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The beaches, the unique terrain, the perfect year-round weather — Puerto Rico has all the ingredients of an unforgettable golfing experience. But with over a dozen courses in the vicinity, how do you pick one for your round?
Frankly, you can’t go wrong with any of these tropical golf paradises near San Juan. You’ll just have to plan on coming back to play the others!
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Golf & Beach Resort
The Rio Mar Country Club, a short drive from San Juan, features two championship courses. The River Course is by Hall of Famer Greg Norman, while the Ocean Course boasts a design from Tom and George Fazio. Both courses are regarded as two of the best on the island.
In terms of difficulty, the River Course falls on the challenging side, with narrow fairways and hazards. The Norman-inspired course also offers some of the most stunning views in all of Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, the erstwhile scenic Ocean Course sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains of the El Yunque rainforest.
Coco Beach
It’s easy to see what makes Coco Beach the venue for the Puerto Rico Open and numerous PGA Tour events. Breathtaking surrounds skirt pristine fairways — you will instantly fall in love with either of two 18-hole circuits. Tom Kite, another notable PGA professional, designed both Coco Beach courses.
At Coco Beach, players rave about the Caribbean seashore, white silica sand bunkers (especially when they aren’t in them), and various water features. Book a tee time at either International or Championship and experience Coco Beach for yourself.
TPC Dorado Beach
If you’re looking for an iconic golf course just west of San Juan, look no further than TPC Dorado Beach. Robert Trent Jones, Sr. created the course in 1955 before it underwent a restoration over 50 years later by his son, Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Players can opt for the East Course or Sugarcane Course, both of which are spectacularly landscaped and surrounded by lush Caribbean greenery.
There are very few courses in the Caribbean that top the East Course. Ocean views, coconut trees, and fun greens highlight this 7,200-yard beauty. Players interested in more of a challenge might prefer the Sugarcane Course for its deeper bunkers and water hazards.
St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club
Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed this masterpiece as well. All but three holes border some form of water, making for an unforgettable round. Players end their day along the Atlantic Coast with amazing vistas unique to Bahia Beach.
Scattered lakes and undulating fairways challenge players of all skill levels. But don’t let a few bad shots keep you from taking in everything this course has to offer. For one thing, when will you have another chance to play golf with one of the world’s most beautiful beachfronts as the backdrop?
Royal Isabela Golf Course
Royal Isabela is known for its cliffs 200 feet above the ocean. What sets it apart from the above courses, though, are the sod-faced bunkers. The one-of-a-kind setting and design often have players thinking they’re in Scotland.
There’s no question that players of all skill levels will enjoy Royal Isabela. While the course has its intricacies along the way, you’ll also need to account for the trade winds throughout your round. Royal Isabela has caddies available for those interested.
El Legado Golf Resort
Chi Chi Rodriguez designed this exclusive course. El Legado Golf Resort sits near the Caribbean Sea and mountains known as “La Cordillera Central.” The par-72 course features gorgeous views from every hole, as well as changing winds sure to challenge any player.
End your day with a drink at Guamani Restaurant & Bar. This spot overlooks the course and serves as the perfect place to wind down after 18 holes.
Book your tee time in Puerto Rico
Trust us, no trip to Puerto Rico is complete without a round of golf. So, bring your clubs, and get ready for a day at the links you’ll remember forever!