When avid golfers dream of the perfect holiday in the sun, the picture painted usually involves tall, leaning coconut palm trees, brilliant red sunsets, sugary sand beaches, and boundless crystal blue waters. There’s actually nothing like jetting off to the Tropics to relax, unwind, recharge and enjoy a leisurely round.
If you are looking to follow the footsteps of golfing legends, then afterward sink your little toes into pure white sands, pack your bags, escape the cold, and head to the Caribbean, the perfect place for sun, sea and golf. Courses designed by some of the greatest golf architects of our times continue to spring up around the Caribbean, and the region now boasts some of the best courses in the hemisphere.
From the Scottish-style links courses of the Bahamas to the breathtaking cliff hangers of the Dominican Republic, a golf trip to these marvelous islands has something for every golf enthusiast to enjoy.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is the Caribbean’s top golf destination, boasting some of the most picturesque seaside golf courses in the world. The DR, which makes up the eastern half of the island of Hispaniola, still has an unfussy charm, perfect for golfers looking for a luxe yet casual getaway.
The perfect place to tee off with friends and family, world renowned Casa de Campo Resort on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic is home to three of the best golf courses in the Caribbean, all designed by American golf course designer Pete Dye: The Links, Dye Fore and the famed Teeth of the Dog (pictured below), an 18-hole masterpiece, with seven seaside holes and innumerable challenging shots. Knocking down shots around a golf course of such exceptional quality is a true VIP experience.
A must-play 18-hole championship course, Tom Fazio’s Corales Golf Punta Cana (pictured below) opened in 2010, and features six seaside holes set on white rocky cliffs next to the aquamarine Caribbean Sea. Soak in splendid views over the sparkling sea and wend your way through palm-fringed beaches and tropical surroundings as you take your golf cart from tee to tee.
From basking in the golden sun to playing at the most stunning seaside golf courses you have ever been to, you are sure to have a golf vacation you’ll never stop daydreaming about.
Furthermore, unlike far-flung Caribbean destinations that require three or even four flights, there are direct flights from all over the world to the Dominican Republic’s primary airport, Punta Cana International.
Bahamas
There’s never been a better time to visit the crystal-clear sapphire waters of the Bahamas. Copious sunshine, gentle sea breezes, delicious tropical drinks, white sand beaches, and 14 superb golf courses, all go to make the Bahamas the ideal choice for a sun-filled golf vacation.
The Bahamas has hundreds of islands, which boast championship courses that regularly host world-class tournaments and stand up to the best in the world.
Puerto Rico
What’s not to love about the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico? A gold mine of staggering natural beauty, this sun-splashed island has it all – beautiful beaches, flavorsome cuisine, emerald-green forests, colorful coral reefs, 23 fabulous golf courses, and year-round blue skies and warm weather.
Barbados
Despite being a mere dot on the world map, Barbados, the most easterly of the Caribbean islands, has got huge character. Once a hideaway for the elite, Barbados now lures a varied mix of visitors, with award-winning hotels, a great foodie scene, unspoilt beaches, and 8 stunning tropical golf courses, designed for novice golfers and experienced players alike.
In terms of golf, Barbados has some excellent golf courses that won’t break the bank. An all-year activity, golf in Barbados benefits immensely from the subtropical climate and bright sunlight mitigated by cooling sea breezes that make for an additional challenge to any round.
Jamaica
One of the most popular golfing destinations in the Caribbean, the gorgeous island of Jamaica gave us reggae music, Bob Marley, Blue Mountain coffee, majestic waterfalls, the world’s fastest sprinters, and 12 spectacular golf courses, created in harmony with the sweeping landscape. Great golf is never off-season in this knockout Caribbean destination.
Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate golfer, advanced or even a pro, make the most of your golf vacation to improve your putting technique and refine your swing. Happy golfing!
Article by Jessica Maggi
