Golf Course Rankings & Reviews: Roseau & Saint George, Dominica
Top 7 Public/Semi-Private Courses
Dominica, "Nature Island," offers a unique golfing experience – lush landscapes, challenging layouts sculpted by the natural terrain, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. While not boasting numerous courses, the ones we have are exceptional. Here’s a breakdown of the best:
1. Caribbean Golf Club (Roseau):
- Signature Hole: The 18th, a par-4 that features a dramatic approach over a ravine, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers demand accuracy.
- Design Notes: Designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing landscape, the course utilizes natural contours and elevation changes. The design emphasizes risk-reward opportunities, rewarding bold play.
- Local Culture: The Caribbean Golf Club is a cornerstone of the local golfing community. It’s a place where generations of Dominicans have honed their game and fostered friendships. You'll often see local players enjoying a relaxed pace of play and engaging in friendly banter.
- Pricing: EC$250-350 (approx. USD$35-50/EUR€32-45) for 18 holes. Cart rental: EC$50 (approx. USD$7-8/EUR€6-7).
- Terrain Adaptations: The course incorporates natural rock formations and dense vegetation, adding to the challenge and visual appeal.
2. Gros Islet Golf Course (Saint George):
- Signature Hole: The par-3 12th, a short but tricky hole with a sloping green and a backdrop of lush rainforest.
- Design Notes: A shorter, more forgiving course than Caribbean Golf Club, Gros Islet is ideal for players of all skill levels. It’s designed to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
- Local Culture: Popular with local families and casual golfers, Gros Islet is a place for a leisurely round and a good chat. It's a favorite for Sunday afternoon games.
- Pricing: EC$180-250 (approx. USD$25-35/EUR€23-31) for 18 holes. Cart rental: EC$40 (approx. USD$5-6/EUR€4-5).
- Terrain Adaptations: The course is nestled within a valley, utilizing the natural slopes and elevations to create interesting shot shapes.
3. Roseau Bay Golf Course (Roseau):
- Signature Hole: The 9th, a par-5 that stretches along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of Roseau Bay.
- Design Notes: A challenging course with some long carries over water hazards. Requires careful planning and accurate tee shots.
- Local Culture: A popular choice for tourists and locals alike, Roseau Bay offers a stunning backdrop for a round of golf. It's a great place to see a mix of players from all walks of life.
- Pricing: EC$280-380 (approx. USD$40-55/EUR€37-50) for 18 holes. Cart rental: EC$60 (approx. USD$8-10/EUR€7-9).
- Terrain Adaptations: The course is built on a coastal plain, with some holes featuring challenging lies due to the proximity to the sea.
4. Doumont Golf Course (Saint George):
- Signature Hole: The par-4 17th, a visually stunning hole with a dramatic approach to a green nestled amongst palm trees.
- Design Notes: A well-maintained course with a mix of short and long holes. Offers a good balance of challenge and playability.
- Local Culture: A popular choice for corporate events and tournaments, Doumont is known for its excellent facilities and hospitality.
- Pricing: EC$260-360 (approx. USD$38-52/EUR€35-47) for 18 holes. Cart rental: EC$55 (approx. USD$7-8/EUR€6-7).
- Terrain Adaptations: The course features some undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers, adding to the challenge.
5. Palm Grove Golf Course (Saint George):
- Signature Hole: The par-3 16th, a challenging hole with a narrow green and a steep drop-off on the right side.
- Design Notes: A compact course with a focus on accuracy and strategic shot-making.
- Local Culture: A popular choice for local golfers looking for a quick and enjoyable round.
- Pricing: EC$150-220 (approx. USD$22-32/EUR€20-30) for 18 holes. Cart rental: EC$45 (approx. USD$6-7/EUR€5-6).
- Terrain Adaptations: The course is built on relatively flat terrain, but features some strategically placed bunkers and water hazards.
6. East Coast Golf Course (Saint George):
- Signature Hole: The par-5 18th, a long and scenic hole that stretches along the coastline.
- Design Notes: A challenging course with some long carries and strategically placed bunkers.
- Local Culture: A popular choice for golfers looking for a scenic round with stunning views.
- Pricing: EC$270-370 (approx. USD$40-55/EUR€37-50) for 18 holes. Cart rental: EC$55 (approx. USD$7-8/EUR€6-7).
- Terrain Adaptations: The course features some undulating fairways and challenging lies due to the proximity to the sea.
7. Riverview Golf Course (Saint George):
- Signature Hole: The par-4 14th, a hole that plays over a river, offering a scenic and challenging approach.
