The Best Golf Courses In Costa Rica

Believe it or not, Costa Rica is a top golfing destination in Central America with six renowned golf courses on its Pacific Coast and in its Central Valley. Aside from the thrill of playing an 18-hole round of golf on vacation, these courses are set among some of the country’s more spectacular settings with beautiful views of the ocean, beaches, volcanoes, tropical dry forests, and rainforests.

1. Cariari Country Club

The Cariari golf course was the first 18-hole golf course in Costa Rica. Designed by George Fazio and built by his nephew Tom Fazio in the ’70s, it was the only championship golf course in Central America for twenty years (the land Cariari is built on once hosted a coffee plantation). Playing golf on a course that’s located in the middle of the Central Valley is very pleasant, as the weather there is much cooler than on the coast. However, it is reserved for members and their guests only so you have to know someone to play. But if you do, it is a prestigious experience!

Cariari Country Club, Ciudad Cariari, Pan American Highway, Heredia Province, Heredia, Costa Rica, +506 2293 3211

The first putt | © Andrew Gray/Flickr

2. Valle del Sol

Valle del Sol was a work in progress for a long time, but in 2001 all 18 holes were completed. Views of the Irazu, Barva, and Poas volcanoes can definitely be a distraction as you make your way through the course and there are ponds and streams scattered throughout to challenge your game. Located just twenty minutes west of downtown San Jose, Valle del Sol is open to the public and its climate, views, and design make it a fantastic place to play golf.

Valle del Sol, San Jose Province, San Jose, Costa Rica, +506 2282 9222

4. Hacienda Pinilla Golf Club

The Hacienda Pinilla Golf Club is part of the exclusive gated community of Hacienda Pinilla near Avellanas Beach. This par-72 course was designed by revered architect Mike Young and its 18 holes are set between a rustic dry forest and a dramatic seascape. Wildlife sightings aren’t a rarity here and the dry, crisp air and faint ocean breeze provide an authentic Guanacaste feel. On top of being an award-winning golf course and designated Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary (for its preservation of ecological balance), it has a sporting goods shop, restaurant, and on-site bar.

Hacienda Pinilla Golf Club, Helipuerto Hacienda Pinilla, Provincia de Guanacaste, Costa Rica, +506 2681 4500

6. Reserva Conchal

Resort

It is widely believed that Reserva Conchal is the best golf course in Costa Rica. This 71-par course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II in 1996 and is part of the upscale and luxurious Reserva Conchal Beach Resort. The challenging course is laced with 63 sand traps, multiple lakes and rivers, and expansive ocean views and was host to the first international golf tournament ever held in Guanacaste.

Reserva Conchal, Cabo Velas, Costa Rica, +506 2654 3000

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