BIRDIES BY THE BEACH

Gulf Shores, Alabama, has long been known as a lowkey destination with sugar sand beaches, delicious Southern dining, and ocean sports aplenty. Over the past three decades, it has also become recognized for its premier golf.

The 27-hole Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club, opened in 1995, is one of the big reasons why. Over the years, this Earl Stone design has received widespread acclaim, including being named among “The Best Conditioned Courses” and “Top Courses to Play in Alabama” by Golf Advisor; one of “America’s Top Golf Courses” by Zagat’s Survey; one of the “Best Places to Play” by Golf Digest.

Not one to sit on its laurels, the facility recently completed a multimillion-dollar renovation of its award-winning golf course, clubhouse, and racquet club. The six-month golf course renovation project included extensive bunker renovations on all three nines, with bunkers being removed, reshaped and relocated to provide new strategic design features.

In addition, cart paths were repaired or replaced. Trees were removed and trimmed to increase air circulation and improve agronomic conditions, while the forest floor was cleared of undergrowth. Golf guests will also take note of the club’s new fleet of E-Z-GO golf carts.

Off the golf course, Peninsula’s 8,000-square-foot clubhouse was also renovated. Enhancements include a new roof, air conditioning system, new flooring, fresh paint, new fitness equipment, laser-graded resurfaced tennis courts, salt water indoor pool, and more. Landscaping around the clubhouse was also refreshed and the club’s signature pier and boardwalk have been renewed.

Another top-tier, must-visit golf facility in the Gulf Shores area is Craft Farms Golf Resort, where two delightful Arnold Palmer-designed courses await. The moment he stepped foot on this land and saw its possibilities, Palmer decided to build these signature courses. Guests are seduced by the quiet whisper of the wind through trees, the rich smell of the earth, and the gentle flow of Cotton Creek.

Craft Farms recently completed a multi-million-dollar renovation, too, with a bunker renovation to provide strategic new design elements. For more efficient operations the golf shop, offices, and restaurant have been combined into one building. The result is a completely new clubhouse that is just part of the exceptional experience Craft Farms delivers to golfers. In addition, new landscaping and lighting have been added to enhance the natural beauty of the property and a new food truck provides a unique culinary option for members and guests.