Looking for an unforgettable golf vacation? Or are you a local or visitor looking to try a new course? Welcome to the stunning Emerald Coast and Scenic 30A, where you’ll find some of the best golfing experiences in Florida. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this picturesque region offers an array of top-rated golf courses that will delight golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. From the beautiful fairways to the challenging gameplay, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Scenic 30A and the Emerald Coast are known for their breathtaking natural beauty, with pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush green landscapes. No wonder this idyllic setting has become a golfer’s paradise. With various courses to choose from, each offering its unique charms and challenges, you’re sure to find the perfect course to suit your preferences.
Whether you prefer rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, stunning coastal views, or undulated greens, the golf courses in this area have it all. These courses have garnered acclaim for their exceptional layouts and remarkable beauty, designed by renowned architects such as Tom Jackson, Rees Jones, Robert Trent Jones Jr., and Tom Fazio.
So pack your clubs and get ready to experience the best golfing in Florida here on the Emerald Coast. From challenging courses to awe-inspiring views, this golfing destination promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.
Key Takeaways:
- Florida’s Emerald Coast and Scenic 30A offer some of the best golfing experiences in the state. Walton County boasts many excellent golf resorts.
- You’ll find a challenging variety of top-rated golf courses designed by renowned PGA architects, such as WaterSound Club and Sandestin Golf & Tennis Resort. (There are seven golf courses offered between these two golf resorts.)
- Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s a golf course to suit your skill level. Some golf courses provide up to seven sets of tee boxes.
- Enjoy stunning natural beauty while playing your favorite sport, with views of the Gulf of Mexico, Choctawhatchee Bay, coastal dune lakes and Florida’s lush greenery.
- Make your golf vacation one to remember with a trip to Scenic 30A and the Emerald Coast. Amenities abound, and there are plenty of family-friendly things to do.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a Fore Play Championship Golf Resort
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers four amazing golf courses and has been awarded prestigious rankings by Golf Digest. Take advantage of the practice facility, complete with a driving range and putting greens, to sharpen your skills before hitting the course. After a day on the greens, relax and unwind at the resort, which offers luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and an array of amenities to ensure a memorable stay.
The Burnt Pine Golf Club @ Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
The Burnt Pine Golf Club boasts a 7,000-yard layout that will test the skills of even the most seasoned golfer, making it one of the best golf courses on the Emerald Coast. With rolling fairways and strategically placed hazards, every shot requires precision and strategic thinking. The ultra-dwarf TifEagle Bermuda grass on all 18 green complexes enhances the beauty of the course and provides a consistent playing surface.
But it’s not just the challenging gameplay that sets Burnt Pine Golf Club apart. The course is nestled within the stunning Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, which offers a variety of amenities for golfers and their companions to enjoy. From luxurious accommodations to world-class dining options, the resort ensures that every aspect of your golf vacation is handled with care.
Burnt Pine Golf Club is a must-visit golfing destination. Its challenging layout, stunning beauty, and the unbeatable amenities of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort make it a golfer’s paradise.
The Raven Golf Club @ Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
The meticulously maintained grounds are nestled amidst marshes, wetlands, and towering pine forests, and the course also offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The Raven course offers a memorable golfing adventure for players of all skill levels. Ask about the 19th hole!
Indulge in the stunning coastal views and challenging gameplay at the Raven Golf Club. Experience the beauty of nature while enjoying a round of golf at this must-visit destination.
Baytowne Golf Course @ Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
If you’re looking for a top-notch golfing experience in Miramar Beach, look no further than Baytowne Golf Course at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Built in 1986 and renovated in 2005, the course was designed by renowned architect Tom Jackson. This 6,800-plus-yard course offers an unforgettable combination of challenging fairways, stunning views, strategic bunkers and tee boxes.
As you make your way through the course, you’ll be greeted by meticulously maintained rolling fairways that showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The course features strategically placed bunkers that add a layer of challenge and excitement to every hole.
