Golf in Jamaica

Like most leisure activities on Jamaica, golfing provides another opportunity for the island's unique character and personality to shine through.

You can expect a golfing experience in Jamaica to be a departure from the typical North American links experience.  Although only eleven courses serve the entire country, each has its own distinct character.

A trip to Jamaican courses can guarantee, among other things, stellar service.  Caddies in Jamaica are expertly trained and very familiar with the nuances of their courses. Each golfer receives individual attention from his or her own caddie, unlike busier golf locations where caddies may be serving one or two golfers at once. It is also important to note that many clubs require that golfers have a caddie.  Expect to pay between $15 and $45(USD) for this service.

The main golfing area in Jamaica is the hub of Negril's all-inclusive resorts. Be warned, though, when considering golfing in Negril, that the area's players are predominantly inexperienced golfers. Rather, you'll encounter many first-timers, or once-a-year types.

Hit the Links

Tryall Golf Club

One of Jamaica's most serious golf locations is the Tryall Golf Club, about an hour west of Montego Bay. Founded by Texans in the 1950s, the resort is a collection of upscale homes owned by North Americans and Europeans. Tryall is a private resort area, and many golfers are also renters or owners of the resort's villas. If you opt out of staying at Tryall, a visit to their course may be arranged through hotel concierges. Staying at Round Hill Hotel, a small upscale hotel just east of Tryall, increases the ease with which such a visit can be arranged.

Negril Hills Golf Club

Negril Hills Golf Club is a rare and novel experience, as you travel up and down the elevated tees to the valley fairways, twisting and turning around the guango trees.  The course features 18 holes and a "liquormobile" that roams the links, ready to offer players a drink.

Sandals Golf and Country Club

Some of the best golf on the northern coast of Jamaica is at the Sandals Golf and Country Club. This golf area, formerly known as the Upton Country Club, was in a sad state of disrepair until Sandals purchased and revamped the area.

Manchester Club

Manchester Club is home to the Caribbean's oldest golf course. This golfer's treasure is found in the city of Mandeville on Jamaica's South Coast. Once only nine holes, it recently grew to have 18 holes.  It is set in luxurious rolling hills and is worth a visit for aficionados.

Caymanas Golf and Country Club

In the rolling foothills of St. Catherine lies the 18 hole championship golf course, Caymanas. On site golfers will find a driving range, putting greens, a golf pro, and a golf academy.

Half Moon

Just east of Montego Bay is the Half Moon Resort, which houses an 18-hole course that is home to the Red Stripe Pro Am.  Lessons can be obtained at the on-site David Leadbetter Golf Academy in the form of private sessions and week-long retreats. 

Rose Hall Resort and Country Club

Rose Hall Resort and Country Club is an 18 hole course called Cinnamin Hill Ocean Course that hosts numerous invitational tournaments each year.   This course has been previously ranked as one of the top in the world.

Breezes Rio Bueno Golf Club

Breezes Rio Bueno Golf Club is one of the clubs in Jamaica that does not require golfers to have a caddie.  The course features lush vegetation on 18-holes. 

SuperClubs Golf Club

Runaway Bay is home to the 18 hold SuperClubs Golf Club, which is home to a golf academy and hosts several championships a year.

SuperClubs Ironshore Golf and Country Club

Near the Montego Bay airport, SuperClubs Ironshore is an 18 hole course with a pro shop, restaurant, and bar on property. 

White Witch at Ritz-Carlton Golf and Spa Resort

White Witch is Jamaica's newest addition to the gold scene.  It is an 18 hole championship course built on the grounds of the historic Rose Hall Great House.

Golfing on the island of Jamaica is a relaxed activity that generally does not require reservations or advanced booking. Making an impromptu decision to hit the links should be easy and can help open your leisure-activity options.