Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club: The Forbes Five-Star Course Destin Visitors Underestimate
Regatta Bay doesn’t announce itself loudly. It sits east of the Mid-Bay Bridge, tucked into an 800-acre residential development on the south shore of Choctawhatchee Bay, and it earns a second look rather than a first impression. Golf Digest has ranked it among the top 200 places to play in North America. Forbes Travel Guide gave it five stars. It tends to be overshadowed by the Fred Couples name attached to Kelly Plantation, but players who’ve done both often come back to Regatta Bay first.
Robert C. Walker designed it — formerly the lead architect at Arnold Palmer’s design company before starting his own firm. The course opened in 2003, and Walker has since put more than $2.25 million in improvements into it. It plays 6,894 yards from the tips at par 72, with a 74.2 rating and a 147 slope. Bermuda fairways, Tifdwarf greens, saltwater marshes, island-style fairways on a few holes, and a finishing stretch that builds genuine pressure make this more of a strategic test than a power course.
Hole 11 is the signature — a 380-yard cape-style par 4 running along an inland pond with the Mid-Bay Bridge visible in the background. The finishing hole is a reachable par 5 that hooks around a large lake with the green tucked hard against the hazard. Several forced carries over water keep the middle of the round honest.
The Golf Academy uses Trackman technology and is covered, which matters during Florida summer afternoons. The clubhouse restaurant overlooks the lake and is a legitimate option after the round.
Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club — Course Info
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Address | 465 Regatta Bay Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 |
| Phone | (850) 337-8080 |
| Website | regattabay.com |
| Type | Semi-private |
| Par / Yardage | Par 72 / 6,894 yards (back tees) |
| Course Rating / Slope | 74.2 / 147 |
| Green Fees | $100–$150 peak; twilight from ~$80; discounts available via GolfPass and GolfNow |
| Membership | Full, Junior (under 40), and non-resident tiers available |
| Groups | 9+ players: call (850) 337-8080 for group booking packages |
| Hours | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily |
Membership at Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club
Full members receive unlimited golf with waived green fees, 20% discounts at the Grill and pro shop, preferred lesson times with PGA Pros, unlimited range and short game access, Trackman virtual golf access (member fees apply), infinity pool access at the Yacht Club, and invitations to member events. A Junior tier is available for those under 40. A non-resident tier serves those whose primary residence is more than 50 miles from Destin. Contact the membership director via regattabay.com for current pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club
Is Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club open to the public? Yes. Regatta Bay operates as a semi-private course and accepts public tee times. Members receive preferred booking, discounted rates, and access to all club amenities.
Who designed Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club? Robert C. Walker designed the course. Walker previously served as the lead architect at Arnold Palmer’s design company before establishing his own firm. He also oversaw more than $2.25 million in subsequent course improvements.
What are the green fees at Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club? Peak morning rates typically range from $100 to $150 depending on season. Twilight rates start around $80. Discount tee times in the $50 range are often available through GolfPass and GolfNow.
Does Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club have a golf academy? Yes. The Golf Academy features a covered driving range and uses Trackman technology. Lessons are available through certified PGA Pros, and members receive preferred lesson scheduling.
