Bermuda Butterfield Championship 2026

When the crisp autumn sun casts a golden glow across the rolling fairways of Southampton Parish and Atlantic Ocean waves crash against dramatic limestone cliffs, the island of Bermuda transforms into a world-class arena for professional golf. Known globally for its pink sand beaches, historic pastel architecture, and legendary maritime hospitality, this sub-tropical Atlantic sanctuary boasts an extraordinary sporting culture. While sunseekers visit the island throughout the year to relax along sheltered coves, autumn brings a premier event on the international sports calendar: the Butterfield Bermuda Championship.

As an official event on the PGA TOUR Fall Schedule, this prestigious tournament gathers world-class professional golfers, rising international stars, and passionate fans for four days of high-stakes competition. Set along the breathtaking coastal ridges of Port Royal Golf Course, the championship combines elite shot-making, dramatic ocean vistas, and vibrant Bajan and Bermudian hospitality. Whether you are an avid golfer looking to watch PGA TOUR champions battle unpredictable ocean winds, a sports traveler planning an autumn getaway, or a family seeking an unforgettable island festival atmosphere, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

"The Butterfield Bermuda Championship offers an extraordinary fusion of elite sports drama, oceanfront beauty, and warm island hospitality."

The Rise of Island Golf: History and Global Impact of the Championship

Bermuda's Journey to Golfing Prestige

To appreciate the prestige of the tournament, it helps to understand how Bermuda established itself as a premier destination for international sports broadcasting. The championship originally made its PGA TOUR debut as an alternate event before quickly earning full standalone status on the PGA TOUR schedule. Today, the tournament offers a massive $6.0 million purse, 500 FedExCup points to the champion, and direct invitations to major championships, including The Masters and the PGA Championship.

Title sponsored by Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son Limited in close partnership with the Bermuda Tourism Authority, the event plays a vital role in showcasing the island to millions of television viewers worldwide on Golf Channel. Beyond bringing world-class golf to local shores, the championship serves as a powerful community engine. Through initiatives like Birdies for Charity, the tournament raises hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for non-profit organizations, youth development schemes, and local sports clubs across all nine parishes.

Local golfers also benefit directly from the event. The tournament hosts official local qualifying rounds at Port Royal Golf Course, granting talented Bermudian golfers the rare opportunity to earn a spot in the field and compete directly against the best PGA TOUR players in the world. This blend of international prestige and grassroots sports development creates an inspiring atmosphere that resonates across the entire island.

The Majestic Stage: Port Royal Golf Course and the Famous 16th Hole

Breathtaking Ocean Vistas and Unforgiving Trade Winds

The undisputed star of the tournament is Port Royal Golf Course, located in Southampton Parish on the island's scenic southwestern coast. Designed by legendary golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. and later refined through major renovations, Port Royal is widely recognized as one of the finest public golf courses in the world.

Stretching 6,828 yards from the championship tees with a par of 71, Port Royal offers a challenging test that relies heavily on strategic positioning rather than raw distance alone. The course winds through lush hillsides, native Bermuda cedar groves, and elevated bluffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

"What makes tournament play so thrilling is the constant presence of coastal winds."

The swirling Atlantic breezes force PGA TOUR professionals to display creative shot-shaping and precise club selection. On calm days, players can attack pin positions and card low scores, but when ocean gusts pick up across the cliffs, Port Royal turns into a fierce battle of survival where every par feels like a major victory.

The World-Famous 16th Hole Showcase

Among the 18 holes at Port Royal, the signature 16th hole stands out as one of the most photographed and dramatic par-3 holes in global golf history. Measuring 235 yards from the back tees, the hole requires players to hit a tee shot across an expanse of open ocean and jagged coastal cliffs to a green perched precariously on a seaside bluff.

With waves crashing far below and wind whipping across the exposed headland, the 16th hole provides heart-stopping drama during every round. Spectators gather in high numbers around the surrounding cliffs and oceanfront hospitality venues, waiting to see which players will stick their tee shots close to the pin and which balls will fall victim to the ocean breeze.

Spectator Zones, Fan Villages, and VIP Hospitality Experiences

General Admission and Fan Villages

The Butterfield Bermuda Championship is designed as an inclusive, multi-faceted festival that offers fantastic entertainment options for fans of all ages and budget levels. General admission tickets grant spectators access to the tournament grounds, allowing fans to walk along the ropes alongside their favorite PGA TOUR players. The course layout features several dedicated spectator hubs:

• Coca-Cola Fan Oasis: Located between the 14th and 18th holes, offering shaded seating, giant video walls displaying live tournament scores, and food stalls.
• Family Zone presented by Butterfield and Mastercard: Situated between the 16th and 17th holes, featuring interactive golf games, youth activities, junior coaching stations, and family picnic areas.
• Public Seating on the 18th Green: Elevated grandstand seating allowing fans to watch dramatic tournament finishes and championship trophy presentations on the final green.

