The Dominican Republic isn’t just about stunning beaches and vibrant culture; it’s a golfer’s paradise too, boasting some of the Caribbean’s best courses designed by legends like Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Fazio. From challenging seaside layouts to lush inland greens, the DR offers an unforgettable golfing experience for every skill level. Get ready to explore the top courses where you can tee off against breathtaking backdrops.
Teeth of the Dog® – Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, La Romana
Let’s kick things off with the granddaddy of them all: Teeth of the Dog® at Casa de Campo. Designed by Pete Dye, this course is consistently ranked among the world’s best and for good reason. Seven holes hug the rugged coastline, offering unparalleled views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. It’s a thrilling experience to play these holes, especially when the wind is up. Imagine standing on the tee box, the waves crashing against the rocks, and the pressure to make a good shot – it’s exhilarating! Be warned, though: this course is tough. Accuracy is key, and you’ll need to bring your “A” game. The greens are fast and undulating, and the fairways are unforgiving. The rough can be penal, so aim to stay on the short grass.
Cost: Expect green fees to be on the pricier side, typically ranging from $350 to $450 USD, depending on the season and time of day. Consider booking a stay-and-play package at Casa de Campo for potential discounts and convenience. Carts are mandatory. Booking in advance is absolutely essential, especially during peak season (winter months).
Directions: Casa de Campo is located in La Romana. The easiest way to get there is to fly into La Romana International Airport (LRM), which is just a short drive from the resort. Alternatively, you can fly into Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) and then take a taxi or shuttle, which is about a 1.5-hour drive.
Recommendations: Bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and a hat. The sun in the Dominican Republic can be intense. Also, wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, even with a cart. Don’t forget your camera! You’ll want to capture the stunning scenery. Consider hiring a caddie; their local knowledge can be invaluable, especially on a challenging course like Teeth of the Dog®.
Dye Fore – Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, La Romana
Also at Casa de Campo, Dye Fore presents a different, yet equally captivating challenge. This course offers stunning panoramic views and features a variety of elevation changes, reminiscent of links-style golf. It sprawls across the Dominican landscape, with some holes offering breathtaking vistas of the Chavón River and the Caribbean Sea. Unlike Teeth of the Dog®, Dye Fore has a more forgiving layout, making it a great option for golfers of all skill levels.
Dye Fore features 27 holes split among three distinct nines: Chavón, Marina, and Lakes. The Chavón nine features dramatic cliffs and stunning views of the Chavón River. The Marina nine winds its way through the resort’s marina, offering views of the yachts and the ocean. The Lakes nine, as the name suggests, incorporates several water hazards into the design. Each nine offers a unique and enjoyable golfing experience. It’s also generally less crowded than Teeth of the Dog®.
Cost: Green fees for Dye Fore are generally lower than Teeth of the Dog®, typically ranging from $150 to $250 USD, depending on the season and time of day. Package deals are often available.
Directions: Same as Teeth of the Dog® – located within Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in La Romana.
Recommendations: As with Teeth of the Dog®, bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. Also, consider playing early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day. The elevation changes on Dye Fore can be tiring, so be sure to pace yourself. Consider bringing a rangefinder to help with distance control on the blind shots.
The Links – Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, La Romana
Rounding out the trio of championship courses at Casa de Campo is The Links. This course, also designed by Pete Dye, is a visually stunning layout that pays homage to traditional Scottish links courses. While you won’t find the ocean views of Teeth of the Dog® or the dramatic elevation changes of Dye Fore, The Links offers a different kind of challenge with its undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging greens. It’s a course that rewards precision and strategic thinking. You’ll need to be able to work the ball and control your distances to score well here. The Links features tall Bahia grass rough, just like the famed Scottish courses.
The course is meticulously maintained and provides a classic, enjoyable golfing experience. It tends to be less crowded than the other two Casa de Campo courses, offering a more relaxed pace of play.
Cost: Green fees for The Links are typically in the $100-$200 USD range, making it the most affordable of the three Casa de Campo courses.
Directions: Located within Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in La Romana.
Recommendations: Focus on your short game when preparing to play The Links. Accurate approach shots and precise putting are key to scoring well. Pay attention to the wind, as it can be a significant factor on this open layout.
