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Writer's pictureJonathan & Angela

Sandals Golf Resorts - The Best in the Caribbean for 2024


Sandals Golf

Enthusiasts looking for the perfect combination of challenging courses, scenic views, and top-tier amenities will find Sandals Resorts an ideal golfing destination. Surrounded by natural beauty, Sandals aren't just about beaches and exceptional service. They also offers a comprehensive all-inclusive golf experience at the best Sandals resorts catering to every level of play.


Key Highlights:

  • Exclusive Course Designs by Professional Golf Course Architects: Experience courses crafted by golf legend Greg Norman. Featuring the longest course in the Caribbean at Sandals Emerald Bay.

  • Panoramic Caribbean Settings: Each round is set against landscapes with seaside dunes and scenic peninsulas.

  • All-Inclusive Golf: Sandals Resorts in the Bahamas, Jamaica, and St Lucia provide all-inclusive golf packages for both novice and seasoned players.

  • Complimentary green fees

  • Complimentary round-trip transfers from nearby Sandals Resorts

  • Access to group golf clinics and full-service clubhouses


Whether you're planning a vacation with golf at its core or hoping to enjoy a few leisurely rounds in a breathtaking setting, Sandals Resorts brings world-class golfing with the convenience and luxury of an all-inclusive stay. This guide is designed to help you navigate the golfing opportunities across Sandals' destinations, highlighting essential information for the most informed golf vacation.


We hope that you find this information helpful. Should you have any questions, please reach out to us! We look forward to speaking with you!


Jonathan & Angela


 
Golf in Jamaica

Perfect Fairways and Ocean Views: Golf in Jamaica

Jamaica, renowned for its culture and stunning landscapes, is home to one of the Caribbean's finest golfing experiences. Located at the Upton Estate Golf & Country Club in Ocho Rios you'll find world-class golfing opportunities.


Upton Estate Golf & Country Club


Elevated Play with Breathtaking Views

700 feet above sea level, the Sandals Upton Estate Golf & Country Club offers an unparalleled golfing experience. First established as a 9-hole course in 1951 and designed by P.K. Saunders, this was extended to a full 18-hole track in the early 1960s. In 1992, Sandals Resorts acquired the course and changed the greens to Bermuda grass.


This par 72 resort-style course stretches over a rolling landscape with panoramic views of the sea and mountains, offering a visually stunning view for every swing. Its strategic layout features narrow fairways and challenging drop-off greens, and the course promises an engaging round for golfers of all skill levels.


Key Features of the Course:

  • 18-hole, resort-style course: Offers three sets of tees to accommodate different skill levels.

  • Yardage: Measures 6,404 yards from the longest tees.

  • Design: The course layout is designed to challenge players with its narrow fairways and small greens.


Complimentary Services for Sandals Guests

Sandals Resorts in Jamaica ensures that guests have everything they need to enjoy their golfing experience to the fullest.


Included in Your Stay:

  • Complimentary Green Fees: All guests staying at Sandals Resorts in Jamaica enjoy complimentary green fees, making it easy to hit the links.

  • Transfers: Sandals Ochi, Sandals Royal Plantation, and Sandals Dunn's River offer free round-trip transfers, ensuring hassle-free access to the course.

  • Golf Clinics: Weekly group golf clinics are offered.



Exclusive Services at Upton Estate

To complement the offerings, Upton Estate Golf & Country Club provides additional services such as equipment rentals and personalized instruction.


Enhance Your Game:

  • Equipment Rentals: At the pro shop, Guests can rent golf carts, caddies, Titleist golf clubs, and FootJoy spikeless golf shoes for an additional fee.

  • Private Lessons: For those looking to improve their skills, private lessons with a golf professional are available. These lessons offer personalized instruction tailored to each player's needs.

    • Rates are as follows:

    • 30 minutes                      US $100.00

    • 60 minutes                      US $180.00

    • 90 minutes                      US $260.00


USGA Course Ratings:

  • Blue Tee:

    • Course Rating: 70.90

    • Slope Rating: 128

    • Yardage: 6,404 yd

  • White Tee:

    • Course Rating: 70.90

    • Slope Rating: 125

    • Yardage: 6,054 yd

  • Red Tee:

    • Course Rating: 70.90

    • Slope Rating: 120

    • Yardage: 4,961 yd


The Upton Estate Golf & Country Club in Jamaica offers a comprehensive Sandals golfing experience that combines challenging play with the stunning beauty of the Caribbean. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just beginning, the courses at Sandals Jamaica promise an unforgettable golf vacation.


