Golf Vacations in Costa Rica

Although most hotels don’t include access to golf courses in their regular fees, you have easy access to them. Some are even on the same grounds as the resorts, meaning you can enjoy a round without traveling far.

Besides, any golfer knows the sport provides a variety of benefits for your mental and physical health. Being outside in the fresh Costa Rican air and sunshine amid spectacular scenery is part of this. As one of the most beautiful countries in the world, it stands to reason that Costa Rica has plenty of stunning courses in beautiful locations. The Pacific Ocean, lush tropical forests, and open blue skies can all be part of your stay. Swing away your worries as you immerse yourself in the game and the natural wonders around you. Don’t forget to look up and spot tropical birds flying by.

All our properties with access to golf courses offer excellent accommodation and top-notch service. They also provide different vacation styles. There are luxury rental villas, all-inclusive resorts, and even specialized boutique hotels. So if you’re traveling with your family, a group of friends, or even by yourself, don’t worry. There’s something for everyone. Other activities besides golf, like adventure tours, can also be part of your stay.

Costa Rican Vacations is happy to help put together your dream golf vacation. We provide expert insight on where to stay and how to take advantage of different locations. Let us know what you want to do, and we can show you where to go.

Costa Rica sits in the tropics and has different weather and vegetation from the United States and Europe. The heat can become overwhelming for some visitors, and since golf takes place outside, we can’t stress enough that you must keep hydrated during the game. Carry your water bottle or other refreshing drink of choice and make sure you drink plenty of it.

For that same reason, your pace might be slower. For example, if a par-72 golf course can take 2-3 hours, it could take 4 or even 5 hours in Costa Rica. It’s a matter of saving energy and not forcing yourself. After all, Costa Rica’s laid-back lifestyle means kicking back and enjoying the moment. Enjoy the ride. Don’t worry about that group behind you on the course - they’re taking their time, too.

We recommend you avoid playing between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm, when the sun is much stronger. Even the pros often play from 7:00-11:00 am, go to the shade, and then return to the game from 2:00-5:00 pm. Remember that whatever hours you choose to play, always put on sunblock or wear an appropriate hat.

If the opposite happens and it starts to rain, it’s always better to get off the open field. In Costa Rica, rain (anything from light showers to thunderstorms) can occur almost anytime, although some weather is more likely to happen in certain seasons. Make sure to ask one of our agents about the best seasons to come for golfing. And if it starts to pour, relax. Lounge at the hotel and have some fun. Hotels will let you return to finish the game once it stops.

Some of these properties are very big and to move things along, a golf cart is of great help. Also, a golf cart usually includes a towel and water bottle for your convenience.

Grab some discounts by playing after 1:00 pm. Most hotels offer similar options, and they're a good way to make the most of your buck.

• Location: Playa Herradura
• Lodging: Los Sueños Resort and Marina 

If you’re an avid golfer, you’ll want to take a look at the La Iguana Golf Course in Playa Herradura, near the beach town of Jaco. Here, staying at the luxurious Los Sueños Resort, you can get the perfect blend of golf and sport fishing.

This 18-hole, par-71 course is surrounded by a rainforest with great views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean, giving it an excellent tropical feel. Designed by Ted Robinson, La Iguana is so close to nature that you often spot monkeys or macaws while teeing off, making for a memorable experience.

• Location: Papagayo
• Lodging: Four Seasons Hotel and Resort and Andaz Resort

This Arnold Palmer-designed course is a golfer’s paradise. It was voted one of the “Best 100 Courses Outside of the United States” by Golf Digest, and Travel + Leisure considers it one of the world’s top 20 most scenic golf courses. There are Pacific Ocean views at most holes as you play around and through tropical vegetation. The grounds are perfectly manicured, and the service is top-notch in true Four Seasons brand style. This 18-hole, par-72 championship course is a must-play course if you visit Costa Rica.

• Location: Playa Conchal
• Lodging: Westin Resort & Spa and W Costa Rica

The Reserva Conchal Golf Course features 18 holes with a par-71. Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, the course emphasizes the surrounding landscape, ensuring that all golfers enjoy the natural beauty of the area during their adventures.

With ocean views and high-quality greens, this course offers everything a golfer could want. After a day on the fairway, you can spend time on the tennis courts or in the free-form swimming pool at the resort. Other options like the on-site spas and restaurants provide a place for you to relax and refuel after a long day.

• Location: Punta Islita
• Lodging: Punta Islita 

Set on 300 acres of eco-resort, this course offers nine holes of par-27 and is flanked by a lush tropical setting. The Punta Islita hotel comes equipped with an infinity pool and swim-up cocktail bar with panoramic views.

• Location: Tambor
• Lodging: Tango Mar Resort

This 9-hole, par-3 and par-4 course is set on a 150-acre exclusive private beachfront reserve facing the Gulf of Nicoya. It provides breathtaking water views and the opportunity to practice excellent short games.