Palmilla - a Jack Nicklaus Design
Mexican riviera
NINETEEN world class chaMpionship golf courses
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2 Best’s Golf Guide to Los Cabos
www.golfinmexico.net
15th LOS CABOS INVITATIONAL PRO-AM October 24-28, 2012
Andy Thuney, PGA Los Cabos Tournament Chairman
Club Campestre
Cabo Real Palmilla
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT www.golfinmexico.net/DILC12/index.htm or CALL: 949 494 7041 EMAIL: ckinder@golfinmexico.net
Publisher’s Letter
Left to Right: Chuck Kinder Publisher Nick Price: PGA Golf Professional & Golf Architect.
4 Best’s Golf Guide to Mexico
Published semi-annually by Golf Publishing International, a California Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission from Golf Publishing International. Every Effort was made to insure the accuracy of the material presented. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions of data for golf courses, facilities, resorts or rates. © Copyright 2012
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Best’s Golf Guide to Los Cabos 5
THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW
Cabo Real Golf Course - Robert Trent Jones II
2012
2012 Mexico has a rich history of golf dating back to the 1890’s when some of the British Communities in the mining city of Pachuca, Hidalgo determined that all that was missing in Mexico was a golf course, hence a thirteen hole dirt golf course was created with greens made of sand and burnt oil. They called it the Pachuca Country Club. Mexico's 223 golf courses sport a variety of features including aqua blue waters accenting spectacular beaches, plush green paspalum grass, and fairways. In jungle settings and historic colonial towns, visit the best courses of Mexico - built by world class top designers like, Nicklaus, Player, Norman, Doak, von Hagge, Love III and Trent Jones II. With over 700,000 golfers traveling to Mexico each year, Mexico remains the #1 International Golf Destination for US Golfers. Discover the Mexico you need to know….Play Golf in Mexico…NOW
GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW
2012
Costa Baja, Gary Player Signature
LOS CABOS
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This world class 18-hole course is Tom Fazio’s first signature course in Mexico. It was host to Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf tournament between Sergio Garcia and Phil Mickelson. Closer to Cabo San Lucas is the Cabo San Lucas Country Club (29) designed by Roy and Matt Dye. For the first time, growth along the Pacific side of Los Cabos is Diamante Dunes (16) will compete for the best course in Mexico with its Davis Love III dunes resort ocean front golf course considered on of the BEST golf courses in Los Cabos.
os Cabos is the leader in the development of world-class golf in Mexico. This burgeoning resort located at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula ranked 14th in a listing of the 50 most popular golf destinations in the world. Los Cabos won the 2012 Golf Destination of the Year for Latin America by the International Association of Golf Tour Opperators. Four and a half Jack Nicklaus signature courses are open along this corridor, including the top-rated Cabo del Sol Ocean Course (1), ranked 100 in 2011 in Golf Magazine’s “Top 100 Courses in the World.” LA PAZ The course boasts five oceanfront holes, including the Two and a half hours up the coast in La Paz is Arthur Hills’ “finest three finishing holes in golf,” according to its designer. Also first championship course, in Mexico, at Paraiso del Mar (New). on property is the Cabo del Sol Desert Course (11) by Tom Across the bay, is the 500-acre seaside development of Costa Baja Weiskopf. Nearby, at the legendary Palmilla Golf Club (2), you’ll Resort & Marina (21) that boasts, the first Gary Player designed find Nicklaus’ first signature course in Latin America, with 27 golf course in Mexico. holes featuring the ocean, arroyo and mountain nines. Close by Perhaps one of the hidden treasures of golf is the Tom Doak is Mayan Palace Resorts in Mexico, along with it’s unique, nine minimalist design at Bahia de los Sueños (New), the first Doak hole Punta Sur Golf Course golf course in San Jose del Cabo. golf course in Mexico, just 45 minutes south of La Paz . In the middle of the Los Cabos corridor is Cabo Real (8) by Robert Trent Jones II; the newer, spectacular, oceanfront El LORETO Dorado (1), a Jack Nicklaus signature design, now a private real Further north up the coast, is Homex’s Loreto Bay Golf estate retreat and the Club Campestre San Jose (17), another Course (New), with the first David Duvall golf course in Mexico, Jack Nicklaus design. a redo of the existing course that has incredible scenic views, and Puerto Los Cabos (19), a Questro managed real estate project, now has made investment in shaping, design and infrastructure. with two 9 hole golf courses, one by Greg Norman and the other With all of these spectacular courses and developments moving Jack Nicklaus, along with Cabo’s newest and grandest marina. forward …All the more reason to visit and invest in the state of Rated 3rd of all private golf courses in Mexico is Querencia (5). Baja Sur, Mexico, your second home.
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GOLF GUIDE TO LOS CABOS SUPPLEMENT
THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW
2012
MEXICO’S TOP GOLF RESORTS IN LOS CABOS - BAJA SUR Style and comfort you can count on...these world-class GOLF resorts offer the BEST in luxury and service in Los Cabos. You will be tempted to over sleep your tee time or to rush back for a SPA treatment extraordinaire. REST well....PLAY well.
