Abama occupies a dramatic coastal site on the southwest flank of Tenerife, carved into volcanic terrain above the Atlantic Ocean. Dave Thomas routed the course through steep elevation changes and natural ravines, working with the island's rugged topography to create a layout that moves through multiple microclimates and vegetation zones. The design takes advantage of the property's 200-meter descent from upper holes to those near sea level, offering views across the water toward the neighboring island of La Gomera.
The course features wide fairways that accommodate the trade winds common to this exposed coastline, though the volcanic rock formations and barrancas—deep gullies cutting through the property—demand accurate approach play. Several holes play along ridgelines or drop sharply downhill, while others occupy flatter ground closer to the shore. Thomas incorporated the native Canarian flora into the design, with dragon trees and other indigenous plants framing many holes. The layout presents different challenges depending on wind direction and intensity, which can vary significantly throughout a round.
Abama forms part of a larger resort development that includes hotel accommodations and residential properties. The facility has hosted professional events on the European Tour, bringing competitive golf to the Canary Islands. The combination of year-round playability, volcanic landscape character, and ocean setting distinguishes the course within Spanish golf, offering a playing experience distinct from mainland layouts.
Reviews
Abama was a fantastic course, a level above Adeje. The course design was seriously challenging and fun, making sure you hit the right areas was always better than pure length. I weirdly felt like I played pretty well but ended up wi the a 98, 44 on the front and 54 on the back. I lost atleast 8-12 strokes putting, the greens, like Adeje, just completely uncontrollable, any down hill putts you were guaranteed 8-10ft coming back the other way as they don’t stop, breaks were so harsh and sudden, could be centre cup and snap to 3 foot outside instantly. The fairways and fringes were great, Bermuda is fantastic I find it so much more forgiving to play off. Mt drive on the signature par 5 looking down on the ritz Carlton was one highlight. I didn’t love the partners I was paired up with so that wasn’t ideal but it was a fun experience and it was a gorgeous course. I think it ranks in around Elea and Aphrodite but below all in Barbados bar Weat Moreland which should probably be higher if I played it in the best condition. Driving range and Pro shop where great, seen better but better than average for sure. I think mid 8s is fair .
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Abama was designed by Dave Thomas.
Yes. Abama at Abama Golf is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Abama is 72.
Abama plays 6,272 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
Abama is a 18-hole course.