Golf in Fiji – What to know and where to go

Fiji really does have everything you need for a luxury golfing holiday. There’s world class championship golf courses and stellar private island stays available. The coastal fairways are visually exquisite and the array of high end accommodation options are the very definition of luxury. Let’s play!

Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course

Natadola Bay Championship Golf – where precision play is made all the more entertaining thanks to its spectacular Coral Coast backdrop. Famed as the host course of the Fiji International PGA golf tournament – a renown sporting event that always played host to an impressive field of the planets best players. Including; three- time Major champion and local Fijian hero Mr Vijay Singh.

Yes, anyone can play at the most favoured South Pacific golf course! Did you know that 15 of the 18 holes at the Natadola have breathtaking views of the coral reef and rolling surf breaks too? Add to that, a backdrop of rolling pastures set against Natadola’s world class architectural designed course and you’ve got yourself a hole in one holiday.

Course Tip: Hole 15 – Par 3, if you’re a strong wedge player this hole will provide a good birdie opportunity but choose your club wisely. An elevated tee that plays downwind will see many players who land their tee shot anywhere past the middle of the green watch their ball disappear over the back and into the hazard.

The clubhouse here offers delicious meals and panoramic views of the course and the sea – even your non-golfing friends and colleagues are bound to enjoy a round of refreshing drinks here.

Where to stay? Golfing enthusiasts, of all levels (including myself) unanimously agree that the best golf ‘stay & play’ property in Fiji is the adjacent InterContintental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa

Image: Chris McLennan

Denarau Golf & Racquet Club

The Denarau Golf & Racquet Club is a popular place for a day on the green with tourists and expats alike. The course is located close to Nadi International Airport (45 minute drive) and is in close proximity to the following hotels; Sheraton Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, the Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa and the beautiful Sofitel Fiji.

Featuring dazzling seaside views and resort style play this 18 hole par 72 is suitable for golfers of all levels. Novices and/or players wanting to brush up their swing skills would do well to invest in the onsite golf program which includes international standard golf lessons and daily clinics.

Hint: after a round of golf in the tropics head to the sports bar (adjacent to the Fiji Premier Club House). Here guests can watch live coverage of international sporting events on the big screen accompanied by tasty wood-fired pizzas and a few ice cold local Fijian beers.

Image: Mark Snyder

PLAY GOLF ON A PRIVATE ISLAND IN FIJI

Golfing grandeur done right. Imagine your own intimate island with an expert designed golf course on site. How about a private chef and your own secluded beach? All of the above is attainable here in Fiji, where a once in a lifetime opportunity for a private island golfing getaway awaits. Trust me when I say that Como is the ultimate luxury golf holiday in Fiji.

Scotsman David McLay Kidd designed Como’s championship golf course, a stunning 18-hole layout back dropped by volcanic mountains and clinging to a sheer cliff dropping into the Pacific Ocean.

Travel Tip: a traditional Fijian Bobo massage is the perfect way to relax after a day on the green. COMO embraces an authentic wellness philosophy at their wonderful Shambhala Retreat and the therapists here utilize the many fresh, nourishing resources that are found in Fiji. All body and facial treatments make use of the island’s herbs, stones, flowers, fruits and soils. I adore the spa’s forested hilltop location among the birds and am sure you will too.

Tropical food

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY IN FIJI

A fantastic dinner in a luxury seaside setting is par for the course in Fiji. 5 star resorts feature international cuisine of the highest order imaginable and private island eateries effortlessly cater to your appetite. Come in from the green and allow that famous Fijian hospitality to deliver you a Pacific Rim inspired feast of dreams. The local kokoda dish (pictured) is a refreshing take on a fresh fish ceviche – often prepared with a sumptuous reef fish such as Mahi Mahi, coconut milk, zesty lime and hint of bell pepper.

Hopefully my tales of brilliantly located golf courses and delicious Fijian cuisine have inspired you to take a luxury golfing holiday in the South Pacific soon.

Other outdoor activities in the islands worthy your attention include; sailing, diving & surfing. Keep these experiences in mind to suggest to your non-golfer travel comrades too.