Characteristics

Compared to the St. Lucia course, Sandals Golf and Country Club in Oho Rios, Jamaica, is a more formidable test characterized by narrow fairways and minuscule, drop-off greens. A par-71 18-hole layout measuring 6,311 yards, it stretches out over a verdant, rolling landscape with sweeping views of sparkling sea and mountains cloaked in dense vegetation. While there are no major forced carries and few fairways bunkers, precision is key; ten holes are flanked by out-of-bounds stakes. Particularly vexing is the unassuming-looking par-3 13th hole on the course, but it packs a wallop with its treacherously shallow green fronted by a steep slope and backed by a hidden bunker.

Forgot your clubs? To borrow a favorite Jamaican saying, “No problem, mon” full sets by Callaway and Precept can be rented from the well stocked golf shop, which also features the latest styles from Tommy Hilfiger, Greg Norman and Gear. While browsing, be sure to grab a yardage book for tips on how to play the course.

“This is a true resort course, but plenty of trouble lurks out there,” says head pro Ewan Peebles in his unmistakable purr. The affable Peebles hails from a prestigious golf club in central Scotland. He embodies the traditional flavor of Sandals Golf & Country club, where the dress code requires collared polo shirts and the 48 caddies are as solicitous as butlers-they’ll even pluck ripe fruit for you from the mango and guava trees that line the fairways. The perfect mid-round snack!

Indeed the great golf is enhanced by lots of local charm just of the big tee is a bust of reggae legend Bob Marley, carved from a tree stump. Behind the fourth tee is a little coral colored schoolhouse filled with the merry chatter of children. And on the covered terrace of the handsome old clubhouse, golfers enjoy cooling libations under the gentle whir of ceiling fans. Golf at Sandals Golf & Country Club is complimentary for guests at all Sandals and Beaches Resorts on Jamaica, including the nearby, family-oriented Beaches Boscobel Resort. Even youngsters get into the game. In fact, Peebles has established a popular junior golf program held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning. Kids even have their own practice facility. I love teaching young people he says. “They are full of enthusiasm and so receptive.”