Premium VIP Hospitality Options

For spectators seeking an elevated tournament experience with prime views and upgraded amenities, the championship offers specialized hospitality venues:

• The Goslings Club: Located on the 10th hole with panoramic views over the 10th, 13th, and 14th holes. Ticket holders enjoy open-air covered lounge seating, a complimentary ready-to-drink Gosling's Dark 'n Stormy upon arrival, a hot lunch buffet, and access to private cash bars.
• Digicel Business Ocean Club / Ocean Club presented by Mastercard: The pinnacle of luxury at the tournament, positioned directly over the iconic 16th green. This shared, open-air venue features all-inclusive food and beverage service, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, premium bar service, private air-conditioned restrooms, and front-row seats to the most famous hole on the course.

Island Culture, Culinary Treats, and Evening Entertainment

Signature Island Flavors on the Course

Attending the championship provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic Bermudian culture, vibrant music, and iconic island flavors. Food and beverage vendors situated throughout the tournament grounds highlight authentic local culinary traditions:

• Bermuda Fish Chowder: The national comfort food, prepared from local ocean catches, tomatoes, onions, and sweet spices, served hot with a custom splash of Gosling's Black Seal Rum and fiery sherry peppers sauce.
• Golden Codfish Cakes: Crisp, savory patties made with salted cod, mashed potatoes, and herbs, served on soft sweet raisin bread rolls with hot pepper jelly.
• Fresh Local Spiny Lobster: Available during the autumn harvesting season, served in seafood rolls or grilled over open coals.
• Gosling's Dark 'n Stormy and Rum Swizzle: Traditional island drinks crafted from dark rum, spicy ginger beer, fresh fruit juices, and bitters, perfect for enjoying under the warm autumn sun.

Rhythms of the Island and Cultural Showcases

Culture comes alive during weekend tournament rounds with live performances by traditional Bermuda Gombey troupes. Moving to the thundering beat of snare drums, kettle drums, and whistles, dancers wearing peacock feather headdresses and mirror-adorned velvet capes parade through spectator areas, bringing high energy that reflects the island's rich African, Native American, and Caribbean heritage.

In addition, Saturday at the tournament is designated as official Family Day, featuring local artisan pop-up markets, live acoustic music on the lawn, and youth golf exhibitions.

Exploring Southampton Parish and Nearby Landmarks

Nearby Attractions for Golf Travelers

A trip to Bermuda for the tournament allows visitors to discover the scenic beauty and historical landmarks situated across the western parishes. Before or after tournament rounds, take time to explore these nearby sights:

• Gibbs Hill Lighthouse: Located just a short drive east of Port Royal in Southampton, this historic 1852 cast-iron lighthouse offers panoramic 360-degree views across the entire island chain after climbing its 185 steps.
• Horseshoe Bay Beach: Famous worldwide for its wide crescent of pale pink sand and turquoise Atlantic waters, located ten minutes from the golf course.
• Church Bay: A peaceful coastal cove ideal for shore-side snorkeling over shallow coral reefs filled with colorful parrotfish and sea turtles.
• Royal Naval Dockyard: Positioned at the western tip of the island, featuring the National Museum of Bermuda, craft markets, glassblowing studios, and ferry connections to the capital city of Hamilton.

Practical Visitor Guide: Travel Tips, Parking, and Spectator Logistics

Getting to Bermuda and Accommodation Options

International travelers fly into L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA), situated on the eastern end of the island. Travel time from the airport to Southampton Parish takes approximately 35 to 42 minutes by taxi or resort transfer.

To stay close to the golf course, choose accommodations along the South Shore in Southampton, Warwick, or Sandys Parish. Premier oceanfront resorts, boutique hotels, and guest houses offer easy shuttle or taxi access to Port Royal Golf Course.

Spectator Parking and Public Transportation

Parking directly at Port Royal Golf Course is restricted to tournament staff and official players. However, spectator transit is efficient and simple:

• Free Spectator Parking at White Hill Field: Public vehicle parking is free at White Hill Field in Sandys Parish. Complimentary tournament shuttle buses run continuously between White Hill Field and the main spectator entrance at Port Royal from pre-dawn until one hour after play concludes.
• Scooter and Motorbike Parking: Spectators arriving via rental scooters or bicycles can park directly at Death Valley Park located adjacent to the main course entrance.
• Public Bus Routes 7 and 8: Municipal pink public buses operate along Middle Road and South Road, dropping spectators off directly outside the entrance to Port Royal.

