Winter Golf Trips

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

August 6, 2025

For some golfers, the thought of winter games brings to mind freezing fingers and hard-packed soil. But, here on Alabama's Beaches, winter golf is an entirely new game.

Our award-winning courses become a golfing oasis, offering great weather, fewer crowds, and special rates. Winter tee-offs are a great way to keep your swing in shape, and taking a drive on a local golf course is hassle-free and easy. In other words, it’s the perfect time to plan your golf vacation!

6 Reasons to Plan a Winter Golf Vacation

Man golfing along the course at Kiva Dunes Golf Resort in Fort Morgan

Great Golf Weather

Rain, clouds, or overwhelming heat can turn a fun game into anything but. As an outdoor sport, golf is heavily affected by the weather. Luckily, the winter on Alabama’s Beaches is perfect for golfing! The temperatures are mild, and the skies are a stunning clear blue. Enjoy a mid-day round at your favorite local course as you bask in the cool, fresh air and take in the scenery.

Packing should be a breeze! Forget the gloves and parkas - a comfortable pair of golf pants and a light jacket are plenty to stay warm on the greens. You can also have your clubs shipped or rent some professional gear from the golf course to save even more room in your luggage.

Scenic view of the sun rising over water features on the Cypress Bend course at Craft Farms Golf Resort

Get Your Favorite Tee Time

Golf is a popular pastime on Alabama’s Beaches, especially during the spring and summer seasons. During the winter, it’s easy to swing your favorite tee time at any of the championship courses. That’s because the crowds are low, leading to open and flexible schedules. Whether you’re in for a morning drive or a late afternoon game, you’re sure to find an open hole at a variety of local courses. Visit your course’s website or call ahead to be sure there isn’t a tournament or private event that might bar you from your desired playing time.

Two men golfing at the Arnold Palmer designed course at Craft Farms Golf Resort in Gulf Shores

Play at Your Own Pace

Speaking of uncrowded courses, another great perk of winter golf is playing at any pace you like - without inconveniencing a long line of people waiting behind you. Small crowds mean more time to play, so it’s the perfect time to train a newbie or just enjoy a slow-paced round. If you want to spend a long afternoon playing the game, winter is the ideal time to do it.

Work on Your Game

The off-season is perfect for working on your game. Choose a place like Orange Beach Golf Center with a lighted driving range, practice putting and chipping greens, a practice sand bunker, and a Pro Shop. They are open seven days a week and feature self-serve ball dispensers, a driving range with grass and mat tees, and a nine-hole, par-three course for play.

Group of friends golfing at a local course in Gulf Shores

Winter Golf Specials

While you’re planning, keep an eye out for winter golf specials. Many of the golf courses in the area offer special rates during the off-season. You can save big at Craft Farms Golf Resort and Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club, as both of these courses offer six rounds of golf for one low price.

Lodging

Of course, a great golf vacation needs a great place to stay. Some courses are full-scale golf resorts, but there are also plenty of nearby accommodations, as well. The best part? Just like your golf game, you’ll find discounted rates on off-season vacation rentals. That means you won’t just bring in green on your golf cleats, but you’ll have more green in your pocket for your favorite restaurants, shopping, or other experiences.