COURSE REVIEW

Shell Landing near Biloxi a budget golfer's dream come true

By Brandon Tucker,
Staff Writer

GAUTIER, Miss. - Shell Landing, located about 20 miles east of Biloxi, is the course budget golfers with an eye for quality book twice during a Biloxi golf vacation, in an itinerary that should also include nearby Fallen Oak and Preserve.

Mississippi's best golf resorts Golf course review: nearby Fallen Oak Where to play golf in Biloxi Blog: Five Biloxi surprises

Certainly be sure to book one of those two golf courses during your Biloxi golf vacation, but Shell Landing, located about 20 miles east of Biloxi in Gautier, is the course budget golfers with an eye for quality book twice.

Shell Landing is plenty scenic, wrapping around wetlands and natural areas, but features a course designed by Davis Love III that can jump up and bite you in many places - most notably on and around its greens, which during the time of visit were running lightning-fast. These greens are also large, averaging about 12,000 square feet, have few flat spots and always take on a different shape than the last. They're large enough that you should hit more greens than normal, but two-putting can be tough.

The first introduction to the danger of the course's greens comes on the par-5 third hole, which at 565 yards is too long for most hitters to reach in two, especially considering a pond guards the green just in front. The green is very shallow, with rear collection areas that swallow up long shots. The green is so sloped, however, getting a chip near the hole if it's in a back position is near impossible.

Water hazards are prevalent but not overwhelming throughout, coming into play on eight holes. Two of Shell Landing's most memorable holes are a result of their frontage on its open, natural wetlands.

A long wooden bridge leads golfers to the par-4 sixth hole, which at only 379 yards from the men's tees can still be the most difficult test on the course, especially if you're playing into the wind. Wetlands not only work all down the left-hand side; you also have to carry them on your drive and second shot. Woods to the right don't allow for much bailout.

It can be difficult to really take in the beauty of the hole until you've finally tapped in and can take in a panoramic view briefly before heading to the next - a short par 5 with birdie opportunity all over it.

The 17th, which features more open marsh to the right of the green, is a little easier. The tee is elevated slightly, giving players a touch more confidence, but the green is also sloping, with several tiers, and features plenty of three-putt potential.

Shell Landing: The verdict

Shell Landing 3499 Shell Landing Blvd. Gautier, MS 39553 Tee times: (866) 813-7494 Click here for a Biloxi golf package quote.

The conditions at Shell Landing were superb during our fall visit, no surprise considering its reputation as one of the front-runners for service conditioning in the area. Amenities include five sets of tees, a 25-acre practice facility, locker rooms and personal bag service and storage.

The Shell Landing development is accompanied by real estate, but it's seldom within view or earshot. Instead, the real memories will be from the course's spectacular marsh holes, most significantly the sixth and 17th.

Like most courses in this part of the Gulf Coast, Shell Landing is a great bargain. Peak season weekend green fees top out at $89 and can drop to as low as $55. Replays are also available for $35.

Biloxi hotels & casinos

Newly re-opened after post-hurricane renovations, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on the beach is better and trendier than ever. Guest rooms go far beyond the basic casino room offerings, with sleek and stylish decorum and a three-point shower system that will inspire you to keep your finger off the snooze button in the morning.

You'll need to stay at the Beau Rivage at least one night if you want to play the stunning Fallen Oak, and that's no hardship. Also renovated and expanded, this elegant hotel, casino and spa features spacious guest rooms and numerous fine-dining options, including master chef Todd English's Olives.

November 7, 2007

Any opinions expressed above are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the management. The information in this story was accurate at the time of publication. All contact information, directions and prices should be confirmed directly with the golf course or resort before making reservations and/or travel plans.