Golfers' Choice Top Local Courses
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Our sunny blue skies and luscious greens make playing at the courses on our beaches a blast. After all, what could be better than feeling a coastal breeze while setting up your swing on a beautifully manicured emerald-colored course? It’s no surprise that the greens on the Alabama Gulf Coast are so well loved, so much so that five Gulf Shores courses rank in Golfer’s Choice Best Golf Courses in Alabama for 2025!
Gulf Shores Golf Club - #17
Located in heart of the city, Gulf Shores Golf Club is a beautifully-manicured course with lush greens and several water features. This scenic course offer players of all skill levels plenty of challenges along its 18 holes. Gulf Shores Golf Club was designed by a father and son, Jay and Carter Morrish in the 1960s and was the first course built in Gulf Shores. The par 71 layout is loved by players for its natural beauty and risk-reward holes. Afterward, golfers can grab a bite at the clubhouse or head to a nearby restaurant
Kiva Dunes Golf Course - #9
A gorgeous course designed by US Open Champion Jerry Pate and developer Jim Edgemon, Kiva Dunes offers more than 7,100 yards of play area in a natural setting with lots of exposed sand and gnarly scrub oak. Ranked nine on this list, this course is no stranger to awards as it regularly appears on top course lists in highly regarded publications such as Golf Digest, Golf Week and Links Magazine, and Golf Advisor. Kiva Dunes doesn't disappoint when it comes to unique signature holes, sugar-white sand traps, and the perfect blend of tropical landscape coupled with the Gulf of Mexico.
Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club - #7
Coming in at seven on the list is Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club located in Fort Morgan. With three 9-hole courses, a club house, and various on-site amenities, it's no wonder why golfers continue to visit this club year after year. Designed by Earl Stone, Peninsula's courses are awe-inspiring with multiple lakes, smoothly rolled greens, and beautiful views of Mobile Bay. Each course offers a unique experience and new challenges with each hole. There's something for every standard of golfer here.
Cotton Creek at Craft Farms - #5
Coming in at five on Golfer’s Choice list is Cotton Creek at Craft Farms. This magnificent course was the first on the Gulf Coast designed by Arnold Palmer. Cotton Creek is a traditional 18-hole course boasting naturally rolling fairways lined with trees, large undulating greens, and many risk-reward opportunities. The coastal feel of the beach is evident on Cotton Creek thanks to its lush dwarf Bermuda grass and numerous lakes. It’s a favorite among golf enthusiasts and offers even the most experienced players exciting challenges.
Cypress Bend at Craft Farms - #4
Topping our list is Cypress Bend at number four. This course has been a favorite among golfers for decades and was rated the #1 most playable course in the country shortly after opening. Gorgeous cord-grass accented lakes, sprawling bunkers, and staggered tee boxes are scattered throughout this modern links-style course. With vast landing areas and wide fairways, this scenic course is truly a golfer’s haven.
