this guide

COSTABaJA / BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR
EM
LITE
exico
experiences
The Pro’s Guide to
Golfing Mexico
The list of Mexico’s course designers reads like a veritable who’s
who of the world’s greatest golf pros—players at the top of their
game who choose to set up camp in Mexico for its gorgeous
weather, diverse landscape and abundance of luxury properties.
Find out why big names from Greg Norman to Gary Player make
Mexico their home away from home.
EM
LITE
exico
experiences
el camaleón mayakoba golf club / riviera maya
el camaleón mayakoba golf club / riviera maya
el camaleón mayakoba golf club / riviera maya
No matter where you are in Mexico, you can expect to find some of
of the game’s greatest names, including Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent
the world’s best golfing. Here’s our guide to an A-list golf experience,
Jones, Jr., Robert Von Hagge, Isao Aoki, Greg Norman and P.B. Dye. On
region by region.
the horizon are new courses, many already under construction, featuring designs by Tom Weiskopf, Tom Fazio and Nick Price.
Cancun and Riviera Maya
Designed by Greg Norman, El Camaleón at the Mayakoba Resort in
International media have flocked to Riviera Maya to cover major tour-
Playa del Carmen is an 18-hole resort course which winds through three
naments like the PGA’s Mayakoba Classic and the Canadian Profes-
different landscapes—mangrove jungles, limestone canals and ocean-
sional Golf Tour, boosting the region’s rep as a golfer’s paradise on
front stretches—ensuring stunning views every game.
a global scale. Cancun’s top course designs come courtesy of some
(www.mayakobagolf.com)
THE PRO’S GUIDE TO GOLFING MEXICO
EM
LITE
exico
experiences
playa mujeres / cancun
playa mujeres / cancun
WHAT THE PROS SAY
Greg Norman
“There are a number of reasons why so many renowned designers have done
courses in Mexico. Among these are the close proximity to the United States,
high quality sites, fantastic weather and first class owners and partners
developing resort properties with a need for amenities such as golf courses.
Mexico is a beautifully diverse country, with many different types of gorgeous
environments. I have had the opportunity to design courses in many of
these environments. Whether it is along sandy beaches, rocky coastlines, or
through mangrove swamps or tropical jungles, these incredible sites have all
possessed dramatic views that add to the intrinsic value of the golf course.
So it’s no wonder that I find time in my busy schedule to visit my projects in
Mexico, and I usually find myself staying a few extra days to enjoy this beautiful country.”
Another Greg Norman build, located just three miles north of Cancun,
playa mujeres / cancun
Playa Mujeres is an eco-friendly green that takes full advantage of the
region’s native fauna and dazzling Carribean Sea vistas. The course’s
first 18 holes opened in 2006, with an additional nine holes under construction now.
(www.excellence-resorts.com)
Jack Nicklaus’ green at the Cozumel Country Club is the island’s
first golf course, and took up to five years to complete. A favorite among
seasoned players and first-timers alike, the course passes through
Mayan jungle, saltwater marshland and tropical rainforest for a breathtaking game.
(www.cozumelcountryclub.com.mx)
THE PRO’S GUIDE TO GOLFING MEXICO
EM
LITE
exico
experiences
EL CID GRANADA COUNTRY CLUB / MAZATLAN
EL CID GRANADA COUNTRY CLUB / MAZATLAN
WHAT THE PROS SAY
GARY PLAYER
“There is something special about Mexico that makes me want to
return again and again. It is a beautiful country rich in history and
culture and the people are just fantastic. I am quite proud of our first
project in Mexico, CostaBaja Resort & Marina, which we designed
for my friend Manuel Arango. It is situated on a wonderful site overlooking the Sea of Cortés where the natural beauty of the land takes
center stage. The contrast of the green fairways against the desert
conditions and the beautiful blue sea is stunning and we designed
the course so all levels of golfers will enjoy the experience.”
Mazatlan
COSTABaJA / BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR
Flanked by a resort and marina by the same name, the golf course at
El Cid Granada Country Club features 27 holes designed by pro Lee
Trevino and impressive views of the Pacific Ocean.
(www.elcid.com)
Baja California Sur
The charming municipalities of Los Cabos and La Paz offer countless
opportunities to hone your golf game. La Paz’s recently-unveiled CostaBaja Golf Club (inaugurated in November 2010) is home to the country’s first Gary Player signature course, while nearby Los Cabos boasts
greens from greats like Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Tom Fazio and
Davis Love III.