ONE&ONLY PALMILLA Blending Mexican traditions with modern amenities, the rooms and suites at this luxurious resort are both elegant and inviting. After enjoying a day on the world-renowned greens of the Palmilla Golf Club, unwind by one of the beach-facing infinity-edge pools, stop in at the spa or take part in a yoga session—they even offer a special “Qi of Golf ” class to improve your game. CarreteraTranspeninsular, Km 7.5, San Jose del Cabo; 011-52-624-146-7000; 866-829-2977; www.oneandonlyresorts.com
HILTON LOS CABOS
melia cabo real resort
Inspirationally conceived to reveal the scenic beauty and abundant enjoyment that surrounds it, the world-class Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort enriches your senses and quickens your spirit. Dispensing Mexico’s most hospitable ambience, the finest of Cabo San Lucas resorts is ideally set along the destination’s most tranquil stretch of golden beach. Carretera Transpeninsular, Km 19.5, Los Cabos; 011-52-624-145-6500; www.hiltonloscabos.com
MELIA CABO REAL Nestled by the Sea of Cortes and the exotic desert sands, Melia Cabo Real is a Los Cabos all-inclusive hotel and resort offering true comfort and style with rooms that feature breathtaking views of the resort's desert gardens, expansive coastline or championship golf course and conditioned with amenities that are designed to provide you with everything you could possibly need during your stay with us. (52) 624 144 2222; www.meliacaboreal.com
isla navidad Robert von HaggeHACIENDA DEL MAR SHERATON Amidst 28 acres of quiet gardens and along a private beach lies the Sheratonn Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort Los Cabos. The old-world hacienda architecture of the deluxe guest rooms, fountains, cafes, award winning Pitahayas Restaurant and shops evoke the rich history of the Baja region. Retreat to over 270 guest rooms and suites where you’ll find an authentic upscale Mexican decor. CorredorTouristico, Km 10, Cabo Del Sol; 011-52-624-145-8000; www.sheratonloscabos.com
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GOLF GOLF COURSES COURSES YOUYOU NEED NEED TO TO KNOW KNOW
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(1) Jeffery Nordling, (2) Robbie Williams (3) Rafael Campos (4) Lorena Ochoa (5) Jesse Ventura (6) Greg Norman
WHAT CELEBRITIES ARE SAYING
will receive proceeds from the 2012 Soccer Aid. He will also be creating a short film that was aired during the Soccer Aid. Jesse Mexico’s celebrity appeal continues as bright as the stars that Ventura loves to reside in his Los Cabos home, after a court fiasco visit and play world class golf in Mexico. Justin Bieber just recently that took place in 2011. Golf course designer Greg Norman put on a free, open air concert in Mexico City that attracted more appeared in his first Humana Challenge since 1986 back in the then 200,000 fans. Lady Gaga was seen surfing the clear waters beginning of the year and now is continuing to work with his in Sayulita and the Kardashian family is never far from the warm, design team to create more amazing golf courses. sunny beaches. Even President Obama himself was in Los Cabos, Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park offers more star sightings along with many finance leaders as they met for the G20 Summit. and celebrity encounters of the aquatic kind than Hollywood can Although they were all there for important business, they none shake an Oscar at. So grab your camera and head off the beaten the less soaked up all the sun they could. path, where Cabo Pulmo rolls out the blue carpet for ocean fanatTiger Wood’s love for Mexico is legendary as he has won ics everywhere. Costa Careyes has long been the hideaway for the multiple Majors in the US and then headed directly to Cancun rich and famous from the days of Robin Leach. President of or Los Cabos to savor his victories. France, Nicolas Sarkozy, really enjoyed a well deserved break In the mean time the most influential celebrity in world of at El Tamarindo and now the French are enchanted with a golf for the last decade, Jack Nicklaus has claimed Mexico as an new luxury retreat in Mexico. expanding canvas for his world wide acclaimed golf course Mexico has a grand history of stars and celebrities from designs with a scattering of 24 top rated golf courses through the early film days, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton left out the entire county. Lorena Ochoa is the goodwill ambas- there mark on Puerto Vallarta, Bing Crosby, John Wayne and sador of Mexico with her charm and grace. Sammy Hager Desi Arnez were all fans of Acapulco and the Baja. Come live has made a home in Los Cabos with his Cabo Wabo. Oscar the grand life as well…the red carpet is out, your special table for de la Hoya loves golf and fishing and can’t get enough of two is reserved by candle light. Join the many celebrity and pro Mexico. Robbie Williams was in Mexico City for a UNICEF am tournament events, or special concerts with top headliners, charity event, helping to raise awareness about the children that culture and music for all ages. The TIME to GO! Is NOW.
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GOLF GUIDE TO LOS CABOS SUPPLEMENT
THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW
2012
TOURNAMENTS - THE BEST PROFESSIONAL MENS & LADIES Televised golf throughout Mexico has brought the sights and sounds of the Professional and Amateur tournaments to millions of viewers around the world. Thanks to all of the producers, promoters, professionals and participants that these events bring.
