Puerto Rico is a golfer’s paradise, offering a combination of stunning natural beauty and world-class golf course design. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking to enjoy a leisurely round, Puerto Rico has something to offer for every golfer. Here are some of the best golf courses in Puerto Rico:
1. Royal Isabela Golf Course
Location: Isabela, Puerto Rico
Overview: Royal Isabela Golf Course is a hidden gem nestled on the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico. This course offers a unique golfing experience with dramatic oceanfront views and challenging holes. Designed by David W. Pfaff, it features 20 holes, giving golfers a variety of playing options and breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Bahia Beach Golf Club
Location: Río Grande, Puerto Rico
Overview: Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Bahia Beach Golf Club is a championship golf course set within a luxurious resort. This course combines the natural beauty of the Caribbean with challenging fairways, lush greens, and water features. The course is renowned for its eco-friendly design and stunning scenery.
3. TPC Dorado Beach
Location: Dorado, Puerto Rico
Overview: TPC Dorado Beach is a golfer’s paradise boasting two championship golf courses – East Course and Sugarcane Course. The East Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a classic layout that has hosted PGA Tour events. The Sugarcane Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., offers a more modern challenge with beautiful views of the ocean.
4. Coco Beach Golf & Country Club
Location: Río Grande, Puerto Rico
Overview: Coco Beach Golf & Country Club features two 18-hole championship courses: the Championship Course and the International Course. Designed by Tom Kite and Tom Lehman respectively, these courses offer diverse challenges for players of all skill levels. The lush tropical setting adds to the appeal.
5. Palmas del Mar Golf Club
Location: Humacao, Puerto Rico
Overview: Palmas del Mar Golf Club is a 36-hole facility offering two distinct golfing experiences. The Flamboyan Course, designed by Rees Jones, and the Palm Course, designed by Gary Player, provide golfers with varying levels of difficulty and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
6. The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
Location: Río Grande, Puerto Rico
Overview: The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is home to a picturesque Robert Trent Jones Jr. golf course. This course combines the lush natural surroundings with cleverly designed challenges, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and golf.
7. Punta Borinquen Golf Club
Location: Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
Overview: Punta Borinquen Golf Club is located on the northwest coast of Puerto Rico and offers golfers a unique experience. This course is set on former military grounds, providing a historic backdrop to your game. The course offers ocean views and a challenging layout.
8. El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort
Location: Fajardo, Puerto Rico
Overview: El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort is a Waldorf Astoria property featuring the Arthur Hills-designed golf course. This course is known for its stunning vistas of the Caribbean and challenging layout that will test your skills while providing a memorable round.
9. Rio Mar Country Club
Location: Río Grande, Puerto Rico
Overview: Rio Mar Country Club offers two championship courses – the Ocean Course and the River Course. The Ocean Course, designed by George and Tom Fazio, offers dramatic seaside holes, while the River Course, designed by Greg Norman, takes you through a lush tropical landscape.
10. Ponce Golf & Casino Resort
Location: Ponce, Puerto Rico
Overview: The Ponce Golf & Casino Resort features a well-maintained 27-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. With panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the picturesque setting of the southern coast, this course provides a relaxing and enjoyable golfing experience.
How to Enjoy Golfing in Puerto Rico
Now that you know about some of the best golf courses in Puerto Rico, let’s explore how you can make the most of your golfing experience on this beautiful island.
1. Plan Your Visit
Before you head to Puerto Rico for a golf vacation, it’s essential to plan your trip well in advance. Check the availability of tee times at your preferred golf courses and make reservations if necessary. Consider the time of year you want to visit, as Puerto Rico enjoys great weather year-round, but you may want to avoid the hurricane season from June to November.
2. Golf Package Deals
Many resorts and golf clubs in Puerto Rico offer golf package deals that include accommodations, rounds of golf, and other amenities. These packages can provide excellent value for golfers and make your trip more convenient.
3. Renting Clubs and Equipment
If you don’t want to bring your golf clubs with you, most golf courses in Puerto Rico offer high-quality club rentals. You can also rent golf carts, which are often included in the green fees.
4. Brush Up on Your Game
Before hitting the greens in Puerto Rico, consider warming up at the practice facilities available at most golf courses. It’s a great way to get into the swing of things and fine-tune your game before playing a round.
5. Enjoy the Scenery
One of the unique aspects of golfing in Puerto Rico is the stunning natural beauty surrounding the courses. Take the time to appreciate the lush tropical landscapes, ocean views, and unique wildlife that you’ll encounter while playing.
6. Local Cuisine and Culture
Puerto Rico is known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. After a round of golf, explore the local food scene and savor some traditional Puerto Rican dishes, such as mofongo, tostones, and fresh seafood. You can also immerse yourself in the island’s rich history by visiting historical sites and landmarks.
7. Additional Activities
While golf may be the primary reason for your trip, Puerto Rico offers a wide range of other activities and attractions. You can explore the beautiful beaches, go snorkeling or scuba diving, hike in El Yunque National Forest, or simply relax at a spa. Be sure to take advantage of all the island has to offer.
8. Respect the Environment
Puerto Rico’s natural beauty is one of its greatest assets, so it’s crucial to respect the environment while golfing. Follow the course rules and guidelines, repair divots and ball marks, and avoid disturbing the local wildlife.
9. Sunset Golf
Some golf courses in Puerto Rico offer twilight or sunset golf experiences. Playing a round as the sun sets over the Caribbean can be a magical and memorable experience. Check with the courses for availability and pricing for evening tee times.
10. Relax and Unwind
Lastly, don’t forget to take time to relax and unwind. Golfing in Puerto Rico is not just about the game; it’s also about enjoying the natural beauty and the laid-back island vibe. Take in the sights and sounds of this tropical paradise, and you’ll return home with unforgettable memories.
Best Golf Courses In Puerto Rico
| Course Name | Location | Par | Yardage | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bahia Beach Resort | Rio Grande | 72 | 6,979 | Scenic oceanfront course with lush greens. |
| Dorado Beach Resort | Dorado | 72 | 7,243 | Classic course designed by Robert Trent Jones. |
| TPC Dorado Beach | Dorado | 72 | 7,267 | Host of PGA TOUR events, challenging layout. |
| Coco Beach Golf Club | Rio Grande | 72 | 7,343 | Palm-lined fairways and Caribbean sea views. |
| Palmas Del Mar | Humacao | 72 | 6,953 | Two championship courses in a beautiful resort. |
| Royal Isabela | Isabela | 72 | 7,397 | Dramatic cliffs, oceanfront golf at its best. |
| Rio Mar Golf Club | Rio Grande | 72 | 6,945 | Caribbean vistas and Greg Norman design. |
| El Conquistador | Fajardo | 72 | 7,209 | Scenic course with elevations and sea views. |
| Punta Borinquen | Aguadilla | 72 | 7,006 | Historic course with ocean breezes. |
| Costa Caribe Golf | Ponce | 72 | 6,579 | Rolling hills, water features, and great golf. |
Puerto Rico offers a golfing experience unlike any other, with world-class courses set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or just looking for a unique vacation destination, Puerto Rico’s golf courses have something to offer everyone. So, tee it up and enjoy the golfing adventure of a lifetime in Puerto Rico!
