Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Club

Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Club occupies a striking coastal setting along the eastern shore of Great Exuma in the Bahamas. Designed by Greg Norman and opened in 2003, the course was built as part of the Sandals resort development and represents one of the few championship-length layouts in the Bahamian out islands. The routing takes advantage of the property's natural limestone topography and oceanfront exposure, with several holes playing directly along the turquoise waters of Emerald Bay. Norman's design incorporates the native scrubland vegetation and coral-based terrain characteristic of the Exumas, creating a links-style aesthetic adapted to Caribbean conditions. The course features wide fairways that accommodate trade winds, which often influence play significantly. Several holes offer dramatic ocean views and coastal carries, while inland stretches move through natural dunes and native grasses. The layout emphasizes strategic options rather than forced carries, though the wind and firm conditions typical of exposed island sites provide the primary defense. The course serves primarily resort guests staying at Sandals Emerald Bay, though it has hosted regional amateur events. The facility includes practice areas and a clubhouse designed to complement the resort's amenities. The combination of Norman's architectural approach and the distinctive Bahamian landscape creates a golf experience quite different from the more heavily vegetated courses found on Nassau or Grand Bahama, reflecting the sparse, sun-bleached character of the Exuma chain.