Recent years have seen a radical transformation in golf resorts in the Caribbean, which is quickly becoming a global epicenter for the game. There are more great places to stay and play than ever, from traditional golf-focused resorts to luxe hotels that also offer easy access to great nearby courses. That’s along with more and more tournaments coming to the region, on both the PGA and LPGA tour.
Caribbean golf is a singular experience, whether you’re on an inland track or playing right on the ocean’s edge. So many factors come into play, from wind to water, making it a unique kind of challenge.
The best golf resorts, though, combine a great golf resort with world-class accommodations. And we have you covered.
Here are our favorite golf resorts to visit right now in the Caribbean.
Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic This is the Caribbean capital of golf, with an unmatched offering of three championship courses all designed by the legendary Pete Dye, led by the world-famous Teeth of the Dog, a spectacular, challenging course that’s one of the most beautiful designs anywhere. And then there’s the resort, with a mix of rooms and villas, making this perfect for a family golf getaway or a larger trip with your golfing buddies.
Half Moon Perhaps Jamaica’s signature resort, this legendary property is within easy access to three courses, including its own flagship Robert Trent Jones Sr original, along with the Cinnamon Hill Golf Course and the White Witch golf course. And then there are the accommodations, led by the popular West Cottages, which once hosted the likes of Queen Elizabeth II.
Sandy Lane You can’t talk about the best golf resorts in the Caribbean without mentioning Sandy Lane, home to three world-class courses in the heart of Barbados’ wonderful Platinum Coast. That includes The Old Nine, The Country Club and the signature course at Sandy Lane, Green Monkey, a 7,343-yard stunner designed by Tom Fazio and carved right out of an old limestone quarry.
The Tryall Club, Jamaica It’s still one of Jamaica’s closely guarded secrets, but this villa resort in greater Montego Bay is, simply, golf paradise. The recently-transformed signature course here, designed by Ralph Plummer, is set on a 17th century sugar plantation. And it’s a great option for golfers of all skill levels — there’s even an onsite golf academy if you want to take some extra instruction during your stay. As for the accommodations, the villas are classic Jamaica, with full staffing, meaning you’ll never have to lift a finger.
Four Seasons Nevis You’ll instantly fall in love with this Robert Trent Jones II-designed course that blends the grounds of a former sugar plantation with spectacular ocean vistas. And then there’s the resort, long one of our favorites, blending high-level luxury with authentic Nevisian hospitality. Another cool feature? The course is filled with local green vervet monkeys, who often make for an entertaining gallery.
Santa Barbara Beach Resort, Curaçao You may not think of Curaçao as a golf destination. Think again. This family-friendly beachfront property is home to the Pete Dye-designed Old Quarry Golf Course, a stunning design with a mix of cliffside vistas, ocean holes and rolling hills.
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, Bahamas The massive Baha Mar complex is Las Vegas meets the Caribbean, with an impressive array of gambling, food and entertainment options, including Royal Blue, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Nassaus’ newest golf course is a must-visit for any Caribbean golf aficionado. As for the hotel, it’s a sleek, modern, well-appointed property that’s particularly good for couples.
Grand Isle, Bahamas In the breathtaking Exuma archipelago of The Bahamas, most people aren’t trying to avoid the water. But that’s exactly what you’ll be doing at the Emerald Reef Golf Club, a Greg Norman-designed stunner that’s adjacent to the lovely Grand Isle resort. The course is an intoxicating mix of ocean views, dunes and a hard-to-beat 18th hole.
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar, Puerto Rico Puerto Rico has long been an under-the-radar destination for golfers, highlighted by the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar, with a pair of championship courses managed by Troon Golf. There are two tracks: the Ocean Course, designed by Tom and George Fazio; and The River Course, designed by Greg Norman. And it’s all about 40 minutes from the airport in San Juan.
St Kitts Marriott It’s friendly, it’s beautiful and it’s home to one of the Caribbean’s best courses. St Kitts is an under-the-radar golf destination — but now’s the time to visit, thanks to the St Kitts Golf Club and the beachfront accommodations at the Marriott in the heart of Frigate Bay. Even better? The Royal Golf Academy is a wonderful place to improve your game.