Discover The Best Golf Resorts in the Dominican Republic

The Best Golf Resorts in the Dominican Republic

Key Takeaways

Casa de Campo

Nestled along the southeastern coastline of the Dominican Republic, Casa de Campo has been a legendary golf destination for decades. This 7,000-acre luxury resort is home to three championship courses that have been masterfully carved through the region's lush landscapes and along the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean Sea and Chavon River.

Iconic Golf Courses

The crown jewel of Casa de Campo is without a doubt the iconic Teeth of the Dog course. Designed by renowned architect Pete Dye, this 7,000-yard layout has been consistently ranked as the #1 course in the Caribbean by leading golf publications like Golf Digest.

What makes Teeth of the Dog so special are the seven holes that hug the ocean's edge, providing breathtaking views of crashing waves and sea-sprayed coral reefs. From the signature par-3 5th hole to the heart-pounding 7th along the shoreline cliffs, it's a true test of skill and nerves.

But Casa de Campo offers more than just Teeth of the Dog. The 27-hole Dye Fore course is another standout, with its undulating terrain and holes high above the Chavon River. And while the Links course may not be as dramatic, it provides an excellent test of golf after undergoing a renovation in 2012.

Luxury Amenities

What really elevates Casa de Campo into a world-class destination is the incredible array of luxury amenities and activities beyond just golf. The resort boasts a 370-slip full-service marina, an equestrian center with polo fields, a shooting club, and three private white-sand beaches.

Dining options are plentiful as well, with eight restaurants ranging from the lively Beach Club by Le Cirque to the stunning Minitas Beach Club & Restaurant with sweeping ocean vistas.

Real Estate Opportunities

For those looking to make Casa de Campo more than just a vacation, the resort offers a variety of real estate opportunities from private villas to new residential projects. Owning a piece of this iconic Caribbean destination allows you to experience the legendary golf and amenities on a daily basis.

Cap Cana

On the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, the ultra-exclusive Cap Cana community has quickly emerged as one of the premier luxury destinations in the Caribbean. At its heart is the Jack Nicklaus signature design Punta Espada Golf Club, consistently ranked among the best courses in the region and the entire Caribbean.

Punta Espada Golf Club

What makes Punta Espada so special is its incredible setting along the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. A staggering eight holes play directly along the ocean's edge, providing stunning vistas from nearly every lie.

The par-3 13th is a particular standout, requiring a precise shot over the crashing waves to a green perched precariously on the shoreline. Nicklaus himself called it one of the four or five best par-3s he's ever designed.

In addition to the incredible ocean views, Punta Espada features a superb collection of holes winding through seaside dunes and cliffside plateaus. It's no wonder the course has garnered numerous awards and the #1 ranking in the Caribbean by GolfWeek magazine.

Luxury Community

But Punta Espada is just the beginning of the luxury experience at Cap Cana. This 30,000-acre gated community features high-end hotels and residences like the Eden Roc Cap Cana and Sanctuary Cap Cana, along with beach clubs, a marina, and even a new theme park called Tropicalia.

Residential Real Estate

For those seeking to make Cap Cana their home, the community offers a variety of branded residential real estate opportunities:

Dezenove Golf Residences: These luxury villas and townhomes are located adjacent to the Punta Espada course, providing easy access to the fairways. The 2-5 bedroom homes feature modern Caribbean architecture and private pools.

Cap Avalon Villas: Situated along the fairways of Punta Espada, these spacious 4-6 bedroom villas offer elegant indoor/outdoor living with private pools and terraces. Residents have access to the golf course as well as the amenities at the nearby Eden Roc Beach Club.

Las Iguanas Golf Resort: This master-planned golf resort community within Cap Cana will feature an 18-hole championship course, beach club, hotel, and residential real estate options like villas, townhomes and condos with golf course and ocean views.

Puntacana Resort

On the easternmost shores of the Dominican Republic is the incredible 45-hole golf paradise known as Puntacana Resort & Club. This world-class destination offers three acclaimed courses designed by golf legends Tom Fazio and P.B. Dye.

45 Holes of Championship Golf

The crown jewel of Puntacana is the Corales Golf Club, home to an annual PGA Tour event. This 7,600-yard Fazio design hugs the coastline with six holes perched high on ocean bluffs providing spellbinding vistas.

The La Cana course by P.B. Dye is another standout, with 14 holes running alongside the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean. Four of those holes play directly on the ocean's edge for a true seaside golf experience.

Rounding out the trio is the Hacienda course, an 18-hole layout that completes the incredible 45 holes of championship golf at Puntacana.

Resort Amenities

In addition to the world-class golf, Puntacana Resort & Club provides guests with a full range of luxury amenities and activities. Multiple hotels like The Westin Puntacana and the Four Points by Sheraton offer upscale accommodations and dining options.

There's also a beach club, tennis courts, and recreation facilities to enjoy off the course. For those looking to extend their stay, the resort offers residential real estate opportunities within the larger community.