“Playing at Baytowne Golf Course is truly a golfer’s dream. The course offers a perfect balance of beauty and difficulty, making each round an unforgettable experience.” – Golf Magazine
The Links Golf Course @ Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Nestled along the shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay, the Links Golf Course provides picturesque views of the bay and Baytowne Marina. As you navigate the course, you’ll encounter rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and serene coastal landscapes that create a truly immersive golfing environment. A shot-makers course, accuracy, and proper club selection are key if you want to outfox the prevailing Gulf Coast winds.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this course offers an exceptional golfing experience. With its stunning views, challenging layout, and impeccable greens, it’s no wonder this course is considered one of the best golf courses on the Emerald Coast.
WaterSound Club is a triple-play golfing paradise filled with luxury and amenities.
It has three of the best golf courses on Scenic 30A along the Gulf of Mexico!
Camp Creek Golf Course @ WaterSound Club
Camp Creek Golf Course has an undulated fairway, and the greens provide a challenging yet rewarding gameplay for golfers of all skill levels. With strategically placed bunkers and water hazards, every shot requires precision and strategy.
One of the highlights of this remarkable course is the panoramic views it offers. Players can enjoy a breathtaking view from every tee box, creating a truly unforgettable golfing experience.
Playing at Camp Creek Golf Course is like stepping into a golfer’s paradise. The meticulously designed layout and the picturesque views make every round a memorable adventure.
Camp Creek Golf Course attracts golfers nationwide and is ranked among the best golf courses in Florida and among the best on 30A. It offers world-class amenities, including a clubhouse with a pro shop and dining options, ensuring you have everything you need for a perfect day on the course.
Whether you’re an avid golfer looking for a challenging game or want to enjoy the beauty of WaterSound while playing a round of golf, Camp Creek Golf Course is the place to be. Club dining is fantastic, and the staff is among some of the best. Local dining hotspots like FOOW – “Fish Out Of Water“ nearby also offer delicious beachfront dining and refreshing drinks to complete a perfect golf day.
The Third Golf Club @ WaterSound Club
The Third Golf Course is a brand-new 18-hole golf course designed by Davis Love III, located north of Shark’s Tooth Golf Course (construction is underway as of publication, with an expected opening in 2025). The course offers a unique golfing experience, with pristine greens, lush fairways, and natural landscapes. It has been carefully designed to fit into the surrounding environment, using the existing topography to create a challenging yet enjoyable course.
The course is the perfect blend of traditional and modern design, with Davis Love III utilizing his years of experience as a professional golfer and golf course designer to create a masterpiece. The course is both challenging and rewarding, with bunkers, water hazards, and strategic shot placements that will keep golfers on their toes. With its exclusive location and exceptional design, it is a must-play for golfers of all levels.
Love Golf Design and Watersound Club teams selected a unique 18-hole, Par 72 design with six sets of tees, allowing golfers to adjust the course distance to play from 4,900 yards to over 7,600 yards on a firm, fast-playing course. The flexibility of play will offer accessibility for the casual golfer, and even the longest tour players will enjoy a challenge while hitting from the back tees.
Shark’s Tooth Golf Club @ WaterSound Club
Tucked among the oaks and pines of a coastal sanctuary along the shores of the largest dune lake in Florida, Lake Powell, Shark’s Tooth Golf Course benefits from mature trees, undulating greens and deep bunkers. Designed by Greg Norman, the course offers panoramic views of Lake Powell and a unique golfing experience.
Located near Panama City Beach, it is one of the best golf courses on 30A. Although it is a private club, guests staying at the WaterSound Club can access this exclusive golfing destination. With its stunning natural surroundings and challenging course, Shark’s Tooth Golf Club is a must-visit for the golf enthusiast.
Seascape Golf Course & Golf Resort
Nestled amidst the natural beauty of fresh water and coastal dune lakes, Seascape Golf Course provides a unique and picturesque setting for your golfing adventure. The perfectly manicured fairways wind through lush vegetation, while strategically placed bunkers and water hazards add an extra layer of excitement to each hole.
As you navigate the course, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The tranquil atmosphere and peaceful ambiance make the Seascape Golf Course a true oasis for every golfer.
After a satisfying round of golf, unwind at the clubhouse, where you can enjoy delicious refreshments and take in the panoramic views of the course. The Seascape Golf Course also offers a fully stocked pro shop where you can find top-notch golf equipment and apparel.