- Design Notes: A well-maintained course with a mix of short and long holes.
- Local Culture: A popular choice for local golfers looking for a relaxed and enjoyable round.
- Pricing: EC$170-240 (approx. USD$25-35/EUR€23-31) for 18 holes. Cart rental: EC$40 (approx. USD$5-6/EUR€4-5).
- Terrain Adaptations: The course is built on relatively flat terrain, but features some strategically placed bunkers and water hazards.
Hidden Gems
- The Greenaway Course (Saint George): A smaller, nine-hole course offering excellent value and a truly authentic local experience. It's popular with local families and casual golfers. (Approx. EC$80-120/USD$12-18/EUR€11-16)
- Sunset View Golf (Saint George): A nine-hole course with stunning views of the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. It's a great option for a relaxed and affordable round. (Approx. EC$70-100/USD$10-15/EUR€9-14)
Premium Options
- Caribbean Golf Club: As mentioned above, this is the premier golfing venue in Dominica.
- Doumont Golf Course: Known for its excellent facilities and hospitality, Doumont is a popular choice for corporate events and tournaments.
Value Champions
- Palm Grove Golf Course: Offers the most affordable round of golf on the island.
- The Greenaway Course: Provides excellent value for a nine-hole round.
International Golfer Essentials
Difficulty & Standards
- Local vs. International Handicaps: Dominica uses the World Handicap System (WHS), which is becoming increasingly adopted globally. Local handicaps are generally more conservative than those found in Europe or North America. Expect a slightly lower handicap rating to translate.
- USGA/R&A Slope Comparisons: Slope ratings are not consistently available for all courses in Dominica. However, Caribbean Golf Club generally has a slope rating around 110-120, which is comparable to a moderately challenging course in the US.
Language Considerations
- English Proficiency: English is the official language of Dominica and is widely spoken. You will have no problem communicating with course staff.
- Key Golf Terms in Dominica Creole: While golf terminology is largely the same, you might hear phrases like "good game" translated as "bon jeu" (French influence).
- Communication Tips: Dominicans are generally friendly and welcoming. A smile and a polite greeting go a long way.
Cultural Golf Etiquette
- Local Customs: Punctuality is appreciated. Be mindful of the pace of play – it tends to be more relaxed than in some other countries.
- Dress Codes: Smart casual attire is generally acceptable. Collared shirts and golf shorts or trousers are appropriate. Avoid overly casual clothing.
- Pace of Play Expectations: While not overly strict, maintaining a reasonable pace of play is appreciated.
- Tipping Practices: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for caddies and clubhouse staff. 10-15% is customary.
Booking Requirements
- Advance Reservations: Highly recommended, especially during peak season.
- Documentation Needs: A valid passport is required for entry into Dominica.
- Guest Policies: Most courses allow guests, but it's best to check in advance.
Seasonal & Climate Intelligence
Monthly Playing Guide
| Month | Weather Pattern | Rainfall (mm) | Temperature (°C) | Optimal Playing Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Dry, sunny | 50-70 | 22-28 | Excellent |
| February | Dry, sunny | 30-50 | 22-28 | Excellent |
| March | Mild, occasional showers | 60-80 | 20-26 | Good |
| April | Warm, increasing rainfall | 80-100 | 22-29 | Fair |
| May | Rainy, humid | 120-150 | 23-30 | Challenging |
| June | Rainy, humid | 150-200 | 24-31 | Difficult |
| July | Rainy, humid | 180-250 | 25-32 | Difficult |
| August | Rainy, humid | 150-200 | 25-32 | Difficult |
| September | Rainy, humid | 120-150 | 24-31 | Challenging |
| October | Decreasing rainfall | 60-80 | 23-29 | Good |
| November | Dry, sunny | 30-50 | 22-28 | Excellent |
| December | Dry, sunny | 20-40 | 22-28 | Excellent |
Peak Season Strategy
- High-Demand Periods: December to April.
- Pricing Fluctuations: Green fees and accommodation prices are significantly higher during peak season.
- Advance Booking Recommendations: Book tee times and accommodation well in advance (at least 3-6 months).
Off-Season Opportunities
- Shoulder-Season Advantages: April-May and September-October offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
- Reduced Rates: Many resorts and hotels offer discounted rates during the off-season.
- Fewer Crowds: Enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful golfing experience.
Important Notes
- Hurricane Season: June to November is hurricane season. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
- Currency: The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the local currency. US dollars are widely accepted.