By Barbara Palmgren
Linda Ronstadt once echoed these lines in her signature hit, “Blue Bayou:”
I’m going back someday
Come what may to Blue Bayou
Where the folks are fun
And the world is mine on Blue Bayou
Where those fishing boats with their sails afloat
If I could only see
That familiar sunrise through sleepy eyes
How happy I’d be.
Only a few shrimp boats now are seen on Choctawhatchee Bay as the sun rises to greet those fortunate enough to live in this paradise. That familiar sunrise? It’s still very much alive — its colors often best appreciated from the Marsh course on hole No. 4 or the Bay course on hole No. 6, especially by those early-morning golfers lucky enough to be there.
But sleepy eyes? Not if you want to be sure the ball sails straight down the fairway — or if you need clear vision to determine the correct putting angle and speed so that little white ball drops into the hole.
Where the folks are fun? Yes. Like the swallows that return to Capistrano, the snowbirds are back, golf clubs in hand and dreams of low scores dancing in their heads, along with a bit of braggin’ among friends about eagles, birdies and pars.
Nestled among homes in the Bluewater Bay community, golfers enjoy a course layout that is challenging, yet fair. Tee times can be booked through GolfNow or by calling the pro shop. With scenic views that often distract in the best possible way, the course can now be enjoyed by golfers of all skill levels. With overseeded greens and tee boxes and reasonable fees, the beautiful course is ready for winter play — an accomplishment made possible by the dedication of Golf Course Superintendent Alfredo Francisco and his staff.
General Manager Stephan Kleemeyer has worked tirelessly over the past year to ensure growth and continued success for the club. Adding to that success is the bonus of a full-service restaurant, the Blue Tee, where golfers and residents alike can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. It may be chilly in February, but a warm lunch and accompanying beverage make for the perfect setting to share stories of that approach shot to the green that resulted in a birdie on the hole.
Membership remains the heart and soul of any golf course, and new member rates encourage golfers to join. Golf carts are included in the rate. While public play is important, membership provides the continued revenue needed to support and sustain the club.
So, yes, the world is ours — and being happy? The only time you can’t play golf is when heavy rains, or perish the thought, snow soak or cover the fairways and greens.
Yes, our Blue Bayou warmly welcomes snowbirds and golfers alike to this hidden jewel of the Panhandle that is Bluewater Bay Golf Course.
To book or for more information, call (850) 897-3241, email golf@preservebwb.com or visit bwbresort.com.
