With some of the best courses in the Caribbean, Jamaica is a dream golf destination. Think gorgeous ocean views, sweeping fairways, and sprawling golf villas conveniently located near your course of choice. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay, when to go, and what to do. In this post, I’ll go over how you can plan the perfect Jamaica golf vacation.
Why Choose a Jamaica Golf Vacation
Golf courses in Jamaica are a rare breed. You have lush tropical landscapes, both mountain and sea views, and that unmistakably relaxed Jamaican vibe. Tee times are also easier to come by than in other destinations, even in high season. Despite all that, though, golf here is still serious business, with courses designed by legends like Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Ralph Plummer. No matter your desired challenge level, you’ll find a course here for you.
Why Stay in a Villa for a Jamaica Golf Vacation
A villa will allow you to take your Jamaica golf vacation to the next level. For one, Jamaica villas are fully staffed. Picture enjoying a fresh breakfast at your villa right before your tee time, and then getting back to a custom lunch, all prepared by your private chef. Villa living lets you truly personalize your trip and enjoy a level of privacy you won’t find elsewhere.
Plus, lots of our Jamaica golf villas are located directly on or beside some of the best golf courses in Jamaica. That includes Tryall Club, Rose Hall, Half Moon, and more. There’s nothing more convenient than staying right beside these courses, allowing you to easily set up multiple tee times if you want.
Speaking of which, your Concierge is always available to book tee times, reserve carts, and even arrange club rentals. They’re like your personal caddy throughout the trip (they can also reserve those too).
Fairway Manor – Montego Bay
Best Time to Go on a Jamaica Golf Vacation
The best time to go on a Jamaica golf vacation is usually from mid-December to April. That’s when the weather is at its peak, with sunny blue skies and low humidity.
That said, Jamaica is still a year-round golf destination. Shoulder season in May, June, or November is an especially good time to go on a Jamaica golf vacation because you’ll get more tee times and the courses are quieter.
You can always golf from July to November, but be aware there’s a higher risk of rain. If you do visit at this time, book earlier tee times and pack some light rain gear.
Where to Stay for a Jamaica Golf Vacation
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is Jamaica’s golf capital. Aside from the legendary courses you can find here, Montego Bay villas are a big reason why this is such a great golf destination. Villas here are directly on or beside the course, allowing you to easily rest and recharge between games. Some of the best places to rent fold villas in Montego Bay include:
Tryall Club
A par-72 masterpiece with rolling fairways and ocean drives, Tryall Club offers plenty of unique challenges, including a drive over the ruins of an aqueduct. Plus, our Tryall Club villas are located directly within the gates of the club, so you have easy access to the course, as well as to beach clubs, tennis courts, great restaurants, and more.
Best for:
- Golfers who want to roll out of bed and onto the first tee
- Repeat guests looking for a familiar golf environment
Tryall Club Villa Pick
4 bed, 4 bath
Sleeps 8
From $1,429/night
Featuring stunning ocean views, Seaspray is an elevated take on the traditional Jamaican beach house. It features Caribbean architectural features, a single-level design, and fun extras like table tennis and shuffleboard. Three of the bedrooms are in the main villa, and the fourth is in a separate cottage for additional privacy.
Seaspray – Tryall Club
Half Moon
Another renowned club and resort, Half Moon features a Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed championship course that’s known for its walkability. It also features tight fairways, deep bunkers, and gorgeous Caribbean views. A strong caddie program rounds out the experience.
Half Moon is Best For:
- Golfers who appreciate walkability and traditional design
- Guests who want a quieter alternative to Tryall
Half Moon Villa Pick
5 bed, 6 bath
Sleeps 10
From $2,600/night
A guest favorite, BougainVilla is a delightful mix of dramatic architecture, lush landscaping, and modern amenities. From breathtaking water features to the local artwork that adorns the villa, there’s a delightful surprise around every corner. It’s all tied together by an open concept design that maximizes spaciousness and natural light.
