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 the fall season while also finding time to relax on the 32 miles of white-sand beaches and indulging in local fare that makes Gulf Shores and Orange Beach an idyllic getaway at this time of the year.
Here are five reasons to consider booking a late-season golfing vacation to the Gulf Coast.
1. Perfect Weather
If you are willing to battle the high temperatures of the summer season, a trip to the Gulf Coast in June or July is a great holiday destination. However, visiting in September or October will certainly be a perfect time for those who want to enjoy the best golfing conditions with cooler temperatures.
With average temperatures between 65-75 degrees, whether you prefer an early tee time or late in the day, you can enjoy perfect weather. 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 enjoying a round of golf.
2. Enjoy Quieter, High-Quality Courses
While the 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 fear of dealing with the dreaded six-hour round, waiting on every shot and suffering in the high summer temperatures.
Many golfers across the US may be used to the fall season as the transition period for grass to become dormant. Still, another benefit of the year-round climate along the Gulf Coast is shorter periods of dormancy, meaning golfers can enjoy pristine fairways and greens.
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 it only lasts a couple of weeks, it offers 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 willing to make an appearance before the cooler winter season.
4. Find Great Deals
With tee times readily available at all courses along the Gulf Coast, the fall season is also a great time to find discount rates with courses looking to capture those still interested in fine-tuning their game or playing a late-season round before the onset of the winter season.
While courses in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach can be played year-round, many golfers 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 to be found! Head to your local golf store, and you will frequently find late-season 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. Indulge in Delicious Local Cuisine
It’s not only the golf courses that are quieter during the fall months, but this is also a great time to sample the incredible selection of local restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Playing 18 holes of golf will certainly work up a good appetite, and with the variety of options, you will be spoiled for choice, much in the same way as 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 stereotypical 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.
