The Links Golf Club Location and Vibe
Where: The Links Golf Club sits spectacularly within Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Miramar Beach, following the shoreline of Choctawhatchee Bay. As one of four distinct courses on the 2,400-acre property, The Links offers the most authentic links-style experience in Northwest Florida, just minutes from pristine Gulf beaches and the resort’s Village of Baytowne Wharf entertainment district. One of Destin’s Best golf courses, featuring 73 holes of golf!
Why Golfers Play Here: Golfers seeking a taste of traditional links golf without crossing the Atlantic flock to The Links for its coastal charm and playability. With five holes hugging the bayfront and constant sea breezes shaping shot strategies, the course delivers panoramic bay views. The Links Golf Club plays from 4,897 to 6,710 yards. Offering four sets of tees, as Sandestin’s original ode to Scotland course is a must-play for golfers of all skill levels.
Tom Jackson’s Ode to Golfing Origins at The Links
Architect: Tom Jackson, whose portfolio includes over 100 courses across the Southeast, designed The Links in 1973.
Signature Style: Jackson’s approach here embraces true links principles—wide fairways, strategically placed pot bunkers, and undulating greens that encourage ground game options. Unlike many “links-style” pretenders, Jackson incorporated some natural dunes, native grasses, and ever-present wind to create a course that rewards second shots and shot-shaping rather than just aerial precision.
The Links Golf Club Awards and Accolades
✔ Named among “Top 5 Resort Courses in Northwest Florida” by Florida Golf Magazine
✔ Selected as a “Best Places to Play” by Golf Digest with 4.5-star rating for layout
✔ Consistently “Best Course You Can Play” by GolfWeek and Golf Magazine
Links Golf Course Stats by the Numbers
Yardage/Slope/Rating: Par 72, 6,710 yards from the championship tees, Slope 135, Rating 72.2
Key Features: True to its name, The Links features Scottish-inspired design elements, including wide fairways, strategic bunkering, plenty of water hazards, and coastal exposure that invites the wind to become a constant playing foe. Water hazards come into play on 14 holes, while the open layout and minimal tree coverage enhance the authentic links feel. Four sets of tees ensure playability for all skill levels.
Sandestin Links Signature Holes
Bayfront Trio (9, 14, 15): This spectacular stretch wraps around the bay with unobstructed water views. The par-4 9th culminates the outward nine with a challenging approach over water to a peninsula green that juts into the bay.
14th Hole: A daunting par-3 requiring a forced carry over a large lake to a well-bunkered green—club selection becomes crucial when afternoon winds kick up. Featured above is as tricky at times as it is beautiful!
18th Hole: A longer par-4 hole demands a strategic drive to avoid water hazards that create an island with trees and bunkers. It then plays slightly uphill to an elevated green, a classic risk-reward closer that can make or break your round. A shot maker’s hole to end the day.
19th Hole options at the Links
Dining: The Links features Sandestin’s popular and plentiful options. Baytowne Marina is my go-to for outdoor seating, casual dining with bay views, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for post-round analysis. Another spot I love is over in the Village of Baytowne Wharft at “The Village Door” out on the deck. Plenty of other nice spots over here.
Pro Shop: Raven and Baytowne share a well-stocked pro shop with resort logo merchandise, premium apparel, and quality equipment. The pro shop provides all the essentials plus helpful staff who can arrange play at Sandestin’s other courses. Directions Close by at The Clubhouse
Extras: Comprehensive practice facilities include a driving range, two putting greens, and dedicated chipping areas. The resort has Tiki bars, and upscale dining at Ovide at the highly recommended Hotel Effie, with a roof-top bar, is a nice 360-degree visual treat.
Locals Pro Tips
Accurate and proper club selection are essential to prevail against the blustery Gulf Coast winds, making it a true shot-makers’ golf course. “Don’t fight the links design—embrace the ground game, especially when approaching greens. When the wind blows off the bay (most afternoons), play one club less than normal and keep your ball flight low to minimize its effect.”
The Links Stay and Play Options
📍 165 Sandestin Blvd N, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
⏱ Peak season (Spring to Fall) rates range from $115-155; summer/fall value seasons offer rates from $85-125
💡 Insider Hack: Sandestin offers for those traveling to Stay and Play options of 2 or 4-course Golf Packages.
FINAL VERDICT on the Links Golf Club review
The Links Golf Club delivers Florida’s most authentic links experience, where traditional Scottish design principles meet Gulf Coast beauty. It complements any Emerald Coast golf itinerary, rewarding the creative player while remaining enjoyable for all.
