The Alabama Gulf Coast is a perfect golfing destination all year-round, thanks to its comfortable climate. However, the fall is perhaps the ideal time to enjoy all of the 15 fantastic courses along this stretch of coastline. Golfers from all corners of the globe can enjoy the beauty of this season while also finding time to relax on the 32 miles of white-sand beaches and indulging in local fare. A getaway to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is idyllic this time of year.
1. Perfect Weather
If you are willing to play in the warmer temperatures of the summer season, the Gulf Coast in June or July is a great holiday destination. However, visiting in September or October is perfect for those who want to enjoy the best golfing conditions with cooler temperatures.
With average temperatures of 65-75 degrees, you can enjoy perfect weather, whether you prefer an early tee time or late in the day. While the days become shorter later in the fall season, there is nothing quite like venturing out to Craft Farms or Kiva Dunes late in the day to enjoy a gorgeous sunset while playing a round of golf.
2. Enjoy Quieter, High-Quality Courses
While the Alabama Gulf Coast is an action-packed destination throughout the year, the fall shoulder season is undoubtedly the ideal time to enjoy quieter golf courses, as the locals are primarily the ones hitting the links. Book your perfect tee time without the dreaded six-hour round, waiting on every shot, and playing in warm temperatures.
Many golfers across the U.S. may think of the fall season as the transition period when grass becomes dormant. Still, another benefit of the moderate climate on Alabama’s beaches is shorter dormancy periods, meaning golfers can enjoy pristine fairways and greens year-round.
3. Fall Foliage on Display
The glorious landscapes with fall foliage on display across many of the courses are a real sight to behold, and enjoying a relaxing round with fewer crowds is undoubtedly an appealing attraction for many. Appreciating the changing leaves on trees is one of the subtle joys of heading to the golf course during the fall season. Though the changing leaves last only a few weeks, they offer a unique look at how golf architects can create a magical landscape along a stretch of coastline.
Golfers may also see a change in wildlife activity. The favorable temperatures encourage the local species to become more active and visible before the cooler winter season.
4. Find Great Deals
With tee times readily available at all courses in the area, the fall season is also a great time to find discount rates. Some courses cater to those still interested in fine-tuning their game or playing a late-season round before the onset of winter.
While golfers can play Gulf Shores and Orange Beach fairways year-round, many choose to put their clubs away for the season, and the fall months are the perfect time to play a few final rounds at a discounted rate.
But the on-course discounts are not the only great deals you’ll find. Visit your local golf store, where you will frequently find deals on golf clubs, or perhaps you are trying to fine-tune your swing in preparation for a long winter working on your game. This may be a great time to book a lesson with a local pro who may have more availability at this time of the year.
5. Coastal Cuisine
It’s not only the golf courses that are quieter during the fall months; it’s also a great time to sample the incredible selection of local restaurants on Alabama's Beaches. Playing 18 holes of golf will certainly work up a good appetite. With the variety of options, you will be spoiled for choice, much like the golf course selection.
Whether you are a seafood aficionado looking to sample the fresh catch of the day from the Gulf, or perhaps you just want to enjoy some traditional southern-style fare, the vast array of restaurants will leave you with plenty of possibilities to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner before or after your round of golf.
Fall is the perfect time to visit the gorgeous beaches of Alabama and hit the incredible courses in and around the area.