THE PRO’S GUIDE TO GOLFING MEXICO
EM
LITE
exico
experiences
cabo real / los cabos
querencia / los cabos
WHAT THE PROS SAY
ROBERT TRENT JONES II
“I’ve greatly enjoyed all my time spent designing golf courses in
Mexico, whether it be Riviera Maya (Bahia Principe), Los Cabos
(Cabo Real), Zihuatanejo (Club De Golf Palma Real) or Mazatlán (Estrella del Mar). The varied topographies and flavors of this tropical
paradise are perfect for golf—from the cactus forests of Baja to the
lush jungles of the Yucatan. Just as the monuments built by earlier
civilizations bring visitors from around the world, we hope our golf
courses will do the same. Buenos suerte!”
querencia / los cabos
Robert Trent Jones II’s Cabo Real is a 7,037-yard, 18-hole course
that has played host to numerous elite tournaments, including two
PGA Senior Slams, since its opening in 1993. Its front nine is widely
considered the toughest in Los Cabos—though the astounding sight
of whales breaching in the background as you tee off (caught on camera during 1996’s Senior Slam) more than makes up for the challenge
(www.caboreal.com).
Award-winning course architect Tom Fazio masterminded the design of the Los Cabos private golf club Querencia, an 18-hole green
with luxe amenities like a spa, beach club, pool and tennis facilities
(www.loscabosquerencia.com).
THE PRO’S GUIDE TO GOLFING MEXICO
EM
LITE
exico
experiences
puerto los cabos / Los cabos
puerto los cabos / Los cabos
palmilla golf club / los cabos
palmilla golf club / los cabos
Also among Cabo’s can’t-miss courses is Jack Nicklaus’ 27-hole
design at the Palmilla Golf Club, the pro’s first in Latin America.
Unbelievable views of the Sea of Cortez greet you at every hole.
(www.palmillagc.com)
Greg Norman’s Puerto Los Cabos also takes advantage of Los Cabos’
WHAT THE PROS SAY
P.B. DYE
“Iberostar, Playa Paraiso, is resort golf
at its best. Iberostar’s hospitality just
adds to the golfing experience of this
showstopping mountains-meet-sea scenery with a championship
championship 18-hole golf course.
layout that offers dramatic changes in elevation. Since its opening in
Both the golf and hotel will bring the
2008, it’s been a favorite among fans of the sport.
guest and the player back for more
(www.puertoloscabos.com)
fun—over and over again.”
THE PRO’S GUIDE TO GOLFING MEXICO
EM
LITE
exico
experiences
VISTA VALLARTA CLUB DE GOLF / PUERTO VLLARTA
jack nicklaus
JACK NICKLAUS
“The reasons why I enjoying playing golf in
Mexico are the same as why we have enjoyed
designing golf courses there: the spectacular
weather; the variety and uniqueness of terrain;
and the warm and welcoming people of Mexico.
We have been fortunate to design some
wonderful golf courses in Mexico, and one of
the chief reasons for that is that it’s such a
beautiful country, with lots of ruggedness but
also lots of softness. And just as important,
we’ve formed a lot of close relationships down
there that will only grow in the coming years.”
VISTA VALLARTA CLUB DE GOLF / PUERTO VLLARTA
Puerto Vallarta
A total of seven pro-tested courses make Puerto Vallarta one of Mexico’s golf meccas. You’ll take in lush jungle and tranquil oceanside
scenes while you play world-class greens.
Vista Vallarta Club de Golf features courses designed by legends
like Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf, and is conveniently located near
the Puerto Vallarta International Airport. The 2000 World Cup was held
at the complex’s Nicklaus-designed course, while Weiskopf’s is renowned as the best 36-hole design in Mexico.
(www.vistavallartagolf.com).
THE PRO’S GUIDE TO GOLFING MEXICO
EM
LITE
exico
experiences
el tigre at paradise village / puerto vallarta
el tigre at paradise village / puerto vallarta
Vista Vallarta’s sister property, Marina Vallarta Golf Club, offers a
el tigre at paradise village / puerto vallarta
el tigre at paradise village / puerto vallarta
unique par-71, 6,700-yard course design from the late architect Joe
Finger. Take in Banderas Bay and the nearby marina for a truly serene
day on the green.
(www.marinavallartagolf.com)
New on the scene in Puerto Vallarta is El Tigre at Paradise Village,
already earning raves from fans for its exciting 18 holes. Spread out
over 7,239 yards, the course is home to eight bodies of water—and a
lovable bunch of tiger cubs, owned by Director of Golf Jesus Carmona
(www.paradisevillagegolf.com)
To book your next elite golf getaway, or to learn more about Mexico’s
greatest greens, head to www.visitmexico.com.
THE PRO’S GUIDE TO GOLFING MEXICO
Time 2 get away to a 5-star resort, all-inclusive hotel or small hideaway. Some big
game fishing, water sports, a relaxing spa, an outback adventure. Or playing
18 holes of championship golf, everyday. It’s time, isn’t it? Time2Cabo.
