Envisioning a summer getaway to the Caribbean typically entails images of tropical fruit cocktails, pristine sugar-sand beaches, lush sunkissed foliage and turquoise waterfront views.
However, there is a missing element – Caribbean golf. The chain of islands is known for its exotic flavors and scenery. Furthermore, the Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most premium golf amenities.
These golf courses entice golfers as they overlook a panorama of ocean cliffs, rich greenery, native wildlife and the quintessential tranquil feel.
So, if you are in the mood for 18 holes during your Caribbean vacation, next are some prominent Montego Bay golf courses. These are world-class and state-of-the-art, designed by some of the greatest names in the business – Palmer, Nicklaus, Dye, Robert Trent Jones and Von Haage.
White Witch at Rose Hall
This golf course is rated number one across the Caribbean by Conde Nast Traveler, and its proximity to the island’s landmark, Rose Hall Plantation, is the icing on the cake.
This course tumbles across rugged mountain terrain amidst a sapphire ocean milieu, making it as breathtaking as thrilling.
According to Jamaican folklore, the White Witch gets haunted by the plantation’s nineteenth-century mistress, layering evermore fascination and excitement onto the captivating history.
The golf course gets dotted with rock cropping, cut-by ravines, and ocean views at almost every hole. The course is alluringly dangerous and unpredictable, says designer Robert von Hagge. It is a par-71 and about 6,800 yards long.
The Half Moon Golf Course
This golf course resides in the tourist all-time favourite, Montego Bay. The Half Moon course was regarded as the best golf resort in the region by the Caribbean World magazine.
It was recently renovated to cater to the modern game. This course was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Senior, and modernised by Roger Rulewich.
Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa
This resort & spa renders an all-inclusive stay which includes golf and features great ocean and mountain views. Here, golfers can warm up on an open front nine before getting to the more challenging back nine filled with traps and dense foliage.
Cinnamon Hill Golf Course
Cinnamon Hill comprises diverse elevations that provide an excellent combination of links style and inland golf. Once here, you can feel the cool ocean spray on your cheeks while playing alongside the Caribbean Sea. Also, you can hear the wind whistling through the pines when teeing off on holes 350 feet above sea level.
Another peculiarity is the majestic waterfall. It is the site where James Bond’s movie, Live and Let Die, was shot. On hole number 14, one can spot the winter home of Johnny and June Cash, the country music superstar.
Constant Spring Golf Club
Established in 1902, the Constant Spring Golf Club is among the oldest in Jamaica. The course was originally a nine-hole course, transformed into an 18-hole one in the 1930s. The surrounding residential area has a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere.
It has a few challenges, but enjoyable to all players, irrespective of their calibre, skill levels and abilities. A peculiarly scenic view gets offered by hole 13, which also features a narrow fairway and steep valley.
To this end, the golf course is a hidden gem in the northern part of Kingston. Another aspect is the pro shop which comprises all the essentials.
Sandals Golf & Country Club
Designed by PK Saunders, this one is an 18-hole course. A 15-minute car ride from Ocho Rios, this course is nestled in the hills, 750 feet above sea level. The golf digest magazine granted it a four-star rating for courses to play while on vacation!
In June 1992, Sandals Resorts International purchased Upton Golf Club and created “the elite golf course” in Jamaica. Since then, the facility has grown to feature among the finest golf courses in the Caribbean, acknowledged by Golf Digest and Frommers Travel Guide.
The golf club stretches over a rolling landscape with views of the sea and mountains, reinforcing serenity.
