Towering pines, natural cypress wetlands, secluded fairways and impeccably manicured greens surround Grand Bear. This 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus Signature Course has the feel of Augusta and the excitement of Pinehurst.

A wide array of hole layouts makes Grand Bear challenging, yet enjoyable for all. From the Grizzly Bear tees at 7,204 yards, the challenge is firm but fair; from the Teddy Bear tees at 4,802 yards, the layout is downright cuddly.

The outgoing nine, which skirts the Little Biloxi River has superior golf holes, but the back nine is truly grand. Cypress wetlands rimmed with live oaks, gum trees, and old magnolias give way to the Big Biloxi River, its brilliant white-sand banks girding three of the last four holes.

Unlike some Jack Nicklaus golf courses that have earned a reputation for being among the world's most difficult, mid- and high-handicappers stand a fighting chance at the Grand Bear Golf Course. While those that would like to test the Grizzly Bear tees will get all they want out of this 7,200 yard beast.