 

Sandals Golf in St Lucia

Tropical Breezes: Golf in St Lucia

Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia offers two distinct golf experiences: The challenging La Toc Golf Course situated on Sandals Regency La Toc and the award-winning Cap Estate Golf & Country Club. Each course presents challenges and scenic beauty, making Saint Lucia a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.


A Tale of Two Courses

La Toc Golf Course

  • Location: Directly on-property at Sandals Regency La Toc, offering the convenience of stepping out from your room onto the course.

  • Features: This 9-hole executive course stretches to 3,300 yards with a par of 33, providing a challenging yet enjoyable game for golfers of all skill levels. The course layout takes full advantage of Saint Lucia's hilly terrain, offering stunning views and exciting elevation changes.


Cap Estate Golf & Country Club

  • Location: A short transfer from the Sandals Resorts, this 18 hole Greg Norman designed course is known for its meticulous maintenance and breathtaking surroundings.

  • Features: Spanning over 7,000 yards with a par of 71, the course is designed to challenge golfers with its varied terrain, strategic hazards, and stunning ocean views. The Cap Estate Sandals Golf Country Club is a test of skill and precision, making it a favorite among guests.


Complimentary Services for Resort Guests

Sandals Resorts in St Lucia goes above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable golfing experience with a range of complimentary services:

  • Green Fees: Guests enjoy complimentary green fees at both courses, which allow them to enjoy unlimited golfing during their stay.

  • Transfers: Complimentary round-trip transfers from nearby Sandals Resorts ensure that course access is seamless and hassle-free.

  • Golf Clinics: Weekly group golf clinics provide valuable tips and techniques to improve your game.


Exclusive Services for an Enhanced Experience

For those looking to elevate their golfing experience, a variety of services and amenities are available at an additional cost:

  • Golf Carts and PGA Lessons: While golf carts are mandatory for play, they offer a convenient way to navigate the expansive courses. To refine your skills, private golf lessons with PGA professionals can also be arranged.

  • Mandatory Caddies are priced as followed:

    • 18 holes walking, $20 USD per bag 

    • 9 holes walking, $15 USD per bag

    • 18 holes, shared cart, $30 per caddie

    • 9 holes, shared cart, $20 per caddie 

    • 18 holes, Ezgo golf carts, $40

    • 9 holes, Ezgo golf carts, $25

  • Equipment Rentals: High-quality Titleist club rentals and FootJoy shoe rentals ensure you have the best gear for your game. Each golf club rental comes with a complimentary sleeve of Titleist Pro V1 golf balls.

    • FootJoy® shoe rental       US $20.00

    • Range access                     US $25.00

      • (Includes Titleist® Tour Practice Range Balls for practice area)

    • Titleist® club rental          US $75.00

      • (Includes complimentary sleeve of Titleist® Pro V1 golf balls–3-count for course play)

  • Practice Facilities: Access to the driving range and putting green includes Titleist Tour Practice Range Balls.


By offering a mix of challenging play, breathtaking settings, and unparalleled convenience, golfing in St Lucia at Sandals Resorts represents a pinnacle experience for golfers. Whether you're a seasoned player looking to test your skills on challenging fairways or a beginner eager to learn in a picturesque setting, St Lucia's golf offerings cater to every level of enthusiasm and expertise.


 

Golf at Sandals Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay Golf Course: Golfing in the Bahamas


World-Class Golfing Experience

Greg Norman's design prowess is on full display at the Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Course. Having earned acclaim in Golf Digest as one of the Caribbean's most picturesque ocean-side golf courses, this 18-hole, par 72 championship course stretches over 7,001 yards and offers a diverse and challenging round for golfers of all skill levels.


Course Highlights:

  • Diverse Layout: The front nine weaves through a stunning combination of seaside dunes and mangroves, while the back nine presents a dramatic play along the rocky edges of Emerald Bay with challenging fairways and greens.

