George Town, Cayman Islands

Golf Course Rankings & Reviews

Top 7 Public/Semi-Private Courses

• Signature holes, design notes, local terrain adaptations
• What makes each course special to the local culture

1. The North Golf Club: (Green fees: CI$150-200 / USD$180-240 / EUR 160-220)
* Signature Hole: The 18th, a challenging par-4 with a dramatic approach over a lagoon. The design cleverly incorporates the natural contours of the land, offering stunning views of the coastline.
* Design Notes: Designed by a renowned international architect, the course features undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers. The layout demands accuracy and thoughtful shot selection.
* Local Significance: The North Golf Club is a favorite among local golfers for its challenging yet fair layout. It hosts several amateur tournaments throughout the year and is a popular venue for corporate events. The clubhouse is a social hub, and you'll often see locals enjoying a post-round drink and conversation.

2. Crack Cay Golf Club: (Green fees: CI$120-180 / USD$150-220 / EUR 130-200)
* Signature Hole: The island-shaped par-3 12th, requiring a precise tee shot over the water.
* Design Notes: A shorter, more forgiving course than The North, Crack Cay is ideal for players of all abilities. It's characterized by its lush tropical vegetation and gentle slopes.
* Local Significance: Crack Cay is a popular choice for families and casual golfers. It's known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. Many locals enjoy a leisurely round here on weekends.

3. Mahaanurey Golf Course: (Green fees: CI$80-120 / USD$100-150 / EUR 90-130)
* Signature Hole: The par-5 4th, a long, sweeping hole that rewards bold drives.
* Design Notes: This course is a favorite among locals for its affordability and challenging layout. It features a mix of open fairways and wooded areas.
* Local Significance: Mahaanurey is a community course with a strong local following. It's a great place for beginners to learn the game and for experienced players to hone their skills.

4. Devonshire Club: (Green fees: CI$180-250 / USD$220-300 / EUR 200-270)
* Signature Hole: The demanding par-5 17th, known for its water hazard and strategically placed bunkers.
* Design Notes: A classic course with mature trees and challenging hazards. It requires a well-rounded game to score well.
* Local Significance: The Devonshire Club has a long history and is a prestigious venue for local tournaments. It's known for its excellent conditioning and attentive service.

5. Royal Caribbean Golf Club: (Green fees: CI$100-150 / USD$120-180 / EUR 100-160)
* Signature Hole: The picturesque par-4 14th, with views overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
* Design Notes: A well-maintained course with a variety of challenges. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
* Local Significance: Royal Caribbean is a popular option for visitors staying at the nearby resorts. It offers a good value for money and a pleasant golfing experience.

6. Savannah Golf Club: (Green fees: CI$90-130 / USD$110-160 / EUR 90-140)
* Signature Hole: The challenging par-3 17th, requiring a precise shot over a deep bunker.
* Design Notes: A shorter course with a relaxed atmosphere. It's a good option for a quick round.
* Local Significance: Savannah is a popular choice for casual golfers and those looking for a relaxed game.

7. Pedro St. James Golf Club: (Green fees: CI$160-220 / USD$200-270 / EUR 180-240)
* Signature Hole: The iconic par-4 18th, with stunning views of the historic Pedro St. James ruins.
* Design Notes: A scenic course with challenging layout and beautiful views.
* Local Significance: Pedro St. James is a popular choice for visitors looking for a memorable golfing experience. The historic backdrop adds a unique charm to the course.

Hidden Gems

1. Long Bay Golf Club: (Green fees: CI$100-140 / USD$120-170 / EUR 100-150) - Offers stunning ocean views and a more secluded golfing experience.
2. Heritage Golf Club: (Green fees: CI$90-120 / USD$110-150 / EUR 90-130) - A smaller, more intimate course with a strong local following.

Premium Options

1. The North Golf Club: (Already listed above)
2. Devonshire Club: (Already listed above)

Value Champions

1. Mahaanurey Golf Course: (Already listed above)
2. Royal Caribbean Golf Club: (Already listed above)

International Golfer Essentials

Difficulty & Standards

• Local vs. International Handicap Ratings: The Cayman Islands Golf Association (CIGA) uses the World Handicap System (WHS), which is internationally recognized. However, local handicaps may differ slightly. It's advisable to check with the course for their specific handicap system.
• USGA/R&A Slope Comparisons: Generally, courses in the Cayman Islands are comparable in slope to courses in the USGA/R&A standards, but this can vary depending on the specific course layout.

