Course Overview
Kelly Plantation Golf Course in Destin, Florida offers a premier golfing experience set against the picturesque backdrop of Choctawhatchee Bay. Designed by Fred Couples and Gene Bates, the course has earned numerous accolades, including consistent 4.5-star ratings from Golf Digest and recognition among North America's top golf courses. Since its opening in 1998, Kelly Plantation has built a reputation for both its challenging design and exceptional playability. In 2024, the course underwent an extensive renovation led by Bergin Golf Design that has completely transformed the playing experience. All tee boxes were laser-leveled and re-grassed with Platinum Paspalum, providing a smoother, more consistent surface and improved turf durability. Every bunker on the course was enhanced with the installation of Capillary Flow bunker liners, a cutting-edge drainage system that ensures year-round playability and consistent conditions. The bunkers were also upgraded with Tour Angle sand, which dramatically reduces the occurrence of buried lies and offers a firmer, more reliable surface for better shot-making. The putting surfaces feature TifEagle greens, known for their exceptional speed, consistency, and ability to hold lines—ideal for golfers who value a true roll and challenging contours. These greens, paired with the overall course upgrades, have elevated the experience for players of all skill levels. The layout remains welcoming to novice golfers with its forward tees, while advanced players will find a true challenge from the back tees, stretching the course to 7,099 yards. Hole No. 9 includes one of the few greens in Florida rated a "5" in difficulty by the Florida State Golf Association. In addition to its refined design, Kelly Plantation boasts breathtaking views. Hole No. 4 provides a stunning panoramic overlook of the Choctawhatchee Bay, often framed by sightings of native wildlife. The course is rich with natural beauty, including stands of Magnolias and Palmettos, and 11 scenic lakes—most notably the 7.5-acre water feature surrounding holes 9 and 18—add challenge and visual appeal. With its recent renovations, elevated conditions, and exceptional course design, Kelly Plantation Golf Course stands as a must-play destination in the Destin area—a stunning blend of challenge, beauty, and world-class golf.