PGA TOUR FEBRUARY MAYAKOBA GOLF CLASSIC
MONTERREY SEPTEMBER RIVIERA NAYARIT CLASSIC
The first PGA tour event in the Yucatan. El Camaleon golf course by Greg Norman shows off the best of the Cancun Riviera Maya area. www.mayakobagolfclassic.com
Second stop on the NEW PGA LatinoAmerica tour at the La Harradura GC, Monterrey. www.pgatourla.com
NATIONWIDE TOUR JUNE MEXICO OPEN
SCPGA PRO-AM OCTOBER LOS CABOS
The Mexican Open or Abierto Mexicano de Golf is a national open tournament, taking place in 2012 in El Bosque Golf Club, León. www.pgatour.com/tournaments/h095
One Club Golf Professional with four Amatures playing three great courses, Palmilla, Cabo Real and Club Campestre San Jose. www.golfinmexico.net/dilc12/index.htm
YUCATAN COUNTRY CLUB NOV INVITATIONAL LPGA NOVEMBER MERIDA LORENA OCHOA First stop on the NEW PGA Latino America tour at the La Harradura GC, Monterrey. www.pgatourla.com
Guadalajara GC is the home course to Mexico’s female golfer, Lorena Ochoa. In 2011 Catriona Matthew defeated I.K. Kim. www.lpga.com
TOUR LAS AMERICAS MAY ACAPULCO PRINCESS
MUNDO MAYA OPEN SEPT PARADISE VILLAGE
Televisa TLA Players Championship Acapulco Princess is a classic Ted Robinson, palm tree-lined resort layout. Acapulco, Mexico. www.tourdelasamericas.com
Second Stop on the NEW PGA Latinomerica tour at the La Herradura GC, Monterrey. www.pgatourla.com
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GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW
2012
GREAT GOLF...GREAT SPAS MEXICO HAS IT ALL World renown spas beckon your tired and aching bodies, rejuvinate, meditate, relate. Enjoy and relax with the best spas in Mexico after your golf outing. Go ahead, you deserve it. Make a spa visit part of your golf outing!
THE SPA AT LAS VENTANAS http://www.lasventanas.com/
ONE&ONLY PALMILLA SPA http://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/
AQUAZUL HOLISTIC SPA AT VISTAZUL SUITES & SPA
http://www.vistazulsuits.com/
ARMONIA SPA http://www.pueblobonitopacifica.com/
CABO SURF HOTEL & SEA SPA http://www.cabosurfhotel.com/
CAPELLA PEDREGAL RESORT & SPA http://www.capellacabo.com/
CASA DORADO http://www.casadorada.com/
CABO SPA http://www.esperanzaresort.com/
HILTON LOS CABOS BEACH & GOLF RESORT http://www.dreamsresorts.com/
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GOLF GUIDE TO LOS CABOS SUPPLEMENT
THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW
2012
GOLF IN MEXICO REAL ESTATE AND GOLF COURSE DEVELOPMENTS - UPDATE With over $100 billion in build out development under way…now is the time to find your dream home in Mexico, on the golf course, a gated community, in a high rise, a hillside villa, or a quaint little bungalow. Enjoy the unique lifestyle that only Mexico can offer!
La Paz / Costa Baja
Loreto / Loreto Bay
Los Cabos / Puerto Los Cabos
(866) 409 9940 http://www.costabaja.com/
(888) 756 7386 http://www.innloretobay.com/
(877) 795 8727 http://www.puertoloscabos.com/
Mazatlan / Estrella Del Mar
Mérida / Yucatan Country Club
Los Cabos / El Dorado
(999) 800 4000 http://yucatancountry.com/
(866) 513 4434 http://www.eldoradogolfandbeachclub.com/
Nayarit / Punta Mita
Nayarit /Paradise Village
(888) 587 0609 http://www.estrelladelmar.com/index.asp
Manzanillo / Grand Bay
(877) 999 3223 http://www.wyndham.com/
52 (329) 291-6000 http://www.fourseasons.com/puntamita/
GOLF GUIDE TO LOS CABOS SUPPLEMENT
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(866) 334 6080 http://www.paradisevillage.com/
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GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW
2012
BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO MEXICO TOP 30 AWARDS TOP 30 RESORT
TOP 30 PRIVATE
1
Cabo del Sol Golf Ocean
1
El Dorado Golf Course
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Palmilla Golf Club
2
Club de Golf Mexico
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Punta Mita Pacifico
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Guadalajara Country Club
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El Camaleón Mayakobá
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Club de Golf Tres Vidas
5
El Tamarindo Golf
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Querencia Golf Club
6
Vista Vallarta Nicklaus
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Yucatan Country Club
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Vista Vallarta Weiskopf
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Bosque Real Country Club
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Cabo Real Golf Course
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Las Misiones Club Campestre
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Moon Palace
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Club de Golf Chapultepec
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Isla Navidad Country Club
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La Loma Campo de Golf
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Cabo del Sol Golf Desert
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Tres Marias
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El Tigre Paradise Village
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Atlas Country Club
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Riviera Maya Golf Club
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Club Campestre Monterrey
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Punta Mita Bahia
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Club de Golf La Hacienda
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Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club
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Club de Golf Los Encinos
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Playas Mujeres
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Diamante Dunes
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Club Campestre San Jose
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El Rio Country Club
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Playacar Club de Golf
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Club Campestre Mexico
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Puerto Los Cabos
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Club de Golf Malinalco
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Litibu Golf Club
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Club de Golf Bellavista
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Costa Baja Golf Course
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Las Lomas Club de Golf
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Riviera Cancun
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Santa Anita Club de Golf
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Cozumel Country Club
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Club de Golf Valle Escondido
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Mayan Peninsula de Cortes
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Club de Golf Bosques
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Estrella del Mar Golf Course
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Club Campestre El Campanario
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Club de Golf Acapulco Princess
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La Vista Country Club& Golf
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Marina Vallarta Club de Golf
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Club de Golf Los Tabachines
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Club de Golf Los Flamingos
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El Cielo (Palomar) Country Club
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Cabo San Lucas CC
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Lomas Country Club
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Las Hadas, La Mantarraya Course
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Club de Golf Valle Alto
30b
The Links at Las Palomas
30b
Tijuana Country Club
To vote for YOUR Favorite Courses, go to: http://www.golfinmexico.net/top30/
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THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW
2012
NEW RESORT AND PRIVATE COURSES IN MEXICO Come play these new courses, ranging from ocean-desert links to flowing inland fairways and plush green tropics. You and your favorite foursome are invited to discover these great new courses. Tell your friends that you were one of the first to play...
