enhances the experience, making it a standout hole for golfers of all levels.
Facilities and Amenities
Emerald Bay’s facilities are designed to provide a complete and comfortable golfing experience.
The newly renovated clubhouse offers a welcoming space to relax and socialize after a round.
A fully stocked pro shop ensures players have access to quality gear, while the well-maintained practice areas allow golfers to fine-tune their skills before hitting the course.
Who Will Enjoy This Course?
Emerald Bay Golf Club is particularly well-suited for beginners and casual golfers, offering a forgiving design that encourages confidence and enjoyment.
At the same time, its scenic views and thoughtful layout provide enough engagement to satisfy experienced players looking for a more laid-back round.
Whether you’re seeking a competitive game or a leisurely day by the bay, Emerald Bay delivers a well-rounded and memorable experience.
Indian Bayou Golf & Country Club
Indian Bayou Golf & Country Club is a public course in Destin, FL, offering 27 holes of versatile play across three unique layouts.
With options catering to all skill levels and a welcoming atmosphere, this course is perfect for players looking for variety and a family-friendly environment.
Course Overview
Indian Bayou features three distinct 9-hole layouts—Seminole, Choctaw, and Creek—each offering a unique combination of challenges and scenery.
The Seminole layout includes open fairways and water hazards, providing a forgiving but engaging experience.
The Choctaw layout features a mix of wide and tree-lined fairways, offering a balanced challenge for intermediate players.
The Creek layout, with its tighter fairways and strategic water placements, is ideal for those seeking a more technical round.
This variety ensures golfers can tailor their experience to their skill level and preferences.
Course Highlights
Indian Bayou’s design provides a dynamic mix of playability and strategy, making it a great option for players of all levels.
The Seminole 4th hole, a long par-3 with a prominent water hazard, is a favorite for its mix of beauty and precision.
The Creek 9 demands careful shot placement with its narrow fairways and strategically placed hazards, adding a layer of difficulty that advanced players will appreciate.
These highlights make every round different and engaging, whether you’re a first-timer or a regular visitor.
Facilities and Amenities
The club’s facilities are designed to accommodate both serious golfers and those enjoying a casual outing.
A welcoming clubhouse offers a comfortable space to relax before or after your round, and the professional-grade driving range and practice greens provide ample opportunity to refine your game.
The staff is known for their friendly and helpful service, further enhancing the overall experience.
Who Will Enjoy This Course?
Indian Bayou is an excellent choice for families, mixed-skill groups, and golfers looking for variety in their game.
Its three distinct layouts ensure there’s something for everyone, from beginners seeking confidence-building holes to advanced players looking for strategic challenges.
The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for those who want an enjoyable and stress-free day on the course.
Conclusion
Destin, FL, is home to a variety of exceptional golf courses, each offering unique landscapes and challenges for players of all skill levels.
Whether you’re seeking technical play, scenic relaxation, or a family-friendly round, these five courses have something special to offer.
Plan your next visit and experience some of the best golfing Destin has to offer.
