Barbados is fast becoming one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations for holidays and golf vacations. In fact, some might argue that the easternmost island in the Caribbean is one of the most exciting golfing destinations in the world. Thinking of a golf getaway with the boys? Barbados has a ton to offer, and the beautifully designed professional courses make it a perfect spot for a little golf vacation.
Barbados is a golfer’s paradise with several prestigious courses designed by top international golfers and highly reputable international golf architects. The island is small and all courses are within close driving distance of each other, making it possible to play all of the courses in just a short visit.
There’s a number of world-class golf courses and the island has played host to many local and major tournaments. In 2006, Barbados was host to the World Golf Championships World Cup, which was held at the slick Sandy Lane Resort. The five star beach-front resort, which opened in 1961, is situated close to Holetown and Paynes Bay and offers three challenging courses.
The course at the luxurious Royal Westmoreland Resort on the west side of the island is known for its beautiful setting. The course is one of noted golf course designer Robert Trent Jones Junior’s very best and it’s consistently rated as one of the top in the Caribbean thanks to: the tricky greens, ocean views from every hole, inviting halfway house and the amusing audience of resident monkeys. Golfers looking to sharpen their game and shave a shot or two off their next round can book private or group lessons with Royal Westmoreland’s renowned Director of Golf, Roger Beale (Beale represented Barbados in the 2006 World Cup of Golf and was Canadian Club Pro Champion in 2011).
Ready for your next stop? The nearby Apes Hill Club is one of the newest championship golf courses in the Caribbean. Imagine a challenging 18 hole course with multiple tees elevated to showcase the breathtaking west and east coast views.
Your final recommended stop? The revamped course at the Barbados Golf Club, located on the south side of the island. It’s an 18 hole Championship Course that’s open to the public and has been sanctioned by the PGA European Tour to host a tournament.
By: Jen Maier
