Emerald Bay Golf Club

Nestled in the heart of sunny Destin, on the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, Emerald Bay Golf Club is a prime example of an elite sports complex in the USA. This prestigious semi-private club is famous for its 18-hole championship course, which is harmoniously integrated into a natural landscape of ancient pines and water hazards.

The course was designed by renowned architect Bob Cupp, ensuring players not only aesthetic pleasure but also truly exciting sporting challenges. The route stretches over 6,800 yards, offering panoramic bay views that make every round unforgettable.

Beyond its sporting appeal, Emerald Bay attracts guests with its excellent infrastructure. A recently renovated clubhouse, a professional pro shop, and the cozy The Grille restaurant with an outdoor terrace create an atmosphere of exclusive relaxation, available to both residents of the gated community and tourists.

For tee time reservations or event organization, you can contact the club administration directly. Emerald Bay Golf Club offers a high level of service and is always ready to help guests plan their perfect game day.

The main draw for visitors here is, of course, playing golf on a championship-level course. With multiple tee options, the course is suitable for both professionals looking to test themselves against challenging water hazards and bunkers, and hobbyists. You can book an individual round or participate in one of the regular club tournaments.

For those looking to hone their skills, there are enhanced practice areas. Here, you can practice long drives or work on accuracy on the putting green. The club also offers professional instruction to help improve your technique in a calm and inspiring setting.

After a fulfilling day outdoors, be sure to stop by The Grille restaurant. Sitting by the fireplace on the outdoor terrace overlooking the 18th hole is the perfect way to conclude your visit. The club is also a popular venue for weddings and corporate events, offering personalized service and on-site guest house accommodations.

Located at 4781 Clubhouse Dr, the club is in the heart of the resort area, between Destin and the scenic South Walton beaches. If you are coming from Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), the drive takes about 20–30 minutes via the federal highway.

For precise navigation, we recommend using the coordinates 30.3916725, -86.3990001 in Google Maps or Yandex Maps. As the club is part of a gated community, simply follow the signs leading to the main Clubhouse upon entry.

Public transport is limited in this area, so renting a car or taking a taxi from the city center is the most convenient option for tourists. Spacious and convenient parking is provided on-site for visitors.

Emerald Bay Golf Club owes its existence to the talent of renowned architect Bob Cupp. A former chief designer for the legendary Jack Nicklaus's firm, Cupp poured all his expertise into this project, aiming to create a true "gem" on the Gulf Coast.

A significant milestone in the club's history was 2014, when an extensive renovation was carried out. Under Bob Cupp's personal supervision, the greens, tee boxes, and bunkers were completely updated. The modernization affected not only the course itself but also the infrastructure: new bridges were built, water hazards were improved, and the clubhouse was fully renovated.

Today, this complex is considered one of the most prestigious in Destin. Thanks to continuous improvements and respect for the natural landscape, Emerald Bay maintains a reputation as an elite destination where classic golf traditions meet modern comfort and impeccable service.

To fully enjoy a game on the 18-hole course, experienced players should allow approximately 4–5 hours. This is the standard time for a round, allowing you to take your time and appreciate all the strategic nuances of the course design.

If you are planning more than just sports, we recommend setting aside a full day for your visit. Add 1–2 hours for lunch at The Grille and a warm-up in the practice area. For those with limited time, a 9-hole format is always available, taking about 2–3 hours.

Emerald Bay Golf Club is open to visitors daily from 07:00 to 18:00. This schedule applies every day of the week, including weekends and holidays, making it easy to fit a visit into your travel itinerary.

Please note that due to the venue's popularity, it is highly recommended to book tee times in advance via the official website or by phone. Hours for specific areas may vary during private tournaments or events, so it is worth checking the club's website for the latest information before your visit.

The club's prime location makes it easy to combine a game of golf with visits to other points of interest. Just a few minutes' drive from the greens, you'll find everything from quiet beach spots to bustling family entertainment centers.