Skip to main content
  • Visitors
  • Meetings
  • Sports
Visitors
    • Book Lodging
    • Why Book With Us
    • Beach Houses
    • Condos
    • Resorts
    • Hotels
    • Cabins
    • Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals
    • Owner-Managed Vacation Rentals
    • Bed & Breakfasts
    • RV Parks & Camping
    Gulf Shores Beach
    Should You Stay in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach?
    Luxury RV Resort Gulf Shores
    Top Campgrounds on Alabama's Beaches
    No
    All Stay
    • Beaches
    • Attractions
    • Family-Friendly Fun
    • Outdoor Activities
    • Excursions & Tours
    • Shopping
    • Golf
    • Nightlife & Bars
    • Indoor Activities
    • Hiking
    Fat Daddy's Arcade Gulf Shores
    25 Rainy-Day Activities
    Kids running into the Gulf on the beach in Gulf Shores
    Fun Family Beach Activities
    No
    All Things to Do
    • Fishing
    • Boating
    • Jet Skiing
    • Snorkeling
    • Cruises
    • Parasailing
    • Kayaking
    • Paddleboarding & Foil Boarding
    • Sailing
    • Dolphin Cruises
    • Diving
    • Marinas
    Boating Alabama Pass
    Plan a Boat-Friendly Vacation on Alabama's Beaches
    Dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico
    Coastal Critters on Alabama's Beaches
    No
    All On the Water
    • Book Lodging
    • Deals
    • eNewsletter Sign Up
      • Fishing Newsletter
      • Golf Newsletter
      • All eNewsletter Sign Up
    • Family Vacations
    • Couples Getaway
    • Equipment Rentals & Outfitters
    • Weather
    • Getting Here
    • Welcome Centers
    • Beach Safety
    • Community-First Traveling
    • Find Photographers
    beach village resort
    Places To Stay
    Fly Alabama's Beaches - Graphic
    Fly Alabama's Beaches
    Kids running into the Gulf on the beach in Gulf Shores
    Fun Family Beach Activities
    No
    All Plan
    • Annual Events & Festivals
    • Concerts
    • Holiday Events
    • Live Music
    • Sand in My Boots Festival
    • Summer Camps
    • The Wharf Summer Concert Series
    Hangout Music Fest Gulf Shores
    Sand in My Boots Festival
    The Lodge at Gulf State Park
    Holiday Events
    No
    All Events
    • Seafood
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Dessert
    • Food Trails
    • Fan Favorites
    • Recipes
    • Foodie Getaway
    • 50th Bushwacker Anniversary
    Perch at The Lodge
    Best Fine Dining Restaurants
    Papa Rocco's Gulf Shores
    12 Restaurants Locals Love on Alabama’s Beaches
    Voyagers Restaurant Orange Beach
    4 Beach Restaurants Perfect for Date-Night
    No
    All Eat & Drink
    • 10 Family Activities
    • 14 Public Beaches
    • 21 Rainy Day Activities
    • 5 Things I Learned From My Vacation
    • 8 Things to Know Before Your Vacation
    Bike Share Program Gulf State Park
    Cheap & Free Things To Do
    Parents sitting under a beach umbrella watching their kids walk along the shore in Gulf Shores
    Why Alabama’s Beaches are Perfect for a Family Spring Break
    The Track Bumper Boats Gulf Shores
    Thrilling Amusement Parks on Alabama's Beaches
    No
    All Blog
  • Free Guide
    No
  • Deals
Visitors
    • Book Lodging
    • Why Book With Us
    • Beach Houses
    • Condos
    • Resorts
    • Hotels
    • Cabins
    • Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals
    • Owner-Managed Vacation Rentals
    • Bed & Breakfasts
    • RV Parks & Camping
    Gulf Shores Beach
    Should You Stay in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach?
    Luxury RV Resort Gulf Shores
    Top Campgrounds on Alabama's Beaches
    No
    All Stay
    • Beaches
    • Attractions
    • Family-Friendly Fun
    • Outdoor Activities
    • Excursions & Tours
    • Shopping
    • Golf
    • Nightlife & Bars
    • Indoor Activities
    • Hiking
    Fat Daddy's Arcade Gulf Shores
    25 Rainy-Day Activities
    Kids running into the Gulf on the beach in Gulf Shores
    Fun Family Beach Activities
    No
    All Things to Do
    • Fishing
    • Boating
    • Jet Skiing
    • Snorkeling
    • Cruises
    • Parasailing
    • Kayaking
    • Paddleboarding & Foil Boarding
    • Sailing
    • Dolphin Cruises
    • Diving
    • Marinas
    Boating Alabama Pass
    Plan a Boat-Friendly Vacation on Alabama's Beaches
    Dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico
    Coastal Critters on Alabama's Beaches
    No
    All On the Water
    • Book Lodging
    • Deals
    • eNewsletter Sign Up
      • Fishing Newsletter
      • Golf Newsletter
      • All eNewsletter Sign Up
    • Family Vacations
    • Couples Getaway
    • Equipment Rentals & Outfitters
    • Weather
    • Getting Here
    • Welcome Centers
    • Beach Safety
    • Community-First Traveling
    • Find Photographers
    beach village resort
    Places To Stay
    Fly Alabama's Beaches - Graphic
    Fly Alabama's Beaches
    Kids running into the Gulf on the beach in Gulf Shores