For great golf packages, visit www.TIME2CABO.com | 1-866-LOS CABOS
promotional feature
Cabo Riviera: A dream destination for boating,
fishing, golf and casual seaside living
Thoughtfully created in to be harmony with its waterfront setting on the calm Sea of Cortez, 900-acre Cabo Riviera is the ultimate haven for
those who live life to its fullest (and its just a short distance from Los Cabos International Airport). Residents can swim and play along the
white-sand beaches, sail a boat, cast a line on the sapphire sea, paddle a sea kayak along the scenic shore and enjoy 18 holes of golf on the
all images are renderings except aerial shot
signature championship course that plays to both the beachfront and the marina harbor.
A Lifestyle Defined by Romance,
Village also offers opportunities for casual dining
Adventure, and Relaxation
that are unparalleled in Baja, plus, a fabulous spa,
Cabo Riviera offers state-of-the-art conveniences and
all served by water taxis to transport guests between
The boutique-filled Artists Village, adjacent to the Ma-
outstanding amenities for life on the Sea of Cortez.
various elements of the harbor-oriented community.
rina, takes full advantage of a climate that is ideal for
The spectacular Marina and Marina Harbor Island
Handsome brick and stone-clad buildings overlook
outdoor dining and meeting friends along the water-
home sites, with private docks, make this a commu-
the harbor house, exclusive yacht and the boutique
front. Sundrenched stone facades and inviting plazas
nity without parallel anywhere in the world. With two
hotel. Facing the harbor on the west, find a five-star
reached via meandering stone walkways recall ancient
miles of protected white-sand oceanfront, Cabo Riv-
150-key hotel managed by a leading international
towns along the French Riviera or on the shores of the
iera has swimmable beaches that offer unmatched
concern, complete with branded homes, a luxurious
Adriatic. From original artworks to everyday necessities,
enjoyment for both the young, and the young at heart,
spa, and private docks for hotel guests.
the village is as charming as it is authentic. Cafes, fine
advance of their arrival at the resort.
restaurants and lively St-Barths-style bars and bistros
on a gorgeous protected bay, Bahia de Las Palmas.
Expect a signature 18 hole links course that will de-
will make Cabo Riviera Marina the hottest place in the
The 250+slip, full-service Marina is a boat owner’s
liver a challenging and very satisfying experience for
hemisphere to go “stern to” for people-watching or just
dream, with state-of-the-art facilities for vessels
golfers of all levels. Oceanfront and Marina fairways
unwinding on Saturday afternoon and well into a moon-
from super yachts to smaller sport fishing “pangas.”
will add to the unforgettable golf experience.
lit Saturday night.
www.caboriviera.com.mx
The homes at Cabo Riviera are unique in the Americas in that the Marina Harbor Island Villa Lots in-
Cabo Riviera’s professionally-run, deep-water ma-
(619) 270-8771, (619) 819-9280
clude a private dock and a world-class beach club,
rina welcomes vessels of all sizes, from large motor
+52-624-130-0303, +52-624-105-1005
exclusive to owners. The Marina Harbor is anchored
yachts and sailboats to sea kayaks and speedboats.
[email protected]
by a European-style Artists Village, with casually el-
The 285-slip full-service facility will include a dry
egant condominiums, apartments, boutiques, shops
dock, dry stack storage area and concierge services
and a replica of a Colonial-era church. The Artists
to fuel, clean and fully prepare residents’ boats in
promotional feature
cabo del sol
JACK
NICKLAUS
The golf legend
designed the
Ocean Course
at Cabo del Sol
and describes it
as ”the best golf
property I’ve
ever seen.”
mexico’s greatest golf: los cabos course guide
With high end resorts, world-class spas and pulsating nightlife, it’s no wonder Los Cabos has become the preferred vacation destination of
the ultra-elite. But for serious golfing enthusiasts, Los Cabos offers something even more alluring: The chance to follow in the footsteps of
pros and play some of the highest-rated championship courses on the planet. Read on for our course-by-course guide to the region’s best.
From seasoned pros to budding amateurs, there’s
Puerto Los Cabos boasts holes by both Nicklaus
acclaimed architect Roy Dye.
a course in Los Cabos for everyone. Here’s our
(the Marina Course—9 holes) and Greg Norman
Affiliated Resort | The Los Cabos Golf Resort
guide to up and coming courses and tried and true
(the Mission Course—9 holes).
offers 74 luxe villas resembling traditional Spanish
favorites.
Affliated Resort | Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort &
haciendas.
Spa offers spa-inspired suites and fine dining.