DIAMANTE CABO SAN LUCAS
LITIBU RIVIERA NAYARIT
A David Love III design, Diamante has inviting greens and endless views of the Pacific. 1-866-901-1456 www.diamantecabosanlucas.com
The start of a three resort development planned by Fonatur, Litibu is 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. 1-877-847-8183 www.fonatur.gob.mx
BAHIA PRINCIPE RIVIERA MAYA GOLF CLUB
BAHIA DE LOS SUEﾃ前S LA PAZ - SEA OF CORTEZ
The Mayan jungle been integrated in to this 27 hole course designed by Robert Trent Jones II. 1-800-568-950 www.riveramaya-golfclub.com
This Tom Doak design has desert terrain, oceanfront topography and impressive vistas of the Sea of Cortez. 1-866-202-0789 www.bahiasuenosgolf.com
CAMPESTRE DE LEON LEON
COSTA BAJA LA PAZ
This David Fleming designed course is a particularly beautiful 18-hole golf course in Leon. 1-477-214-2129 www.clubcampestredeleon.com
A beautiful Gary Player designed course features breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez. 1-866-409-9940 www.costabaja.com
RIVIERA CANCUN CANCUN
VENTANAS SAN MIGUEL SAN MIGUEL
The golf course at Riviera Cancun is a Signature Designed course by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. 1-800-635-1836 www.palaceresorts.com
A balanced golf experience including natural surroundings, and a design by Nick Faldo. 1-520-829-0558 www.ventanasdesanmiguel.com
GOLF GUIDE TO LOS CABOS SUPPLEMENT
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GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW
2012
Golf Contacts Federacion Mexicana de Golf Mexican Golf Federation www.fmg.org.mx
Golf Architects
David Fleming golfpropertiesdesign.com
Jack Nicklaus www.nicklaus.com
Greg Norman www.shark.com
Robert von Hagge www.vonhagge.com
Pedro Guereca www.pedroguereca.com
Gary Player www.garyplayer.com
Nick Price www.nickprice.com
Robert Trent Jones www.rtj2.com
P.B DYE www.pbdyegolf.com
Davis Love www.lovegolf-design.com
Nick Faldo www.nickfaldo.com
BEST4GOLF www.best4golf.com
Schmidt Curley www.schmidt-curley.com
Ernie Els www.ernieels.com
Mexico Online www.mexonline.com
Enrique Valenzuela valenzuelagolfdesign.com
Know Mexico www.knowmexico.com
Forrest Richardson www.golfgroupltd.com
Mexican PGA www.pgam.com.mx Internacional Golf Federation internationalgolffederation.org Mex Caribbean Golf Association www.cancungolf.org
Travel Contacts
Tourism Contacts CONSEJO www.visitmexico.com
Golf Websites www.golfinmexico.net www.infogolf.com www.golf.com.mx www.elrumboesgolf.com. mx www.purogolf.com www.loscabosgolf.com
Golf Publications www.golfguidetomexico. com www.golflifetravel.com golfluxurydestinations. com www.inrivieramaya.com www.editorialorange.com www.editorialtelevisa.com
Golf Marketing/ Strategy Executive Golf International www.execgolfintl.com
Golf Online Tee Times best4mexicoteetimes.com www.golfswitch.com www.egolf.com www.golfcabos.com
Golf Management Companies Troon Golf www.troongolf.com Club Corp www.ourclub.com Questro Golf www.questrogolf.com Mayan Group www.vidantagolf.com Mega Tourism www.megatourismo.com
Palace Resorts www.palaceresorts.com OB Sports Golf Management www.obsports.com
Golf Newsletters El Rumbo es Golf golfnewsletter@purogolf. com.mx TARGET GOLF Newsletter www.golfguidetomexico.com/ target.htm Boomer Golf News www.boomergolfnews.com On the Lip www.onthelip.com
Real Estate www.mexicogolfrealty. com
Restaurants of Los Cabos
Bar and Grill on the Beach
Indoor-outdoor dining... moonlight dancing on the beach. Mesquite grilled Black Angus steaks, chicken, shrimp, prime rib, BBQ ribs, hamburgers... plus traditional Mexican dishes. Satellite T.V. sporting events.
Costa Azul Km 28.5 San Jose del Cabo
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE > CABO SAN LUCAS <
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here's no better place to celebrate a memorable occasion than at Ruth's Chris Steak House. The USDA Prime is the Host! But there's a lot more in our Menu, like fresh seafood, veal, chicken or lamb chops. We offer special banquet menus for weddings, birthday parties, business reunions, etc; or your guests can order from our regular menu. We're happy to help you with your arrangements, just call us for Reservations 011 52 (624) 144-3232. Ruth's Chris is located at the most important and beautiful Mall in the whole Baja, Puerto Paraiso Mall, first floor, facing the gorgeous Marina of Cabo San Lucas.