Residential Developments

Puntacana has several new residential projects underway that will allow homeowners to enjoy the incredible golf and amenities on a daily basis. One example is [insert example project with internal link to relevant section].

Emerging Projects

In addition to the established golf resorts, the Dominican Republic is seeing a surge of new master-planned communities centered around golf that are worth keeping an eye on.

Alma de Samaná Golf & Residences

This ambitious $582 million project by developer Diana Lynch will bring over 1,400 luxury villas and an 18-hole golf course to the Samaná peninsula. In addition to the residences and golf, plans call for a beach club, hotel, and other upscale amenities.

Coral Golf Resort

Located in the Punta Cana region, this new development by the Gesproin Group will offer residential units centered around an 18-hole golf course that is undergoing a redesign by P.B. Dye. Renderings depict a lush, tropical setting with homes lining the fairways.

Other Top Picks

While Casa de Campo, Cap Cana, and Puntacana may be the biggest names, the Dominican Republic offers many other acclaimed golf courses and resorts to consider:

• Cocotal Golf & Country Club: This scenic 27-hole design by Jose 'Pepe' Gancedo is located near the Punta Cana airport and features six oceanside holes providing stunning Caribbean views.

• Hard Rock Golf Club at Cana Bay: Jack Nicklaus lent his design talents to this par-72 layout at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana. With spellbinding ocean vistas throughout, it's one of the top courses in the region.

• Iberostar Bavaro Golf Club: Another P.B. Dye design located near Punta Cana's resorts, this course features a front nine running alongside the brilliant blue Caribbean waters.

• La Romana Area Courses: In addition to Casa de Campo, the La Romana region offers other standout designs like Dye Fore at La Estancia and the Links at Romana.

Planning Your Trip

With so many incredible golf options, it's no surprise the Dominican Republic has become a premier destination for traveling golfers and those seeking warm tropical getaways.

Best Times to Visit

The best months to visit for golf are generally December through April when rainfall is low and temperatures are mild, typically in the 80s Fahrenheit. However, this peak season also means higher rates at resorts and hotels.

For better values, consider planning a spring or fall trip and taking advantage of promotional resort packages that can include unlimited golf.

Travel Tips

No matter when you go, be prepared for some added costs beyond just your hotel stay:

• Green fees at the top resort courses like Punta Espada and Corales can range from $200-400 per round depending on the season and time of day.

• Caddies are mandatory at most of the premier courses, with fees typically $20-50 plus gratuities.

• Consider an all-inclusive package that includes unlimited golf to maximize your value.

With proper planning and the right resort package, you can experience these incredible courses and amenities without breaking the bank.

FAQs

What is the #1 golf course in the Dominican Republic?

While Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo is widely considered one of the best and most iconic courses in the Dominican Republic, consistently ranked #1 by many publications, Punta Espada Golf Club is also regarded as a world-class layout that rivals Teeth of the Dog for top honors in the country.

Punta Espada, designed by Jack Nicklaus, has been ranked #1 in the Caribbean and Mexico by GolfWeek for several years running. Golf Digest currently ranks it #35 in the world and #1 in the Dominican Republic on their latest World's 100 Greatest list.

What makes Punta Espada so special are the eight holes that play directly along the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, providing breathtaking oceanfront views. The par-3 13th hole, requiring a daring shot over the ocean to a green surrounded by waves, is considered one of the most spectacular holes in golf.

So while Teeth of the Dog has the historical pedigree and iconic status, Punta Espada is considered a newer, co-equal rival as the potential best course in the Dominican Republic depending on the ranking source. The two are regarded as the undisputed top golf destinations in the country.

How much does it cost to play golf in the Dominican Republic?

Green fees at the top resort courses like Punta Espada and Corales typically range from $200-400 depending on the season and time of day. However, many resorts offer discounted fees or unlimited golf with their package deals.

What is the best resort for golf in Punta Cana?

The Puntacana Resort & Club is considered the premier golf resort in the Punta Cana area, offering 45 holes across three courses designed by Tom Fazio and P.B. Dye. The Corales course hosts an annual PGA Tour event.

Are caddies required at Dominican golf courses?

Yes, caddies are mandatory at most of the top resort courses in the Dominican Republic. Caddie fees can range from $20-50 plus gratuities.

What is the weather like for golf in the Dominican Republic?

The Dominican Republic has an ideal warm, tropical climate for golf year-round. The best weather is from December through April when rainfall is low and temperatures are in the 80s Fahrenheit.

Conclusion:

From legendary designs like Teeth of the Dog to exclusive communities like Cap Cana, the Dominican Republic offers a true tropical golf paradise. With new developments like Alma de Samaná and Coral Golf Resort underway, now is the perfect time to experience these world-class courses and amenities.

Whether you're planning a dream golf getaway or seeking a residential investment opportunity, start exploring your options in the Dominican Republic today. Book that long-awaited trip or inquire about real estate - an unforgettable Caribbean golf experience awaits!