    Fun Family Beach Activities
    No
    All Plan
    • Annual Events & Festivals
    • Concerts
    • Holiday Events
    • Live Music
    • Sand in My Boots Festival
    • Summer Camps
    • The Wharf Summer Concert Series
    Hangout Music Fest Gulf Shores
    Sand in My Boots Festival
    The Lodge at Gulf State Park
    Holiday Events
    No
    All Events
    • Seafood
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Dessert
    • Food Trails
    • Fan Favorites
    • Recipes
    • Foodie Getaway
    • 50th Bushwacker Anniversary
    Perch at The Lodge
    Best Fine Dining Restaurants
    Papa Rocco's Gulf Shores
    12 Restaurants Locals Love on Alabama’s Beaches
    Voyagers Restaurant Orange Beach
    4 Beach Restaurants Perfect for Date-Night
    No
    All Eat & Drink
    • 10 Family Activities
    • 14 Public Beaches
    • 21 Rainy Day Activities
    • 5 Things I Learned From My Vacation
    • 8 Things to Know Before Your Vacation
    Bike Share Program Gulf State Park
    Cheap & Free Things To Do
    Parents sitting under a beach umbrella watching their kids walk along the shore in Gulf Shores
    Why Alabama’s Beaches are Perfect for a Family Spring Break
    The Track Bumper Boats Gulf Shores
    Thrilling Amusement Parks on Alabama's Beaches
    No
    All Blog
  • Free Guide
    No
  • Deals
Meetings
  • Home
    All Home
    • Plan Your Conference
    • How Can We Help
    • Why Our Beach
    • Services
    • FAQs
    • Getting Here
    • Restaurants
    • Things to Do
    • Calendar of Events
    • Order a Free Vacation Guide
    • Show Your Badge Pass
    Meeting in Gulf Shores
    Five Tips to Becoming a Confident Speaker
    beach bag, gulf shores
    How to Pack for a Meeting at the Beach
    All Plan Your Conference
    • All Meeting Spaces
    • Unique Meeting Spaces
    • Accommodations
    Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
    Non-Traditional Meeting Spaces on Alabama’s Gulf Coast
    Meeting at The Lodge
    Which Social Media Networks Help Meeting Planners the Most
    All Meeting Spaces
  • Reunions & Weddings
    All Reunions & Weddings
    • Meeting Planner Toolkit
    Beach Chairs
    Tips To Make Your Next Beach Meeting a Success
    Hashtag Events Happening in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama
    5 Ways Social Media Helps Meeting Planners Communicate & Educate Attendees
    Meeting Ballroom on Alabama's Beaches
    How to Increase Attendance at Your Next Conference on Alabama Beaches
    All Toolkit
    • Connect With Us
    • Submit RFP
    • Subscribe Today
    Woman relaxing on the beach in Alabama
    Tips for Maintaining a Work-Life Balance as a Meeting Professional
    AmyPeralta
    “From the Desk of…”: Q&A with Sales Manager Amy Peralta
    MaryStatkewicz
    “From the Desk of…”: Q&A with Meetings Former Sales Manager Mary Statkewicz
    All Contact Us
  • Blog
    All Blog
Sports
  • Home
    All Home
    • All Events
    • Book Lodging
    • Perfect Game World Series
    • Gulf Shores High School
    • Beach Races
    • Orange Beach High School
    • USSSA Gulf Coast National Championship
    The Hangout Gulf Shores
    4 Spots to Fuel Up for the Game
    Teens playing on Alabama's beaches
    What to Pack for Your Sportcation?
    All Events & Special Rates
    • All Restaurant Sponsors
    • On-the-Go Dining
    Aerial shot of people gathered around a table filled with food at GTs on the Bay
    Restaurants for Team Dining on Alabama’s Beaches
    GT's on the Bay
    Budget-Friendly Meals for the Whole Team in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
    All Restaurants
    • All Attraction Sponsors
    The Hangout Gulf Shores
    Quirky, Must-Visit Places on Alabama's Beaches
    The Factory Trampoline Park
    5 Action-Packed Activities Along Alabama’s Gulf Coast
    Girls petting a dog in Shades Sunglasses & Apparel at The Wharf
    What to Do When Your Tournament is Rained Out
    All Attractions
    • Healthcare
    • Book Lodging
    • Restaurants
    • Attractions
    • Facility Maps
    • BEach SAFE
    • Responsible Tourism
    • Alabama's Beaches Savings Scorecard
    • Blog
    • Sports Shorts Newsletter
    All Visiting Athletes
  • Facilities
    All Facilities
    • Facility Info
    • Leisure Events
    • Our Services
    • Planner Toolkit
    • Contact Us
    • Play at the Beach Newsletter
    • Future Sports Tourism Development
    Baseball player
    Get to Know the Beach's Best Sports Facilities
    Half Marathon Gulf Shores
    Event Planner Resources for Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
    NCAA Softball Gulf Shores
    Start Planning Your Sportscation to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
    All Bring Your Event
    • Business Sponsors
    All Sponsors
  • Blog
    All Blog
Clubhouse at Craft Farms Golf Resort in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Breadcrumb

