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Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Montego Bay, the Half Moon Golf Course stands as a testament to Jamaica’s rich golfing heritage.
Since its inception in 1962, this championship course has captivated golfers from around the globe with its blend of challenging play and breathtaking Caribbean vistas. When you stay with us at our luxurious villa, you can enjoy guest membership access to the Half Moon Resort and this phenomenal course.
What makes the Half Moon Golf Course in Jamaica special? Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this 18-hole course combines natural beauty with challenging play. Recognized as one of the world's premier golf destinations, it attracts golfers from around the globe with its exceptional amenities and stunning setting.
Learn more about its history, features, and how to play at the Half Moon Golf Course Jamaica.
The Legacy of Robert Trent Jones Sr.
The Half Moon course owes much of its acclaim to the vision of Robert Trent Jones Sr., one of the most influential golf course architects of the 20th century.
Known for his philosophy of “hard par, easy bogey,” Jones crafted courses that challenge professionals yet remain enjoyable for amateurs. His global portfolio includes legendary sites like the Augusta National Golf Club and Spyglass Hill Golf Course in Pebble Beach. This places Half Moon in distinguished company, standing alongside such iconic and historically significant courses.
By incorporating his signature elements, such as runway tees and strategic bunkers, Jones ensured that the Half Moon Golf Course would stand the test of time as a premier golfing destination.
Half Moon Golf Course at a Glance
The Half Moon Golf Course has a storied history that speaks to its enduring allure.
The course features an 18-hole, par-72 championship layout spanning 7,141 yards. Its bow-tie layout is not just a visual treat but also enhances the golfing experience with strategically placed features that challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels.
The course’s design brilliantly incorporates the natural beauty of its surroundings, from the retired sugarcane estate to the constant trade winds from the Caribbean Sea, providing an ever-changing challenge.
Set on the foothills that slope down to the coastline outside Montego Bay, the course offers stunning views over the nearby beaches and dramatic landscape. The layout hugs the toe of the hills, emphasizing its position at the base of the slopes and adding to the scenic and challenging terrain.
In 2005, Roger Rulewich, a protégé of Jones, led a thoughtful modernization of the Half Moon Golf Course.
This refinement expanded several greens, removed non-native trees, and renovated bunkers, all while preserving the course’s original charm. The outcome is a course that honors its rich history yet offers contemporary playability.
With its fairways lined with palm trees and undulating greens, set against the backdrop of rugged hills, the Half Moon Golf Course is not just a game; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Jamaica’s sheer beauty and the timeless appeal of golf, a true paradise.
Key Features of Half Moon Golf Course
Renowned for its challenging and picturesque layout, the Half Moon Golf Course features 26 strategically placed fairway bunkers requiring accurate shots. The constant trade winds add an extra layer of challenge, ensuring each round is unique.
The figure-eight design demands strategic thinking, particularly when the wind is a factor. From palm-lined fairways to undulating greens, every aspect of the Half Moon course is crafted to offer a memorable golfing experience.
Clubhouse Facilities and Amenities
The Half Moon Golf Club is equipped with top-notch facilities, enhancing your golfing experience.
The clubhouse features two meeting rooms ideal for events and gatherings. The locker rooms offer comfort and convenience, ensuring a seamless transition from the course to post-game relaxation.
Additionally, the clubhouse’s golf shop offers a variety of apparel and accessories to cater to all your golfing needs. Whether you need a new set of clubs or fresh gear, the pro shop staff provides personalized service and advice.
Whether hosting a corporate event or freshening up after a round, the clubhouse has everything you need.
Practice Areas
When looking for things to do in Montego Bay, be sure to make time to practice your golf skills off the course at Half Moon. The resort offers excellent practice facilities to help golfers improve their game.
The driving range features 20 grassed practice bays, providing a spacious and well-maintained environment to work on your swing. There is also a dedicated bunker practice green and a putting green, offering ample opportunities to hone your short game.
Rentals and Services
Half Moon Golf Course provides a range of rental services and expert assistance to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the Half Moon course. Golf carts are available for rent, facilitating easy navigation of the course.
Expert caddies are available to offer valuable knowledge and support, helping you maximize your round in this review.
How To Play at Half Moon Golf Course
Photo Credit: T Moi
Playing at the Half Moon Golf Course is a privilege for guests staying at our luxurious vacation rentals.
We have made a special arrangement so that our guests can enjoy a Half Moon Membership, ensuring you have the best possible golf experience on your vacation.
You can book your preferred tee time online.
Dress Code and Policies
Half Moon Golf Course enforces a strict dress code to maintain professionalism. Men must wear golf shoes, tailored shorts or trousers, and a recognized golf shirt or polo shirt.
Women should wear golf shoes, tailored shorts, skirts, or trousers, along with a recognized golf blouse or shirt. Sleeveless tops without spaghetti straps are allowed.
Dining and Refreshments
After a challenging round of golf, the dining options at Half Moon Golf Course offer the perfect way to unwind and refuel with food:
- The 19th Hole Bar provides light fare and snacks, ideal for a quick refreshment post-game.
- Spice, a casual beachside venue, serves delicious jerk cuisine and specialty cocktails, making it a favorite among visitors.
- Lester’s Bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and Caribbean rums, often accompanied by live entertainment.
- Cedar Bar Cafe provides stunning sea views and extensive lunch and dinner menus.
Events and Tournaments at Half Moon Golf Course
The Half Moon Golf Course is a prominent venue for major golf events and tournaments, further cementing its status as a premier golfing destination.
The Jamaica Open Golf Championship, first held in 1953, is one of the significant tournaments to have been hosted at Half Moon Resort. It was hosted here in 1975, 1990, 1991, 2008 to 2012, and 2017, attracting top talent from around the world.
The European PGA Senior Tour has also graced the fairways of Half Moon in 2003 and 2004, bringing international attention to this Jamaican gem.
In addition to these high-profile tournaments, Half Moon Golf Course hosts other notable events such as
- Red Stripe Pro-Am
- Celebrity Players Tour Jamaica Classic
- JACI Golf Tournament
- Dunhill Cup Final.
These events draw both local and international participants, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the sport of golf.
The course also welcomes previous PGA professionals as part of its Guest Instructor Series, offering golfers the opportunity to learn from the best.
Enjoy Half Moon Golf Course During Your Jamaican Stay!
The Half Moon Golf Course, along with nearby White Witch and Cinnamon Hill, offers an unparalleled golfing experience in Jamaica. Now, you can play on these iconic links while enjoying our luxurious vacation villa.
With its beautiful scenery, top-notch facilities, and a range of dining options, Half Moon is more than just a golf course; it’s a destination.