Alabama’s lush landscapes and mild climate make it a golfer’s paradise. With its rolling hills, scenic coastlines, and rich history, the state boasts some of the finest golf courses in the country.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, Alabama offers a diverse array of courses that cater to all skill levels.
From the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail to hidden gems tucked away in charming small towns, Alabama’s golf courses provide both challenging play and breathtaking views.
Get ready to explore the 15 best golf courses in Alabama, each offering a unique experience that promises to elevate your game and leave you in awe of the state’s natural beauty.
These courses not only provide exceptional playing conditions but also offer a glimpse into Alabama’s rich cultural and natural heritage. So, grab your clubs, and let’s dive into the list.
Top 15 Best Golf Courses in Alabama
Discover Alabama’s premier golfing destinations with our guide to the top 15 best golf courses. From scenic coastlines to historic greens, each course promises exceptional play and stunning views.
1. FarmLinks Golf Club
FarmLinks Golf Club offers a comprehensive experience beyond just golfing. Upon entering, the scenic winding roads and flower arrangements set the stage for what’s to come. Friendly staff welcome guests warmly, enhancing the sense of being at home.
The course is spacious and forgiving, suitable for players of various skill levels. The front nine provides a peaceful, car-free environment, perfect for focusing on the game.
With picturesque holes ideal for photography, it’s wise to bring a camera. Despite slightly slow greens on the reviewed day, they are true and consistent, ensuring an enjoyable round.
2. Cypress Lakes Golf & Country Club
Cypress Lakes Golf & Country Club offers excellent value for money, with well-maintained greens and fairways making the experience enjoyable even in the Alabama heat.
The friendly and helpful staff enhance the experience, and the challenging yet fair course ensures players will want to return.
Additionally, the Grand National Golf Course on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, with its stunning lake views and meticulously designed holes, provides a memorable golfing experience for all skill levels.
Another must-visit is the FarmLinks Golf Club at Pursell Farms, known for its breathtaking scenery and top-tier service. Its innovative course design challenges golfers while offering spectacular views.
3. Gunter’s Landing
Set amidst the scenic landscapes of Alabama, Gunter’s Landing is a golfer’s paradise with challenging tight fairways and numerous hills. The decision to make it a riding-only course is wise due to the long distances between holes.
Another gem is the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Grand National, with meticulously maintained greens, stunning lake views, and 54 holes designed for strategic play accommodating varying skills.
Additionally, FarmLinks at Pursell Farms offers a blend of natural beauty and innovative agronomy, consistently ranking as one of the best with its impeccable course conditions and first-class amenities.
4. Kiva Dunes Golf Course
Kiva Dunes Golf Course is a gem in the Gulf Shores area, consistently delivering a top-notch golfing experience. The course is in excellent condition, with greens that roll beautifully, although they can be a bit firmer than expected.
The layout is both challenging and rewarding, making it a favorite among golfers who visit the region. However, the staff could improve their engagement, as some visitors have noted a lack of attentiveness.
Despite this, Kiva Dunes remains a must-play, offering a mix of scenic beauty and golfing excellence.
5. Capitol Hill Golf Club
Capitol Hill Golf Club is a true test of golf, living up to the high standards of Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones (RTJ) courses. The course demands strategic thinking and precise shot placement, with several scenic holes that add to its allure.
While the course largely meets the expectations of RTJ enthusiasts, the greens occasionally fall short, not quite matching the exceptional quality of the rest of the course.
Nevertheless, Capitol Hill offers an incredible value, providing a unique and challenging golfing experience that is hard to find elsewhere.
6. The Craft Farms Resort – Cypress Bend
Cypress Bend at The Craft Farms Resort is a highly regarded course with superb greens and immaculate fairways, offering a challenging and enjoyable layout. The excellent staff and amenities enhance the overall experience, making it a favorite for golfers.
Similarly, the Capitol Hill Golf Club in Prattville features three courses with stunning scenery, each providing unique challenges.
