3 Gulf Shores Courses Named Best in Alabama

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

February 6, 2023

Our sunny blue skies and luscious greens make playing at the courses in and around our beaches a blast. After all, what could be better than feeling a coastal breeze while setting up your swing on a beautifully manicured emerald-colored course? It’s no surprise that the greens on the Alabama Gulf Coast are so well loved, so much so that three Gulf Shores courses rank in Golfer’s Choice Best Golf Courses in Alabama for 2023!

Kiva Dunes Golf Course in Gulf Shores

A gorgeous course designed by US Open Champion Jerry Pate and developer Jim Edgemon, Kiva Dunes offers more than 7,100 yards of play area in a natural setting with lots of exposed sand and gnarly scrub oak. Ranked #14 on this list, this course is no stranger to awards as it regularly appears on top course lists in highly regarded publications such as Golf Digest, Golf Week and Links Magazine, and Golf Advisor.

A links-style course opened in 1995, Kiva Dunes is beautifully manicured and meanders through acres of coastal greenery and conservation areas along the Fort Morgan peninsula of Gulf Shores. Kiva Dunes doesn't disappoint when it comes to unique signature holes, sugar-white sand traps, and the perfect blend of tropical landscape coupled with the Gulf of Mexico.

Cotton Creek at Craft Farms

Coming in at #18 on Golfer’s Choice list is Cotton Creek at Craft Farms. This magnificent course was the first on the Gulf Coast designed by Arnold Palmer. Cotton Creek is a traditional 18-hole course boasting naturally rolling fairways lined with trees, large undulating greens, and many risk-reward opportunities. The coastal feel of the beach is evident on Cotton Creek thanks to its lush dwarf Bermuda grass and numerous lakes. It’s a favorite among golf enthusiasts and offers even the most experienced players exciting challenges.

Cypress Bend at Craft Farms

Following Cotton Creek on the list is its sister course Cypress Bend, ranked at #19. Cypress Bend has been a favorite among golfers for decades and was rated the #1 most playable course in the country shortly after opening. Gorgeous cord-grass accented lakes, sprawling bunkers, and staggered tee boxes are scattered throughout this modern links-style course. With vast landing areas and wide fairways, this scenic course is a golfer’s haven.

In addition to its courses, Craft Farms has a golf academy on-site with lessons from a PGA professional. After finishing a round at Cotton Creek or Cypress Bend, golfers can enjoy the 19th hole of Craft Farms, its Clubhouse, which features a bar and grill, dining room, pro golf shop, and pool house.