Vale Do Lobo - Ocean

Seaside beauty with golden light. The Ocean Course delivers rolling fairways, pine groves, and dramatic views over the Atlantic.

Slope Rating

134

Par

73

Yardage

6,689

The Ocean Course at Vale do Lobo is one of the Algarve’s most scenic layouts – a relaxed yet engaging blend of inland parkland and coastal flair. Designed by Sir Henry Cotton and completed posthumously by Rocky Roquemore, it combines two original 9-hole loops into a flowing 18-hole experience. The front nine plays through pine-lined corridors and gentle valleys, with generous fairways and elevated greens. The back nine opens up dramatically, revealing holes that run alongside cliffs and offer spectacular Atlantic views. The standout stretch is 11 through 15, where you feel the sea breeze and watch your ball arc against an ocean backdrop. The greens are generous but sloped, and the bunkering is more visual than penal. While not a long course, the terrain undulates and rewards smart club selection. This is golf as holiday – serene, photogenic, and fun to play at any level.

Designer

Sir Henry Cotton; completed by Rocky Roquemore

Opened

1995 (merged into 18 holes)

Tee time availability

Good

Special information

Shared facilities with the Royal Course. Best enjoyed in early morning or late afternoon for views and light.

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

65 – club competition

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 20 minutes

Caddy guide

Not required – course is straightforward and well signed

Buggies

Available – recommended for comfort, especially in summer heat

Attack the short par-4s and use elevation to your advantage. Keep approach shots below the hole on sloping greens. Wind and sea air can affect club selection.

Course plays forgiving off the tee. Avoid short-siding yourself on elevated greens. Focus on smart positioning and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

A great choice – wide fairways, less intimidating hazards, and a welcoming atmosphere make for a memorable, low-pressure round.

Green speed

10 – true and well-maintained, with some natural slope

Wind

Afternoon sea breeze is common – noticeable on cliffside holes and final stretch

Pace of play

Generally good – popular resort course with staggered starts and marshals

Nerves on the first tee

Low – resort feel and generous first fairway help calm early jitters

Clubhouse

Spacious and sociable – large terrace with views and good dining

The 11th is a stunning downhill par-4 toward the ocean. The 15th is a short par-3 set right on the cliffs – one of the most photographed holes in Portugal. The 18th returns inland but finishes elegantly beside lakes and palms.

Warm and breezy. Spring and autumn offer golden light and perfect turf. Summer heat softened by coastal winds. Year-round playability with minimal rainfall.