Playing at Seascape Golf Course is a truly unforgettable experience. The combination of stunning views, challenging gameplay, and impeccable course maintenance makes it one of the best golf courses on 30A. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to tee off at this hidden gem in Santa Rosa Beach.
Santa Rosa Golf Club
The Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club is a highly-rated golf course in the beautiful beach town of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Offering a fair challenge and unique character, it has quickly become one of the best golf courses on 30A. Many things make the championship 6,900 yard, 18-hole, par 72 golf course at Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club special.
Golf Magazine has recognized the Santa Rosa Golf Club as the “purest golf in the Florida Panhandle,” underscoring its reputation for authenticity and quality. The course is praised for its well-maintained fairways, pristine greens, and stunning coastal views that make for an unforgettable golfing experience. The 2023 U.S. Amateur Golf Championship was played here.
The Santa Rosa Golf Club offers a variety of amenities to enhance your golf outing. They also feature a short course called The Loop. For a shorter golf experience, The Loop offers a 6-hole short course designed by Golf Architect Bill Bergin. The on-site pro shop has the latest equipment and apparel, ensuring you have everything you need for a successful round.
Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club dining is for members only. Check out the best beachfront restaurants in South Walton for other dining options!
So, whether you’re a local or visiting the area, you’ll want to include the Santa Rosa Golf Club on your list of golf memberships. With its fair challenge, unique character, and stunning views, it’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best golf courses on 30A and a favorite among golfers in Santa Rosa Beach.
Kelly Plantation Golf Club
Golf aficionados flock to the Emerald Coast for its stellar golfing options, and Kelly Plantation Golf Club is a standout. The course showcases velvety fairways, strategically positioned challenges, and awe-inspiring vistas that combine for an unforgettable and invigorating round of golf.
Kelly Plantation Golf Club Highlights
- Semi-Private 18 Hole Golf Course
- Panoramic Views of Choctawhatchee Bay & 11 Lakes
- Par 72 Golf Course stretches 7,099 yards from the back tees
- GPS-Equipped Golf Carts & Extensive Practice Facilities
- Designed by Fred Couples and Gene Bates
Exploring the layout at Kelly Plantation Golf Club presents a variety of holes designed to put your talents and tactics to the test. The course promises a harmonious blend of difficulty and delight, from long, sweeping fairways to tantalizing short-game challenges.
For those seeking the ultimate golfing experience, Kelly Plantation Golf Club is a must-visit destination. With its breathtaking natural scenery, top-tier facilities, and unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction, it secures a spot as a prime choice for both locals and travelers seeking a premium golfing oasis on the Emerald Coast.
Blackstone Golf Course
Located in northern Walton County, the Blackstone Golf Course in Defuniak Springs offers a magnificent golfing experience that will delight players of all skill levels. With its stunning landscape, superb amenities, and exceptional service, it stands out.
The course is carved through rolling terrain inclusive of elevation changes and slanted fairways which are unique characteristics to most Florida courses. Blackstone Golf Course is a true gem in the area. The course features lush fairways, strategically placed hazards, and breathtaking views that create a memorable and challenging round of golf.
Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking to improve your swing, Blackstone Golf Course provides a welcoming environment where you can enjoy the game to the fullest. The course is meticulously maintained, ensuring optimal playing conditions and a visually appealing backdrop for your golfing experience.
As you navigate the Blackstone Golf Course, you’ll encounter a variety of holes that will test your skills and strategy. The layout offers a mix of long and short holes, providing a well-rounded and engaging golfing experience.
When you visit the Blackstone Golf Course, you can expect exceptional service when you arrive. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is dedicated to ensuring that your time on the course is enjoyable and memorable.
For golfers seeking the best golf courses around the Emerald Coast, Blackstone Golf Course is a must-visit destination. Its stunning natural beauty, top-notch amenities, and outstanding service make it an ideal choice for locals and visitors alike.
Conclusion
Pack your clubs and head to Florida’s Scenic 30A and the Emerald Coast for some of the best golf courses in Florida. With their stunning views and challenging gameplay, these courses offer an unforgettable golfing experience for both seasoned pros and beginners. The breathtaking scenery, well-crafted courses, and warm hospitality make golfing on the Emerald Coast a truly memorable experience.
See Our Golfers Paradise Guide for MORE!
