The Best Golf Courses of Panama

The Club de Golf de Panama is said to be the country’s best course. This private country club dates back to the very beginning of the game in Panama. Having hosted PGA Tour events for 12 years and counting, the entire course renovation speaks for itself, as it provides the perfect challenge of the championship game to the masses, located in Cerro Viento, Panama.

A magnificent, private golf course in superb condition, the Buenaventura Golf Club is a Nicklaus design with relatively flat topography and well-placed bunkers. Twelve of the holes have stunning water features, and prevailing wind is a factor to consider with a lack of trees to block the breeze. It is said to be a championship masterpiece with several signature Nicklaus bunkers.

This picturesque course is the perfect destination for a city slicker who can’t stand to live without great greens for swinging that seven iron. Conveniently located halfway between the heart of Panama and Tocumen Airport, this private golf course is part of a large residential development, and it’s exclusive to members and invited guests only.

Possibly the best layout in Panama with spectacular views of the mountains and the sea, Vista Mar Golf & Beach Resort is located just over an hour away from Panama City near San Carlos. The course is particularly challenging with a variety of holes for the seasoned golfer.

Tucan is an expat-centric community just 15 minutes outside of Panama City. Previously an exclusive U.S. Military recreational golf course, Tucan Country Club & Resort is now accessible to all. The once-private gorgeous greens boast panoramic views of the famous Panama Canal, as well as the marvelous cityscape.

Also near the Panama Canal is the Summit Golf Club. The newly-renovated course was originally constructed in the 1930s. It now features moderately-contoured putting greens, generous landing areas, and multiple tee boxes. This course borders the Camino de Cruces National Park rainforest, so chances are good you’ll see a few monkeys during your game. In fact, the monkeys have even earned a reputation for unapologetically snatching golf balls!

Coronado is a peaceful beach town just over an hour away from Panama City. It is home to one of the oldest golf courses in Panama, and was designed by George Fazio. Known for being an extremely difficult course, Coronado Golf Club is full of narrow, tree-lined chutes and rolling fairways. If you like a challenge, then you’ll love this course.