emexico - elite traveler...mazatlan flanked by a resort and marina by the same name, the golf course...

wE MLITE exicoexperiences

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.

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E MLITE exicoexperiences


No matter where you are in Mexico, you can expect to find some of

the world’s best golfing. Here’s our guide to an A-list golf experience,

region by region.

CanCun and RivieRa Maya

International media have flocked to Riviera Maya to cover major tour-

naments like the PGA’s Mayakoba Classic and the Canadian Profes-

sional Golf Tour, boosting the region’s rep as a golfer’s paradise on

a global scale. Cancun’s top course designs come courtesy of some

of the game’s greatest names, including Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent

Jones, Jr., Robert Von Hagge, Isao Aoki, Greg Norman and P.B. Dye. On

the horizon are new courses, many already under construction, featur-

ing designs by Tom Weiskopf, Tom Fazio and Nick Price.

Designed by Greg norman, el Camaleón at the Mayakoba Resort in

Playa del Carmen is an 18-hole resort course which winds through three

different landscapes—mangrove jungles, limestone canals and ocean-

front stretches—ensuring stunning views every game.

(www.mayakobagolf.com)

eL CAMALeóN MAyAkOBA GOLF CLUB / RIVIeRA MAyA





Another Greg Norman build, located just three miles north of 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 con-

struction 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 breath-

taking game.

(www.cozumelcountryclub.com.mx)

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 beauti-

ful country.”

PLAyA MUJeReS / CANCUN





Mazatlan

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 Cos-

taBaja Golf Club (inaugurated in November 2010) is home to the coun-

try’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.

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 over-

looking 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.”

COSTABAJA / BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR

eL CID GRANADA COUNTRy CLUB / MAZATLAN

eL CID GRANADA COUNTRy CLUB / MAZATLAN



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 cam-

era during 1996’s Senior Slam) more than makes up for the challenge

(www.caboreal.com).

Award-winning course architect tom fazio masterminded the de-

sign 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).

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 (es-

trella 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



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’

showstopping mountains-meet-sea scenery with a championship

layout that offers dramatic changes in elevation. Since its opening in

2008, it’s been a favorite among fans of the sport.

(www.puertoloscabos.com)

PALMILLA GOLF CLUB / 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

championship 18-hole golf course.

Both the golf and hotel will bring the

guest and the player back for more

fun—over and over again.”

PALMILLA GOLF CLUB / LOS CABOS

PUeRTO LOS CABOS / LOS CABOS PUeRTO LOS CABOS / LOS CABOS



PueRto vallaRta

A total of seven pro-tested courses make Puerto Vallarta one of Mex-

ico’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 re-

nowned as the best 36-hole design in Mexico.

(www.vistavallartagolf.com).

VISTA VALLARTA CLUB De GOLF / PUeRTO VLLARTA

VISTA VALLARTA CLUB De GOLF / PUeRTO VLLARTA

JACk NICkLAUSJACk NICkLAUS

“The reasons why I enjoying playing golf inMexico 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’s sister property, Marina vallarta Golf Club, offers a

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.

eL TIGRe AT PARADISe VILLAGe / PUeRTO VALLARTA eL TIGRe AT PARADISe VILLAGe / PUeRTO VALLARTA

eL TIGRe AT PARADISe VILLAGe / PUeRTO VALLARTA

eL TIGRe AT PARADISe VILLAGe / PUeRTO VALLARTA

Time 2 get away to a 5-star resort, all -inclusive hotel or small hideaway. Some big

game fi shing, 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

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LOS3181R-GolfAd-T2C-Elite.indd 1 9/21/11 1:16 PM

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cAbo riVierA: A dreAM desTinATion for boATinG, fishinG, Golf And cAsuAl seAside liVinGThoughtfully 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

signature championship course that plays to both the beachfront and the marina harbor.

a lifeStyle defined By RoManCe,

adventuRe, and Relaxation

Cabo Riviera offers state-of-the-art conveniences and

outstanding amenities for life on the Sea of Cortez.