Punta Espada Golf Club – Cap Cana
Moving on to Cap Cana, we find another gem: Punta Espada Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature course. This course is frequently ranked among the best in the Caribbean and showcases stunning views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Eight holes play directly along the coastline. The fairways are immaculately manicured, and the greens are challenging. The course features several forced carries over water, making it a test of skill and nerve. It’s a course that requires both power and precision, but it’s also a ton of fun to play. Imagine standing on the par-3 13th hole, with the ocean crashing behind you, and the pressure to hit a good shot – it’s an unforgettable experience! Punta Espada is generally considered to be more playable than Teeth of the Dog® while still providing a stern test of golf.
Cost: Green fees at Punta Espada are comparable to Teeth of the Dog®, ranging from $300 to $450 USD. Again, booking in advance is crucial.
Directions: Punta Espada Golf Club is located within the Cap Cana resort community. The most convenient airport is Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), which is about a 15-minute drive away.
Recommendations: Bring extra golf balls! The holes along the ocean are beautiful but can be unforgiving. A windbreaker or light jacket might be useful, depending on the time of year. Consider taking advantage of the practice facilities before your round; getting a feel for the conditions is important. The service at Punta Espada is exceptional, so be prepared to be pampered.
Corales Golf Club – Puntacana Resort & Club
Designed by Tom Fazio, Corales Golf Club at Puntacana Resort & Club is another masterpiece that demands attention. This course features six oceanfront holes, including the challenging “Devil’s Elbow,” a breathtaking trio of finishing holes along the rocky coastline. The 18th hole, a par-4 requiring a precise approach shot over a bay, is particularly memorable and is featured annually during the PGA Tour’s Corales Puntacana Championship Corales Puntacana Championship. The course is known for its pristine conditions, challenging layout, and dramatic scenery.
Cost: Green Fees range from $350 to $450 USD
Directions: It is located inside Puntacana Resort & Club. It is about a 10-minute drive from Puntacana International Airport (PUJ).
Recommendations: The course is known to be windy, it may challenge your game in multiple ways. So, club selection is very important. Consider playing with a course guide since some tee shots can be deceiving.
La Cana Golf Club – Puntacana Resort & Club
Also at Puntacana Resort & Club, we find La Cana Golf Club, designed by P.B. Dye. This course features 27 holes and 14 ocean-view holes. It’s known for its seaside beauty and challenging layout. The greens are fast and undulating, and the fairways are lined with palm trees and native vegetation. It’s a visually stunning course that offers a variety of challenges. The P.B. Dye designed course is a must play!
La Cana is one of the most eco-friendly courses in the Caribbean, utilizing paspalum grass, which requires less water and pesticides. The course is divided into three nines – Tortuga, Hacienda, and Arrecife. Each nine offers a unique experience, but all feature stunning views and challenging play.
Cost: Green fees are lower than Corales Golf Club ranging from $200 to $300 USD.
Directions: Located within Puntacana Resort & Club, near Puntacana International Airport (PUJ).
Recommendations: Pay attention to the wind, and be sure to pack your camera. It is a picturesque course. The Paspalum grass can be a bit sticky, so be prepared for some unusual lies.
Iberostar Bávaro Golf Club – Punta Cana
Designed by P.B. Dye, Iberostar Bávaro Golf Club is a popular option in Punta Cana, offering a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. This 18-hole course features a variety of terrain, including rolling hills, lush vegetation, and strategically placed water hazards. With well-manicured fairways and greens, it provides a good test of golfing skill in a beautiful setting. This course tends to be more budget-friendly than some of the other resort courses in Punta Cana.
Cost: Green fees at Iberostar Bávaro Golf Club are typically in the $100-$200 USD range, making it a more affordable option for many golfers.
Directions: Located within the Iberostar Bávaro Resort complex in Punta Cana.
Recommendations: This course is a good option for golfers of all skill levels. The course is well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Consider booking a tee time in advance, as it can get busy, especially during peak season.
Hard Rock Golf Club at Cana Bay – Punta Cana
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the Hard Rock Golf Club at Cana Bay is another solid option in Punta Cana for avid golfers of all skill levels. The course features an 18-hole championship course with well-manicured fairways and greens. A lot of water and strategically placed bunkers create a challening play. In the Hard Rock resort you can enjoy the casino, restaurant, and entertainment.
