Thursday, March 29, 2012

Best Ways to Wind Down after Golf on the Gulf

It’s finally here: spring. And it’s brought some ideal golf conditions in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach—unquestionably warm weather that lacks the searing heat of summer. This time of year, a Gulf Shores golf vacation is an absolute must.

Between the beautiful weather and the area’s nine signature golf courses, you’ll likely be inspired to play a lot of golf—I know I always am. So having ways to wind down and relax afterward is important. What I do after usually depends on what time of day I play.

For instance, by the time I’m done with a morning round of golf, it’s often beach time—and lunchtime. Usually, I’ll do one of two things: head back to my Gulf-front condo, make a quick lunch and grab a book, and go down to the beach for a while, or I’ll go find a beach-side restaurant.

After a round of afternoon golf, I’m usually ready for a cool-down and will return to my condo or hotel for a swim in the pool or a trip around the lazy river.

But spring, for me, is a favorite time of year for early evening golf, and there are a few ways of winding down in the evening. Dinner out is a good option if it’s not too late, preferably somewhere with some live music. If I’m still feeling energized, I might even try to catch a concert if one is scheduled. On the other hand, if I’m pretty tired (more and more the case the older I get), I’ll return to my condo for a soak in a hot tub, or enjoy a cold drink on my balcony while gazing out over the moonlit Gulf.

Friday, March 16, 2012

Want a Good Reason to Play Kiva Dunes—or Any Other GSGA Golf Course?

I remember the first time I played golf at Kiva Dunes in Gulf Shores. My first impression was how beautiful the place was—a Gulf-side golf course winding its way through sand dunes, lakes, and other scenic views. Playing it was amazing (even though I lost half a dozen balls that day).

With this memory in mind, it’s easy to see why it was recently rated the number one Alabama public golf course by Golfweek Magazine—and why Golf Digest ranked it as one of the 75 best golf resorts in North American in 2009, and one of the top 100 courses in 2003….Bravo, Kiva Dunes. Not that I needed it, but this validates my playing this GSGA golf course every time I visit Gulf Shores & Orange Beach!

But of course it’s not the only worthy golf course in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. There’s a reason why the area is my top pick for a golf vacation: nine signature golf courses (I guess that’s really nine reasons), each with its own appealing set of qualities. Combine this with white-sand beaches, a variety of accommodations, excellent dining options, and an active events schedule and there’s really no reason to look elsewhere.