A Golfer’s Guide to Florida’s Forgotten Coast: Stay, Play, and Unwind at St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort

A Golfer’s Guide to Florida’s Forgotten Coast: Stay, Play, and Unwind at St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort

Tucked away along Florida's unspoiled Gulf Coast is a destination many golfers have yet to discover: the Forgotten Coast. Uncrowded fairways, laid-back coastal charm, and a place where you can truly slow down, Florida's Forgotten Coast deserves a top spot on your list of best golf getaways. And in this gorgeous corner of the Florida Panhandle, nestled in the coastal city of Carrabelle, is St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort, combining championship golf and luxurious accommodations that come together to create an unforgettable stay & play vacation.

The Forgotten Coast earned its name because this special stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast has remained beautifully preserved, with pristine beaches and a landscape untouched by the high-rises and heavy development seen in other coastal destinations. And St. James Bay Resort embodies that same spirit, offering a relaxed getaway where natural beauty and serene spaces come together to create a truly unique golf experience.

Beyond the golf course, visitors can spend their days exploring the white-sand beaches of St. George Island, chartering world-class fishing trips in Apalachicola Bay, kayaking through protected coastal waterways, or enjoying fresh Gulf seafood in the charming waterfront communities that define the Forgotten Coast.

St. James Bay is the area’s only designated Audubon Signature Sanctuary course set against the edge of the Apalachicola National Forest. This means you’ll play among 90 scenic acres of pristine wetlands and enjoy abundant wildlife sightings, including herons, osprey, tortoises, deer, and countless bird species. Robert Walker designed this par-72, 18-hole championship course, which opened in 2003, to follow the natural environment and landscape, creating a course that is both challenging and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.

Before you step up to the tee box, our Pro Shop can get you set up for your golf getaway with a wide assortment of golf apparel, accessories, and rental clubs. Then you can warm up on our state-of-the-art driving range and practice your short game on our putting and chipping ranges. And the best part? When you stay at St. James Bay Resort, you’re only 90 seconds away from the first tee. No rushing around. No long drive to the course. Just wake up, enjoy your morning coffee, and make your way to the tee box. Take your pick between our brand-new Clubhouse Villas or our luxury condos.

Our Clubhouse Villas are perfect for a weekend or week away. You can choose between the standard, deluxe, or supreme villas. Great for couples or small groups, each villa has a comfortable studio-style layout, with Deluxe accommodations equipped with a kitchenette and Supreme accommodations offering the added convenience of a full kitchen. You’re also located right near the clubhouse, restaurant, pool, fitness center, and, of course, the golf course, allowing easy access to all of our amenities.

If you’re planning a longer stay, have a big group, or are bringing along the whole family, our luxury condos are a great choice. With spacious two- and three-bedroom designs, you can make yourself at home with a full kitchen, large living and dining areas, in-suite laundry, oversized bathrooms, walk-in closets, private balconies, and stunning lake and golf course Views.

When you stay at St. James Bay, not only is it easy to make those early morning tee times and squeeze in as many rounds as possible during your stay, but you’ll also save more by booking both your stay and your play together. By booking your condo or villa and your tee time together, you can save up to 35%. And the longer you stay, the more you save.

Our Stay & Play packages go even beyond championship golf. Staying at St. James Bay Resort also gives you access to our eight brand-new pickleball courts. With complimentary paddles and balls at the clubhouse, spend the afternoon enjoying a friendly game, or if you’ve never played before, we offer on-site instructors so that you can try out one of the fastest-growing games.

After a round of golf or pickleball, relax and enjoy a great meal at The Crooked River Grill, which overlooks the golf course. Using fresh, local ingredients, the menu offers everything from classic burgers to delicious seafood dishes like the Fisherman’s Platter. You’ll also find a fantastic breakfast and brunch menu that includes grab-and-go options when you’re itching to get out on the course or heartier dishes when you want to start your morning off with a full plate.

The Crooked River Grill also showcases an impressive wall of top-shelf spirits, including an extensive bourbon selection. Our recommendation? Try the Cocktail of the Month or one of our tried and true favorites like the St. George Margarita or our Dog Island Ice Tea. But no matter which cocktail you choose, each drink is made the Forgotten Coast way: a generous pour of two ounces of premium liquor in every drink.

For golfers, pickleball players, outdoor enthusiasts, and those simply looking to unwind, St. James Bay Golf Resort offers the perfect balance of recreation, relaxation, and everything in between. Whether you stay for a weekend or get away for a week, our Stay & Play packages make it easy to experience the best of the Forgotten Coast, with championship golf, comfortable accommodations, and plenty of time to relax and reconnect with your favorite people.

Ready to experience Florida's Forgotten Coast for yourself? Explore our Stay & Play packages and start planning your next golf getaway at St. James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort.