Planning a golf trip to the Dominican Republic can feel overwhelming. With 26 golf courses spread across the country, you might struggle to pick the right courses, find the best places to stay, or create the perfect itinerary.
Many golfers miss out on amazing experiences because they don’t know where to start.
The Dominican Republic stands out as a top golf destination with its 800 miles of stunning coastline. From the world-famous Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo to the breathtaking Punta Espada Golf Course in Cap Cana, each course offers unique challenges and ocean views.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about golfing in the D.R. – from picking the best courses to booking tee times and finding perfect stay-and-play packages. Get ready to discover your next favorite golf destination.
Key Takeaways
- The Dominican Republic features 26 golf courses along 800 miles of coastline, with Punta Espada and Teeth of the Dog ranking as top Caribbean courses.
- Punta Espada Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus in 2006, earned the #1 ranking in the Caribbean for eight straight years from Golfweek Magazine. Its signature 13th hole spans 249 yards over an ocean cove.
- Casa de Campo’s Teeth of the Dog, built by Pete Dye in 1971, holds Golf Digest’s #1 Caribbean ranking. Jerry Pate leads course upgrades in 2024. The course features seven oceanfront holes.
- Players can save up to 40% by booking twilight tee times at 6:30 PM. Top resorts like The Westin Puntacana and Tortuga Bay offer luxury stay-and-play packages with course access.
- The best time to golf is December through April. Morning tee times work best in summer. Weekday play costs less than weekend rounds.
Top Golf Courses in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic boasts world-class golf courses that blend stunning ocean views with challenging play. From Pete Dye’s masterpieces to Jack Nicklaus’s signature designs, these courses offer golfers pristine fairways, dramatic coastal cliffs, and Caribbean breezes that make every round special.
Punta Espada Golf Course
I stood in awe at Punta Espada Golf Course, Jack Nicklaus’s masterpiece that opened in 2006. Eight stunning green complexes stretch along the Caribbean shore, creating a golfer’s paradise that earned its #1 ranking in the Caribbean and Mexico by Golfweek Magazine for eight straight years.
Players rate this course 4.5 out of 5, and I quickly understood why as I faced the legendary 13th hole – a breathtaking 249-yard par 3 that demands a precise shot over an ocean cove.
My golf buddies and I marveled at the pristine fairways that blend seamlessly with the turquoise waters. Ocean views greet players at every turn, while sea breezes add an extra challenge to each shot.
Cap Cana’s signature course proves why it stands as the crown jewel of Dominican Republic golf, attracting both casual players and PGA Tour professionals to its scenic shores.
Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo
Teeth of the Dog stands as the crown jewel of Casa de Campo Resort. Pete Dye crafted this masterpiece in 1971, creating seven stunning holes that hug the Caribbean coastline. The ocean breeze mingles with the sound of crashing waves as players navigate through this spectacular course.
Golf Digest ranks it as the #1 course in the Caribbean, and I’ve seen firsthand why it deserves this honor. The natural rock formations and coral create challenging hazards that test every golfer’s skill.
The course lives up to its fierce name with demanding shots over crystal-clear waters. Jerry Pate leads exciting upgrades in 2024 to enhance the playing experience while preserving the course’s legendary character.
My favorite hole requires a precise shot over the azure Caribbean to reach a green that seems to float on the horizon. The course blends Dominican beauty with world-class golf design, making each round unforgettable.
Next, let’s explore the impressive Corales Golf Club, another gem in the Dominican Republic’s golf crown.
Corales Golf Club
Corales Golf Club stands as a masterpiece of golf course design in Punta Cana. Tom Fazio crafted this stunning layout in 2010, creating six oceanfront holes that showcase the Caribbean’s beauty.
I played here last spring and marveled at the dramatic Devil’s Elbow finishing stretch, where waves crash against limestone cliffs. The course earned its stellar 4.5 out of 5 rating from players who love its perfect blend of challenge and scenery.
The PGA Tour picked this gem as home to the Corales Puntacana Championship, proving its world-class status. My favorite hole sits right on the water’s edge, where the ocean breeze adds an extra layer of excitement to every shot.
The pristine fairways and expert staff make every round here special. Next up, we’ll explore La Cana Golf Course, another jewel in the Dominican Republic’s golfing crown.
