Harris Vacations Staff Writer | January 24, 2025
The Alabama Gulf Coast is known for its snow-white beaches and gorgeous weather year-round. Did you know that it also has a reputation as a top-tier golf destination for golfers of all skill levels?
Below, we’ve put together a list of some of the fantastic Gulf Shores golf courses. From beginner golfers to those on the look out for the next challenge, there’s a course for you to tee off.
Just be sure to fully enjoy your time here and book your Gulf Shores vacation home with Harris Vacation Rentals. We’ve got the best properties around and can give you the perfect combo of a beach and golf getaway.
Now, let’s dive into the 7 best golf courses in and around the Gulf Shores.
Photo Credit: WanderDrone
This stunning, award-winning 18-hole course was designed by the iconic golf legend Arnold Palmer. Cotton Creek, along with its sister course (Cypress Bend), is one of the only two courses in Alabama designed by Palmer, and we are forever grateful to him for realizing the potential of our hometown.
As with most Palmer design courses, you’ll find that this golf course is challenging but still accessible to players of all skill levels. Expect to come up against undulating greens, lakes, and well-placed bunkers as you make your way around this world-class course.
The other 18-hole golf course at Craft Farms Golf Club, Cypress Bend, features a coastal twist. With a par of 72 and acres of lush green grass winding through a variety of coastal lakes, this course is a sight to be seen. Palmer was careful not to alter the land; he merely tweaked the design to complement the gorgeous backdrop. Cypress Bend is a hometown favorite with worldwide appeal.
The 4th hole poses a great challenge to golfers, and the 2nd hole has you driving over water, making this a challenging and exciting day out on the green.
Photo Credit: Pexels via Google Images Creative Commons Licenses
Designed by U.S. Open Champion Jerry Pate, Kiva Dunes Golf Course is located just a few hundred steps away from the beautiful turquoise waters of the Gulf. This beautiful course was ranked the number one public golf course in Alabama by Golf Advisor in 2017, and over the years, the course has continued to receive many awards from Golf Digest, Golf Week, and Links Magazine.
For the ultimate reward, head to Kiva Beach Club after your game to raise a toast to the winner. There’s also a pro shop on-site where you can pick up all the apparel and equipment needed to perform like a professional out on the course.
Photo Credit: Cavan-Images
The Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club is located on the stunning Fort Morgan peninsula between Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, making it the perfect place to escape and spend the day. The club offers a delicious restaurant, a private beach on the bay, and many fun activities, like swimming and tennis. However, they are most notable for their golfing experience.
Overlooking lakes and fairways, the club offers three nine-hole premium courses: Marsh, Lakes, and Cypress. There are a range of golf packages to choose from which will not only give you access to these three niners but also the other signature courses in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
No matter your level of experience or which course you choose to tackle, you are sure to get lost in the beautiful golfing opportunities found at The Peninsula. Its paradise!
Regarded as one of the coast’s premier golf courses for the best value, Glenlakes features 27 holes of unforgettable golf.
The 18-hole par 72 championship-style Vista-Dunes course was designed by iconic players and architects Bruce Devlin and Robert Von Hagge and provides golfers of all skill levels with a great day out. The sporty 9-hole par 35 resort-style course, The Lakes, has generous fairways and multiple tee positions, making it ideal for repeat play.
Whichever course you choose, you’re guaranteed great play at perhaps the most affordable price on the Gulf Coast.
While memberships are offered and available, Gulf Shores Golf Club is open to the public, and everyone is welcome to come and enjoy a fantastic golfing adventure. The club offers everything a novice, enthusiast, or beginner could possibly need for the perfect day of golf.
This popular facility offers a spectacular 18-hole golf course, a driving range, a putting green, and a chipping green. If you’re looking to improve your game, they also have PGA professionals available for lessons.
For a relaxed game of golf in a picturesque setting, head down to Orange Beach Golf Center. This well-maintained 9-hole, par 3 course in the stunning Orange Beach area features plenty of challenges to keep golfers on their toes, including several water hazards.
This spot also has a driving range with 30 grass tees and 10 covered mat tees where you can practice your skills, plus a pro shop where you can stock up on kit before hitting the green.
With so many world-class courses to choose from, it’s always tee time in Gulf Shores. So grab your clubs and your golf buddies and get ready to hit the links on the beautiful Alabama coast.
The perfect ending to a day spent on the green is coming home to your luxurious vacation rental. Harris Vacation Rentals is proud to be a source of high-quality vacation homes and condos throughout the Alabama Gulf Coast. Whether you are searching for a pet-friendly property, beachfront views, or a home with a private pool, we’ve got you covered.
RESOURCES
SOCIAL MEDIA
WES25 promo code – 25% your stay
Searches valid for any day 30 days or more on during these dates:
Jan-March 8, 2025
Jan – March 7, 2026
Some restrictions apply.
