The Best Islands in the Caribbean for Playing Golf

The Caribbean is not only famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back lifestyle but also for being home to some of the most spectacular golf courses in the world. Golfers are increasingly drawn to the region not just for the sunshine but for the opportunity to tee off on courses designed by legends and framed by dramatic ocean backdrops. For those seeking both luxury and leisure, combining a stay in Villas Caribbean properties with world-class golfing creates the ultimate vacation experience. Villas offer privacy, comfort, and personalized service while placing you close to fairways that rival the finest in the United States and Europe. But which islands are best if golf is at the heart of your Caribbean escape?

• Barbados: Championship Golf with Island Charm

Barbados has established itself as a premier golfing destination in the Caribbean, attracting international tournaments and avid golfers alike. The most famous course is the Green Monkey at Sandy Lane, designed by Tom Fazio. Known for its dramatic views and carved limestone quarries, it’s widely regarded as one of the most exclusive courses in the region. The island also boasts the Country Club Course at Sandy Lane, offering scenic views of the Caribbean Sea, and the Apes Hill Club, set high in the hills with breezy fairways and panoramic island vistas. Barbados combines excellent golf with luxury living, fine dining, and family-friendly activities, making it ideal for golfers traveling with loved ones.

• Dominican Republic: The Golf Capital of the Caribbean

If golf is your main priority, the Dominican Republic is hard to beat. With over two dozen courses, it’s often called the “Golf Capital of the Caribbean.” The standout is Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo, designed by Pete Dye, which is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world. With holes running right along the shoreline, it offers both challenge and beauty in equal measure. Other notable courses include Punta Espada Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, and Dye Fore Golf Course, which winds through cliffs and valleys. The Dominican Republic’s combination of luxury resorts, villas, and plentiful golf makes it a top choice for serious players.

• Jamaica: Golf with a Cultural Twist

Jamaica combines its vibrant culture with an array of golf courses that suit a wide range of players. The most famous is the White Witch Golf Course in Montego Bay, built on the historic Rose Hall Estate. With stunning ocean views and challenging terrain, it’s considered one of the island’s must-play courses. Tryall Club is another highlight, boasting a championship-level course that has hosted international tournaments. Many villas in Jamaica are located within close proximity to these clubs, offering golfers the chance to enjoy a round in the morning and relax by their private pool in the afternoon. Add in Jamaica’s reggae beats, flavorful cuisine, and rich history, and you have an unforgettable golfing holiday.

• Bahamas: Island Hopping and Golfing Paradise

The Bahamas, with its spread of islands, offers some excellent opportunities for golf enthusiasts. The Ocean Club Golf Course on Paradise Island, designed by Tom Weiskopf, is famous for its challenging layout and panoramic ocean views. Another standout is the Albany Golf Course on New Providence Island, co-designed by Ernie Els and home to the PGA Tour’s Hero World Challenge. For those seeking more seclusion, the Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Course in Great Exuma, designed by Greg Norman, offers dramatic coastal holes and pristine fairways. With the Bahamas’ close proximity to the U.S. and its luxurious villas, it’s an excellent choice for golfers looking for a quick and unforgettable getaway.

• Puerto Rico: A Blend of U.S. Convenience and Caribbean Beauty

Puerto Rico is an excellent option for American travelers who want the Caribbean golf experience without leaving U.S. territory. The island has more than a dozen courses, many designed by legendary architects. TPC Dorado Beach East Course, originally crafted by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is one of the finest in the Caribbean. Another highlight is Coco Beach Golf Club, which has hosted the PGA Tour’s Puerto Rico Open. Puerto Rico also offers the added advantage of cultural richness, lively nightlife, and no need for passports for U.S. citizens, making it a convenient yet luxurious golfing destination.

• St. Kitts and Nevis: Undiscovered Golf Luxury

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path golf escape, St. Kitts and Nevis are perfect. The standout is the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club, set against the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, offering a rare chance to play a course with dual coastal views. Nevis also offers a fantastic course at the Four Seasons Resort, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, winding through volcanic slopes with breathtaking island panoramas. The quiet charm of these islands, combined with high-end villas and uncrowded courses, appeals to golfers who prefer a more relaxed pace.

• Turks and Caicos: Golf Meets Beach Paradise

While Turks and Caicos is best known for its turquoise waters and world-class beaches, it also offers an exceptional golfing experience. The Provo Golf Club on Providenciales has been repeatedly recognized as one of the best in the Caribbean. Its lush fairways, lagoons, and challenging greens provide a great test of skill. Families or couples who want to combine a beach vacation with golf will find Turks and Caicos appealing, as the island offers both tranquility and upscale living. Villas here often provide direct beach access, so guests can enjoy the perfect balance of seaside relaxation and golf.

• Choosing the Right Golf Island for You

The Caribbean provides an incredible variety of golfing experiences, from the championship courses of the Dominican Republic to the exclusivity of Barbados and the cultural richness of Jamaica. For golfers who crave variety, the Bahamas and Puerto Rico deliver both convenience and luxury. St. Kitts, Nevis, and Turks and Caicos offer quieter, less crowded experiences with equally stunning scenery.

Pairing golf with a villa stay ensures that you enjoy not just incredible courses but also privacy, space, and luxury living. Villas offer the freedom to relax in a home-away-from-home atmosphere, complete with private pools, chefs, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re planning a golf trip with friends, a family vacation, or a romantic escape, the Caribbean’s villas and courses provide the perfect combination.

When organizing such a trip, working with a reputable company makes all the difference. Exceptional Villas is recognized as one of the world’s most trusted villa rental companies, offering a carefully curated portfolio of luxury properties and dedicated concierge services. With their expertise, you can be confident that your golfing vacation in the Caribbean will be nothing short of extraordinary.