Nestled on Santa Rosa Island in the Florida Panhandle, Navarre Beach is renowned for its pristine shores with crystalline waters and powdery white sands — no wonder it's famous for being Florida's most relaxing place!
But it's not all about the beach activities. The city and its surrounding areas also boast beautiful rolling hills with stunning green fairways and roughs that harmoniously blend with the scenic backdrops of the Gulf Coast, catering to both beginners and serious golfers.
With blue skies and favorable weather year-round, taking a break from the wind and surf to enjoy a round on the nearby green is always a great idea. If you're considering a game of golf near Navarre Beach, this blog is for you. Below, you will find five of the best courses near Navarre Beach — all within an hour's drive.
Get ready to tee off and feel the coastal breeze as you enjoy a round of golf!
The Club at Hidden Creek, 18 holes, Public
A mere fifteen-minute drive from Navarre Beach, The Club at Hidden Creek is one of the most treasured courses in the Florida panhandle. Inaugurated in 1988, and designed by Ron Garl, this course was already ranked as the best golf course in northwest Florida and once hosted the US Open Qualifying Rounds.
Hidden Creek boasts manicured greens, lush landscaping, and a unique layout, appealing to seasoned golfers with water hazards and strategically placed bunkers adding to the challenge.
The facilities are top-notch, and the staff members, from the pro shop to the starter, are known for their friendly and helpful attitude.
With its great mix of holes, beautiful maintenance, and excellent service, Hidden Creek offers a fantastic golfing option near Navarre Beach, all at a very reasonable cost.
The Club at Hidden Creek has a longstanding reputation among the local community, and many consider a visit to the Emerald Coast incomplete without experiencing it.
Tiger Point Golf Club, 18 holes, Semi-Private
Nestled along the tranquil shores of the Santa Rosa Sound and offering breathtaking coastal panoramas, Tiger Point Golf Club welcomes both members and visitors alike.
Infused with elements reminiscent of traditional Scottish links golf, the course offers a harmonious blend of enjoyment and challenge. It skillfully integrates water features, boasting a par of 72 that intricately melds the timeless Scottish links style with aquatic challenges spanning 14 holes.
Enhancing the golfing experience, the club offers amenities like a driving range, dual putting greens, a dedicated chipping zone, and a specialized practice sand trap.
Combined with the range of individual classes they offer, Tiger Point stands out as a premier destination for refining your golfing skills, making it equally appealing for newcomers exploring the world of golf for the first time.
Marcus Pointe Golf Club, 18 holes, Semi-Private
Covering 600 acres of rolling terrain, Marcus Pointe Golf Club distinguishes itself amidst the predominantly flat landscape of the Panhandle region. Designed by Earl Stone, the layout embodies his signature approach to crafting engaging courses.
While water hazards are minimal, players encounter numerous sand bunkers, dense wooded areas, and subtle slopes and inclines. Overall, the course provides a comprehensive experience suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
The greens are meticulously maintained; the views are captivating, and the hospitality is outstanding. In essence, Marcus Pointe Golf Club offers a relaxed yet enjoyable setting for your round of golf — and all this at affordable rates.
Cypress Lakes Golf Club, 18 Holes, Public
Boasting excellent shape and nestled amidst gently hilly terrain adorned with pine, oak, and magnolia trees, Cypress Lakes Golf Club offers a fantastic golfing experience. Despite the presence of water hazards and tricky trees, the course's generous fairways cater to players of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.
For those seeking practice or just starting out, the club provides great facilities including a spacious grassy area for driving, a putting green, and a practice bunker.
The experience is definitely enhanced by the scenic beauty, as well as the challenging layout, and attentive staff. Plus, you'll be treated to the lovely presence of crepe myrtles, azaleas, and cypress trees throughout the grounds.
Stonebrook Golf Course, 18 holes, Semi-Private
Mostly found in good conditions, Stonebrook offers a fantastic experience. The greens roll true, albeit a little slower than they appear, maintaining a high standard of play. What truly stands out is the friendliness and professionalism of the staff, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere throughout your visit.
