6 Best Golf Courses in Playa Del Carmen
Few places on earth offer golfers of all levels a choice like Playa Del Carmen.
From rustic courses that cut through rugged terrain to stunning seaside layouts by world-famous architects, there’s something here for everybody.
Whether you’re just learning the ropes or a seasoned pro looking to get more birdies than par, this area will have you dreaming of putting greens and fairways for years on end.
So without further adieu, let’s tee off into the 6 best golf courses Playa Del Carmen has to offer!
1. Vidanta Riviera Maya
If you’re looking for a challenge and some serious bragging rights, check out the Vidanta Riviera Maya golf course, located conveniently between Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
A Jack Nicklaus-designed course, it features 2,923 yards of rolling fairways and 28 tricky bunkers that are sure to test even the most experienced players.
The 17th hole may be the toughest of them all; with bunkers at both sides. And, let’s not forget the ever-present trade winds that can make even the simplest shot seem like mission impossible!
Thankfully amidst all of this intensity, you’ll still appreciate the gorgeous Mayan jungle and native vegetation that line this fine golf course.
2. Gran Coyote Golf
Golfers, grab your clubs and head to Gran Coyote Golf in Playa Del Carmen for a challenge that’s truly unique.
Designed by world-famous pro golfer Nick Price, this 18-hole course boasts seven acres of strategic bunkering and tricky winds – testing your skills on lush greenery with a jungle backdrop!
When you’ve finished the toughest par 71 of your life, refuel at the Coyote Grill before taking a swing at their Golf Academy.
3. El Camaleón Mayakoba
El Camaleón is aptly named – with its ever-changing landscape and shifting visuals, you’ll be hard-pressed to find another track that can compete.
This Greg Norman-designed masterpiece has enticed some serious golfers from Jordan Speith to Rickie Fowler – and it’s no wonder why.
This course touts a challenging blend of tropical jungle, mangroves, freshwater canals and amazing oceanfront views that you simply can’t ignore.
Plus, with five tee marks at each hole, it’s perfect for players of all abilities.
PGA TOUR even declared it its first Latin American golf course – which should be enough to ignite your inner pro golfer!
But that’s not all – get ready for the two ocean holes with the breathtaking Caribbean ocean as your backdrop. Now, this is what we call living the high life!
4. Hard Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya
Hard Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya is off the charts, in more ways than one!
Not only is this course designed by the legendary Robert von Hagge, it also boasts unsurpassable beauty with its combination of exotic wildlife, ancient Mayan ruins, and rolling mounds for an extra challenge.
Players must be brave when executing blind tee shots or approach shots – no wonder why it’s said to be one of the toughest courses in all of Mexico!
When you’re finished testing your skills on this gorgeous course, reward yourself at the restaurant and bar at Hard Rock Golf Club. Heaven can wait…the eighteenth hole awaits!
5. Puerto Aventuras Golf Course
Puerto Aventuras Golf Course is nothing short of iconic. With 36 par designed by Thomas Leman over 30 years ago, any golfer would call this course a ‘classic.’
Swing your way around perfectly manicured Bermuda Grass amidst towering palm trees; it’s easy to see why this original course is still hugely popular.
Let the chirping of birds and rusting of palm leaves become your soundtrack as you play away each morning from 7:30AM.
The course is open until dusk each day so you can take advantage of any spur-of-the-moment golfing thoughts you have.
What better way to experience the Riviera Maya than with a club in one hand and a cold beverage in another?
6. PGA Riviera Maya, Bahia Principe Golf
Step off the sandy shores and onto the greens at PGA Riviera Maya. Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, this 18-hole, 72-par course will have you instantly captivated by its stunning jungle landscape.
Spread across 290 acres of lush vegetation, natural lakes and cenotes – you can even choose to take on the short 9-11 holes if you don’t feel up for the full challenge.
And that’s not all – the staff are fantastic offering snacks and cold beers as they drive around in their carts (now that’s some service!).
Looking for a group or individual lesson? The golf school provides courses suitable for adults, teenagers and children of all levels.