The well-maintained greens and professional staff contribute to a top-notch experience, with the Judge Course standing out for its elevated views over the Alabama River.
7. Craft Farms Resort – Cotton Creek
Cotton Creek, part of The Craft Farms Resort, provides a “private club-like” golfing experience renowned for its friendly staff and challenging layout, especially from the Blue tees when it’s windy.
The course’s meticulously maintained fairways and greens offer a high-quality experience, balancing skill-testing challenges with plenty of enjoyment.
Due to its popularity among locals and visitors, booking a tee time in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Indian Pines Golf Course, located in Auburn, is another highlight featuring a par-70 course set amidst picturesque landscapes.
Renowned for its affordability and welcoming atmosphere, it is an excellent choice for players of all levels.
8. Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club
Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club is a top-tier course that delivers on every front. The staff are friendly and accommodating, ensuring that all players feel welcome, regardless of their skill level.
The course itself is in excellent condition, with well-maintained greens that roll smoothly. While the price point may seem high, the experience justifies the cost, offering a premium golfing experience without any pretentiousness.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Peninsula provides a welcoming atmosphere and a fantastic round of golf.
9. Cherokee Ridge Country Club
Cherokee Ridge Country Club has seen significant improvements in recent years, with the course conditions now being better than ever. The new greens are particularly impressive, providing a smooth and consistent playing surface.
The fairways have also improved, remaining lush even during dry spells. The recent flipping of the nines back to their original configuration has been a welcome change, improving the flow of the course.
As ongoing improvements continue, Cherokee Ridge is quickly becoming one of the top courses in the area.
10. Goose Pond Colony Resort – Lake Course
The Lake Course at Goose Pond Colony Resort is in excellent condition with lush fairways and fast, true greens, set in a scenic area that enhances the golfing experience.
The resort also features a well-stocked pro shop, practice area, and a challenging yet fair layout suitable for all skill levels. Booking tee times in advance is recommended due to its popularity.
Additionally, The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Capitol Hill in Prattville offers three 18-hole championship courses, each providing unique challenges for golfers.
11. The Bridges at Tartan Pines
The Bridges at Tartan Pines consistently delivers a high-quality golfing experience. The greens are always in great shape, providing a smooth and consistent roll.
The back nine offers a particularly challenging layout, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a tough but rewarding round.
The staff at the pro shop are known for their exceptional service, ensuring that every visit is a positive one. For those seeking a well-maintained and challenging course, The Bridges is an excellent choice.
12. Ballantrae Golf Club
Ballantrae Golf Club offers a course that is both beautiful and challenging. The greens and fairways are in excellent condition, making for an enjoyable round of golf. The course’s layout is designed to test your skills, with well-placed hazards and undulating greens.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a newcomer, Ballantrae provides a top-notch golfing experience in a stunning setting.
Another highlight is the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, which features several courses throughout Alabama, each known for their unique designs and impeccable maintenance. These courses cater to all skill levels, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every golfer.
13. Blackberry Trail Golf Course
Blackberry Trail Golf Course is known for its excellent course conditions, with fairways and greens that are consistently in great shape. The course offers a fair but challenging layout, making it a great choice for golfers of all levels.
The staff are friendly and helpful, ensuring that every round is an enjoyable one. For those seeking a well-maintained course with a welcoming atmosphere, Blackberry Trail is a fantastic option.
Additionally, the course features a driving range and practice greens, perfect for honing your skills before a round. Its scenic views and strategic design make it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast visiting Alabama.
14. Goose Pond Colony Resort – Plantation Course
The Plantation Course at Goose Pond Colony Resort is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful and enjoyable round of golf. The course layout is well-designed, providing a good mix of challenges without being overly difficult.
The course is also known for its friendly and respectful atmosphere, with players who value good etiquette. The 45-minute drive from the city is well worth it for the serene and fun golfing experience that the Plantation Course offers.
Its scenic views of Lake Guntersville and the well-maintained fairways add to the overall appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, the Plantation Course is a must-visit destination.
15. Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Grand National – Lake Course
The Lake Course at Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail’s Grand National is a masterpiece of design, offering stunning views and a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Saugahatchee, this course features several holes that play right along the water, creating a picturesque and serene setting.
The course is meticulously maintained, with lush fairways and smooth, true-rolling greens that make for an exceptional playing experience. The layout is both strategic and forgiving, allowing golfers of all skill levels to enjoy their round while still being tested on every hole.
The combination of scenic beauty and top-notch course conditions makes the Lake Course a must-play for anyone visiting Alabama.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Golf Courses
Selecting the best golf courses involves evaluating course design, player reviews, and historical significance, ensuring a blend of challenging play, exceptional conditions, and memorable experiences for golfers.
Quality of Course Design
Evaluating golf course design quality involves considering the layout, difficulty, and visual appeal. A course with a $70 green fee is praised for well-maintained greens and challenging play suitable for all skill levels.
The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is recognized for its strategic design and excellent upkeep, utilizing Alabama’s natural beauty. FarmLinks Golf Club offers a top-notch golfing experience with superior conditions and breathtaking views.
The Gulf Shores area features renowned courses like Kiva Dunes, known for its scenic coastal landscapes and challenging play, enhancing its reputation among Alabama’s best.
Player Reviews and Ratings
Analyzing player feedback helps gauge the overall satisfaction and experience. For instance, with a green fee of $45, the course praised by BobMounter consistently offers an excellent golfing experience, with fairways and greens in superb shape.
Positive reviews and high ratings often indicate a well-maintained course with excellent facilities and staff. This is crucial when considering which golf courses to visit.
Additionally, accessibility and location can also play a significant role in choosing the perfect course. Stay tuned as we explore the top 15 courses.
Historical Significance
Assessing a course’s history adds value, as some players appreciate a course with a storied background. For example, Smith256 considers a course with a $30 green fee worth a 45-minute drive due to its great layout and serene atmosphere.
Historical courses offer unique charm, enhancing the golfing experience. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, with numerous historically significant and challenging courses, contributes to Alabama’s rich golfing heritage, making them must-visit destinations for enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail special?
The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is renowned for its diverse and challenging courses, offering something for golfers of all skill levels. Its design and layout by the famous architect, Robert Trent Jones, Sr., provide a unique and memorable experience.
Are there golf courses suitable for beginners in Alabama?
Absolutely. Many golf courses in Alabama, including those on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, cater to beginners with player-friendly designs. Courses like FarmLinks and Cypress Lakes Golf & Country Club provide an enjoyable experience for newcomers.
What is the best time of year to golf in Alabama?
Spring and fall are considered the best times to golf in Alabama due to the mild weather and pleasant temperatures. These seasons offer perfect conditions for an enjoyable round of golf without the intense summer heat.
How were the top 15 golf courses in Alabama chosen?
The selection criteria for the top 15 golf courses include course design, player reviews, and historical significance. Courses are assessed for their challenging play, unique atmosphere, and overall experience, ensuring they cater to golfers of all levels.
Is the FarmLinks Golf Club worth visiting?
Yes, FarmLinks Golf Club is highly recommended for its exceptional course conditions, beautiful scenery, and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a unique blend of modern amenities and historical charm, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Combining these elements, Alabama’s top golf courses provide rich experiences for enthusiasts, blending challenging play with scenic beauty.
From the modern marvels within the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail to the historical charm of local favorites, there’s something for every golfer.
Course design, player reviews, and historical relevance form the backbone of this list, ensuring each venue delivers quality and excitement. For anyone planning their next golfing adventure, Alabama’s best courses promise not just a game, but unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, you’ll discover why Alabama is a golfing haven. Make sure to pack your clubs and prepare for a journey through some of the finest fairways and greens in the country.
And don’t miss out on experiencing the southern hospitality that accompanies each game. No matter where you tee off, the combination of well-maintained courses and breathtaking landscapes guarantees an unparalleled golfing experience.
Colin McCarthy