Located in the heart of Gulf Shores, Alabama, Craft Farms Golf Course offers golfers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, beautiful scenery, and world-class golf. With two Arnold Palmer-designed courses–the Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend–this golf destination has garnered attention for its exceptional layout, playability, and connection to one of golf’s greatest legends. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking for a challenge or a casual player wanting a fun round, Craft Farms is the ideal destination to experience some of the best Gulf Coast golfing.
Craft Farms Golf Course: Arnold Palmer’s Vision
Arnold Palmer, a name synonymous with golf excellence, designed the Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend courses. These courses reflect Palmer’s philosophy of creating challenging yet fair layouts, with ample opportunities for players of all skill levels to enjoy their rounds.
Arnold Palmer’s love for the Gulf Coast is evident in his design choices at Craft Farms. Both courses make the most of the natural landscape, incorporating the area’s wetlands, towering pine trees, and shimmering lakes into the design. Players can experience stunning Alabama coastal beauty while enjoying world-class golf at Craft Farms.
The Cotton Creek Course: A Classic Southern Challenge
The Cotton Creek course, the original of the two, opened in 1987 and is still a favorite among locals and visitors. Stretching over 7,000 yards from the championship tees, offering a classic, parkland-style layout with wide fairways and large, undulating greens. In typical Palmer style, this traditional 18-hole masterpiece confidently challenges golfers without intimidating them, with numerous opportunities for risk-reward shots.
The greens at Cotton Creek are known for being some of the best and fastest in the region. Their subtle breaks can challenge even the most seasoned putters. Water comes into play on 14 of the 18 holes, making accurate approach shots crucial to scoring well.
Cypress Bend: A Newer, More Forgiving Layout
Opened in 1993, Cypress Bend is the younger of the two courses but is by no means overshadowed by its older sibling. Measuring just over 6,800 yards from the back tees, Cypress Bend is slightly shorter than Cotton Creek but is considered more forgiving, making it a favorite among higher-handicap players or those looking for a more relaxed round.
Despite being more approachable, Cypress Bend still offers plenty of challenges. Water is also a prominent feature here, and players must navigate numerous lakes and ponds, particularly on the back nine.
Cypress Bend’s layout also incorporates more of the natural wetlands surrounding the course, providing golfers with a more immersive experience of the Gulf Coast’s unique ecosystem. The course’s strategic bunkering and doglegs require thoughtful course management, rewarding those who play smart-golf.
Tips for Playing Craft Farms Golf Course
- Course Management is Key: Both courses at Craft Farms require strategic course management. Pay attention to the wind, which can play a significant role, and choose your shots wisely.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Lay Up: Sometimes, laying up is the smart play, especially on holes with water hazards or strategically placed bunkers.
- Enjoy the Scenery: Craft Farms is a beautiful place to play golf. Take a moment to appreciate the courses’ natural surroundings and serenity.
Lesser-Known Facts about Craft Farms
While golfers know the beauty and playability of the Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend courses, several lesser-known facts make Craft Farms an even more intriguing destination.
- Alabama’s only Arnold Palmer Signature Design Courses: The Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend courses at Craft Farms are Alabama’s only Arnold Palmer Signature Design courses. While Arnold Palmer has designed numerous courses worldwide, Craft Farms holds the distinction of being the only Palmer Signature courses in Alabama. This makes it a must-play destination for fans of “The King” who want to experience his architectural genius firsthand.
- A Tribute to the Land’s Agricultural Past: Before it became the pristine golf resort it is today, the land Craft Farms occupies was once a sprawling sod farm.
- Arnold Palmer’s Involvement: While it’s not uncommon for famous golf course designers to lend their name to a project and leave the actual design work to a team, Palmer was deeply involved in creating both courses at Craft Farms. In fact (according to local lore), during many of his visits to the site during construction, he was known to personally drive a bulldozer to shape some of the course’s features to ensure they met his high standards.
- A Haven for Wildlife: Craft Farms is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and a wide array of bird species. Keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures as you make your way around the courses.
- Beyond Golf: Craft Farms offers more than just golf. The resort features a full-service clubhouse with a restaurant, pro shop, and practice facilities. It’s also a popular venue for weddings and special events.
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Craft Farms Golf Course is not just a place to play a round of golf; it is a destination that provides an immersive experience of the Gulf Coast’s natural beauty and a taste of Arnold Palmer’s design genius. With its two championship courses, stunning scenery, and rich history, it offers a golfing experience that is both challenging and rewarding. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a casual player, Craft Farms is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.
Photos courtesy of Craft Farms Golf Course
