St James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort Accommodation in Big Blackjack Landing, Florida

St James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort offers an 18-hole Robert Walker-designed par-72 course stretching 6,600 yards through 90 acres of pristine Florida wetlands. The course has been ranked as high as #2 on Golf Advisor's list of Top Courses in Florida and #7 on Top 25 Courses for Pace of Play in the US. Fifteen lakes come into play on every hole, forcing carries off the tee and onto greens that roll true with well-undulated surfaces.

Eight dedicated pickleball courts with a full-size viewing deck provide complimentary paddles and balls available at the pro shop. Guests also have access to a saltwater pool, a 24-hour fitness center, two outdoor pools, a tennis court, and free bike rentals to explore the property. The resort has a children's playground with outdoor play equipment and offers evening entertainment including live music and themed dinner nights.

Renovated villas and condos offer private balconies, fully equipped kitchens, washer and dryer, and flat-screen TVs, with many units overlooking the golf course. Clubhouse Villas are studio units adjacent to the pro shop, driving range, and pool, each with a bar area, sink, and coffee maker. Pet-friendly villas are available for guests traveling with dogs, with dog poop bag stations placed throughout the grounds.

The on-site Crooked River Grill serves American cuisine for brunch, lunch, and dinner using locally sourced ingredients like locally caught shrimp and steaks, with a 2 oz. liquor pour known among locals. The restaurant offers views of the Audubon Signature golf course and is open to the public for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Live music and karaoke sessions are held outside the grill, and Tuesday night trivia is hosted by general manager Bruce Grundlock.

The resort sits in a rural coastal community 70 km from Tallahassee Regional Airport, 20 minutes from Carrabelle for groceries, and 40 minutes from St. George Island with pristine shorelines. Apalachicola National Forest provides hiking and nature exploration, while on-site fishing charters with experienced local captains are available. As an Audubon Signature Sanctuary, the property hosts diverse wildlife including alligators and white squirrels, with guided nature observation opportunities.

Golf: 18-hole Audubon Signature Sanctuary course ranked #2 in Florida

Pickleball: 8 courts with free paddles and balls

Accommodations: Renovated condos & Clubhouse Villas with full kitchens

Dining: Crooked River Grill with locally sourced seafood and steaks

Recreation: Saltwater pool, fitness center, bike rentals, tennis court

Location: 40 minutes from St. George Island beaches

Management: Run by PGA veteran Bruce Grundlock