Language Considerations

• English Proficiency: English is the official language of the Cayman Islands, and proficiency is widespread at all golf courses.
• Key Golf Terms in Cayman Islands's Language: Most golf terms are directly adopted from English. However, you might hear phrases like "good game" (a general expression of appreciation) or "nice swing" used informally.
• Communication Tips: English is universally understood, so communication should not be an issue.

Cultural Golf Etiquette

• Local Customs: Punctuality is appreciated. Dress codes are generally smart casual – collared shirts and golf shorts or trousers are standard.
• Dress Codes: Most courses have dress codes prohibiting denim, t-shirts, and athletic wear.
• Pace of Play: Maintaining a reasonable pace of play is expected. Be mindful of other players and avoid slow play.
• Tipping Practices: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for caddies and clubhouse staff. A tip of 10-15% is customary.
• Cultural Context: Caymanians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. A polite greeting and a smile go a long way.

Booking Requirements

• Advance Reservation Systems: Most courses recommend or require advance tee time reservations, especially during peak season.
• Documentation Needs: A valid passport is required for entry into the Cayman Islands.
• Guest Policies: Most courses welcome guests. It's advisable to inquire about their guest policies and any associated fees.

Seasonal & Climate Intelligence

Monthly Playing Guide

Peak Season Strategy

• High-Demand Periods: December, January, and February are the peak golfing season.
• Pricing Fluctuations: Green fees and accommodation rates are significantly higher during peak season.
• Advance Booking Recommendations: Book tee times and accommodation well in advance (3-6 months) to secure your preferred options.

Off-Season Opportunities

• Shoulder-Season Advantages: April, May, September, and October offer pleasant weather, reduced rates, and fewer crowds.
• Reduced Rates: Many resorts and hotels offer discounted rates during the shoulder season.

Weather Contingencies

• Indoor Facilities: Some resorts have indoor golf simulators or practice facilities.
• Covered Ranges: Several courses have covered driving ranges.
• Alternative Activities: Explore other attractions such as snorkeling, diving, or exploring the island's cultural sites.

Practical Travel Integration

Access & Transportation

• Airport Proximity: The North Golf Club is located approximately 15 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport.
• Rental Car Needs: A rental car is recommended for exploring the island and accessing courses outside of George Town.
• Public Transport: Public buses are available but can be infrequent and less convenient for golfers.
• Taxi/Ride-Share Options: Taxis and ride-sharing services (e.g., Uber) are readily available.

Accommodation Partnerships

• Stay-and-Play Packages: Many resorts offer stay-and-play packages that include green fees and accommodation.
• Nearby Hotels or Resorts: Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, and The Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa.

Multi-Course Planning

• Logical Routing: Plan your itinerary to minimize travel time between courses.
• Distances Between Courses: The courses are relatively close to each other, making it feasible to play multiple courses in a single trip.

Equipment Considerations

• Club Rental Quality and Availability: Most courses offer high-quality club rentals.
• Shipping Options: Several companies provide shipping services for golf clubs to the Cayman Islands.
• Local Pro Shop Standards: The pro shops at the courses are well-stocked with a variety of clubs and accessories.

Financial & Legal Framework

Pricing Structure

• Green Fees: (See individual course listings above)
• Cart Fees: Typically CI$20-30 per round.
• Caddie Costs: Caddies are available at some courses, with a suggested tip of 10-15%.
• Mandatory Charges: Some courses may have mandatory fees for maintaining the course or for using certain facilities.

Payment Methods

• Accepted Cards: Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are widely accepted.
• Cash Requirements: It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and tips.
• Currency Exchange Tips: Exchange currency at banks or authorized exchange bureaus for the best rates.

Visitor Documentation

• Required Identification: A valid passport is required for entry into the Cayman Islands.
• Visa Requirements: Most nationalities do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.