Life’s too short to eat anywhere else. WWW.BEST4MEXICOTEETIMES.COM
www.best4mexicoteetimes.com
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Dream Homes of Cabo
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Golf Guide F E A TUR E
Mexico’s TOP Golf Course Management Companies
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Field of dreams…B u i l d i t a n d t h e y w i l l c o m e
he land has been acquired, the architect selected, the plan established, and the investment made. Fairly easy so far; now you just have to mow the greens, get 21,000 golfers to play 35,000 rounds of golf yearly, and your investment for Golf in Mexico is pretty much secured. Ten successful groups in Mexico have taken on this goal along with the challenge of controlling over 12% of Mexico’s golf inventory, or 35% of the RESORT golf ownership or management each year. In the US there are more than 80 golf management companies, of which 20 are the largest, as ranked by Golf, Inc. in 2011. A couple of these top management companies have a presence in Mexico: Troon and Club Corp. Mexico has ten golf management companies in total, with the remaining eight being home grown groups that, in most cases, own and manage their golf courses. Please read on about our findings. Troon Golf, for example, has 220 golf courses throughout the world, with four active management contracts in Mexico. Their Star Jewel is Palmilla Golf Club, which they have maintained for over 12 years. It is Jack Nicklaus’ 27-hole masterpiece; his first signature golf course in Latin America. Director of Golf, Jason Ballog, advises, “Troon’s main focus is in creating a first-class and personalized experience.”
Palmilla, rated number two resort course in Mexico by Best’s Golf Guide to Mexico, has certainly succeeded. Troon also manages the Gary Player Signature course at Costa Baja in La Paz. It is run by Regional Manager, Carl Rygg. He claims, “Troon golf is all about adhering to detailed quality standards for operations and agronomy.” CostaBaja has set the bar for quality golf and service in La Paz and all of Baja Sur. Troon manages the new Turtle Dunes Golf Course in Acapulco, a redo of the old Pierre Marques golf course that was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and the resort friendly Ted Robinson designed Acapulco Princess Golf Course. Director of Golf Ian Moore is at the helm providing operational services plus sales, marketing and customer service through database management and utilization of the Troon Golf brand. Ian also has construction oversight over the new Turtle Dunes Country Club designed by Tripp Davis that will be for private members and Acapulco Princess guests only. Add to this the new Lorena Ochoa Golf Academy with Rafael Alarcón, her teaching coach, and you have a complete facility that will cater to families and couples looking for a relaxed and luxurious surrounding to pursue the life learning game of golf. Troon is also currently under contract with Campeche Playa Golf Marina and Spa Resort, a new Jack Nicklaus residential complex in Campeche that has great potential.
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“Troon’s main focus is in creating a first-class and personalized experience.” -Jason Ballog Director of Golf Palmilla
www.golfinmexico.net
Palmilla Golf Club 27 HolesPalmilla Golf Club 27 Holes
First FirstJackJackNicklaus Nicklaus Signature Signature Golf Golf Course Course in in Latin Latin America America
Golf Guide BEST’S
QUESTRO GOLF
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os Cabos-based Questro Golf, on the other hand, boasts of five golf courses that they own, with four of them under their dayto-day management. Chief Operations Officer Eduardo Sanchez Navarro, Jr. takes pride in his family’s development and ownership of some of the BEST golf in Mexico. El Dorado Golf Club in Los Cabos is Best’s Golf Guide to Mexico’s number one rated private golf course in Mexico. It is a spectacular Jack Nickaus Signature course with six holes highlighted by direct ocean views. Mr. Nicklaus redid his original design when Questro teamed up with Discovery Land. The El Dorado Golf community had huge success with their über private club experience and land sales. Eduardo Sanchez Navarro stated, “Questro Golf’s policy is to build only quality golf courses on unique properties with the help of world renowned architects.” True-to-its-word, as well, is their top-rated Cabo Real Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. with two distinctive nines. with mesmerizing views of the sea of Cortez from the top of the course and the club house to a gentle slope downward to ocean front holes. This course will be going through a major re-design on the back nine this summer thru the fall under the direction of Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Club Campestre San Jose, a Nicklaus design is a local's favorite and as well as daily fee players looking for a great game of golf at value pricing. Club Campestre is a fair and friendly golf course with rich vibrant green Pspalum hybrid grass; located at the end of the airport toll road It has distant views to the water. and a strong team of staff
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led by Director of Golf, Fernando Ortiz. Questro’s newest triumph is the unique dual design at Puerto Los Cabos Golf Club with nine holes by Jack Nicklaus and nine holes by Greg Norman. Each nine has a unique set of design styles, and eventually each will they each will complete the other nine for two 18hole complexes at Puerto Los Cabos. Operations, marketing, and maintenance responsibilities rests in the hands of Johnny Vaughan and specifically his son, Federico Vaughan. “We take a lot of pride in creating value in our service by assisting our clients in every possible way. We have a large percentage of repeat guests, which, for us, is a great measure of the consistency and experience that we provide. Details and commitment make the difference.” Questro Golf, which also has its roots in Mexico City, has ownership of Club de Golf Bosques, a unique nine hole private club by Jack Nicklaus. Questro Golf has its eyes set on the future, with youthful management backed by seasoned support. They will be the power house of new developments along the Sea of Cortes and mainland Mexico. For example, the US has 27 million golfers; Canada has 3 million, and Mexico 70,000. I often suggest that the net worth of the Mexican golfers might equal those of the US and Canada combined, as Mexico golf is a very elitist sport consisting of mainly private country clubs and resort courses. The US has 16,000 golf courses, of which 6,000 are private and 10,000 are a combination of municipal, resort and daily fee courses. Questro will help grow the game of Golf in Mexico.
“Questro Golf’s policy is to build only quality golf courses on unique properties with the help of world renowned architects.” -Eduardo Sanchez Navarro, Jr. C.E.O. Questro
Photo Jim Mandavel
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Mexico’s TOP Golf Course Management Companies CABO DEL SOL
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olf is a status sport; in travel and tourism, the brag tag tells it all. Golfers want to fill there memories full of top 100 golf experiences. Playing the best courses in the land, they travel near and far to enjoy that quest. A good example is Cabo del Sol Ocean course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, Best’s Golf Guide to Mexico number one-rated resort golf course in Mexico. Why in the world would some one pay $355.00 to play this course, in this economy, in this price sensitive market place? Because the top-rated golf management company of Cabo del Sol has committed to being the number ONE golf course in Mexico. It has the only golf course to maintain its ranking on both Golf Digest’s and Golf Magazine’s list of TOP 100 courses in the world. Its level of service exceeds those of all other courses in Mexico. Not to be complacent, it recently completed a multi-million dollar remodel on holes 6 and 7 on the Ocean course. Why? Because they could and as Director of Golf, Greg Tallman says, “Cabo del Sol is dedicated to maximizing the value of its entire real estate asset, and to provide our client with a world class,
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memorable golf experience”. The result is that a small percentage of the worldwide avid or core golf travel market will make their way to Los Cabos, selecting the one, two or more “must play” courses that they will play during their “once in a lifetime visit”, and most likely, one of their choices will be the Cabo del Sol Ocean course. They will enjoy their round and recount many times in the future to fellow golfers, their key shots of that day, and end by saying, “I paid $355.0 for the round.” More players will follow, and you can take that to the bank. To add to the Ocean experience, golfers also have the chance to play the Cabo del Sol Desert course masterfully designed by Tom Weiskopf. The Desert course is an inland layout with 180-degree views of the sea from nearly every hole. The course varies in length from 5,300 to 7,100 yards, with five sets of tees making it comfortable for all levels of play. The design takes advantage of natural river washes, subtle changes in elevation and dramatic bunkering. This is a perfect complement to quality of service and play at Cabo del Sol.
“Cabo del Sol is dedicated to maximizing the value of its entire real estate asset, and to provide our client with a world class, memorable golf experience”. -Greg Tallman Director of Golf Cabo Del Sol
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Cabo del Sol Desert b y To m We i s k o p f
26 Best’s Golf Guide to Los Cabos
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Cabo del Sol
It keeps getting better...
One&Only Palmilla A Serenly Private Tropical Hideaway
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almilla Golf Club is Jack Nicklaus’ first Latin America makes it one of the most memorable golf rounds in the world. design and is recognized as the Grand Dame of golf in A Mexican decor clubhouse, on-site golf shop and expert staff Los Cabos. Challenging, masterfully-conceived and stun- help provide for your every need. Palmilla Golf Club has hosted ningly beautiful, Palmilla has ocean views from every hole. The the 1997 PGA Senior TOUR, Senior Slam with Hale Irwin deOcean Course actually flows to the ocean feating Jack Nicklaus, Ray Floyd and Gil as you play on the beaches of the Sea of Morgan. With its skillful design, expert Cortes. This 27-hole championship course management and idyllic locale, Palmilla is perched on a canyon arroyos and sits Golf Club is recognized as one of top four among century old cardon cacti. It is a courses in Mexico, and, one the finest in great resort course with daily trade winds the world. that enhance pinpoint accuracy that chalThe renewed One&Only Palmilla Relenges the most experienced of players. sort maintains the classic Mexican ambiJason Ballog, Club Manager says, “The ance which has made it a favorite among golf experience at Palmilla is unique for an international ‘who’s who’ since its origiseveral reasons. Palmilla Golf Club gently nal opening in 1956, while expanding and Location Los Cabos takes you through 800 vertical feet of the recreating the legendary property for a Course 27 Holes, Jack Nicklaus Signature Baja Desert. The design allows our guests new generation of travelers. The resort Contact 011.52.624.144.5250 to experience native desert vegetation on features 172 spacious rooms and suites, www.palmillagc.com the Mountain and Arroyo courses. On the each luxuriously appointed and offering Ocean course guests play along the white magnificent views of the Sea of Cortes, sandy beaches of the Sea of Cortes. During along with three restaurants, the indoor/ the odyssey, golfers enjoy looking at the “Gin Blue” water on all outdoor One&Only Spa, two pools including a children’s swim27 holes. Sometimes our guests will see blue whales breech the ming and activity area, a new Executive Conference Center, water, as they migrate around the Baja to their winter breeding and the property’s renowned Chapel, which makes One&Only grounds. When you combine the natural experiences and how Palmilla a favorite for weddings. we take care of our guests with the Troon Golf Experience, it
