The Port Royal Golf Course, one of Bermuda’s most popular public courses, has provided avid and novice golfers with a challenging and picturesque day out on the fairways for the past 40 years. Originally designed by esteemed golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course exemplifies his trademark “no risk, no reward” philosophy, as seen in the innovative bunker placement, creative landscaping and generous use of water hazards. The 18-hole championship course underwent a $14.5 million renovation just in time to host the 2009/2010 PGA Grand Slam of Golf, presenting new obstacles to the course’s most seasoned visitors. 

Notable enhancements include a complete resowing of roughs, teeing grounds and fairways with 419 Bermuda grass and the use of cutting-edge TifEagle on the greens. A state-of-the-art irrigation system was installed, ensuring desirable conditions year round, and bunkers were redesigned to echo the natural contours of the island’s landscape as well as to encourage strategic and deft play from high and low handicappers alike. An additional 280 yards were also picked up, bringing the overall yardage to 6,842 for the longest course on the island. From short yet challenging par 3s to tricky dogleg par 4s, the course is known for its exciting diversity of holes — some requiring daring and some demanding a conservative strategy. 

Luckily, technique can be perfected at the course’s spacious practice area, which includes 300 stunning yards of driving range, complete with multiple target greens at varying distances, and a short game and bunker area. Private and semi-private sessions can be booked with the resident pro as well as at onsite clinics, youth workshops and more. Port Royal is also home to a luxurious refurbished clubhouse with new full-service locker rooms and a pro shop stocked with leading brands such as Nike, Adidas, Titlest and Callaway.