Ticket Pricing and Child Admission Policy

Tickets should be purchased online in advance through the official tournament website. Pricing options include:

• General Admission: Daily passes range from $35 to $40 USD per day.
• Youth Ticket Policy: Children aged 15 and under receive free general admission to the tournament grounds when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
• The Goslings Club VIP Ticket: Daily passes range from $95 to $150 USD per person.
• Ocean Club VIP Ticket: Daily all-inclusive passes range from $300 to $320 USD per person.

Step Onto the Fairway and Experience PGA TOUR Magic in Paradise

The Butterfield Bermuda Championship offers an extraordinary fusion of elite sports drama, oceanfront beauty, and warm island hospitality. Imagine standing along the ocean cliffs at Port Royal under a bright blue sky, watching the world's best golfers attempt the legendary tee shot on the 16th hole, and celebrating the afternoon with an ice-cold Dark 'n Stormy surrounded by cheering fans. Whether you are seeking world-class golf action or a memorable autumn vacation in the Atlantic, this exceptional tournament promises memories that will stay with you forever. Secure your event passes, pack your golf visor, and prepare to immerse yourself in the unforgettable magic of Bermuda!

Frequently Asked Questions

The Things People Always Want to Know

What months is the Butterfield Bermuda Championship typically held in?

The tournament is an annual autumn event on the PGA TOUR Fall Schedule, held over four consecutive days from Thursday through Sunday in late October or mid-November.

Where is the tournament hosted in Bermuda?

The tournament takes place at Port Royal Golf Course, a public championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., located off Port Royal Golf Course Road in Southampton Parish, Bermuda.

How much do general admission tickets cost for spectators?

Daily General Admission tickets typically cost between $35 and $40 USD when purchased online. Upgraded VIP tickets range from $95 to $150 USD for The Goslings Club and $300 to $320 USD for the all-inclusive Ocean Club.

Are children allowed to attend the tournament for free?

Yes, children aged 15 and under are granted free general admission to the tournament grounds when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Full-price tickets are required for entry into VIP hospitality venues.

Where do spectators park for the Butterfield Bermuda Championship?

Free public vehicle parking is located at White Hill Field in Sandys Parish, with free continuous shuttle buses transferring spectators to Port Royal Golf Course. Scooter and bike parking is available at Death Valley Park next to the entrance.

What is the prize purse for the Butterfield Bermuda Championship?

The tournament features an official PGA TOUR purse of $6.0 million, with the champion receiving $1.08 million and 500 FedExCup points.

What is the dress code for spectators attending the tournament?

Spectators should wear comfortable golf attire or smart casual resort wear, such as collared shirts, tailored shorts, sun hats, and comfortable flat walking shoes or golf shoes suitable for grass hillsides.

Verified Information at a Glance

• Event Category: PGA TOUR Official FedExCup Fall Golf Tournament and Professional Sports Showcase
• Official Event Identity: Butterfield Bermuda Championship
• Typical Event Season: Held annually over four consecutive days from Thursday to Sunday in late October or mid-November
• Primary Event Venue: Port Royal Golf Course, 5 Port Royal Golf Course Road, Southampton Parish, SB03, Bermuda (Par 71, 6,828 yards, Architect: Robert Trent Jones Sr.)
• Organizing Authority & Sponsors: PGA TOUR in official partnership with Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son Limited and the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA)
• Tournament Purse & FedExCup Points: $6.0 Million total purse ($1,080,000 winner's share) plus 500 FedExCup points
• Spectator Ticket Pricing Matrix:
• Daily General Admission: $35 to $40 USD per day (Youth 15 & under admitted free with adult)
• The Goslings Club Hospitality: $95 to $150 USD per day (Includes lunch and welcome drink)
• Ocean Club Hospitality: $300 to $320 USD per day (All-inclusive food, drinks, and 16th green views)
• Core Event Highlights: Elite PGA TOUR field, the world-famous oceanfront 16th hole, Coca-Cola Fan Oasis, Family Day activities, Bermuda Gombey dance showcases, and local food stalls
• Parking and Public Transport: Free spectator parking and shuttle bus service at White Hill Field, scooter parking at Death Valley Park, and public bus routes 7 and 8
• Official Digital Platform: Tournament news, field updates, live leaderboards, and ticket bookings are updated at www.butterfieldbdachampionship.com and www.pgatour.com