La Cana Golf Course
La Cana Golf Course stands as a stunning coastal masterpiece designed by P.B. Dye in 2001. The course stretches across 27 magnificent holes, with 14 holes offering breathtaking ocean views that make every round memorable.
Players love this spectacular layout, giving it a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating for its perfect blend of challenge and beauty.
The course features three distinct nine-hole layouts that test golfers of all skill levels. Each hole presents unique challenges with strategic bunkers, swaying palm trees, and natural water features.
The ocean breeze adds an extra layer of excitement to your game, while the well-maintained putting greens ensure smooth rolls on every putt.
Dye Fore at Casa de Campo
Dye Fore stands as a masterpiece at Casa de Campo, stretching across 7,740 yards of breathtaking terrain. The course features seven cliff-side holes that drop 300 feet to the stunning Chavón River below.
Pete Dye’s brilliant design opened in 2003 with 18 holes, and a third nine joined the layout in 2011, creating a 27-hole golf paradise.
Golf enthusiasts rate this Dominican Republic gem 4.5 out of 5 stars for its dramatic scenery and challenging play. The course demands precise shots while offering spectacular ocean views from several holes.
Players face strategic choices on each hole, making every round a unique experience. Next, let’s explore the best tips for booking your perfect golf getaway in this Caribbean paradise.
Tips for Booking Your Golf Experience
Golf booking in the Dominican Republic needs smart planning to score the best deals. I learned these tips during my recent trips to Casa de Campo and Punta Cana’s finest courses.
- Book twilight tee times at 6:30 PM for up to 40% savings on green fees at top courses like Teeth of the Dog.
- Check Golf Punta Cana and Golf Now websites daily for flash deals and last-minute discounts.
- Pack your own clubs to avoid rental fees that can reach $75 per round at premium courses.
- Play during afternoon slots between 2-4 PM for less crowded fairways and faster rounds.
- Sign up for resort golf packages that include lodging at places like Barcelo Bavaro for better value.
- Contact courses directly through email for group rates if playing with four or more golfers.
- Ask about complimentary shuttle services from your hotel to courses like Hard Rock Golf Club.
- Book tee times at least 30 days ahead for popular courses like Punta Espada during peak season.
- Get a golf passport card from your resort for discounted rates at multiple courses.
- Schedule your rounds on weekdays instead of weekends for lower green fees.
- Join golf clubs’ social media pages to catch flash sales and seasonal promotions.
- Use credit card reward points to book tee times through travel portals.
- Look for all-inclusive golf packages that cover meals and drinks during your round.
- Book morning tee times in summer months to avoid afternoon heat and rain.
- Compare prices between direct bookings and third-party golf websites for the best rates.
Where to Stay for a Perfect Golf Vacation
I’ve stayed at stunning resorts across the Dominican Republic that put you right next to world-class golf courses and pristine beaches. The top golf destinations offer luxury accommodations with ocean views, private beach access, and easy transport to multiple championship courses – making your perfect golf getaway simple to plan.
Punta Cana & Bávaro
Punta Cana stands as the crown jewel of Dominican Republic’s golf destinations. The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club offers direct access to world-class courses like Punta Espada and La Cana.
Golf enthusiasts flock to Tortuga Bay Puntacana Resort & Club, the country’s only Five Diamond property, for its luxurious amenities and pristine fairways.
The Barcelo Bavaro Beach area boasts stunning ocean views and championship courses. Players can tee off at Corales Golf Club, home to the PGA TOUR’s annual Punta Cana Championship.
The Punta Cana International Airport sits just minutes from these premier golf facilities, making travel simple and stress-free.
Casa de Campo & La Romana
Casa de Campo stands as a crown jewel in La Romana, offering three Pete Dye masterpieces that attract golf lovers worldwide. I played these courses last spring and marveled at the Teeth of the Dog, ranked #1 in the Caribbean and #27 globally.
The resort’s PGA-certified instructors helped me perfect my swing at their modern practice facilities.
La Romana’s perfect weather from December to April draws golf enthusiasts to its pristine fairways and ocean views. My stay at Casa de Campo included luxury transport to the courses and top-notch concierge service.
The resort staff arranged a small tournament for our group, making our golf getaway truly special. The Devil’s Elbow, a signature hole at Teeth of the Dog, tests even skilled players with its challenging ocean-side layout.