Palmilla Golf Course Jack Nicklaus, first signature golf course in Latin America
28 Best’s Golf Guide to Los Cabos
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GREG NORMAN
Greg Norman’s 40,000 ft view of Golf in Mexico
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he Australian Air Force lost out on a potential F-16 fighter pilot when Greg Norman opted to pursue his other passion …Golf. He still flies high and has covered a lot more airspace and logged more time in an aircraft, as a golfer, than he would have as a Royal squad leader. In the mean time he has picked up 91 world wide golf victories including 2 British Open Championships. He has managed over $10 million in career winnings, enough to buy an F-16. He has traveled a long way from his home town in Mount Isa, Australia, touring the world and creating golf excitement on all continents, becoming well known, as the Great White Shark, by way of his free flowing blond hair and his attacking style on Sundays to chase and taste the thrill of victory. During his playing days he was the guy to beat. He was the number one player for over 331 weeks, was player of the year twice, won the Vardon award 3 times, won the Australian Open 5 times and had several victories snatched from his hands on more than one occasion. Through it all he learned to endure his defeats and embrace the twist of fates that molded his resolve and moved him from player to entrepreneur where he has excelled in greater terms. Norman has several business interests including; Greg Norman Collection Apparel, Greg Norman Estates Wine, Greg Norman Australian Prime Wagyu Beef, Greg Norman’s Australian Grille, The Greg Norman Champions Golf Academy, Greg Norman Production Company, and Greg Norman Golf Course Design. As you can see, the Great White Shark is still busy roaming the waters. As a golf course designer he has created over 74 courses on 6 continents and in doing so has taken a fondness to Mexico. Greg Norman currently has three courses in Mexico including top rated El Camaleon, at MayaKoba, site of the only PGA TOUR event in Mexico for the past five years. Plans call for him and Lorena Ochoa to collaborate on a second course here for the Spanish owned OHL group. Also in Cancun is the smartly designed course at Playa Mujeras, seaside at Punta Sam with views of Isla Mujeras and the blue green bay of Cancun. His third course Puerto Los Cabos, lies on the coast at San Jose Del Cabo. Norman designed nine holes which are paired with nine holes by Jack Nicklaus to create a very unique golf experience, with two distinctly different nine hole loops. A joint project with FONATUR has created a relationship that inspired his work at Litibu, in the State of Nayarit just north of Punta Mita and close to Sayulita. This course when first built hosted a Canadian Tour Event in the earliest
30 Best’s Golf Guide to Los Cabos
days of its existence. A freak storm left Litibu dormant for the better part of the past year. The Norman group revamped the course and now a re-launch Grand Opening is scheduled for later this fall. That’s not the only course that Norman plans to open this fall. Punta Tiburon in Alvarado Veracruz is also scheduled to open which will give Norman five courses open for play in Mexico. Several new courses are on the drawing board for the Greg Norman group that will help continue his presence in Latin American and put Norman in the fore front of the growth of Golf in Mexico. The shark’s golf course design business has primarily focused on designing new golf courses around the world. More recently, his design company has begun working with existing courses that need an injection of life to help them compete with some of their more modern counterparts. He has several projects, currently underway where he has been
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VISIT: http://www.gngcd.com CALL: 561 640 7000
Sun Rise Puerto Los Cabos hired to come in and re-design the course which will then be rebranded as a Greg Norman Design. While Norman does not currently have any redesigns in Mexico a Greg Norman redesign could give older existing Golf Courses in Mexico a chance to compete with their newer more modern counter parts for a fraction of the cost of a new facility. Interestingly, the Norman group also manages the Mayakoba Golf Classic, the PGA TOUR event at Mayakoba and the tournament recently signed a six year contract extension, which is very encouraging for growing the game of golf in Mexico. The tournament has even created a community outreach program, Golf PARa Todos to grow the game of golf by encouraging active participation in the game as a participant and as a fan. In January of 2011, Golf PARa Todos earned a place in the Guinness World Records by hosting the world's largest
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golf lesson ever. 1,073 people participated in the lesson. Greg also gives back to the community through his charitable work with numerous organizations. Over the course of three decades, Norman has supported such diverse causes as children's cancer research, relief to victims and families of hurricane Katrina, the Tsunami and 9/11 tragedies, ecosystem oceanic research as well as golf and the environment. Norman’s own tournament, The Shark Shootout, supports several charities including CureSearch and Ronald McDonald House. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $11 million for various charities. As such, he was the 2008 winner of the Charlie Bartlett Award, selected by the Golf Writers of America. This award recognizes professional golfers who have gone above and beyond by giving back to charities and philanthropic projects.
