Golf

Since the island's first course was laid out in 1922, golf has been one of Bermuda's most popular sports. You can play year-round, but spring, fall, and early winter offer the best seaside conditions. You must arrange tee times at any of the island's eight courses in advance through your guesthouse or hotel. Women's and men's clubs (right- and left-handed) are available at each course, and most leading stores in Bermuda sell golf balls. Generally speaking, children are not welcome on golf courses; definitely check in advance if you have any underage duffers in your party.

The Tucker's Point Club is one of the most scenic courses on the island (though it is a private club), while the Port Royal course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., is a challenge. Two famous courses -- the Mid Ocean Club at Tucker's Town and the Riddells Bay Golf and Country Club -- are private, and require introduction by a member before you can play, though certain luxury hotels can sometimes secure playing privileges at the Riddells Bay course. One of the most photographed courses on Bermuda is the Fairmont Southampton Golf Club, where a landscape of rolling hills and flowering shrubs adds to the players' enjoyment.

The golf courses listed here that are part of hotel complexes permit nonguests to use their facilities. All of these golf courses have pros and offer lessons.

Top players participate in tournaments throughout the year. For information, contact the Bermuda Golf Association, P.O. Box HM 433, Hamilton HM BX, Bermuda (tel. 441/295-9972; www.bermudagolf.org).

The Golfer's Dress Code -- Remember to dress appropriately for your golf game. Most courses have strict dress codes that require shirts with collars, Bermuda-length shorts or slacks, and soft-spiked golf shoes or tennis shoes. No bathing suits, cutoffs, short shorts, or jeans.