Where to play golf in Punta Cana: a green-lovers’ guide

Punta Cana is not only famous for its dreamy beaches and crystal-clear waters; it is also one of the Caribbean’s top destinations for golf enthusiasts, offering an unbeatable experience for beginners and professionals alike.

The area is home to a number of courses designed by sporting legends the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye y Greg Norman.

Many of them are located very close to our Princess hotels in Punta Cana.

If you’re a golfer lover, this is your dream destination!

In this article we offer our choice of the top 5 golf courses you won’t want to miss out on during your stay.

1. Corales Golf Club

Designed by Tom Fazio.

This is one of the jewels of golf in the Caribbean. Located within the exclusive Punta Cana residential complex, Corales is considered one of the best courses in the region.

Its spectacular design borders the Atlantic Ocean, offering breath-taking landscapes and challenging greens located next to seaside cliffs, bays and coves.

One of the features that makes it unique is the 18th hole, known as ‘El Ancla’ or ‘Devil’s Elbow’, where players have to play over the water with the ocean as a backdrop; a challenge that makes it one of the most iconic holes in the Caribbean.

• Distance from Princess Hotels Punta Cana: about 30 minutes by car.
• Type of course: Championship course that meets PGA Tour standards.
• Factoid: It’s the annual venue for LPGA Symetra Tour Championship.

2. La Cana Golf Club

Designed by P.B. Dye.

This course is housed within the Tortuga Bay residential complex and is characterised by its natural design, which if perfectly integrated with the native flora and natural dunes, and combines coastal landscapes with a friendly golfing experience that is suitable for players of all levels.

The style is European, with wide fairways and strategic bunkers.

It is divided into three 9-hole courses, Tortuga, Hacienda and Arrecife, with several holes offering breath-taking views of the Caribbean. It also features a par 3 hole overlooking the ocean, the ideal spot for that memorable photo.

• Distance from Princess Hotels Punta Cana: About 35 minutes.
• Type of course: Links design with ocean views.
• Factoid: La Cana Golf Club is known for its sustainable, environmentally friendly approach. It was one of the first golf courses in the Caribbean to use paspalum grass, which can be irrigated with salt water.

3. Cocotal Golf & Country Club

Cocotal was one of the first courses to be built in Punta Cana, and it remains very popular with residents and tourists alike.

This 27-hole course is one of the most accessible and popular among visitors to the Bávaro area.

Surrounded by palm trees and lakes, it offers tranquil, natural settings as well as challenging conditions on each of its three courses: Hibiscus, Bougainvillea and Benjamina.

The perfect option for those looking for a relaxed yet technically-challenging experience.

• Distance from Princess Hotels Punta Cana: About 10 minutes.
• Type of course: Tropical, with lagoons and century-old trees.
• Added benefit: Its proximity makes it easy to organise a round of golf without the need for long transfers, ideal for those wishing to combine beach and golf in the same day.

4. Punta Espada Golf Club

Designed by Jack Nicklaus.

Located within the prestigious Cap Cana complex, Punta Espada is a luxury course that has been repeatedly recognised by Golf Digest as the best in the Caribbean and one of the best in Latin America, having received multiple awards from specialist magazines the likes of Golfweek.

With ocean views and precise greens, this course is a true work of art that combines natural beauty with a challenging design.

With eight seafront holes and spectacular views from almost every point on the course, this is an unmissable destination for true golf enthusiasts.

• Distance from Princess Hotels Punta Cana: About 35 minutes by car.
• Type of course: Championship links course.
• Factoid: The 16th hole is set on an island, surrounded by water, and is one of the most photographed holes in the Caribbean.

5. Teeth of the Dog

Designed by Pete Dye.

While this course is a little further away, in La Romana, rather than Punta Cana, and is housed within the Casa de Campo residential complex, this legendary links course deserves a special mention and is well worth a visit.

Considered one of the best in the world, Teeth of the Dog boasts several seaside holes with unique and challenging designs that are simply unforgettable.

This is a demanding yet rewarding course with a design that challenges and fascinates in equal measure.

It features three holes directly overlooking the sea, including the famous 7th, one of the most iconic holes in world golf.

• Distance from Princess Hotels Punta Cana: About 90 minutes.
• Type of course: Italian-influenced links design.
• Why is it worth it? If you decide to play, we recommend planning a full day, leaving early in the morning so you can enjoy the countryside and have time for lunch, or even visit the famous Casa de Campo marina, or discover Altos del Chavón and its famous amphitheatre.

Need help with your booking?

If you would like to play at any of these courses during your stay with us, please don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Service Department located in the lobbies of our hotels.

We’ll be delighted to help you coordinate your tee times, make the necessary reservations, and provide you with all the information you need to enjoy your golfing experience in Punta Cana to the fullest.

Recommendations and tips for enjoying golf in Punta Cana

Playing golf in Punta Cana is an unforgettable experience, but like any special activity, good planning can make the difference between a nice day on the course and a truly memorable one.

Here are some key tips to help you get the most out of your game:

• Choose the right time: Playing early in the morning not only avoids the midday heat, but also offers ideal conditions: less wind, cooler grass and greater tranquillity

• Recommended clothing and equipment: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing. Although there are dress codes at most courses, smart sportswear is permitted. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a cap or hat, and water to stay hydrated during your round.

• Book in advance: Many of these courses are in high demand, especially during peak season (November to April). We recommend booking well in advance, and if you are staying at Princess Hotels Punta Cana, our team will be happy to help you with your reservations.

• Local guides and caddies: At some courses, such as Corales or Punta Espada, hiring a local caddie can greatly enhance your experience. They know the terrain and weather conditions perfectly and will help you make better strategic decisions on each hole.

• Equipment hire and lessons: If you’re travelling light, many courses offer electric cart hire, quality clubs, and even individual or group lessons. This is ideal if you’re a beginner or want to perfect your swing before heading out onto the course.

Punta Cana is not only synonymous with sun and beaches, it is also a dream destination for golf enthusiasts, thanks to its combination of privileged climate, unique landscapes and courses designed by the best architects in the sport.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, or with family or friends, enjoying a round at one of these five incredible courses will be an unforgettable experience.

And remember, when you stay at any of our Princess hotels in Punta Cana, you’ll not only have access to first-class services, but also personalised support to help you make the most of all the activities the area has to offer, golf included.

Come and visit us. Which course was your favourite? Leave us a comment; we love to hear from you.

Categories: Caribbean, Travel Tips, Sports and Activities, Sports & Wellness, Punta Cana