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Los Cabos Directory AIRLINES Aeromexico 01 800 021 4050 (800) 237-6639 Toll free www.aeromexico.com
Alaska Airlines (800) 252-7522 Toll free www.alaskaair.com
American Airlines 01 (800) 83 40300 (800) 433-7300 Toll free www.aa.com
Continental Airlines 01 800 900 5000 (800) 523-3273 Toll free www.continental.com
Mexicana Airlines 011 52 (624) 142-0606 (800) 531-7921 Toll free www.mexicana.com
US Airways (800) 428-4322 Toll free www.usairways.com
Tesoro Los Cabos Resort
BEAUTY, MASSAGE & SPA FACILITY Sra. Carmen Massages – Chiropractor Manicure – Pedicure – Hair Cuts 011 52 (624) 151-2396 Carretera Transpeninsular Parking Interior of Zippers Rest
IMC - Grupo Intermar Blvd., Mauricio Castro s/n San Jose del Cabo 011 52 (624) 142-2821
GOLF MERCHANDISE Club Car Golf Carts Excelencia in Golf 011 52 (624)104-3153 Km 6 Transpeninsula Hwy Local #9 Interior Plaza Commercial Del Rey Cabo San Lucas
011 52 (624) 122-1522
Solmar SportFishing
REAL ESTATE GOLF/ TRAVEL RESERVATIONS BEST4GOLF Travel Packages Call today to book your dream vacation to Mexico. (800) 381-7054 Toll free (949) 494-8561 Direct (949) 494-9292 Fax www.golfinmexico.net
Best4MexicoTeeTimes.com Advance tee times in Mexico www.best4mexicoteetimes.com
HOTELS Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort Carr. Transpeninsular Km. 19.5 011 52 (624)145-6500 (800) 445-8667 Toll free www.hiltonloscabos.com
(954) 272-6182 www.clubcar.com
SPORT FISHING Ricco Torres
011 52 (624) 145-6094 www.ultrafemme.com.mx
Cabo San Lucas 011 52 (624) 143-1414 (877) 567-3572 Toll free www.nationalcar.com.mx
DESTINATION MANAGEMENT
Beautiful Mexican Art Blvd Marina #30, Cabo San Lucas or Zaragoza Y Hildalgo, San Jose del Cabo 011 52 (624) 142-2777
JEWELRY
National Car Rental
San Jose del Cabo 011 52 (624) 142-2424 (877) 567-3572 Toll free www.nationalcar.com.mx
Arte Diseno Decoracion
Rolex/ Chopard Ultrajewels Grupo Ultrafemme
CAR RENTAL
National Car Rental
SHOPPING
Blvd. Marina Lotes 9, 10 Los Cabos 011 52 (624) 173-9300 (866) 99-TESORO Toll free www.TesoroResorts.com
Melia Cabo Real 011 52 (624) 144-0000 (800) 336-3542 Toll free www.solmelia.com
011 52 (624) 143-0646 (800) 344-3349 Toll free CABORESORT@aol.com www.solmar.com
Fabiola Kinder (949) 246-2327 From US
Baja Developer’s Land (619) 925-6073 (866) 648-2666 Toll free reyna@bajadevelopersland.com
CostaBaja Resort & Marina Kilometre 7.5 Carretera a Pichilingue, La Paz (866) 899-7567 Toll free www.costabajaresort.com
Prudential Cabo Gold Division Matamores Int. Posada El Marlin 011 52 (624) 143 4626 CaboGold@CaboNet.net.mx www.PruCaboGold.com
Prudential/Cabo Gold Nita Bryson 011 52 624 141 6632 www.homesinloscabos.com
Snell Real Estate (888) 713-5183 Toll free www.SnellRealEstate.com
RESTAURANTS Damiana Town Plaza, San Jose del Cabo Best Mexican Cuisine 011 52 (624) 142-0499
La Dolce Italian Dining Cabo San Lucas location: 011 52 (624) 143-4122 San Jose del Cabo location: 011 52 (624) 147-6621
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Cabo San Lucas 011 52 (624) 144-3232
Zipper’s Bar & Grille On the beach, Satellite TV, Sporting Events San Jose del Cabo 011 52 (624) 142-1795
Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Resort & Spa 011 52 (624) 145-8000 (800) 598-1753 Toll free www.sheraton.com/loscabos
BAJA SUR
GOLF COURSE DIRECTORY STATE Campo de Golf Loreto (D) Blvd. Mision San Ignacio s/n 320 Cabo San Lucas Country Club (R) Lazaro Cardenas s/n 32 Eldorado Golf Course (P) Carr. San Lucas - San Jose KM 22.5 Mayan Resorts Golf Los Cabos (D) Paseo Fenisterra #1 33 Palmilla Golf Resort (R) Carr. Transpeninsular KM 7.5 310 Cabo Real Golf Course (R) KM 19.5 Transpenin. San Jose del Cabo 311 Cabo del Sol Golf, Desert (R) Carr. Transpeninsular KM 7.5 Cabo San Lucas 31 Cabo del Sol Golf, Ocean (R) Carr. Transpeninsular KM 7.5 Cabo San Lucas 33 Querencia Country Club (P) Carr. Transpeninsular KM 27.5 DIRECTORY KEY (R) = Resort Course
(P) = Private Course
TELEPHONE (613) 133-0788
CITY Loreto
(624) 143-4653
Los Cabos
(877) 795-8727
Los Cabos
(624) 142-0900
Los Cabos
(624) 144-5250
Los Cabos
(624) 144-0243
Los Cabos
(624) 145-8200
Los Cabos
(624) 145-8200
Los Cabos
(624) 145-6600
Los Cabos
(SP) = Semi-Private Course
32 GuideTOtoLOS Los Cabos 32 Best’s BEST’S Golf GOLF GUIDE CABOS
HOLES PAR RATING CHAMP MEN WOMEN CARTS CADDIES 18 72 71.5 6800 6400 5497 Y Y Loreto Bay company course, with an outstanding 14th hole. 18 72 73.0 7220 6603 5302 Y N Roy Dye design with view of Land’s End. 18 72 74.7 7050 6476 4855 Y Y Jack Nicklaus design. Seven holes on the ocean. 9 70 72.0 6306 5404 5840 Y N M. Schjetnan/Joe Finger design. Delightful ocean view course. 27 72 72.2 6939 6130 4858 Y N Jack Nicklaus design. Site for the ‘97 Senior Slam. 18 72 74.1 6945 6437 5068 Y N Robert Trent Jones Jr. design. Site of ‘96 & ’99 Senior Slam. 18 72 69.6 6698 6252 6252 Y N Tom Weiskopf’s newest creation. Desert course with ocean views. 18 72 74.3 7053 6238 4980 Y N Jack Nicklaus design with 5 oceanfront holes. Site of ‘98 Senior Slam. 18 72 74.5 7070 6624 5092 Y N Tom Fazio Design-one great course.
(D) = Daily Fee
(L) = Low Season
(H) = High Season
WKDAYS WKEND $60 $60 $186
$186
Members Only $116
$116
$269
$269
$260
$280
(L) $165 (L) $165 (H) $220 (H) $220 (L) $250 (L) $250 (H) $350 (H) $350 Members Only
31 = TOP 30 Private Course ranking 31 = Golf Guide to Mexico ranking
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