The two excellent nine-hole loops of Grand Bear are laid out through pristine, quiet woodland, located about 10 miles back from the Gulf of Mexico shoreline. Here there are no roads, housing or modern-day intrusions to detract from your enjoyment of this wonderful Jack Nicklaus Signature design. The good-width, gently undulating fairways are individually routed through the hole-lining forest, a mix of pine, oak, magnolia and many other tree varieties. As is often the case, Nicklaus gives you ample room to work with from the tee, but hitting the heavily bunker-defended greens will typically require well-judged approach work. You also need to be mindful of occasional wetland areas that cross some fairways. Among this collection of excellently crafted holes, the par-4 13th is one of the most handsome, played from a nicely elevated tee, with wetlands, tall pines and bunkering combining to very scenic effect. The 15th, 16th and 17th are flanked by the Big Biloxi River; another pleasantly natural feature to be enjoyed. Benefitting from excellent conditioning, Grand Bear is generally recognised as one of Mississippi's top-quality golf courses, which provides a wonderful test for your all-round game. A must play if you are in the area. 30 miles to the south-east of Grand Bear, and also owned by the Caesars Entertainment group, the Grand Biloxi Casino, Hotel & Spa offers an excellent place to stay, on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.