Why Golfing in Puerto Vallarta Is Better Than You Think

The stunning Greg Norman Signature Course at Vidanta Golf.

Secondly, the PGA Fedex Cup is hosted regularly now at Vidanta’s Norman Signature exclusive course. This course is in absolutely immaculate shape it makes me feel bad making a divot in the fairway. The same can be said for Vista Vallarta and Punta Mita’s courses. They’re just break taking, every single time. You want to come back as soon as you can to play another round. 

In addition to these courses, there are several other top-notch golf courses in Puerto Vallarta, each with its own unique features and challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice golfer, you’ll find something to love in Puerto Vallarta’s golf scene. Golfing in Puerto Vallarta may not come at a low green fee rate, but these courses are well worth it! Let’s take a closer look at each of them:

Vista Vallarta Club de Golf

 This golf course is situated on a hillside overlooking Banderas Bay, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. The two courses here at Vista were designed by two golf legends, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf, and features two 18-hole courses that wind through the lush jungle terrain. The challenging layout and breathtaking views make Vista Vallarta Club de Golf not just one of the top golf courses in Puerto Vallarta, but all of Mexico. This course defines what it means to experience golfing in Puerto Vallarta, and we’re only on the first course! 

Marina Vallarta Golf Club

Located near the Puerto Vallarta Marina, Marina Vallarta Golf Course course was designed by Joe Finger and features an 18-hole, par-71 course that meanders through the resort area. The course features plenty of water hazards and bunkers, making it a challenging but enjoyable course for players of all skill levels. The beautiful landscaping, abundant wildlife, and ocean views make it a scenic course as well. Seriously, the view of the ocean on a few of the holes is truly remarkable and not a common site on golf course worldwide. Picture Pebble Beach vibes. 

Funnily enough, nearly every golf course on this list is located in the state of Nayarit, next to Jalisco. So technically you would be golfing in Puerto Vallarta much, but more so Nayarit. Not that this changes anything particularly, but it doesn’t hurt to know where most of the courses are actually located! 

El Tigre Golf Club

This golf course is part of the Paradise Village resort complex and features an 18-hole, par-72 course that was designed by Robert Von Hagge. The course is known for its challenging layout, with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. Talking with other golfers about courses in the area, many say El Tigre was the most challenging course they experienced when golfing in Puerto Vallarta.  Although the course may not be the most beautiful on this list, the stunning views of the Sierra Madre Mountains that surround you, as well as the resort’s lagoon and tropical gardens make golfing here special.

El Tigre Golf Club is also a residence with many single family and multi family dwellings on it throughout the course. With no two homes with the same design, you’ll enjoy admiring all the different architecture throughout your round at El Tigre. Additionally, El Tigre offers amenities such as a full size gym, tennis courts, squash courts, spa with sauna and steam rooms, as well as billiards, ping pong, and pickle ball.

If you know a member or resident of El Tigre, ask them for more information about how you can join their social membership to have further access to these amenities during the length of your stay in Nuevo Vallarta. If you’re planning on golfing in Puerto Vallarta, this has to be in the top 5 courses that are an absolute must!

Flamingos Golf Club

Located in the nearby town of Nuevo Vallarta, this golf course was designed by Percy Clifford and offers an 18-hole, par-72 course that is suitable for players of all skill levels. Flamingos Golf Club features rolling fairways, gentle elevation changes, and numerous water hazards, making it a challenging but enjoyable round. The course also offers beautiful views of the surrounding jungle and nearby mountains.

Higuera Golf Course

This golf course is located in Litibu, about 50-60 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta and is part of the luxury resort community of Punta Mita. Designed by Greg Norman, Higuera Golf Course features an 18-hole, par-72 course that is known for its breathtaking ocean views and challenging layout. The course winds through a natural landscape of jungle and hills, with dramatic elevation changes and numerous water hazards.

When on your trip golfing in Puerto Vallarta, this course may not be the most beautifully manicured or challenging course, but it has one of the most picture esque locations on this list. It also doesn’t hurt golfing here is on the more economic side when comparing it to the likes of El Tigre, Vidanta, or Punta Mita. 

Punta Mita Golf Club

Located an hour north of the airport, this private club proudly features 36 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature golf. Set on 380 acres of peninsula bordered by both the Pacific Ocean and beautiful Banderas Bay. Open exclusively to Club Punta Mita Golf Members and their guests, as well as guests of the Four Seasons and St. Regis resorts. Panoramic views make a camera a must as you play world class golf on either of Punta Mita’s par 72 Championship courses.

