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This report provides a detailed analysis of the top golf clubs in Caesarea, Israel, and its surrounding areas, based on available data as of May 2025. The focus is on the Caesarea Golf Club, recognized as the premier golfing destination in the region, with a brief discussion of Gaash Golf Club, whose status remains uncertain.
Caesarea Golf Club
General Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Caesarea Golf Club |
| Location | POB 4858, 30889 Caesarea, Israel |
| Contact | Phone: +972 4-610-9600, Fax: +972 4-617-4838 |
| Founded | 1961 |
| Courses | 18-hole championship course, 9-hole par-3 course |
| Season | Year-round |
| Rating | 5.0/5 stars (based on 2 reviews on Albrecht Golf Guide) |
| Membership | Available (fees not publicly disclosed) |
History
The Caesarea Golf Club was established in January 1961 by the Rothschild family, inspired by James Armand de Rothschild’s vision to create a golf course reminiscent of Scottish landscapes amid Caesarea’s Roman ruins. After his death, the James de Rothschild Foundation fulfilled this dream, with a committee including notable figures like Teddy Kollek and Abba Eban overseeing the project. The original course, designed by Fred Smith, faced challenges with suitable grass for the Middle Eastern climate but opened with a prestigious ceremony. Over the years, the club underwent significant upgrades, including a major irrigation system installation in 1980 and a complete redesign by Pete Dye in 2009, emphasizing environmental preservation. In 2010, it was added to the Rolex World’s Top 1000 Golf Courses, cementing its global reputation (Caesarea Golf Club – Wikipedia).
Courses and Design
- 18-Hole Championship Course:
- Length: 4,800 to 6,563 meters (5,266 to 7,163 yards)
- Features: 120 bunkers, two lakes, lush lawns, and sand dunes
- Designed to accommodate beginners while challenging professionals
- Four sets of tees for varying skill levels
- Grass type: Paspalum, friendlier and less water-intensive than the original kikuyu
- 9-Hole Par-3 Course:
- Ideal for short-game practice and beginners
- Enhances the club’s appeal for diverse skill levels
The 2009 redesign by Pete Dye introduced water hazards on two holes and a links-style layout, enhancing strategic play (Caesarea Golf Course – Tee Times).
Facilities
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Practice Facilities | Driving range (40 tees, 15 covered), putting green, pitching green, chipping green, practice bunker, 3-hole short course |
| Driving Range Rates | Range fee: €10, Bucket (35 balls): €4 |
| Club Amenities | Clubhouse, conference room, locker rooms, bar, snack bar, beverage cart |
| Restaurant | Nineteen (Phone: +972-4-626-7000, closed Mondays, credit cards accepted) |
| Rentals | Clubs, trolleys, electro-carts available for hire |
| Golf Tuition | Caesarea Golf School for lessons and training |
The club also features a pro shop and accepts credit cards, enhancing convenience for visitors (Albrecht Golf Guide).
Green Fees and Membership
- Green Fees: Approximately £100 per round plus £35 for a buggy, based on a 2015 review (Tripadvisor). These figures may be outdated, and current rates should be confirmed directly with the club.
- Membership: The club is semi-private with hundreds of regular members but open to guests. Membership fees are not publicly disclosed, suggesting they may be available upon inquiry.
Notable Features and Events
- International Recognition: The only 18-hole course in Israel meeting international standards, included in the Rolex World’s Top 1000 Golf Courses since 2010.
- Tournaments: Hosts local, international, and professional tournaments, including the Maccabiah Games every four years since 1961.
- Notable Visitors: Celebrities like Sean Connery, Kirk Douglas, Frank Sinatra, and Danny Kaye, as well as Israeli figures like Chaim Herzog, have visited or been members.
- Notable Golfer: Laetitia Beck, who began her career at Caesarea, was named one of Israel’s “sportswomen of the decade” in 2008 (Wikipedia).
Operational Status
As of October 2023, the club is open, subject to directives from the National Home Front Command. For the latest updates, contact the club at +972 4 /
Gaash Golf Club
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Gaash Golf Club |
| Location | Gaash, Central District, Israel (near Kibbutz Gaash) |
| Established | 1999 |
| Courses | 18-hole course (5,079 yards, par 70) |
| Facilities | Pro shop, coffee house, driving range |
| Status | Uncertain (conflicting reports on operation) |
Overview
Located approximately 15 minutes north of Tel Aviv, Gaash Golf Club was established in 1999 and is situated between the Gaash Nature Reserve and Sharon National Park. It reportedly offers an 18-hole course and hosted events like the Israel Golf Cup in 2017 (Jerusalem Post). However, a 2016 Tripadvisor review claims the club no longer exists, and the official website (www.gaashgolfclub.co.il) appears outdated (Tripadvisor).
Current Status
Conflicting information from golf directories (e.g., GolfPass) listing it as open and reviews suggesting closure creates uncertainty. Without recent confirmation of its operation, Gaash Golf Club cannot be confidently classified as a “top” club.
Market Analysis
- Dominance of Caesarea Golf Club: As the only 18-hole course in Israel meeting international standards, Caesarea Golf Club is the unrivaled leader in the region. Its world-class facilities, prestigious history, and global recognition make it the go-to destination for golfers.
- Limited Competition: Gaash Golf Club, the only other mentioned club in the surrounding area, lacks the prominence and clarity of operational status to compete. No other golf clubs in Caesarea or nearby areas are cited as top destinations.
- Pricing Considerations: High green fees at Caesarea Golf Club may deter casual golfers, but the exclusivity and quality justify the cost for serious players. The lack of membership fee transparency suggests a premium, selective membership model.
- Unique Appeal: The club’s location near Roman ruins and the Mediterranean coast, combined with its historical significance and celebrity associations, enhances its allure as a unique golfing experience.
Conclusion
The Caesarea Golf Club is the top golf club in Caesarea and surrounding areas, offering unmatched facilities, a prestigious history, and international recognition. Its 18-hole championship course, redesigned by Pete Dye, and additional 9-hole par-3 course cater to all skill levels, while its inclusion in the Rolex World’s Top 1000 Golf Courses highlights its global standing. Gaash Golf Club, while potentially operational, does not match Caesarea’s prominence due to uncertain status and limited recognition. For golfers seeking a premier experience in the region, Caesarea Golf Club is the clear choice. For the most accurate pricing and membership details, direct contact with the club is recommended.
