The island of Curaçao (pronounced kewr-ass-ow) is located in the southern Caribbean approximately 40 miles (65 km) north of Venezuela. Together with the islands of Aruba and Bonaire, they form a group of three often referred to as the Dutch Caribbean, given their shared political history.
Curaçao is known for its beautiful beaches nestled into tranquil coves and for its extensive coral reefs that are rife with marine life. Because of this, it is a highly popular destination for divers. A little less popular is golf on the island, but even though this sport isn’t quite as prominent, golfers can still count on three excellent courses in a climate that allows for play all year round.
BLUE BAY GOLF AND BEACH RESORT
Golf at Blue Bay – Photo via Blue Bay Curacao
This course presents an excellent challenge for players of all skill levels. Located directly on the Caribbean Sea, the course offers spectacular tropical views and is so beautiful that it is almost a distraction from the game. Not to mention that the mix of rich green hues, ocean and mountains, plus tropical and dry desert vegetation is stunning.
But beyond the striking esthetics of the course is a crafty design that has taken full advantage of the existing, natural landscape. Created by William Rocky Rocquemore, Blue Bay Golf features the organic terrain of rocks, sea and sand as naturally occurring obstacles and bunkers. Plus, the undulating height differences are all part of the game. They all work together to inspire the challenge and the need for that perfect shot. A perfect example of this is found on Hole 5, which plays across an expanse of turquoise sea (as seen in the lead photo). To find out more, head to the Blue Bay Golf and Beach Resort HERE.
CURAÇAO GOLF AND SQUASH CLUB
Curacao Golf and Squash Club – Photo via Curacao Golf & Squash Club Public Facebook Profile
This is the oldest and the smallest golf club on the island, celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2021. Approximately 600 members belong to this small club, all of whom appreciate the warmth and charm of such a friendly community. You won’t find nearly the same level of landscaping as Blue Bay, but you will find an attractive course that hosts plenty of tournaments and knows how to have fun.
This par 70 course features 18 holes amidst rare trees and vegetation. The fairways have a lot of trees and the greens are challenging. There is also plenty of wildlife here, which helps to make this location special.
In addition to burros that help to keep the grass short, players will also find parrots and wild doves, hummingbirds, West Indian parakeets, iguanas, and geckos.
Click HERE to access the website of the Curaçao Golf and Squash Club and learn more about the course.
OLD QUARRY AT SANTA BARBARA BEACH AND GOLF RESORT
Old Quarry – Photo via Santa Barbara Beach and Golf Resort
The Old Quarry course, designed by Pete Dye, is recommended for all skill levels. Like Blue Bay, a portion of the course overlooks the Caribbean Sea. However, in this case, it is sheltered in a bay known as Spanish Water with a breathtaking backdrop of Tafelberg Mountain.
Although the club is part of the Santa Barbara resort, players do not have to be guests of the hotel in order to play.
The course measures 6,920 yards from the championship tees and the layout takes full advantage of its beautiful surroundings by offering players different views of the Caribbean Sea, Tafelberg Mountain, and the Spanish Waters over the course of 18 holes. Also included is an expansive 8,000 square-foot clubhouse with locker rooms, a fully stocked golf shop, plus a restaurant and lounge.
Open year-round, rates include a golf cart and water refreshment points on the course. For more information about the course, access the Santa Barbara Beach and Golf Resort website HERE.
Lead Photo of Blue Bay Golf via Blue Bay Curaçao