Both the Pacifico and Bahia courses offer a wide-range of tee boxes, for players of all skill levels. These courses really are the epitome of what golfing in Puerto Vallarta is like. It’s unbelievable location right on the north tip of Banderas Bay, and exquisite grounds make these courses truly special. One of the highlights for everyone is certainly “the Tail of the Whale” hole which proves a picturesque island green, but takes some serious skill to birdie this one! Do you think you can? 

Hole 3B at Punta Mita Golf Course known as “Tail of the Whale” hole. It is the only natural island green in the world. 

Vidanta Golf 

Golfing at Vidanta Nayarit boasts three exquisite golf courses that provide golf enthusiasts with an exceptional playing experience. Each course showcases its unique design, breathtaking scenery, and challenging holes. Let’s delve into the detailed description of their courses:

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   1. The Norman Signature Course: Designed by the renowned golfer and architect Greg Norman, the Norman Signature Course offers a challenging and visually stunning golfing experience. The course winds through lush tropical landscapes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. With strategic bunkering, undulating fairways, and well-manicured greens, this par-72 championship course tests players of all skill levels. Golfers can expect to encounter water features, strategically placed hazards, and opportunities for strategic shot-making as they navigate through its 18 holes.

2. The Nayar Course: Crafted by the legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus and his design team, the Nicklaus Design Course is a true gem. This par-70 course combines the natural beauty of the Nayarit region with a well-balanced and challenging layout. Set amidst a tropical oasis, the course features picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, including vibrant flora, tranquil lakes, and cascading waterfalls. The meticulously groomed fairways and greens offer an enjoyable yet demanding round of golf. With strategically placed bunkers, elevation changes, and meticulous attention to detail, the Nicklaus Design Course presents golfers with an unforgettable experience.

3. The Lakes Course: As its name suggests, the Lakes Course takes players on a captivating journey through a picturesque landscape adorned with serene lakes and water features. Designed by the renowned golf architect Robert von Hagge, this par-71 course offers a delightful mix of challenges and beauty. The course’s undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and well-guarded greens demand accuracy and precision from golfers. With the Sierra Madre Mountains serving as a majestic backdrop, golfers can expect stunning vistas at every turn. The Lakes Course provides a harmonious balance of natural splendor and enjoyable play.

Nayar Course at Vidanta

All three courses at Vidanta Nayarit offer well-appointed facilities, including practice areas, pro shops, and expertly trained staff who cater to golfers’ needs. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer seeking a challenging round or a beginner looking to improve your skills, these courses promise a golfing experience that seamlessly combines natural beauty, strategic design, and world-class amenities. 

The golf course has 18 holes, with a par of 73 and a total yardage of 6,900. It features stunning views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay, making it one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world. Once you come golfing in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll see what we’re talking about.

Plus, this gorgeous destination is home to the PGA TOUR Mexico Open at Vidanta, one of Mexico’s biggest sporting events. They last hosted in 2023 when Tony Finau won the tournament with an incredible tournament score of 65-64-65-66. Keep these numbers in mind when playing Vidanta, and see how you square up with this PGA champion!

How Much Does it Cost to Golf at Vidanta? 

The cost of golfing at Vidanta is $125 USD plus $20 per caddy. However these prices may change throughout the high and low seasons, plus our favorite friend inflation has its way of increasing prices each year – so for more information you can visit Vidanta Golf. 

The Lakes Course at Vidanta offers a 10 hole par 3 course that can be played at night time.

It must be known that these golf courses  listed above offer rental equipment, golf carts, sometimes caddy’s, and professional instruction for those looking to improve their game. Additionally, many of them offer on-site dining options and other amenities to enhance your experience when golfing in Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re visiting the area, playing a few of these courses at the minimum is a must-do activity for any golf enthusiast. With its stunning scenery, challenging courses, and top-notch facilities, you’re sure to have an unforgettable  golfing here. For those of you who may have golfed in the Maya Riviera, the west coast of Mexico in Jalisco and Nayarit provide a stunning place to play golf. Golfing in Puerto Vallarta won’t be staying under the radar for long, and you’ll see why. The variety and scenery of these courses is a golfers dream.

You deserve a vacation – and what better way to spend time in the tropics than golfing in Puerto Vallarta? For more information on the right golf course for you, dont hesitate to contact us at Palmara.co to learn more. 

For ALL other things Vallarta, don’t forget to download our eBook “100 Things to-do in Puerto Vallarta.”