Golf in Costa Rica
Let’s start with a bit of history…
Introduced in the 13th century from the Netherlands, where it was called “colf,” golf did not become truly popular until the late 19th century, with the creation of the first British Open in 1860. After being absent fromthe Olympicprogram for 112 years, the sport will be part of the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Since it is played far less frequently by women, it might have seemed that “golf” was an acronym for “Gentlemen Only, Ladies Forbidden.” But this popular etymology has been officially rejected.
Costa Rica: A Golfer’s Paradise?
InCostaRica,you’ll find everything you need for a wonderful vacation centered around your passion: golf. Whether it’s a single day or a full vacation, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, there’s something for everyone. In fact, the country is considered a premier destination for golf, not only because of thequality ofitscoursesbut also because of the majestic beauty of its surroundings. Some courses were designed by renowned architects, such as Mike Young and Ted Robinson!
The History of Golf in Costa Rica
The country’s first golf course was established in 1944 in Cariari. The “Costa Rica Country Club” was originally a 9-hole course, but it was expanded in the 1970s to become an 18-hole course. Since then, there have been about25 coursesacross the country: 5 18-hole courses, which we’ve listed below, and about 20 9-hole courses. The newest addition is the majestic course at the Four Seasons in Guanacaste: a magnificent view of the Gulf of Papagayo and the Pacific Ocean for three-quarters of the round… We love it!
Golf in the Central Valley
“Cariari Country Club,” Cariari – 18 Holes, Par 71
Founded in May 1971, the Cariari Country Club consists of a hotel, a residential complex, and a shopping center, spread across the property’s 53 hectares. It is located 7 kilometers west of San José, nestled among mountains and forests and near a lake. Many of the world’s top golfers have graced the greens of the Cariari Country Club, which has hosted major events such as the PGA Tour, the European PGA Tour, and the Tour of the Americas.
Designed by renowned architect George Fazio, the golf course features 18 holes. The course is very enjoyable but requires the use of a variety of clubs due to the tight bends in the fairway.
“Parque Valle del Sol,” Santa Ana – 18 Holes, Par 72
Located in the central highlands, Parque Valle del Sol features an 18-hole course (with at least four tees per hole) and offers golfers the best possible conditions for a unique experience in total harmony with nature. Parque Valle del Sol is the first club open to the public and features a Golf Academy that offers lessons to children, teens, and adults. It also hosts several tournaments throughout the year for both professionals and amateurs.
Golf in Guanacaste
“Garra de Leon,” Playa Conchal – 18-hole, par 71
Set on 2,300 hectares of land in Guanacaste, the Reserva Conchal Beach Resort Golf & Spa is a true luxury paradise. From the green of the 18-hole golf course, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean on one side and Costa Rica’s majestic primary forests and mangroves on the other. Designed by renowned American architect Robert Trent Jones II, this golf course combines beauty and functionality to the delight of every golfer!
“Hacienda Pinilla,” Playa Avallana – 18-Hole, Par 72
Nestled between the pristine beaches and unspoiled forests of Guanacaste lies theHacienda Pinilla estate: 4,500 hectares featuring charming hotels, luxury villas, and several sports facilities. We were particularly interested in the hotel’s fairways and greens. The course was designed by renowned architect Mike Young. The Hacienda Pinilla course was designed with the environment in mind: each hole follows the natural contours of the landscape. We also appreciate the opportunity to finish a hole right by the ocean (hole No. 15).
“Four Seasons Golf Club,” Papagayo Gulf – 18 Holes, Par 72
Designed by Arnold Palmer, this golf course has been ranked among the top 100 courses outside the U.S. Nestled on the highest peaks of the Papagayo Peninsula’s highlands, the Four Seasons Golf Club protects and preserves the biodiversity that surrounds it. So, during your round, you’ll pass through a botanical garden and have the chance to admire the vegetation, the vibrantly colored birds, and the capuchin monkeys. We love it!
Golf on the Central Pacific Coast
“Marriott Los Sueños Golf Resort,” Playa Herradura – 18-Hole, Par 72
The advantage of this course is that it’s located just a short two-hour drive from San José. Designed by Ted Robinson in 1999, this 18-hole course is nestled in a tropical setting and offers an excellent playing experience and a magnificent setting. Playing on this course is a truly memorable experience where you can discover the exotic colors of the central Pacific coast and enjoy the pleasures of golf. Between shots, you might catch a glimpse of some of the 150 species of birds or trees found in the surrounding area.
Costa Rica is truly a golfer’s paradise! From the country’s Central Valley to the Pacific Coast, it delights golfers of all skill levels.
Interested?
Check out our 100% golf tour below, and feel free to contact our team.