  • Five Sets of Tees: The course offers five sets of tees, catering to golfers of varying abilities and ensuring an enjoyable game for everyone.


Complimentary Services for an Unmatched Experience

Guests at Sandals Emerald Bay can enjoy various complimentary services designed to enhance their golfing adventure.


Included Offerings:

  • Green Fees: These are complimentary for all guests booking a tee time. Here players are invited to enjoy unlimited rounds during their stay.

  • Golf Clinics: Weekly group clinics are hosted at no extra cost. They are perfect for beginners wanting to learn the basics or seasoned players looking to fine-tune their skills.


Exclusive Services Tailored for Golfers

To further elevate the golfing experience, several additional services and amenities are available:


  • Golf Carts: While mandatory for play, they facilitate easy navigation of the expansive course, with rates accommodating up to two persons.

  • Premium Rentals & Amenities:

  • FootJoy Shoe Rental: Ensuring comfort and performance on the course.

  • Titleist Golf Club Rental: Offering best in class equipment with a complimentary sleeve of Titleist Pro V1 golf balls for course play.

  • Range Access: Available for practice before hitting the fairways, including premium Titleist Tour Practice Range Balls.

  • Private Lessons: Tailored instruction from golf professionals is available. Catering to those looking to elevate their game, with sessions designed to offer personalized guidance and strategies.

    • Rates as follows:

    • - 30 minutesUS $100.00

    • - 60 minutesUS $180.00

    • - 90 minutesUS $260.00


Course Ratings Reflect Excellence

The USGA course ratings for both ladies and gentlemen underscore the quality and challenge presented by the Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Course. These ratings highlight the course's competitive layout and affirm its status as a top-tier golfing destination.


Course Ratings for Ladies:

  • White Tee:

    • Course Rating: 72.9

    • Slope Rating: 131

    • Yardage: 5,642 yd

  • Red Tee:

    • Course Rating: 70.1

    • Slope Rating: 122

    • Yardage: 5,122 yd

Course Ratings for Gentlemen:

  • Emerald Tee:

    • Course Rating: 74.1

    • Slope Rating: 140

    • Yardage: 7,001 yd

  • Black Tee:

    • Course Rating: 72.1

    • Slope Rating: 133

    • Yardage: 6,606 yd

  • Blue Tee:

    • Course Rating: 69.9

    • Slope Rating: 122

    • Yardage: 6,171 yd

  • White Tee:

    • Course Rating: 67.6

    • Slope Rating: 116

    • Yardage: 5,642 yd


Golfing at the Emerald Bay Golf Course in the Bahamas offers an unparalleled blend of sport and scenery. With Greg Norman's signature design, comprehensive services, and the stunning views of Great Exuma, it is a pinnacle golfing experience in the Caribbean.


 

Caribbean Golf at Sandals

Unforgettable Golf Rounds Across the Caribbean

Golfing at Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and the Bahamas offers more than just a game—it's a journey through some of the Caribbean's most beautiful landscapes, matched with unparalleled golfing experiences.


From the challenging fairways of the Upton Estate Golf & Country Club in Jamaica to the serene beauty of Saint Lucia's courses and the breathtaking ocean-side vistas at Emerald Bay in the Bahamas, each destination presents a unique set of experiences for every golfer.


As you consider your next golf vacation, envision clear blue skies, lush green fairways, and the warm Caribbean breeze on your face as you tee off. Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and the Bahamas await you to offer you the ultimate golfing experience wrapped in the beauty and luxury of the Caribbean.


 

About the Authors


Jonathan & Angela

Jonathan and Angela


Based out of Atlanta, GA Rivage Travel is a boutique travel consultant group dedicated to providing personalized travel experiences. Owned by husband and wife duo Jonathan and Angela, our love for travel brought us together during a trip to Sydney, Australia. Our work is based on over 15 years of professional experience, hundreds of hours of travel industry certifications and training. We've been honored by Sandals Resorts as a top US travel agent with their highest honor of a Sandals Chairman's Club Diamond Elite travel expert and look forward to using our experience to earn your business today and in the future.

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