Kiva Dunes Resort and Golf
Kiva Dunes Resort and Golf delivers an engaging 18-hole coastal parkland experience just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. Its blend of strategic bunkering, natural marshland, and ocean winds creates a test suited to golfers across skill levels while offering resort amenities that enhance any visit.
Course Overview
Kiva Dunes Resort and Golf in Gulf Shores, Alabama offers a compelling blend of coastal charm and rigorous golf architecture that appeals to a broad spectrum of players. This 18-hole championship course stretches to approximately 6,500 yards from the Blue tees, delivering a test that balances strategy with accessibility. Its parkland layout is subtly infused with coastal elements, courtesy of its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, where gentle ocean breezes influence club selection and shot execution.
The course reveals a thoughtfully varied terrain that incorporates natural dunes, marshland, and water hazards that come into play on selected holes, adding both strategic intrigue and visual interest. Well-placed bunkers protect the greens, demanding precise approach shots and rewarding golfers who manage to read the subtle breaks on the often fast-rolling surfaces. The back nine features more undulating fairways and smaller landing areas, inviting players to sharpen their shot-shaping skills.
While the layout challenges experienced golfers, the course retains a welcoming nature for those newer to the game. Generous fairways and clear sightlines help maintain pace of play and reduce frustration, making it a place where enjoyment and improvement go hand in hand. Maintenance standards are consistently high; fairways show a clean cut, and the greens are smooth, contributing to a reliable playing surface throughout the year.
Beyond the course, the resort environment extends amenities that round out the visit. The clubhouse provides a comfortable setting for post-round relaxation and dining, while the wider resort offers beach access, pools, tennis courts, and well-appointed accommodations. These features make Kiva Dunes an attractive destination not only for dedicated golfers but also for families and travelers seeking an all-encompassing leisure experience.
For visitors planning a trip, walking the course is feasible and recommended when weather permits, but golf cart rentals are available. Navigating the course demands attention to changing wind conditions that can subtly alter the difficulty of each hole, rewarding players who adapt their strategy. All in all, Kiva Dunes melds natural beauty with thoughtful design to deliver a memorable round in a regional golf setting well worth exploring.
Course Highlights
Kiva Dunes is renowned for its coastal dune landscape integrated into a parkland layout, incorporating natural marsh areas and water features that influence routing and shot strategy. The course’s greens offer varying contours that reward precision, and selected holes present wind challenges from the nearby Gulf. The resort setting features full-service amenities including beach access, pools, tennis courts, and comfortable rental cottages, enhancing the appeal beyond golf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Rand Eberhard
Absolutely incredible resort and Golf Club. Really enjoyed the opportunity to play it again at the beginning of the summer. The course is an excellent condition and a very fun scenic layout. The river comes into play on a couple of holes and makes for a very beautiful setting. Located within the resort itself with a grill tennis club fitness center beach and so on. Kiva Dunes is incredible! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🇺🇸👏🏽🐺🐎💨
Natosha Nolley
The location, resort, staff and, beach are absolutely amazing!
todd womack
Freddy Ward
Played golf here for the first time in 8-10 years and it was even better than I remember
James Sides
Scrappy, Cody, Mark, Chef Ryan and the entire team at Kiva Dunes never fail to exceed expectations. The Accommodations were tastefully designed, exceptionally clean, and the Beach Club staff was there to make you feel special and welcome. Shout-out to the restaurant at the Kiva Club House who handled my special requests with ease. The food was delicious. We would highly recommend Kiva Dunes for your family trip or couples getaway. We hope to fly back soon (non-stop from Kansas City directly into Gulf Shores)! Bart & Gretchen
Bryce Hopper
Kiva Dunes Resort deserves every bit of a five-star review. We’ve been staying in the Beach Cottages every year, and it’s become a cherished family tradition. The cottages are spacious, beautifully maintained, and offer unbeatable access to the beach with stunning views like the one we wake up to every morning. The peaceful, private atmosphere makes it feel like a hidden paradise away from the crowds. The resort’s grounds are immaculate, with lush landscaping and well-kept amenities like the pools and tennis courts. The beach itself is clean, quiet, and perfect for families or couples looking to relax. We love being able to walk right from our cottage to the sand in just minutes. Every year, the staff continues to impress us with their friendliness and helpfulness, always going above and beyond to make sure we have everything we need. From booking to check-out, the experience is seamless. If you’re looking for a Gulf Shores getaway that combines luxury, tranquility, and a true “home away from home” feel, Kiva Dunes Beach Cottages are the way to go. Already counting down the days until next year’s stay!
Chris Edwards
This is the best place to stay. Clean homes, clean pool and restaurant and friendly staff. Been coming here for years and would not go anywhere else. Gina at the beach club always remembers us and our kids every year. We LOVE Kiva Dunes! Best resort and beach ever. A++ 5 Stars always!
Jeff Patridge
Golf rating only - played the blues. 6500 yards. Front nickel is more basic and easier than the back. The back is very different and has more character especially on the greens. Well kept course and definitely in line for what you pay for. If you don’t mind the money this is the place to play.
Jacob Stanley
Have stayed a Kiva a couple times, most recently in July 2025. Wonderful & relaxing place to stay. The private community & beach is a great advantage for anyone with children or those that don’t like crowds Absolutely will rent again next time we go to the Gulf.
Brian Peterlin
Very laid back place with a private beach and excellent golf course Great for families!
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Course Details
Access & Location
815 Plantation Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, USA
Kiva Dunes Clubhouse featuring dining and pro shop
Walking is encouraged to fully experience the course’s natural features; appropriate footwear recommended for sandy or damp conditions.
Reservations recommended during peak seasons; clubhouse hosts equipment rentals and lessons.
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