The Ultimate Guide to Barbados Golf Courses

Barbados Golf: 5 Top Courses

Barbados offers a range of exceptional golf clubs, each with its own unique features and breathtaking views. Keep reading to learn about 5 Barbados golf courses to fit into your schedule while relaxing in the Caribbean.

This table provides an overview of the golf clubs in Barbados, highlighting their locations, design, unique features, and additional information about each club. It offers valuable information for golf enthusiasts looking to explore the exceptional golfing experiences available on the island.

Golf ClubLocationDesignUnique FeaturesAdditional Information
Barbados Golf ClubWest CoastDesigned by Ron KirbySignature hole: Par 3 16th with large coral stone quarryFirst public championship golf course on the island
Apes Hill ClubCenter of the islandMeticulously designed course with panoramic viewsIntegration of natural elements and historic ruinsProvides an incredible 360-degree view of the island
Royal WestmorelandWest CoastDesigned by Robert Trent Jones Jr.Strategic layout with stunning sea viewsOffers luxury amenities and high-quality service
Sandy Lane Country ClubWest coastTom Fazio-designed courses outside of North AmericaOld Quarry course with panoramic views of the Caribbean SeaLuxury amenities and top-notch service
Rockley Golf ClubResidential area9-hole course with alternating teesNarrow fairways, small greens, and welcoming communityOne of the oldest golf courses in Barbados, offers a par-35 front nine and par-37 back nine

1. Barbados Golf Club

Barbados Golf Club

Barbados Golf Club, situated on the southern coast of the island, is a treasure for both casual and seasoned golfers. The club, which was opened in 2000, was the first public championship golf course on the island. Designed by Ron Kirby, it integrates some of the island’s natural features, like the coral stone quarries, with carefully planned water features and greens. The 18-hole course provides a perfect blend of challenge and enjoyment.

As a visitor, you can’t help but be impressed by the level of detail that has gone into maintaining the course. Plus, there’s the unique signature hole, the 16th, which is an exciting Par 3 where you need to skillfully negotiate a large coral stone quarry. From the well-maintained greens to the stunning clubhouse, the Barbados Golf Club ensures that every guest gets a premium golfing experience.

  • Location: Barbados Golf Club is conveniently situated on the southern coast of Barbados, making it accessible to both locals and tourists.
  • Design: Designed by Ron Kirby, the club retains elements of the natural landscape such as coral stone quarries which have been deftly incorporated into the course design.
  • Unique Features: Its signature hole, the 16th, is a standout. This Par 3 hole requires golfers to navigate a large coral stone quarry, offering an exciting challenge.
  • Ambiance: The club maintains an atmosphere of sophistication while ensuring comfort for all its guests. The well-tended greens and impressive clubhouse offer a premium golfing experience.

2. Apes Hill Club

Apes Hill Club

Venturing towards the center of the island, you’ll find the prestigious Apes Hill Club. This club offers an extraordinary 470-acre golf course that presents an incredible 360-degree view of the island. From here, you can see both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, making for a truly scenic golfing experience.

The Apes Hill course is meticulously designed, combining a love for the sport with an appreciation for nature. The course caters to golfers of all skill levels and is unique for its natural and topographical diversity. It integrates tropical forests, deep gullies, and even historic ruins into its design, thus providing an unforgettable golfing adventure.

  • Location: Positioned in the middle of the island, Apes Hill Club boasts spectacular panoramic views, with vistas of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Design: The 470-acre golf course integrates natural elements like tropical forests, gullies, and historic ruins, making for a truly unique golfing experience.
  • Difficulty Level: The course is designed to cater to golfers of all skill levels, providing varied challenges throughout its diverse terrain.
  • Unique Features: The club’s integration of topographical diversity sets it apart, blending a love for golf with an appreciation for nature.

3. Royal Westmoreland

Royal Westmoreland

Located on the west coast of Barbados, the Royal Westmoreland presents a remarkable blend of luxury and sport. Designed by the renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., the 18-hole course incorporates the island’s natural features and stunning views into its challenging terrain.

The Royal Westmoreland is known for its strategic layout, where each hole presents a unique challenge, requiring careful planning and shot selection. But the rewards are equally enticing – think panoramic sea views from every hole and the cool trade winds as your personal caddy. It’s not just a golf course; it’s a testament to the island’s beauty and a real treat for any golf enthusiast.

