St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort
St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort in Carrabelle, Florida presents an 18-hole coastal links-style course where wind and water shape each round. Complemented by spacious villas and a lively resort atmosphere, it offers a balanced challenge suitable for varied skill levels.
Course Overview
Located along the quiet shores of Carrabelle, Florida, St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort offers a distinctive blend of golf and resort amenities designed to engage players of varying skill levels. This 18-hole championship-grade course unfolds across coastal terrain, where inland marshes and saltwater bays frame the fairways and greens. The layout leans toward a links-style design, inviting wind to play as a natural adversary and the coastal environment to influence club selection and shot strategy.
Golfers will find St. James Bay demands thoughtful course management without overwhelming novices, making it approachable yet rewarding. Water hazards come into play on several holes, mirroring the surrounding bays, while the course’s bunkering requires precision from tee to green. Each hole offers unique visual cues that reflect the coastal ecology, where sandy soil and native grasses create firm lies and subtle contours.
Beyond the course, the resort accommodation is highlighted by well-appointed villas that combine spacious comfort with practical design. Though some guests have noted occasional delays in dining service, the onsite riverside grill delivers fresh, local fare ideal for replenishing energy after a round. The staff is consistently praised for attentive service and friendly hospitality, enhancing the overall experience.
St. James Bay also stands out for its integration of pickleball facilities, adding a social and active dimension for guests and members. The resort’s setting encourages leisurely strolls between holes or alongside the water’s edge, with wildlife sightings common throughout the day.
Visitors planning a trip should prepare for variable wind conditions that test shot shaping and tempo. Walking the course is possible, though golf carts are available and recommended for those who prefer an easier pace. Early morning tee times offer calmer winds and softer course conditions, providing the best opportunity for scoring and enjoyment.
For players seeking a coastal challenge with a resort atmosphere in Central Florida, St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort merges sport and scenery with welcoming hospitality.
Course Highlights
St. James Bay features a links-inspired course layout with fairways edged by marshes and coastal bays. The strategic wind creates a dynamic playing environment, especially on the signature holes along the water. Complemented by resort villas and pickleball courts, the facility blends competitive golf with recreation in an inviting setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Kim Polulak
My husband and I visited St. James after purchasing a GroupGolfer deal. 2 rounds of golf and 2 nights stay. Beautiful and challenging. Nice pool. The villas are awesome. Restaurant on sight was good, great service.
Susan Cotton
Our room was spacious and clean. The problem is that they make you check in after 4pm and check out by 10:00 am. It is advertised as a 2 day stay but you don't get close to 48 hours. It's more like 42. There's no place in this town to eat dinner unless you have a loaded gun on entry. The golf course was not realistic for the average golfer. I have played golf over 25 years and play weekly. I would never play this course again. Many of the greens were dry and unkept and did not roll true. The positive was the staff at the clubhouse were kind and courteous.
Carol Bodnar
Wonderful resort. Clean beautiful rooms. A Hidden Gem- Golf course is amazing and has improved since I played it last year. One of the best golf courses in the panhandle. Had some great pickleball matches. The food in the restaurant is great.!!
Richard Mills
Villas are peaceful and within walking distance of all the amenities. Peaceful and relaxing time.
Jessica Jamieson
Brad Millian
The condominium exceeded our expectations. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful. The riverside grill had great food. Understaffed, but made up for timeliness with Kindness and customer service. Great place for our golf outing of 12. Golf course was in great shape.cant say enough good things.
Carson Regg
We had the absolute best time! Room was clean, beds comfy, the golf course is one of the most beautiful we have played at , we saw lots of wild life, and the staff is unmatched. Customer service at its finest! Thank you Bruce and John for the best time! You guys made Shawn’s Father’s Day! -Lauren, Shawn and Carson
P de T
The rooms are in small, independent, well-equipped houses at the entrance to a golf course. Parking is easy. The staff is friendly.
Richard Fravel
Monday wings night. Fun time. Reasonable pricing.
Dianne Teague
We loved the location and classy quiet of the resort. Restaurant food was great, but the service was extremely slow taking two hours to get food etc. We absolutely loved the villa. So nice, but as a time share owner myself, I would recommend a better sofa sleeper. It was horribly uncomfortable to sit on to watch movies etc and the mattress for the pull out bed was nothing but basically fabric over springs. Not meant for more than 2 guests comfortably…just to be honest. If we stayed there again we would either bring a blow up mattress for our 3rd person or have to rent a second villa.
Book Your Round
Experience one of golf's most legendary courses
Direct booking • No commissions
Course Details
Access & Location
151 Laughing Gull Ln, Carrabelle, FL 32322, USA
St. James Bay Clubhouse and Riverside Grill
Walking encouraged; terrain is generally flat but sunscreen and hydration are important due to sun exposure.
Reservations recommended for tee times; villa bookings advised well in advance for peak season.
Nearby Courses
