Costa Rica Vanguard: 5 Amazing Golfing Courses
Costa Rica isn't just the best place to park your yacht. It also happens to be the best place in the world to get in a round of golf while you refuel. That is, of course, in between meetings with your Coldwell Banker Agent looking at luxury properties.
Hey, we're painting this picture. Don't hate us for shameless plugs. Speaking of pictures...
Our point: If you had to pick a place to to golf, wouldn't tropical breezes be on the top of the list for backdrops? Scotland's too cold, Hawaii's too remote, and Palm Springs is too dry. In Costa Rica your gallery will consist of Howler Monkeys, Scarlet Macaws, and Iguanas. It doesn't get much better than that. In fact, it doesn't get much better than these.
#5 Punta Islita - Islita starts our list as the shortest amongst giants. There are better courses in Costa Rica, but we kept this list exclusive to the Pacific, and this one is the only one on our list with only nine holes. You won't go pro here, but you will be challenged, and if you're new to golf, you'll appreciate the chance to work on your swing without all the pressure of a pro course.
- Location: Islita Beach (near Samara)
- Designer: Unknown
- Holes: 9
- Par: 27
- Yards: 1,148
- Bragging Rights: Low commitment level
- Fees: $30
#4 La Iguana - Iguana takes a big step up from #5. This course affords you views of your yacht parked in the Los Sueños marina while you play. It's also the closest course to San Jose of any on the list. There are immediate properties for purchase, rent, and overnight stay. Also, there's a resort hotel right in Los Sueños, and you are minutes from the town of Jaco.
- Location: Los Sueños in Herradura
- Designer: Ted Robinson, Sr
- Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Yards: 6,698
- Bragging rights: Attached to an amazing Marina
- Fees: $85-$145 depending on time of day, other factors
#3 Hacienda Panilla - Short driving distance from Tamarindo, Panilla is a development where we're featured two luxury properties in the last six months. This golf course is complimented not only by this stunning gated community, but also horse stables, and some of Costa Rica's best surfing (Playa Avellanas).
- Location: Hacienda Panilla
- Designer: Mike Young (architect)
- Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Yards: 7,200
- Bragging Rights: Recognized Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
- Rates: 18-holes $150/ 9-holes $80
#2 Reserva Conchal - Also a short drive from Tamarindo, the Conchal Reserve is a beautiful addition to Guanaste, and pairs with one of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches. The presence of the reserve keeps the beach from direct access by the main road, thus keeping it semi-exclusive, and preserving it's natural beauty.
- Location: Playa Conchal
- Designer: Robert Trent Jones II
- Holes: 18
- Par: 71
- Yards: 6,956
- Bragging rights: First in Costa Rica to receive Audubon International recognition
- Fees: Contact them for rates.
#1 Peninsula at Papagayo - A clear cut winner amongst this tough list of competitors, situated on grounds owned and operated by The Four Seasons, this course steps out as something special. In the world of golf, Palmer symbolizes platinum quality, and The Four Seasons is known worldwide as champions of luxury. This course is no exception to these brand identities.
- Location: Papagayo
- Designer: Arnold Palmer
- Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Yards: 6,800
- Bragging Rights: Listed among top 100 courses outside the USA and 14 of 18 holes have ocean views
- Fees: 18-holes $230/ 9-holes $165
As mentioned there are several other courses around San Jose which are worth your time if you are in the Central Valley. Just don't plan to pull up in your yacht at any of those locations. Have a favorite course we missed here? Disagree with our list? We would love to hear from you. In fact, if there is any way Coldwell Banker of Tamarindo may be of assistance to you in Costa Rica, we want to be there for you. Please contact us and let us be "what you need" in Costa Rica. If you have a question we likely have an answer.
One more thing: This Pinterest board you must see!
