A Golfer’s Dream Guide to Island-Hopping in the Caribbean
The beautiful Caribbean islands are mostly known for their lofty palm trees, fluffy white sands, and deep blue waters. However, the island group has much more to offer than just that. Tourists can enjoy their stay at a variety of luxurious vacation resorts with facilities and pleasures that are off the beaten path, such as golfing.
For passionate golfers, the Caribbean is no less than a golfing paradise because of its wonderful weather, white sand beaches, and outstanding championship golf courses designed by top architects. From the stunning inland courses of Barbados to thrilling Montego Bay golf courses, there is something for everyone on a Caribbean golf trip.
In this guide, we have compiled everything an ardent golfer needs to know about enjoying their stay in the Caribbean.
Golfing in the Caribbean is a Unique Affair
There are 118 golf clubs in the Caribbean in all, and most of them are designed by renowned golf course architects from all over the world. These high-standard golf courses are in fantastic, scenic landscapes away from the buzz of the city.
When planning to go golfing in the Caribbean, know that the experience is going to be fairly laid back, with beautiful ocean vistas and excellent halfway houses for you to unwind, drink and dine. Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, and Bermuda are dotted with the most golf courses among the Caribbean islands.
The Best Season for a Golfing Vacation in the Caribbean
The subtropical climate of the Caribbean is characterized by high temperatures and abundant sunshine. However, local conditions can vary substantially.
In general, avoid going for a golfing trip to the Bahamas from July to November since tropical depressions are frequent, and the hurricane season prevails. The rain and wind will likely disrupt your game.
If you plan on visiting the northern Caribbean, including Jamaica and the Dominican Republic for a golfing stay, it is best to head there between December and April. On the other hand, March to August is best suited to enjoy golf in the Leeward Antilles.
Your Island-Hopping Guide for the Best Caribbean “Golf-Cations”
Jamaica – Tryall Club Montego Bay Golf Course
The Montego Bay golf course is an integral part of the Tryall Club resort and winds through the estate on its approach to the Jamaican seaside. The challenging yet stunning course is known for its rich history and is dubbed one of the best Caribbean golf holiday destinations.
Three years after the club’s founding, renowned course architect Ralph Plummer was roped in to build a course that would complement the estate’s distinctive topography. The arrangement of the sugar plantation from the 17th century is skilfully combined with the seashore and other natural elements of the area in Plummer’s design, making the golf course even more outstanding.
The Montego Bay Golf Course at Tryall is open for anyone to play, whether you are a total beginner, a dedicated amateur, or an experienced golfer. The club has its own Golf Academy to ensure that passionate golfers receive the competent instruction they require to develop their game. At the same time, the exclusivity of the resort, set in a verdant landscape, allows golfers to play in solitude and take in the scenery.
The Bahamas – Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Course
Situated in The Bahamas, the Sandals Emerald Bay is a par 72 championship golf resort designed by Greg Norman. Both novice and expert players will enjoy the breath taking scenery on this course, which includes mangroves, beach dunes, and dramatic and difficult fairways.
The 7,0001 yards long championship course is dotted with bunkers and features a golf shop and practice area, among other attractions. Golf carts and rentals are available. The Great Exuma resort, of which the golf course is a part, also includes 11 dining options for tourists, opulent lodgings, and fantastic night entertainment options for a fun-filled stay.
Dominican Republic – Teeth of the Dog Golf Course
The Teeth of the Dog golf course is the perfect location for a round of golf if you’re in the Dominican Republic. The 7,350-yard, par 72 course is situated in the Casa de Campo Resort in La Romana and was designed by renowned golf course designer Pete Dye.
The golf also stands out due to its handy location and stunning surroundings dotted with challenging spots where you may make interesting shots. Seven of the holes on this course are near the ocean, and the remaining eleven are dispersed over the undulating hills.
Curacao – Old Quarry Golf Course
Willemstad, Curaçao is home to the renowned Old Quarry Golf Course – a must-visit for the keen golfer. Pete Dye, an American golf course architect, designed this 6,946-yard, par-72 course that combines scenic beauty with a challenging experience.
The best part is that golfers of all ability levels can benefit from Old Quarry’s engaging, difficult, and even forgiving layout with varied topography and landscape. Golfers are also in for a visual treat with the Tafelberg mountain, Spanish Water Harbor, and vast ocean visible from the course. The course is also dotted with amenities like club rentals, a pro golf shop, and a restaurant to improve the experience.
Planning to Head to the Caribbean for Golfing?
The Caribbean is a great destination for ardent golfers seeking milder weather for their game, while still close to the USA. Golf enthusiasts visiting the Caribbean will also benefit from the region’s mouth-watering cuisine, warm sunny beaches, and picturesque locations for rest. The top Caribbean golf courses also provide all the necessary elements for a true challenge or a nice, unwinding vacation game.
Playing golf has never been more opulent with beautiful tropical scenery and brilliant sunshine than in the Caribbean. If you are planning to head to the islands for a “golf-cation”, do make sure to look up the best Caribbean golf destinations for an entire week honing your game or just another weekend getaway.
