It might just be the most unheralded golf destination in the nation. Certainly, it ranks among the most affordable, friendliest and flat-out fun ways to while away some otherwise chilly wintertime days at the southern edge of the United States.

It’s the Alabama Gulf Coast, and it’s got the goods for every variety of intrepid golf traveler, from staunch family guy to battle-hardened dude trip vet. And the treasure doesn’t end with the last putt of the day.

“There’s little doubt that golfers look South for winter play, and Alabama’s Gulf Coast has a lot to offer,” says Duncan Millar, executive director of Golf Gulf Shores. “Beyond our nine courses that deliver a variety of playing experiences in one region, golfers can also enjoy winter fishing in the Gulf, authentic coastal seafood, the energy of SEC country, and a 24/7 beach atmosphere thanks to our temperate conditions. We have a regular crowd of return visitors who love the quiet ease, hospitality and great views this time of year.”

Here’s a sampling of “starting” package prices for family, buddy trip and couples getaways — including all taxes and fees — from a few of Golf Gulf Shores’ accommodation partners. All packages are based on a group of four golfers staying four nights and playing three rounds of golf at three different pre-determined courses:

• Family Golf and Gulf Trip: Two-bedroom Gulf-front condo
starting at $76.12 per person per night for golf and room, based on four people staying in a two-bedroom condo with one king bed, two twin beds and a sleeper sofa.

• Buddy Trip: Two-bedroom golf course view condo starting at $92.13 per person per night for golf and room, based on four people staying in a two-bedroom condo with either one king or a queen bed, two twin beds and sleeper sofa.

• Couples Golf Getaway: Double queen hotel room starting at $110 per person per night for golf and room, based on two people staying in one room with two queen beds or one king bed and a deluxe continental breakfast.

www.golf.gulfshores.com