  1. Home
  2. Blog
  3. Experience An Epic 36 Holes At Craft Farms Golf Resort

Craft Farms Golf Resort

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Chris Boothman
May 10, 2025

Golf enthusiasts heading to Alabama's Beaches are spoiled for choice with the collection of unique courses that await. The area has attracted the attention of some of the world's most infamous course designers. From Jack Nicklaus to Robert Trent Jones, the list of course designers is endless, but one frequently stands head and shoulders above the rest in terms of popularity – the late Arnold Palmer.

If you're looking for a premier golf course that blends stunning scenery, challenging courses, and exceptional amenities, visit Craft Farms Golf Resort. When Palmer arrived on the Gulf Coast, he saw huge potential to create a golfing masterpiece, and golfers of all standards can now enjoy 36 holes that will test even the best.

Golfing at Craft Farms

Aerial view of the award-winning course at Craft Farms Golf Club

Championship Caliber Courses

Championship Caliber Courses

Craft Farms Golf Resort is home to two 18-hole championship courses designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer: Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend. These courses are celebrated for their exceptional design, which combines challenging play with the natural beauty of Alabama's coastal landscape. They are a testament to Palmer's legacy and a perfect blend of challenging play and natural beauty, making them a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.

Cotton Creek offers a classic layout with wide fairways, strategic bunkers, and large greens, demanding precision and strategic shot-making. Each hole presents a unique challenge, offering a rewarding experience for seasoned and beginner golfers. The course's perfectly manicured fairways and picturesque water features add to the overall appeal.

Cypress Bend, on the other hand, is known for its rolling terrain, water hazards, and undulating greens. This course is slightly more forgiving but still offers plenty of challenges, particularly with its well-placed bunkers and water features that come into play on several holes. The beautiful landscaping and serene environment make it a favorite among locals and visitors.

Scenic view of the gorgeous greens at Cotton Creek golf in Gufl Shores

A Historic Golf Resort Designed by Arnold Palmer

A Historic Golf Resort Designed by Arnold Palmer

Arnold Palmer, often referred to as "The King" of golf, left an indelible mark on the sport with his charisma, skill, and pioneering spirit. Even if you are not a golfer, you have likely heard about Palmer, and it's a fitting tribute to visit this location and admire the breathtaking landscape. Inevitably, as you play either (or both) courses, you will glimpse the intricate details that epitomize this iconic legend in the world of golf.

