Emerald Bay Golf Club

Emerald Bay Golf Club offers a solid golfing experience with a few highlights that stand out. The layout of the course is well-designed and provides a good mix of challenges for all skill levels. The condition of the course was average—playable but could use some improvements in certain areas.

One of the standout features is the driving range and practice area, which is a great addition for warming up or fine-tuning your game. While the views are not as scenic as some other courses in the Destin area, a couple of the finishing holes do offer a picturesque setting that adds a nice touch to the round.

Overall, it’s a good solid course. Not sure if it’s worth over $100 green fee but all other courses were even higher.

12/22/24:

I had a free day today to play some golf and after looking at available tee times at Emerald Bay, Indian Bayou, Kelly Plantation, and Regatta Bay, Emerald Bay had a tee time that fit into my schedule. Upon arrival, the man who initially greeted me and put my bag on the cart was extremely polite, knowledgeable of the course, and very professional, nothing but positive things to say about him.

Moving forward, upon entering the clubhouse, the first thing the pro shop manager said to me was “what’s up….buddy” in an extremely disrespectful tone. I am a paying customer at your “high end” facility and I am also a 30 year old grown man, not 12 years old. I repeated his statement back to him in the exact same tone to which he was clearly shocked and understood that I did not appreciate being spoken to that way, especially after spending $200 to be there.

Furthermore, I began my round and quickly noticed that the course was in pretty average shape, way less than a $125 tee time would constitute. I completely understand that it is December, but I believe if your course is in average shape, your price to play it should also be average. Same concept as when you aerate, typically your prices are slashed to reflect condition. Every pin location was in the hardest possible location making the round a complete grind. Greens are very small on majority of holes. If you are looking to feel like you are playing in the US Open, definitely play here.

Lastly, when I finished my round I asked if there was a replay rate for 9 more holes to which the individual in the pro shop said “$45” in the most ridiculous tone I’ve ever heard at a golf facility as if he was just ready to go home. I stated to him $45 wasn’t worth 9 holes to me and began to leave. The next part to this story is what led me to write a review.

The pro shop individual then proceeds to go on his walkie talkie and make deprecating comments about me on LOUD SPEAKER with every guest and every staff member present to hear. I looked directly at the cart boy and asked if that individual was the head golf pro and where I could find that person in order to discuss with him how his staff is treating customers. Not only was I told that the head pro was not on property, but the pro shop guy then has the audacity to say, once again on loud speaker in front of everyone, “tell that guy he can tip you $50 if he wants to play another few holes” while laughing.

Are you kidding me dude? If the head pro sees this, I highly suggest you have a discussion with your staff on how to treat people with respect, especially in the hospitality industry. I currently own and operate a commercial construction business that operates in 7 states and let me tell you first hand. If ANY of my employees were to EVER act like that to a customer, they would be applying for a new position tomorrow morning, period.

Take my review for what its worth to you, I play golf 4+ days a week all across the world, including the PGA Tour and never in my life have I been treated this way at a “high end facility” I would rate this course in line with my local municipal facility and customer satisfaction less than McDonald’s or Walmart. Do yourself a favor and go play at Regatta Bay where you will receive 5 star service, amenities, and customer service.

Staff friendly got me out as a single in front of couple corses played in 3 and half hours other groups let me thru, Winter conditions but in good shape.

Price was good, but there are way better course in area!!

Emerald Bay is in great shape, greens rolling perfect. Pro shop is the best in the area. For the money best golf course in Destin. Staff very professional

This is a lovely golf course - great clubhouse AC ProShop and great staff. Fairways and general grass condition is good. However many greens have small bare patches or water damage which needs urgent repair.

We’ve played 9 courses on our visit to the Destin area and these were the poorest greens we’ve played on, and this was the most expensive round bar 1 (Burnt Pines…which blew this course away).

Either get the course up to standard or reduce your green fees till it is back to the standard you boast about on your website.

Just played this course for the 1st time and loved it !! The layout is a challenge for all skill levels. I wish there were a few more water stands on the course, not just at the turn and a golf ball washer every 2 or 3 holes would also be a great and easy upgrade. The carts are new and comfy and the onboard GPS helps with shot/club selection. The staff is friendly and inviting, and the clubhouse/pro shop have everything you need !

Play this course whenever I am in Florida. Staff are first class. Course is good for the money.

Course conditions were ok but not up to expectations

Course well maintained, nice layout, tees a little worn from heavy play. Green nice. Staff very friendly.