Fiji - Pearl South Pacific

WHY WE LIKE IT
Don't be fooled into thinking this is your run-of-the-mill resort course. The Pearl Pacific has teeth and is rightfully considered, along with the excellent Natadola Bay, an hour's drive away, as one of Fiji's most demanding championship tests. Wedged between the implausibly blue sea of the Coral
Coast and the verdant tropical hinterland of the island, the setting is truly splendid. Measuring close to 7,000 yards from the back tees (although this being Fiji, all measurements are in metres), the design hasn't lost any of its class, with the vast majority of holes giving the golfer plenty of options with both the tee and approach shots. The thoughtful placement of bunkers and the sound use of water – in the form of interconnecting canals that come into play on 12 of the 18 holes – make this a supremely strategic test. While in the past the conditioning of the greens has been reported as variable, they're not unfair surfaces and generally roll well. The club's long-term maintenance programme, which will include utilizing the saline-tolerant Paspalum grass, will only improve things. While there is some elevation changes, they're not over-dramatic, making this a particularly pleasant course to walk.
OFF THE COURSE
While many who play it will be staying at the resort – and therefore have full use of the myriad facilities there – the newly-renovated clubhouse is the ideal spot to enjoy post-round refreshments, while visitors also entitled to make use of the club's outdoor pool. A driving range and pro shop complete the amenities here.
HOW MUCH?
At FJ$35 (approximately HK$145) per round for resort guests and FJ$47 (HK$200) for visitors, the Pearl Pacific represents incredible value for money. Caddies (FJ$18) and carts (FJ$41) are also available.