Contact | (888) 328-8501;
Contact | (877) 795-8727; www.questrogolf.com
www.cabosanlucascountryclub.com
Cabo Real Golf Club and Puerto Los Cabos
Palmilla Golf Club
Awards | 2011 GOLF Magazine—“Top 100 Courses
Awards | 2011—Preferred Golf Course: Cabo Real
Awards | 2011—Best for Golf Guide: #2 Golf Course
in the World” #100 (18 consecutive years in World
2011—Best Golfweek Courses from the Caribbean
in Mexico
Top 100)
and Mexico: Cabo Real #44 and Puerto Los Cabos #25
2011—Golfweek’s Best Places to Play
2011 Golf Digest—“Top 100 Courses Outside The
2011—“Golf in Mexico” Ranking by Best Golf Guide
News & Notes | This stunning course was designed
US” #24
to Los Cabos: Cabo Real #10, Club Campestre San
by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.
News & Notes | This elite property features both
José #16 and Puerto Los Cabos #20
Affiliated Resort | The five-star One&Only Palmilla
Desert and Ocean 18-hole courses, designed by
2011 Rolex Ranking—Cabo Real rated 85 points out
is a favorite of visiting celebs.
pros Tom Weiskopf and Jack Nicklaus, respectively.
of 100 and Puerto Los Cabos 80 points
Contact | (888) 691-8081;
Affiliated Resort | The Sheraton Hacienda del Mar
News & Notes | All three courses feature de-
www.oneandonlyresorts.com
offers guests preferred rates and tee times at its
OPEN FOR PLAY
Questro Golf: Club Campestre San José,
Cabo del Sol
signs from noted architects: Cabo Real Golf Club
neighboring course.
was masterminded by Robert Trent Jones II, Club
Cabo San Lucas Country Club
Contact | (866) 231-4677;
Campestre was designed by Jack Nicklaus, and
News & Notes | The 18-hole green was designed by
www.cabodelsol.com
promotional
feature
PALMILLA GOLF CLUB
club campestre san josÉ
DIAMaNTE DUNES GOLF CLUB
cabo real
real golf
golf club
club
cabo
QUERENCIA GOLF CLUB
IN DEVELOPMENT
Cabo Riviera Marina and
Golf Resort
This new 900-acre development boasts an
idyllic setting on the shimmering Sea of Cortés, in addition to a scenic 18-hole Pete Dye
Signature golf course that plays to both the
marina harbor and the beautiful beachfront.
Contact | (619) 270-8771;
www.caboriviera.com.mx
Quivira Los Cabos
A stunning stretch of oceanfront makes
for a dramatic backdrop for Jack Nicklaus’ latest Los Cabos courses—there
are two 18-hole greens planned for this
new resort and residential community.
Contact | (866) 578-4847;
www.quiviraloscabos.com
CABO SAN LUCAS COUNTRY CLUB
PUERTO LOS CABOS
Diamante Dunes Golf Club
El Dorado Golf & Beach Club (private)
Awards | 2011—#58 in GOLF Magazine’s Top 100
El Dorado is a private beach retreat for families
Courses in the World
seeking the finest golf, private club and outdoor rec-
2010—Best New International Course by GOLF Mag-
reation experience available in Los Cabos. This ultra-
azine
exclusive enclave offers a Jack Nicklaus-designed
Affiliated Resort | Diamante Cabo San Lucas is a private
18-hole course and a modern clubhouse with spa,
and fully integrated master planned resort community
fitness center, fine dining options and even a private
located on the Pacific Coast. The Diamante Dunes Golf
movie theater.
Club features the course designs of Davis Love III.
Contact | (866) 513-4434;
Contact | (866) 901-1456;
www.eldoradogolfandbeachclub.com
www.diamantecabosanlucas.com
For travelers looking for great golf deals, several
Querencia Golf Club (private)
Los Cabos hotels and resorts have developed spe-
As the centerpiece of this exclusive enclave, Querencia’s
cial TIME2GOLF packages that include complimen-
championship golf course holds the distinct honor of
tary rounds of golf and special amenities, soothing
being not only Los Cabos’ first private membership
sports massages, cart and club rentals and much
club, but also Tom Fazio’s first project in Latin America.
more. For a complete list of exclusive golf pack-
Reminiscent of golf’s greatest desert courses, this
ages, please visit the official Los Cabos website at
incredible cliff-top masterpiece spans an impressive
www.TIME2CABO.com/time2cabo/TIME2GOLF.
320 acres, inviting golfers to both test their skills and
enjoy the club’s one-of-a-kind golf experience.
Awards | 2010 and 2011—Ranked No. 1 Golf Course in
Mexico by Golfweek Magazine for two consecutive years
Contact | (888) 236-2229;
www.loscabosquerencia.com