Real Estate Opportunities for Golf Enthusiasts in the Dominican Republic
Golf enthusiasts now flock to Punta Cana’s real estate market, drawn by nine spectacular golf courses in the area. I visited several luxury villas near Corales Golf Club last summer and saw the huge demand firsthand.
The properties offer stunning ocean views and direct access to championship courses designed by golf legends like Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus. Many investors choose these properties for their strong rental potential and steady value growth in the Dominican Republic’s booming tourism market.
The Hard Rock Golf Club at Cana Bay and Cocotal Golf and Country Club stand out as prime spots for golf property investments. These communities feature various housing options – from modern apartments to spacious villas with private pools.
During my tour of these developments, I noticed many properties include golf membership packages and resort amenities. The combination of world-class golf facilities and luxury living creates perfect conditions for both personal enjoyment and investment returns through vacation rentals.
Conclusion
The Dominican Republic stands as a paradise for passionate players seeking world-class courses and stunning ocean views. Players can choose from 26 remarkable courses, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking Caribbean scenery.
Casa de Campo’s Teeth of the Dog and Punta Espada rank among the finest courses in the Caribbean, drawing thousands of visitors yearly. Stay-and-play packages make planning your trip simple, with luxury resorts catering to every need.
Smart travelers book tee times early, especially during peak season from December through April. Real estate options near prime courses attract those dreaming of a permanent tropical golf lifestyle.
Your perfect Dominican Republic golf adventure awaits with pristine greens, ocean breezes, and year-round perfect weather.
FAQs
1. What are the must-play golf courses in the Dominican Republic?
The crown jewel is Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo in La Romana, designed by Pete Dye. I’ve played Punta Espada in Cap Cana, crafted by Jack Nicklaus, and it’s breathtaking with ocean views. Tom Fazio’s Corales Golf Course and P.B. Dye’s La Cana offer unforgettable experiences along Punta Cana’s seashore.
2. When is the best time to plan a golf getaway to the Dominican Republic?
I suggest visiting between November and April when the weather feels perfect. You can fly into Punta Cana International Airport or Las Americas International Airport. The courses near Puerto Plata shine during these months, with gentle ocean breezes making every swing feel magical.
3. What golf packages offer the best value?
Casa de Campo’s packages include access to Teeth of the Dog and Dye Fore, plus luxury accommodations. Amanera Resort offers exclusive deals for their cliff-side course. Catalonia Bavaro provides affordable packages with green fees and private beach access. Many hotels throw in lunch and appetizers too!
4. Which signature holes should I look forward to?
The Devil’s Elbow at Teeth of the Dog reminds me of TPC Sawgrass – it’s that spectacular! Punta Espada’s oceanfront holes, designed by Jack Nicklaus, will take your breath away. Greg Norman and Nick Price have created some unforgettable signature holes that golf enthusiasts still talk about.
5. How accessible are these golf courses from major cities?
Most scenic golf courses cluster around three main areas: Punta Cana, La Romana, and Puerto Plata. Each area has its own international airport – Punta Cana International, La Romana, and Gregorio Luperon International. Golf resorts usually provide transportation from these airports.
6. What recognition have Dominican Republic golf courses received?
Golf Digest consistently ranks Teeth of the Dog among the world’s best courses. Professional golf tournaments, including PGA Tour events, frequently happen at Corales and Punta Espada. Golf course architects like Rees Jones and Robert Trent Jones Sr. have helped establish the Dominican Republic as a premier golf tourism destination.
References
- https://breakingeighty.com/punta-espada-golf-club-review
- https://www.hiddenlinksgolf.com/caribbean-golf-courses/teeth-of-the-dog-casa-de-campo/
- https://www.puntacana.com/en/golf/corales-golf-course
- https://simplydominican.com/best-golf-course-dominican-republic/ (2024-10-13)
- https://www.golfdigest.com/courses/dominican_republic/casa-de-campo-dye-fore
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g147293-i28-k13810994-Golf_Booking_Advice_in_Punta_Cana-Punta_Cana_La_Altagracia_Province_Dominican_Republic.html
- https://www.golfbreaks.com/en-us/inspiration/articles/best-golf-resorts-dominican-republic/ (2024-01-31)
- https://simplydominican.com/casa-de-campo-the-ultimate-golf-paradise-in-the-dominican-republic/
- https://arichyhomes.com/dominican-republic/golf-and-real-estate-in-punta-cana/ (2023-08-23)
- https://simplydominican.com/end-year-golf-trip-dominican-republic/