Kelly Plantation Golf Club
Kelly Plantation Golf Club presents an 18-hole championship course along Destin’s scenic bay shoreline. This semi-private layout blends strategic play amid pine forests and water hazards, offering a firm test of skill alongside inviting practice facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.
Course Overview
Set along the tranquil shores of Choctawhatchee Bay in Destin, Florida, Kelly Plantation Golf Club offers an 18-hole championship layout renowned for its blend of strategic design and natural beauty. As a semi-private course, it balances exclusivity with accessibility, welcoming resort guests and members alike into a golf experience that is both challenging and approachable for a wide range of skill levels.
The course unfolds through rolling terrain characterized by lush fairways guarded by dense pine forests and ancient oaks. Water comes into play on several holes, weaving through the landscape with natural ponds and bayou marshes that demand thoughtful shot-making and precise club selection. Wide landing areas on some holes invite aggressive drives, while tighter fairways bordered by native grasses require pinpoint accuracy, making each round a dynamic test of control and creativity.
Greens at Kelly Plantation are known for their firmness and true roll, rewarding careful putting and course management. The bunkers surrounding these greens are well-maintained and strategically placed, not only adding visual appeal but creating genuine risk-reward opportunities throughout your round. With a par of 72 and a total yardage ranging around 7,000 yards from the championship tees, the course can stretch your game without overwhelming less experienced players, who can find comfortable angles from the forward tees.
Beyond the course, the practice facilities provide a full spectrum of preparation options including a driving range, short game area, and putting green—all maintained to high standards. The clubhouse offers a relaxed setting for post-round reflection, with amenities suited to both casual socializing and formal dining.
Walkers will appreciate the mostly gentle elevation changes and soft turf underfoot, although comfortable shoes are recommended given intermittent sandy spots. Golf carts are readily available, ensuring mobility for all players. The gentle breezes from the bay add another layer of challenge and freshness, making Kelly Plantation a distinct experience within Florida’s coveted golf landscape.
Whether seeking a competitive round or a leisurely outing surrounded by nature’s calm, Kelly Plantation Golf Club delivers a memorable day on the links balanced with practical playability and attentive service.
Course Highlights
Kelly Plantation offers a thoughtfully balanced design that integrates natural bayou and forest elements with strategic water challenges. Signature holes include the par-5 14th, where water edges the fairway creating a compelling risk-reward dynamic. The course’s firm, fast greens and varied tee placements accommodate a wide skill range without sacrificing competitive integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Colin Dixon
From SC played on a Friday - Members are all 70+ and feel entitled no matter how fast you play and whine to the ranger about pace of play. Tried being friendly however they refuse to talk to you and will stare at you until you leave. For reference our golf cart said we were 4min ahead of pace. You only see the ocean on 1 hole which is where their website bases most of their photos off of. Bottom line is it isn't worth the $200/person especially with the courses around Destin.
Ross Brown
Bummer round, this time. Been out to this course every year for the past 7/8 years and used to be very consistent. This year was a real letdown. Good on the front, hit the back and the greens were crap, had just been verticut. That is not a big deal, just one of those things you need to be made aware of before paying $200/round. Brought up to the staff and nothing, multiple calls to the pro shop and no call back. Total bummer, hopefully they can fix whatever is going on over there these days. If they want to reach us, multiple voicemails left in the pro shop.
Tony Smith
Had a great time here. Course was in good condition except they had aerated a few weeks before. Would have liked a discount for that. But still a premier and really fun and challenging course. Wide open fairways in some spots and narrow in others. Fairways were like carpet!
Joe Reedy
This was absolutely beautiful. When you get checked in a gentle loads your clubs and brings you your cart. Driving range is included.
Jeremy Duke
The course was in great shape. Practice facilities were very good and range balls were included. Greens were fast and rolling true. All staff encountered were very friendly and courteous. Paired my son and I with Mark and Leo, and we had a great time. Will certainly play here again next time in the Destin area.
Chris Schuffler
Nice layout and decent conditions for this time of the year (February '25). There were a couple of holes closed for renovation and the tee boxes appeared like they had some kind of fungus or something else wrong with them. However, I played here a few years ago when temperature and other weather conditions were better, otherwise I would have given it 5 stars this time around.
Brandon Lear
Course was in great condition, awesome views and facility. Loved the crisp apples on the 9th tee box.
JC
Fantastic experience all around. Well worth the money. Top of my list of courses by a long shot. Exceeded our expectations on all aspects: course was in excellent shape, greens were quick and challenging, bunkers were pure with plenty of sand and made for a fun challenge. Staff was by far the best I've ever experienced (very kind and genuine!). Pace of place was great, and they even let us play as a couple since it was our anniversary! Hope to come back as much as possible over the years!
Joe Reedy
This was absolutely beautiful. When you get checked in a gentle loads your clubs and brings you your cart. Driving range is included.
Ben Dodgen
Highly recommend! From the outdoor staff to the starter everyone we came in contact with was welcoming and informative. Our threesome got a member added to our group and he was awesome #BigTom! Course was in great shape and we will be playing again next time we’re down.
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Course Details
Access & Location
307 Kelly Plantation Dr, Destin, FL 32541, USA
Kelly Plantation Clubhouse
Walking is permitted and enjoyable due to gentle elevation changes; golf carts are also available. Wear comfortable golf shoes suited for soft turf and sandy areas.
Reservations recommended for resort guests and members; guests must be accompanied by a member or stay at the affiliated resort.
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