Pensacola, Florida, is not only renowned for its pristine beaches with crystalline waters and powdery white sands. The city and its surrounding areas also showcase beautiful rolling hills with stunning green fairways and roughs that harmoniously blend with the scenic backdrops of the Gulf Coast. Within a 15-mile radius of Pensacola, there are over ten reputable golf courses — some public and some private — catering to both recreational and serious golfers.
With blue skies and such favorable weather year-round, taking a break from the wind and surf to enjoy a round on the green nearby is always a great idea. The challenging part might be deciding which golf course to visit. But don't worry, we're here to help. This blog will provide you with a list of the top golf courses in and around Pensacola.
Are you ready to tee off with a round of golf as you feel the balmy breezes from the sea?
A. C. Read Golf Course
Within the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, A. C. Read Golf Course is open to the public. With its evergreen old live oaks and many water holes, this outstanding course is considered one of the most beautiful golf courses in the Florida panhandle.
Equipment rentals, golf carts, driving range access, practice greens, beginner's and advanced sessions, club maintenance, and grip replacements are all offered. Another welcome amenity is the refreshment cart stocked with snacks and sandwiches that makes the rounds between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The tree-lined fairways enhance the course's beauty and the training jets flying overhead are an extra experience, reminding you that you are in Pensacola after all.
Lost Key Golf Club
Located in Perdido Key, just a half-hour drive from Pensacola, this Arnold Palmer-designed beachside course showcases impeccable greens and holds the distinction of being the first in Florida to achieve certification as an Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary — an environmental accolade specifically designed for golf courses.
With its exceptional layout and pristine conditions, this place truly offers a distinctive golfing experience. It presents an enjoyable challenge even for the most adept players, featuring expansive, undulating greens and flat fairways lined with trees.
Be forewarned: due to the native flora, you might find yourself losing a few balls along the way, but the breathtaking surroundings more than compensate for it!
Perdido Bay Golf Club
Perdido Bay Golf Club has been the championship venue for the Pensacola Open for over a decade. Layers of rough flank the fairways, and the greens feature significant undulations.
Both the greens and tees boast elevated positions. Besides the course itself, the club provides excellent practice amenities, including a spacious driving range, putting green, chipping area, and strategically placed bunkers around the greens and fairways.
Known for its picturesque yet challenging layout and stunning scenery, this course stands out as a favorite among golf enthusiasts who select Florida as their destination for a swing. This is without a doubt a top-tier golf course that is consistently maintained in pristine condition, offering both a challenging layout and exceptional service.
Tiger Point Golf Club
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
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.
Extra Tips to Elevate Your Golfing Experience in Pensacola, FL
With great weather year-round, suitable terrain, and it's captivating coastal allure, Pensacola 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola. 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 Pensacola 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, the Gulf Coast offers 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.
Wondering about the best places to stay while golfing in Pensacola?
Here's an idea: to make the most of your stay in Pensacola Beach, why not book a beautiful vacation rental? That's the best way to stay like a local. There's nothing like experiencing this piece of paradise in Florida with all the privacy and comfort you need.
At Pensacola Beach Properties, we offer a wide selection of the best short-term rentals in Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach, including vacation rentals with pools and pet-friendly options. Staying with us, all you have to do is kick back, relax, and soak in the Gulf Coast vibes to the fullest.
