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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 10 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.
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.
Another 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. Regardless, golf at 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.
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 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. Only nine holes, it is set in luxurious rolling hills and is worth a visit for aficionados.
Other resorts in Jamaica such as Half Moon, Rose Hall, and Ironshore in Montego Bay, Breezes, and Sandals, include challenging and fun courses that cater to the golfer with a family.
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.