Palmer's design philosophy was centered on creating golf courses that are challenging yet enjoyable for players of all skill levels. At Craft Farms, this vision is evident in the thoughtful layout and design of both Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend. Palmer believed that golf should be accessible and fun, and he aimed to create courses that would test the skills of professional golfers while still being playable for amateurs.

 

Golfer winding up to hit the ball across a water feature at Cypress Bend course in Gulf Shores

History of Craft Farms & Arnold Palmer

History of Craft Farms & Arnold Palmer

The King's influence goes way beyond the design of the golf course. His inherent ability to be such a popular figure among locals is undoubtedly true when you hear the story about the Craft family moving to the Gulf Coast and deciding to reach out to the "start-up" Palmer Management organization that was looking to get into the golf course design business.

After arriving at Gulf Shores International Airport, it was a match made in heaven between Palmer and Craft, and well, the rest is history. Today, we can see a genuine, fitting tribute to this inspiring figurehead.

Palmer's influence on Craft Farms Golf Resort is profound and enduring. His visionary design philosophy, commitment to quality, and passion for the game have shaped Craft Farms into a premier golf destination that offers an exceptional experience for golfers of all levels.

Golfers playing golf at Craft Farms, popular golf course in Gulf Shores

Experience the Gulf Coast's Natural Beauty

Experience the Gulf Coast's Natural Beauty

One of the standout features of Craft Farms Golf Resort is its stunning natural beauty. Set against Alabama's Gulf Coast gorgeous backdrop, the resort is surrounded by towering pines, breathtaking lakes, and pristine wetlands. The lush, green fairways and well-manicured greens blend seamlessly with the natural environment, creating a tranquil and visually stunning setting for a round of golf.

Wildlife sightings are common on both courses, adding to the serene atmosphere. As you navigate the fairways, you might spot deer, herons, and other native species, making your golfing experience even more memorable. The combination of challenging play and scenic beauty makes Craft Farms a true golfer's paradise.

The presence of wildlife reflects the resort's commitment to enhancing sustainable practices. Efforts to preserve natural habitats and maintain the health of the local ecosystem ensure that the courses remain a haven for both golfers and wildlife alike.

Golfer swinging a club in a sand pit on the golf course at Craft Farms

Convenient Location & Accommodations

Convenient Location & Accommodations

Located just a short drive from the 32 miles of pristine beachfront of Alabama, Craft Farms Golf Resort is easily accessible from a plethora of nearby attractions. The resort's convenient location makes it an ideal destination for both local golfers and tourists. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended stay, you'll find plenty of accommodation options nearby, ranging from luxurious hotels to beachfront condominiums.

For those looking to enjoy a fun-filled golfing vacation, consider staying at the nearby ONE Club Gulf Shores, which is another 9-hole course frequently associated with the 36-hole resort at Craft Farms.

Plan Your Golf Getaway

Beautiful sunrise over Craft Farms Golf Resort, award-winning golf course in Gulf Shores

Tee Up at Craft Farms

Tee Up at Craft Farms

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer a wide range of activities and attractions, ensuring that your visit is filled with excitement both on and off the course. From the spectacular beaches and outdoor adventures to shopping, dining, and entertainment, there's something for all the family to enjoy. Craft Farms Golf Resort serves as the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Alabama's Beaches.

Share This

Start planning your vacation

Golf News From The Coast
Subscribe to our Golf E-Newsletter
Your Golf Adventure Starts Here
Order a Free Vacation Guide
Find Your Perfect Place to Stay
Places to Stay

You May Also Like

Peninsula Golf Course

Plan Your Summer Golf Vacation on Alabama's Beaches

Golfing Gulf Shores

How to Handle Different Types of Golf Hazards

Gulf Shores Golf Club

Tee Off in Paradise at Gulf Shores Golf Club

Golfing in Gulf Shores

5 Tips for a Lower Golf Score

Golf Gulf Shores

The 19th Hole on Alabama's Beaches

Golfing in Gulf Shores

Golfing Etiquette Everyone Should Follow

Order a Vacation Guide Subscribe to our Enewsletter
  • Facebook
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Tik-Tok
  • Trip Ideas
  • Press
  • Partners
  • Responsible Tourism
  • Weddings
  • Privacy Policy
  • Employment Opportunities
  • 1-800-745-SAND
  • [email protected]
Copyright 2025 Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. All rights reserved.
  • Subscribe to Enews
  • Book Lodging