Golfing Opportunities in Costa Rica

Have you ever wondered how many umbrella drinks it takes to go 18 holes in paradise? Find out on your next tropical golf vacation. Tee times are guaranteed by several local agencies. Due, in part, to recent government tourism incentives, golfing in Costa Rica is a little-known year-round treat - as are the burgeoning resort villas and property investment opportunities that surround these premier clubs.

The Garra de Leon at Paradisus Playa Conchal Beach and Golf Resort, par 72, typifies luxury. Garra de Leon is said to be the most magnificent in the country, in large part because of its sea-side setting. If your sporting confidence is in need of a little boost, Garra de Leon's less challenging holes might be a good place to start. Enjoy a peaceful game that is sure end with good scores here at this tropical village resort, although elevation shifts keep the game fresh.

Reserva Melia Conchal course was designed to rival Costa Rica's original course Melia Cariari. Sweeping fairways, large greens, lots of water and attention to detail make this a course to see. It is a huge golf course with a par 73. There are two distinct nines; each begins with a clubhouse and rolls through incredible scenery and vistas. Multiple teeing options entice the resort player, although this course is true to its challenging design.

Hacienda Pinilla Golf and Country Club, par 75, is a newer 7300 yard layout. It is on the coast, so while the challenge at Cariari is accuracy because of the trees, the test at Pinilla is the wind. Hard and fast greens are stalked by pot-bunkers. The course was created with minimal environmental impact in mind. Consequently, this is a great course to hone your tall-grass golfing skills. Keep a tight grip on your club!

Los Sueè�os Marriott Ocean and Golf Resort, par 72, features "La Iguana" Oceanside golf course. It is beautiful, challenging, and a local favorite for enthusiasts. Trees are intentionally problematic to the less-than-skilled golfer, as are difficult doglegs. Dense rainforest vegetation devours wayward golf balls. Four-inch high ground cover makes finding your golf balls somewhat like an Easter egg hunt. With the ocean on one side, and the rainforest on the other, this is one of the most challenging courses in the country.

Rancho Las Colinas Golf and Country Club is a resort community. Tropical water birds and howler monkeys are attracted to the rivers on the front nine, while the back nine is steep, rocky, and hosts occasional views of the beach. This golf course is considered to be a bit more rustic than the other premier resorts.

Los Reyes Country Club and Golf, par 70, is a private golfing community. The course has nine holes now, but plans for expansion to 18 are in the works. The course tilts, somewhat, to the right, so it's recommended that you work on your hook - and arranging your admission - before you get to the gate.

Royal Pacific Golf and Country Club's signature is its variation between the flat front nine that follow a river and the steep, rocky back nine. Because of the terrain, conservative play here is said to be the key. Green fees include carts, and rental clubs are available.

Parque Valle Del Sol, par 72, is a beautiful golf course located in Santa Ana. Nine of the holes have only been open since the renovation was completed in 2001. All 18 holes now incorporate gardens, lakes, streams and mountain views. Rainforest wetlands and a dense canopy of wildlife and exotic birds punctuate this challenging course. The layout is challenging and fair - in most circumstances. Between the plants and the wind, you're going to need every club you've got.

Tango Mar is a limited-access nine hole golf course. It has a great layout for practice, but it's not easy. It is a private, romantic, beach-front preserve and the perfect place to refine your short game.

The Melia Cariari, par 71, is a private club and the grandfather of golf courses in Costa Rica. At nearly 6600 yards, Cariari was built on an old coffee plantation and is lined with trees. This difficult course has played host to several amateur and professional golf tournaments. Narrow fairways with few bunkers lend a challenging appeal. While tourists can only drool at Cariari's premier greens, appreciation abounds for the club that started it all.

by David Lovendahl, Costa Vista Marketing