Cost: Green fees range between $150 and $250 USD.
Directions: Located within the Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana.
Recommendations: The course can be challenging even for the advanced golfers. So, remember to play strategically and select clubs wisely. Water hazards may require precise shots. Enjoy the lively Hard Rock atmosphere after your round!
Playa Grande Golf Course – Rio San Juan
For a truly unique golfing experience, venture to the north coast and play Playa Grande Golf Course. Originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and later renovated by his son, Rees Jones, this course is known for its dramatic clifftop setting, with ten holes playing directly along the Atlantic Ocean. It’s considered one of the most scenic courses in the Caribbean.
The course features rolling fairways, challenging bunkers, and stunning ocean views. The wind can be a significant factor here, adding to the challenge. It’s a course that rewards accuracy and shot-making ability. The newly renovated course offers a lot of excitement!
Cost: Green fees are relatively high, ranging from $250 to $400 USD, reflecting the exclusivity and quality of the course.
Directions: Playa Grande is located in Rio San Juan, on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. The nearest airport is Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP) in Puerto Plata, which is about a 1-hour drive away.
Recommendations: Be prepared for wind, and bring plenty of golf balls. The scenery is breathtaking, so be sure to take some photos. The course is challenging, but it’s also a lot of fun.
Things to Know Before You Go:
Booking Tee Times: Advance bookings are essential, especially during peak season. Most resorts allow you to book online or through their concierge services. Don’t hesitate to contact the golf course directly if you have specific requests or questions.
What to Wear: Standard golf attire is expected at most courses. This means collared shirts, golf shorts or pants, and golf shoes. Check with the specific course for their dress code policies before your visit.
Carts and Caddies: Golf carts are typically mandatory on most courses. Caddies are often available for hire and can greatly enhance your experience. Their local knowledge of the course can be invaluable.
Weather Considerations: The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate, so be prepared for heat and humidity. Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and consider playing early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Currency and Tipping: The local currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), but US dollars are widely accepted. It’s customary to tip caddies, waiters, and other service staff. A tip of 10-15% is generally appreciated.
FAQ Section
What is the best time of year to golf in the Dominican Republic?
The best time to golf in the Dominican Republic is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The weather is generally sunny and dry, with lower humidity. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowded courses. May, June, September and October are shoulder season with slightly warmer temps and more rainfall, but better deals.
Do I need to bring my own golf clubs?
You can bring your own golf clubs, but most courses offer rentals. If you’re only planning on playing a few rounds, renting might be the more convenient option.
Are there any all-inclusive golf packages available?
Yes, many resorts in the Dominican Republic offer all-inclusive golf packages that include accommodations, meals, drinks, and green fees. This can be a great way to save money and simplify your trip planning, check with Casa de Campo and Puntacana Resort & Club.
What are the average green fees in the Dominican Republic?
Average green fees vary depending on the course and the time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $450 USD per round. Courses such as Teeth of the Dog, Punta Espada, and Corales will be on the higher end of the price range.
Are there any beginner-friendly golf courses in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, many courses in the Dominican Republic are suitable for beginners. Courses like The Links at Casa de Campo and Iberostar Bávaro Golf Club are generally more forgiving than the championship layouts.
Are caddies available at all golf courses? How much should I tip them?
Caddies are available at many, but not all, golf courses in the Dominican Republic. It’s best to inquire when booking your tee time. A typical tip for a caddie is $25-$50 USD per round, depending on the quality of service.
What type of currency should I bring?
US dollars are widely accepted in the Dominican Republic, especially at resorts and tourist areas. However, it’s a good idea to have some Dominican pesos (DOP) on hand for smaller expenses and for tipping local staff. You’ll often get a better exchange rate if you pay in pesos for goods and services outside of the tourist zones. Currency exchange can be done at the airport or at local banks.
References
- PGA Tour – Corales Puntacana Championship
Ready to experience the thrill of golfing in paradise? The Dominican Republic awaits with its stunning coastline, challenging courses, and warm hospitality. Book your tee time today and discover why the DR is a premier destination for golfers from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable golfing adventure. So pack your clubs, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to tee off in the Dominican Republic!
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