The spectacular Marina and Marina Harbor Island

home sites, with private docks, make this a commu-

nity without parallel anywhere in the world. With two

miles of protected white-sand oceanfront, Cabo Riv-

iera has swimmable beaches that offer unmatched

enjoyment for both the young, and the young at heart,

on a gorgeous protected bay, Bahia de Las Palmas.

The 250+slip, full-service Marina is a boat owner’s

dream, with state-of-the-art facilities for vessels

from super yachts to smaller sport fishing “pangas.”

The homes at Cabo Riviera are unique in the Ameri-

cas in that the Marina harbor island villa lots in-

clude a private dock and a world-class beach club,

exclusive to owners. The Marina Harbor is anchored

by a european-style Artists Village, with casually el-

egant condominiums, apartments, boutiques, shops

and a replica of a Colonial-era church. The Artists

Village also offers opportunities for casual dining

that are unparalleled in Baja, plus, a fabulous spa,

all served by water taxis to transport guests between

various elements of the harbor-oriented community.

Handsome brick and stone-clad buildings overlook

the harbor house, exclusive yacht and the boutique

hotel. Facing the harbor on the west, find a five-star

150-key hotel managed by a leading international

concern, complete with branded homes, a luxurious

spa, and private docks for hotel guests.

expect a signature 18 hole links course that will de-

liver a challenging and very satisfying experience for

golfers of all levels. Oceanfront and Marina fairways

will add to the unforgettable golf experience.

Cabo Riviera’s professionally-run, deep-water ma-

rina welcomes vessels of all sizes, from large motor

yachts and sailboats to sea kayaks and speedboats.

The 285-slip full-service facility will include a dry

dock, dry stack storage area and concierge services

to fuel, clean and fully prepare residents’ boats in

advance of their arrival at the resort.

The boutique-filled artists village, adjacent to the Ma-

rina, takes full advantage of a climate that is ideal for

outdoor dining and meeting friends along the water-

front. Sundrenched stone facades and inviting plazas

reached via meandering stone walkways recall ancient

towns along the French Riviera or on the shores of the

Adriatic. From original artworks to everyday necessities,

the village is as charming as it is authentic. Cafes, fine

restaurants and lively St-Barths-style bars and bistros

will make Cabo Riviera Marina the hottest place in the

hemisphere to go “stern to” for people-watching or just

unwinding on Saturday afternoon and well into a moon-

lit Saturday night.

www.caboriviera.com.mx

(619) 270-8771, (619) 819-9280

+52-624-130-0303, +52-624-105-1005

[email protected]

promotional feature

Mexico’s GreATesT Golf: los cAbos course GuideWith 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.

CABO DeL SOL

From seasoned pros to budding amateurs, there’s

a course in Los Cabos for everyone. Here’s our

guide to up and coming courses and tried and true

favorites.

oPen for PlAY

QueStRo Golf: CluB CaMPeStRe San JoSé,

CaBo Real Golf CluB and PueRto loS CaBoS

awards | 2011—Preferred Golf Course: Cabo Real

2011—Best Golfweek Courses from the Caribbean

and Mexico: Cabo Real #44 and Puerto Los Cabos #25

2011—“Golf in Mexico” Ranking by Best Golf Guide

to Los Cabos: Cabo Real #10, Club Campestre San

José #16 and Puerto Los Cabos #20

2011 Rolex Ranking—Cabo Real rated 85 points out

of 100 and Puerto Los Cabos 80 points

news & notes | All three courses feature de-

signs from noted architects: Cabo Real Golf Club

was masterminded by Robert Trent Jones II, Club

Campestre was designed by Jack Nicklaus, and

Puerto Los Cabos boasts holes by both Nicklaus

(the Marina Course—9 holes) and Greg Norman

(the Mission Course—9 holes).

affliated Resort | Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort &

Spa offers spa-inspired suites and fine dining.