BougainVilla – Half Moon
Rose Hall
A lush estate just east of Montego Bay, Rose Hall is home to two scenic courses: Cinnamon Hill and White Witch Golf Course. Cinnamon Hill winds through historic sugar plantation ruins and offers dramatic sea views, while White Witch is a hilltop course with challenging elevation changes. Between the two, you’ll have enough variety no matter your skill level.
Rose Hall is Best For:
- Gofers who want to try multiple courses without changing locations
- Players who enjoy elevation changes
Rose Hall Villa Pick
4 bed, 4+1 bath
Sleeps 12
From $1,500/night
An open-concept villa, The Vacation Haven features a large outdoor pool deck with a grill area and beach bar. There’s also a comfortable living room, a gourmet kitchen, and more. Plus the full staff includes chef, housekeepers, and a butler, allowing for a truly relaxed getaway.
The Vacation Have – Rose Hall
Runaway Bay
If you’re looking for a destination that has a bit more of that secluded tropical feel, then Runaway Bay is a perfect option. The Runaway Bay Golf Club is scenic and rarely busy, making it a perfect place to play with friends and family who play less often. Plus Runaway Bay villas are renowned for their beachfront locations, allowing for the ideal beach and golf holiday.
Runaway Bay is Best For:
- Groups with different skill levels, including novices
- Golfers who want a beachfront villa and laid-back golf
Runaway Bay Villa Pick
7 bed, 6+1 bath
Sleeps 16
From $2,286/night
If you’re bringing the family along for your Jamaica golf vacation, then Breakaway Villa is the ultimate villa pick. A recently constructed beachfront masterpiece, it has everything you need for a perfect stay (and to be able to slip away for a few hours unnoticed). There are beach kayaks, snorkeling, a 35-foot pool, a games room, a large atrium, water features, a private gym, and so much more. Add in a full, attentive staff, and you don’t even need to leave this villa if you don’t want to.
Breakaway Villa – Runaway Bay
Ocho Rios
Lastly, if you want a Jamaica golf vacation that’s packed with other activities as well, consider Ocho Rios. You have the Sandals Golf and Country Club, which offers a relaxed round with great views. Plus, you’re near attractions like Dunn’s River Falls and Blue Hall, and Ocho Rios villas often have beautiful pool and beach areas.
Ocho Rios is Best for:
- Golfers who want a varied trip with a bit of everything
- Groups of families splitting time between activities
Ocho Rios Villa Pick
5 bed, 5+1 bath
Sleeps 10
From $3,000/night
Located along a half-moon beach in Old Fort Bay, Villa Lido is a modern villa with a dynamic, elegant design. The pool area blends seamlessly into the beach, while the interior pulses with a cool, elegant sense of comfort. There’s also tennis, pickleball, and basketball in case you want a break from golf.
Villa Lido – Ocho Rios
More Tips for a Perfect Jamaica Golf Vacation
- Book your tee times early. Securing your times in advance ensures the best slots, especially during high season.
- Ask your Concierge to coordinate. From tee times to club rentals and lessons, your Rental Escapes Concierge can handle all the logistics. Your Concierge can also assist you in coordinating custom meals, private transportation, excursions, and more.
- Pack light golf gear. You’ll likely be playing in warm, humid weather, so opt for breathable polos, quick-dry shorts, and spikeless shoes.
- Consider a villa with a driver. If you’re not staying in the same resort as the course, your Concierge can arrange private drivers to get you to and from the course stress-free.
- Plan non-golf days. Jamaica’s beaches, waterfalls, and coastline are too good to miss. Your Concierge can help you plan boat charters, excursions, and more.
Let Us Help You Plan Your Jamaica Golf Vacation
No matter your group’s skill level, Rental Escapes can help you put together the perfect Jamaica golf vacation. Our portfolio includes the finest golf villas, and our Concierge can make sure everything from tee times to custom meals is taken care of. Contact us today for a personalized recommendation.
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