Puerto Rico is not just a tropical paradise, but also a golfer’s haven, boasting some of the most stunning and challenging courses in the Caribbean. With a climate that accommodates year-round play and a landscape that offers breathtaking views, the island is home to 21 world-class golf courses. These courses are designed by legendary architects and have been host to prestigious tournaments, including the PGA’s Puerto Rico Open. From the lush greens of Bahia Beach to the historic fairways of Dorado Beach, here are five must-play golf courses that offer an unforgettable golfing experience.
Key Takeaways
- Puerto Rico offers a diverse range of world-class golf courses with 21 options, perfect for year-round play.
- The island’s courses are designed by renowned architects such as Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Jr., Rees Jones, and Greg Norman.
- Puerto Rico’s golf courses are not just about the sport; they offer stunning vistas, including beachfronts and tropical foliage.
- The prestigious Puerto Rico Open, an official PGA Tour event, highlights the island’s top-tier golfing facilities.
- Golfers can enjoy more than just the courses, with a variety of resorts, restaurants, and other attractions to enhance their stay.
1. Bahia Beach Resort and Golf Club
Nestled in the scenic Rio Grande region of Puerto Rico, the Bahia Beach Resort and Golf Club is a golfer’s sanctuary. Designed by the esteemed Robert Trent Jones II, this course is a masterpiece that blends challenging play with breathtaking natural beauty. Golfers of all levels will find the course both rewarding and demanding, with its strategic layout winding through a vibrant tropical landscape.
The course boasts a remarkable combination of coastal and forested landscapes, offering players an immersive experience in Puerto Rico’s diverse ecosystems. With two miles of pristine Caribbean beachfront, the views are as spectacular as the game itself.
The club’s amenities are tailored to enhance your golfing experience. Here’s a quick overview:
- 18-hole, Par 72 Robert Trent Jones Jr. Golf Course
- Full-service driving range and lessons available
- State-of-the-art Bahia Wellness Center
- Seaside Pool Esplanade for relaxation after your round
Not far from the bustling city of San Juan, the Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club is a retreat that promises memorable rounds and serene views, making it a must-play destination for any golf enthusiast visiting Puerto Rico.
2. Dorado Beach Resort Golf Courses
The Dorado Beach Resort & Country Club stands out as the largest golf complex in Puerto Rico, boasting four 18-hole courses. This prestigious club features the East and West Courses, along with The Plantation Club’s Sugarcane and Pineapple courses. With such a variety, golf enthusiasts can experience a different challenge with each round.
The East Course at Dorado Beach is particularly renowned, holding the title of the nicest, most famous, and most expensive of the TPC Dorado Beach courses. It offers a great challenge for those looking to test their skills.
The resort’s location in Dorado makes it easily accessible for visitors, and with the upcoming addition of a new 18-hole oceanfront course, the resort is set to become an even more attractive destination for golfers. Currently, the courses at Dorado Beach are exclusive to members and resort guests, but the new course is expected to welcome outside players, further enhancing its appeal.
For inquiries or to book a tee time, interested parties can contact the resort at (787) 626-1010.
3. Palmas Del Mar Resort Golf Club
Nestled in the tropical paradise of Humacao, the Palmas Del Mar Resort Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience. With a phone number of (787) 656-3020, golfers can easily book their tee time at this prestigious club.
The resort features a Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed 18-hole course, boasting a par of 72 that challenges both amateur and seasoned golfers alike. The course is renowned for its strategic bunkers, undulating greens, and the stunning views it offers of the Caribbean Sea.
The Palmas Del Mar Resort Golf Club is not just about golf; it’s an immersive experience that combines sport with the natural beauty of Puerto Rico.
Golfers can also take advantage of the comprehensive practice facilities, including a spacious driving range and professional lessons to improve their game. The club’s amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all guests.
4. Flamboyán Course
The Flamboyán Course at Rio Mar Beach Resort is a golfer’s paradise, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and a challenging layout that will test your skills. Designed by the renowned Reese Jones, this 18-hole championship course is celebrated for its picturesque ocean vistas, earning it a place among the top five golf courses in the Caribbean as per Barron Magazine.
The course’s design seamlessly integrates natural beauty with strategic play. Golfers can expect a mix of water hazards, strategic bunkers, and undulating greens that demand precision and thoughtful shot selection. The expansive practice tee provides an excellent space to hone your game before taking on the course.
The Flamboyán Course is not just about the game; it’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of Caribbean golfing, with every hole offering a new view and a new challenge.
For those seeking a tournament-grade challenge, the Palm Course, also located at Rio Mar Beach Resort, complements the Flamboyán with its own unique features. Designed by Gary Player, this course presents a resort-style layout amidst a tropical landscape, complete with its own breathtaking Caribbean Sea views.
5. The St. Regis Bahía Beach Resort
Nestled within the lush Bahia Beach community, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort stands out as a beacon of luxury and sustainability. With its Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Certification, the resort is a testament to environmentally-friendly development, offering guests a unique blend of opulence and ecological awareness.
The resort’s commitment to the environment is matched only by its dedication to guest experiences. From the iconic Champagne Sabering ritual to the diverse array of activities, every moment is crafted for unforgettable memories.
The resort’s amenities cater to a wide range of interests and fitness goals. Whether you prefer a serene nature walk, an invigorating jog, or a game of tennis, the options are plentiful. For those seeking relaxation, the seaside pool and state-of-the-art spa promise a rejuvenating escape.
Contact Information:
- Location: Humacao, Puerto Rico
- Phone: (787) 656-3020
The St. Regis Bahia Beach is not just a stay—it’s a journey into a world where luxury meets nature.
Conclusion
Puerto Rico is an undisputed paradise for golf enthusiasts, boasting a diverse array of world-class courses that cater to players of all skill levels. From the lush, tropical landscapes of Bahia Beach Resort and Golf Club to the historic charm of Dorado Beach Resort’s courses, the island offers an unforgettable golfing experience. With year-round perfect weather and the prestige of hosting the PGA’s Puerto Rico Open, the island’s courses are not just a test of skill but a showcase of natural beauty and design excellence. Whether you’re looking to follow in the footsteps of the pros or simply enjoy a leisurely round with stunning ocean views, Puerto Rico’s top golf courses are a must-visit for any golfer looking to tee off in paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many golf courses does Puerto Rico offer?
Puerto Rico offers 21 world-class golf courses with stunning vistas and ideal playing conditions throughout the year.
What makes golf in Puerto Rico special?
Golf in Puerto Rico is characterized by its beautiful courses, tropical scenery, renovated resorts, delicious food, and cultural attractions like Old San Juan, casinos, watersports, and rum.
How many of Puerto Rico’s golf courses are considered top-tier?
Puerto Rico boasts eighteen layouts, with five courses rated among the Top 50 in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and the Atlantic Islands by Golfweek.
What distinguishes the Flamboyán Course?
The Flamboyán Course is an 18-hole championship caliber course designed by Reese Jones, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and ranked among the Top Five in the Caribbean by Barron Magazine.
What is the significance of the Puerto Rico Open for golf tourism?
“The Puerto Rico Open beautifully showcases what visitors can expect when playing golf here,” according to Brad Dean, CEO of Discover Puerto Rico, highlighting the island’s appeal as a golf destination.
Who designed the golf course at The St. Regis Bahía Beach Resort?
The golf course at The St. Regis Bahía Beach Resort was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., known for preserving natural environments while providing challenging variety.