  • Location: Set on the scenic west coast of Barbados, the Royal Westmoreland offers breathtaking sea views from every hole.
  • Design: Crafted by architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., the 18-hole course leverages the natural beauty and topography of the island to create a unique challenge.
  • Difficulty Level: Each hole presents a unique challenge, demanding careful planning and strategic shot selection.
  • Unique Features: Beyond the golf, the Royal Westmoreland provides luxury amenities and high-quality service, enhancing the overall experience.

4. Sandy Lane Country Club

Sandy Lane Country Club

The Sandy Lane Country Club, home to the only Tom Fazio-designed courses outside of North America, offers a golfing experience like no other. Known for its Old Quarry course, the club provides golfers with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and breathtaking scenes of the island.

A unique feature of the course is the 5th hole, which boasts an elevated tee and an uphill drive, culminating in a green ensconced by imposing mahogany trees. Its other two courses, the Green Monkey and the Country Club, are equally captivating and have become icons on the international golf scene. The luxury amenities and top-notch service only add to the allure of the Sandy Lane Country Club.

  • Location: Sandy Lane Country Club is renowned for its views of the Caribbean Sea and the picturesque island landscape.
  • Design: Home to the only Tom Fazio-designed courses outside of North America, the club takes pride in its well-designed Old Quarry course.
  • Unique Features: The 5th hole stands out with its elevated tee and uphill drive, leading to a green surrounded by imposing mahogany trees.
  • Luxury Experience: Sandy Lane offers more than just golf, with luxury amenities and top-notch service contributing to its prestige on the international golf scene.

5. Rockley Golf Club

Rockley Golf Club

If you’re seeking a blend of history and challenge, then the Rockley Golf Club is the place to be. As one of the oldest golf courses in Barbados, Rockley presents a 9-hole course with alternating tees that can effectively be played as an 18-hole course. Its par-35 front nine and par-37 back nine make for an interesting game for golfers of all levels.

Nestled among a residential area, the course offers unique challenges in the form of narrow fairways lined by mature trees and small greens that require precision. After a game, you can head to the clubhouse to enjoy local delicacies or simply to socialize with the welcoming community of golfers.

  • Location: As one of the oldest golf courses in Barbados, Rockley Golf Club is steeped in history.
  • Design: The 9-hole course, with alternating tees for an 18-hole experience, has a unique layout with narrow fairways lined by mature trees and small greens.
  • Difficulty Level: The layout of the course offers unique challenges, requiring precision and strategy, catering to golfers of all levels.
  • Community Atmosphere: After a game, golfers can unwind at the clubhouse, known for its welcoming community and local culinary delights.

FAQ

FAQ

Is Barbados Good For Golf?

Barbados is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, offering a variety of courses that cater to all skill levels. These courses provide breathtaking views, blending the island’s natural beauty with challenging layouts, and are designed by notable architects such as Ron Kirby and Tom Fazio.

Is Golf Expensive In Barbados?

The cost of golf in Barbados varies depending on the course and the time of year. While some premier clubs like Sandy Lane and Royal Westmoreland are on the pricier end, public courses like the Barbados Golf Club provide more affordable options. Rental equipment and caddy services may also affect the overall cost.

How Many Golf Courses Are There In Barbados?

Barbados boasts a collection of exceptional golf courses, with five main ones that attract global attention. These include the Barbados Golf Club, Apes Hill Club, Royal Westmoreland, Sandy Lane Country Club, and Rockley Golf Club. Each offers unique features, ranging from panoramic ocean views to historical significance.

How Much Is Golf In Barbados?

The price of playing golf in Barbados can range from affordable to high-end. Green fees at public courses like the Barbados Golf Club can start from as low as $60, while more exclusive clubs like Sandy Lane may charge up to $240 or more. Prices may also vary with the season and the time of day.

Where Does The PGA Play In The Caribbean?

The PGA Tour doesn’t routinely hold events in the Caribbean, but some tournaments have taken place in the region. For example, the Puerto Rico Open is an official PGA Tour event. As for Barbados, it has hosted prestigious events like the World Golf Championships World Cup in 2006, which took place at the Sandy Lane Resort.

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