Contact | (877) 795-8727; www.questrogolf.com

PalMilla Golf CluB

awards | 2011—Best for Golf Guide: #2 Golf Course

in Mexico

2011—Golfweek’s Best Places to Play

news & notes | This stunning course was designed

by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.

affiliated Resort | The five-star One&Only Palmilla

is a favorite of visiting celebs.

Contact | (888) 691-8081;

www.oneandonlyresorts.com

CaBo San luCaS CountRy CluB

news & notes | The 18-hole green was designed by

acclaimed architect Roy Dye.

affiliated Resort | The Los Cabos Golf Resort

offers 74 luxe villas resembling traditional Spanish

haciendas.

Contact | (888) 328-8501;

www.cabosanlucascountryclub.com

CaBo del Sol

awards | 2011 GOLF Magazine—“Top 100 Courses

in the World” #100 (18 consecutive years in World

Top 100)

2011 Golf Digest—“Top 100 Courses Outside The

US” #24

news & notes | This elite property features both

Desert and Ocean 18-hole courses, designed by

pros Tom Weiskopf and Jack Nicklaus, respectively.

affiliated Resort | The Sheraton Hacienda del Mar

offers guests preferred rates and tee times at its

neighboring course.

Contact | (866) 231-4677;

www.cabodelsol.com

promotional feature

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.”

diaMante duneS Golf CluB

awards | 2011—#58 in GOLF Magazine’s Top 100

Courses in the World

2010—Best New International Course by GOLF Mag-

azine

affiliated Resort | Diamante Cabo San Lucas is a private

and fully integrated master planned resort community

located on the Pacific Coast. The Diamante Dunes Golf

Club features the course designs of Davis Love III.

Contact | (866) 901-1456;

www.diamantecabosanlucas.com

QueRenCia Golf CluB (PRivate)

As the centerpiece of this exclusive enclave, querencia’s

championship golf course holds the distinct honor of

being not only Los Cabos’ first private membership

club, but also Tom Fazio’s first project in Latin America.

Reminiscent of golf’s greatest desert courses, this

incredible cliff-top masterpiece spans an impressive

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

el doRado Golf & BeaCh CluB (PRivate)

el Dorado is a private beach retreat for families

seeking the finest golf, private club and outdoor rec-

reation experience available in Los Cabos. This ultra-

exclusive enclave offers a Jack Nicklaus-designed

18-hole course and a modern clubhouse with spa,

fitness center, fine dining options and even a private

movie theater.

Contact | (866) 513-4434;

www.eldoradogolfandbeachclub.com

For travelers looking for great golf deals, several

Los Cabos hotels and resorts have developed spe-

cial tiMe2Golf packages that include complimen-

tary rounds of golf and special amenities, soothing

sports massages, cart and club rentals and much

more. For a complete list of exclusive golf pack-

ages, please visit the official Los Cabos website at

www.tiMe2CaBo.com/time2cabo/tiMe2Golf.

in deVeloPMenTCaBo RivieRa MaRina and Golf ReSoRtThis new 900-acre development boasts an idyllic setting on the shimmering Sea of Cor-tés, 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 CaBoSA stunning stretch of oceanfront makes for a dramatic backdrop for Jack Nick-laus’ 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

DIAMANTe DUNeS GOLF CLUB

PALMILLA GOLF CLUB

CABO ReAL GOLF CLUB

CABO SAN LUCAS COUNTRy CLUB

qUeReNCIA GOLF CLUB PUeRTO LOS CABOS

promotional feature

CLUB CAMPeSTRe SAN JOSÉ

CABO ReAL GOLF CLUB

ET111211_Los Cabos - Questro.indd 1 26/10/2011 13:29

emexico - elite traveler...mazatlan flanked by a resort and marina by the same name, the golf course...

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