Destin is known for its sugar-white beaches and emerald-green waters, but it’s also one of Florida’s premier golf destinations. Whether you’re looking for a challenging championship course, stunning waterfront views, or a relaxing afternoon on the links, the Destin area offers exceptional options for golfers of every skill level. From resort-style courses to private club communities, here’s a look at some of the best golf courses in and around Destin.

Set along the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, Kelly Plantation Golf Club is consistently ranked among the top public golf courses on the Emerald Coast. Designed by Fred Couples and Gene Bates, the course blends natural wetlands, mature trees, and scenic bay views into a memorable round.

Golfers can expect immaculate fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and several holes that showcase the area’s natural beauty. The course is challenging enough for experienced players while remaining enjoyable for those looking to improve their game.

 

• Championship 18-hole course
• Beautiful bayfront views
• Excellent practice facilities
• Full-service clubhouse and pro shop

Designed by Robert C. Walker, Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club is widely recognized as one of Destin’s premier public golf courses. The course winds through nature preserves, lakes, and protected wetlands, creating a peaceful setting that feels removed from the busy beach scene.

With generous fairways, well-protected greens, and multiple tee boxes, Regatta Bay is enjoyable for golfers of all abilities.

 

• Award-winning public course
• Scenic wetlands and wooded fairways
• Driving range and practice greens
• Family-friendly atmosphere

Located just east of Destin, Emerald Bay Golf Club offers breathtaking views of Choctawhatchee Bay throughout much of the course. Redesigned by Bob Cupp, the layout features water on several holes, challenging approach shots, and beautiful landscaping.

The course is known for its excellent course conditions and welcoming environment, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

 

• Bayfront scenery
• Challenging yet playable design
• Practice facilities
• Golf instruction available

Conveniently located in the heart of Destin, Indian Bayou Golf & Country Club offers three distinct nine-hole courses that can be combined to create different 18-hole experiences. This variety keeps each round fresh while allowing golfers to enjoy different layouts and challenges.

The mature trees, rolling fairways, and central location make Indian Bayou a longtime favorite for local golfers.

 

• Three nine-hole layouts
• Convenient central Destin location
• Driving range and practice facilities
• Great for golfers of all skill levels

Often considered one of Northwest Florida’s most prestigious golf experiences, Burnt Pine Golf Club is located within the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. This private course, designed by Rees Jones, features dramatic elevation changes, towering pines, wetlands, and spectacular views of Choctawhatchee Bay.

Its immaculate conditions and challenging layout have earned Burnt Pine recognition as one of Florida’s finest private clubs.

 

• Private championship course
• Designed by Rees Jones
• Bayfront and wetland scenery
• Exceptional practice facilities

For golfers looking to enjoy coastal views, The Links Golf Club at Sandestin offers one of the most scenic rounds on the Emerald Coast. The course stretches alongside Choctawhatchee Bay, where coastal winds become part of the challenge.

Its links-style design provides a different experience from many traditional Florida courses while remaining approachable for players of all skill levels.

• Scenic bayfront holes
• Traditional links-style layout
• Great for beginners and experienced golfers
• Beautiful sunset views

 

One of the biggest advantages of golfing in Destin is the ability to play year-round. Mild winters and warm temperatures make the area an ideal destination for both seasonal visitors and full-time residents. Many courses also feature professional instruction, well-equipped practice facilities, and clubhouses with dining, making it easy to spend an entire day enjoying the game.

Beyond the fairways, golfers can relax on the beach, enjoy fresh Gulf seafood, or explore Destin’s shopping, boating, and waterfront attractions – all just minutes away.

For many homebuyers, access to quality golf is just as important as being close to the beach. Communities such as Kelly Plantation, Regatta Bay, Emerald Bay, and Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offer residents convenient access to championship golf while providing beautiful homes, scenic surroundings, and resort-style amenities.

Whether you’re searching for a primary residence, a second home, or an investment property, living near one of Destin’s premier golf courses offers a lifestyle that combines recreation, natural beauty, and coastal living.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home in Destin, the team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida can help you find the perfect property – whether your dream home overlooks the fairway, the bay, or the Gulf.