Embedded Files
Gator Lakes GC
Bogey Bob’s BLUF
Gator Lakes Golf Course
Hurlburt Field, FL
Bogey Bob’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 Birdies
Top three things:
1. Serenity and wildlife, including real, live alligators
2. Appropriate levels of challenge – the course didn’t kick my butt, but it wasn’t a walk in the park. Wait, it was a challenging/ rewarding walk in the park.
3. The 24-hour Toptracer driving range is an absolute game changer
Gator Lakes Pro Shop 850-881-2251 call for base access information and reservations
https://myhurlburt.com/gator-lakes-golf-course/
Gators, Bears, and Birdies, Oh My!
Gators, Bears, and Birdies, Oh My!
Hold up! The alligators are real? I thought that “Gator Lakes” was just marketing hype for the golf course at Hurlburt Field, Florida. Turns out, the gators are real, and the course is well worth the experience. If you’re non-military, you can get a pass to play this great course.
Come to the Panhandle of Florida and lounge on some of the best beaches in the state. Then go to Hurlburt Field for some outstanding golf.
Let me tell you my story about Gator Lakes. As a mid to high- handicap golfer, I’m in it for the experience. Gator Lakes GC exceeded my expectations. I’ll remember my round at Gator Lakes GC for a long time.
The course is awesome. If you play from the tips, it’s about 6800 yards. For me, and other normal people, there’s three other sets of tees to match your skill level. This track is beginner-friendly with its share of challenges. Considering it was basically carved out of a swamp, water comes into play on many of the holes.
Something unique to the area is that there are no back yards to visit. On courses where houses line fairways, it’s a given that I’ll be in a back yard or two at some point. Not here. The course is out in nature, and that’s what you experience. You’re surrounded by natural beauty. City sounds fade into the distance.
While you’re looking for your ball, keep an eye out for wildlife. I saw alligators, but not too close. I was told it’s not unusual to see foxes and the occasional bear.
Gator Lakes presents guests with a variety of water hazards and strategically placed bunkers. The front nine is a mix of open fairways and tighter, tree-lined holes. The back nine shows up with more water hazards, doglegs, and scenery.
They save the signature hole for last. The par four finisher is the most scenic, sitting along the largest lake on the property. Just beyond the lake is the airstrip, a potent reminder of where you are.
Great news, this course is open to the public with six-month pass
Bulgogi at the turn?
Call me a turn-dog traditionalist on the course, but man, bulgogi on a Wednesday is a great change. Bulgogi is a Korean dish of marinated sliced beef that's grilled to perfection. The Oasis Café offers lunch specials each weekday. The bulgogi I had there was the bomb. I’ve always liked the different options offered at different AF golf courses. Check out their specials to see if you want to plan your round around the reasonably priced tasty specials.
You know another food that goes great with golf? Pizza! Ask the pro shop about their Pizza Scramble on Wednesdays.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Gator Lakes Golf Course offers a fantastic golfing experience. The combination of a challenging layout, beautiful scenery, and excellent facilities makes it a must-visit on the Air Force Florida Golf Trail. The course’s unique challenges and friendly atmosphere ensure that you’ll have a memorable round every time you play.
24-Hour Toptracer Range Changes Things Big Time
It’s rare that I call something a game changer, but this truly is. If you haven’t tried a Toptracer Range, you’re in for a treat. And get this, all the cool technology is free with purchase of range balls! Plus, it's available 24 hours a day with lights!
Toptracer Range technology uses cameras and computers to track shots and provide instant feedback. There’s a bunch of things you can do with the tech. You can play different courses virtually, play games, and work on your swing. I particularly like the “What’s in your bag” feature that helps you sort out your distances for each club in your bag. In this mode, you can tell it what club you’re hitting, and it determines average distance from multiple swings.
This tech has completely changed range sessions for me. The feedback (and record keeping on the app) is so much better than just whacking 100 balls and going home.
There’s games and modes for varying skill levels and ages. I saw couples and families having great fun on the range. Some old-timers might not like the change in range customers, but I think it’s a good and healthy thing.
And did I mention that Gator Lakes gives you all the Top Tracer goodness for free with purchase of range balls? The bays are covered to keep you out of the sun or rain. There's comfy seats for your friends/family/date. It's a cool place to work on your swing or socialize around golf and tech. Note: I’ve been told that there are only three Top Tracer ranges in the Air Force and that more are on the way. Ask at your local AF/SF course if they’re joining the club.
Parting Thoughts
You may read some negative reviews out on the web about Gator Lakes GC. Check the dates. They’re probably old. The locals tell me this course has seen a big turnaround in the last couple years. It’s probably due to improvements brought by a new manager and new superintendent. If you run into Teke or George, tell them thanks for their hard work. The fairways are in great shape, the greens roll nicely, and the whole place looks well-kept. Add in friendly staff and great food options, and you’ll find a winner all around. Go give Gator Lake GC a swing.
Nearby Things To Do
The Panhandle area of Florida really has some astounding beaches. Beautiful white sand beaches are what I'm talking about. Nearby to Hurlburt Field are Destin and Navarre. Navarre is quiet, Destin is very tourist-oriented with fine shopping and restaurants.
When You Go
Gator Lakes Pro Shop 850-881-2251
Call for base access information and reservations
https://myhurlburt.com/gator-lakes-golf-course/
Open to the public with a pass. Call the pro shop for details and fill out this form.
Hurlburt Field Force Support Squadron
Google Sites
Report abuse