For decades, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, has been known for its allure of romance, but now it is also gaining recognition for its exceptional golf courses. The Riviera Nayarit, a stunning 200-mile stretch along the Pacific Ocean, is home to some of the finest resort and public-access golf courses in the world. As the prime golfing season approaches in this region, golf enthusiasts are looking forward to exploring the top five golfing spots in and around the Riviera Nayarit.
One of the standout golf clubs in this region is the Punta Mita Golf Club, a 1,500-acre resort and residential community boasting the world’s only natural island green on a par-3 hole called the “Tale of the Whale.” This unique course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers a challenging yet breathtaking golfing experience with ocean views and luxury accommodations. The Punta Mita Invitational, a popular golf and lifestyle event, brings together professional and amateur golfers for a five-day event filled with food, wine, and camaraderie.
El Tigre Golf Club, another notable golf course in the region, offers a challenging and adventurous golfing experience. Designed by Robert von Hagge, this course is known for its length and difficulty, featuring encounters with wildlife such as crocodiles and monkeys. The tee shot on the par-3 17th hole is particularly nerve-wracking as it plays over water to a green surrounded by tigers, adding an element of excitement to the game.
Vista Vallarta Golf Club is a 36-hole facility in the foothills east of Puerto Vallarta, offering stunning views of Banderas Bay and the Sierra Madre mountains. With courses designed by Nicklaus and Weiskopf, players can enjoy a variety of shot-making demands and challenging landscapes. The pristine fairways and strategically placed hazards make for a memorable golfing experience that is both visually stunning and technically challenging.
Vidanta Neuvo Nayarit-Vallarta is a sprawling resort located just north of the Puerto Vallarta airport, offering a wide range of amenities including two championship golf courses designed by Nicklaus and Norman. These courses cater to players of all skill levels, with challenging tees for experienced golfers and user-friendly options for beginners. Additionally, the resort features a 10-hole par-3 course that is illuminated at night, allowing for evening play and a unique golfing experience.
Flamingos Golf Course, built in 1970, is one of the original golf courses in the area, offering a traditional tropical golfing experience. Designed by Percy Clifford, this course winds through mangroves, lagoons, and lush rainforests, providing a scenic backdrop for players. Despite the coastal winds that are common in the region, the fairways are forgiving, and the greens are well-maintained, making for a pleasant and enjoyable round of golf for golfers of all skill levels.