The course boasts a good and challenging layout, providing ample enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels. Playing at a satisfying pace adds to the overall experience, making each round enjoyable and engaging.
Featuring a nice layout, the course presents a fun and challenging environment. Despite encountering a slow foursome ahead, a common occurrence in golf, the overall pace of play remains steady. The greens, with few exceptions, are in good shape, with ongoing efforts to improve any imperfections.
Understanding Changing Golf Course Conditions in Navarre Beach and Florida
The conditions on golf courses in Florida can vary throughout the year due to factors like weather, rainfall, temperature, and maintenance schedules. In winter, the weather tends to be cooler and drier, resulting in firmer fairways and faster greens. Conversely, during summer, Florida sees more rainfall and higher temperatures, leading to softer turf and slower greens.
Additionally, golf courses may undergo maintenance routines such as aerating greens or overseeding certain areas, temporarily altering playing conditions. While some aspects of Florida's climate remain consistent, there are noticeable variations in course conditions over time.
To avoid disappointment, it's crucial to read recent player reviews and communicate with golf course staff. Also, it's a good idea to maintain an open mindset, embracing the challenge of playing in different conditions. In other words, be sports about it!
Extra Tips to Elevate Your Golfing Experience in and around Navarre Beach, Florida
With great weather year-round, suitable terrain, and it's captivating coastal allure, Navarre Beach truly stands out as a spot for a golfing experience like no other! But there are always ways you can make your golf journey even more enjoyable.
Let's explore some extra tips:
Though Navarre Beach and the Gulf Coast generally boast favorable conditions, the summer heat and humidity can be intense. Always monitor weather updates online and dress accordingly. Also, don't forget to bring your sunscreen along to the green.
During the summer months, there can be occasional rain showers, so it's a great idea not just to check the forecast regularly while on vacation but also to evaluate the drainage of the course.
Sometimes the greens get busy, particularly during the high holiday season. It's always a good idea to call ahead and book to ensure your desired playing window in advance.
Look up any regional regulations pertinent to the Gulf Coast courses you want to visit. Moreover, adhere to international golfing decorum when it comes to tasks like mending ball marks, tending to bunkers, and maintaining an efficient playing rhythm.
There's abundant wildlife along the Gulf Coast, and this adds to the golfing experience in Navarre Beach. However, always exercise caution around wild creatures, such as alligators near water features or birds visiting the fairways. Appreciate these wonderful creatures from a safe vantage point while honoring their natural habitat.
Stay attuned to golf-related events and contests not just in Navarre Beach but throughout the entire Gulf Coast by checking local event calendars.
Armed with these insights, immerse yourself in the sweeping vistas where the lush courses harmoniously merge with the coastal backdrop.
Beyond golfing, Navarre Beach and the Gulf Coast as a whole offer countless attractions, from pristine shorelines and water activities to scenic pathways and heritage sites. You won't want to miss out on those either, so make sure to leave some time for further exploring the area.
Other Great Activities in Navarre Beach Besides Golfing
Wondering what else to do on a visit to Navarre Beach? Here are some top experiences:
Navarre Beach beckons with its sun-drenched sands and inviting waves, perfect for relaxation and adventure. Whether swimming, sunbathing, or exploring with paddle boards and kayaks, there's endless fun to be had.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Navarre Beach Pier, offering stunning views and a refreshing sea breeze.
Discover Navarre Beach's culinary delights, from fresh seafood to local favorites, served with breathtaking views. Whether it's beachside bites or gourmet cuisine, there's something to satisfy every taste bud.
Want more tips to make your visit to Navarre Beach, Florida extra special? Head to our destination blog, where you'll find posts like the best pet-friendly spots in town, a guide to inshore and offshore fishing, and what it's like to live in Navarre Beach year-round — to name a few!
Wondering Where to Stay on Navarre Beach During your Golfing Trip?
While visiting Navarre, stay like a local and book one of our Navarre Beach vacation rentals with all the space, privacy, and home-like amenities you need.
From luxury beachfront homes to amazing rental condos, at Navarre Beach Property, we guarantee you'll have a 5-star experience during your Navarre Beach vacation.
