Posted on 3/3/2021
Golfer Greg Norman said it best when he said, "Happiness is a long walk with a putter." Though, we might be so bold as to add an addendum to his quote. Happiness is a long walk with a putter… on a 30A golf course! Because what could possibly be better than golfing with scenic views?
On the Emerald Coast, Golf is a popular sport for both locals and visitors. With multiple championship courses, this isn't a surprise! So, if you're hoping to get in a round—or two, or three, or more—of golf while you're visiting 30A for vacation, you're in luck.
Here is a list of the top golf courses near 30A. Make the best of your vacation by golfing at one (or all) of them! Keep in mind that Ocean Reef Resorts guests receive discounted golf rates at the Emerald Bay Golf Club, Seascape Golf Course, and Windswept Dunes Golf Course.
Emerald Bay Golf Club
4781 Clubhouse Drive, Destin, FL 32541 | 850-837-5197
Designed by Bob Cupp, the Emerald Bay Golf Club is located along the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay. This championship 18-hole course casually meanders through the prestigious gated community of Emerald Bay. The course underwent an extensive renovation in 2014, which enriched the already impressive course. Renovations included larger greens and tee boxes, as well as new water features, bridges, cart paths, and practice facilities. All of this simply added to the beautiful course, which boasts incredible bay and garden views. The clubhouse includes a full-service golf shop for all your golfing needs. It also has The Grille restaurant that overlooks the 18th green. As an Ocean Reef Resorts guest, you can save 20% off peak times or 10% off mid-day and twilight rates at the Emerald Bay Golf Club.
Seascape Golf Course
556 Seascape Drive, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 | 877-424-2601
Miramar Beach's Seascape Resort is home to a lot of fun coastal activities, including an amazing 18-hole golf course designed by Joe Lee. The course itself winds its way through natural forests and coastal dune lakes, creating a relaxed environment that is perfect for a day of golf. In addition to the forests and lakes, you'll enjoy stunning views of the Gulf as you make your way to different holes on the course. Though breathtaking, the course's terrain offers a fun challenge for golfers of all levels. If you're under a tight schedule, Seascape also offers a 9-hole option in the afternoon, so you don't have to miss out on the fun. When booking your tee time, be sure to mention that you're an Ocean Reef Resorts guest to receive a 10% discount at Seascape.
Windswept Dunes Golf Course
11 Clubhouse Drive, Freeport, FL 32439 | 850-834-1847
Golf course designer Doug O'Rourke was the visionary behind Windswept Dunes Golf Course, which is located in Freeport, about a half-hour from the Destin beaches. In his course design, O'Rourke succeeded in preserving as much of the natural vegetation and topography as he could. This resulted in a 750-acre course that is surrounded by natural beauty. White sand dunes, rolling hills, and pine trees will enhance your golf experience. You'll receive a daily 10% discount when you show your Reef Reward Card on your guest portal at Windswept Dunes Golf Course.
Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club
334 Golf Club Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 | 850-267-2229
Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club has been a 30A staple since 1969. This championship 18-hole course is surrounded by the natural environment of Scenic Highway 30A, offering great views and good vibes. The course includes some of the only elevation changes in the area, as well as two holes that back up to the Gulf. 2021 will be a great year for this course as it undergoes an extensive renovation led by Bill Bergin. Renovations are set to include a new design that is fun for recreational golfers but still provides a challenge for more serious players. Once complete, this local- and visitor-favorite course is going to be even better than before!
Camp Creek Golf Club
684 Fazio Drive, Watersound, FL 32461 | 850-231-7600
Camp Creek Golf Club is located between Scenic Highway 30A and Highway 98. The course shows off its paradise location by incorporating indigenous plants and vegetation in its design. It remains an important goal of the Club to enhance the natural environment while providing fun recreation opportunities. In support of this, a unique aspect of the Camp Creek Golf Course is the wildlife corridors, which enable the native wildlife to move unhindered throughout its habitat. This course has been ranked among America's 100 Best Public Courses by Golf Digest on multiple occasions. With its fun yet challenging terrain, as well as its dedication to maintaining the surrounding environment, Camp Creek Golf Club is well worth visiting for a round of golf.
Origins Golf Course (Watersound)
573 Pathways Drive, Watersound, FL 32461 | 850.213.5090
Looking for something a little smaller than a full 18-hole golf course? Origins Golf Course in Watersound has you covered. Designed by Love Golf Design, this golf course focuses on the short game. This focus makes it more appealing to and accessible for beginners, families, and casual golfers. The course is walkable and can be played as a 6-hole regulation or 10-hole par 3. Here, you can enjoy the game without the commitment!
Baytowne Golf Club
1199 Troon Drive, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 | 850-267-8155
Baytowne Golf Club is a one-of-a-kind course in that it extends from the Gulf Coast beach to Choctawhatchee Bay. This means you get all the best of the Emerald Coast as you play through 18-holes on magnificent terrain. Designer Tom Jackson ensured the course was enhanced by the surrounding tropical environment. In addition to its picturesque setting, this course is great for both experts and novices. It features forward tees for beginners, as well as championship tees for the pros. The Club's convenient location near Baytowne Wharf allows golfers to enjoy the game and then follow it up with other coastal amusements afterward.
Whether you're a long-time golfer or you've never set foot on a course in your life, golfing near 30A can be a fun experience. Not only does the area have some of the most recognizably beautiful courses, but it also has opportunities for golfers of all skill levels. Many of our 30A vacation rentals are located near one or more of these top courses, so be sure to browse our beach rental selection when planning your trip. Book online or give us a call at (800) 782-8736.
