pga professionals' guide to travel the mexican caribbean 2013

2 0 1 3 E D I T I O N

THE PGA PROFESSIONALS’ GUIDE TO TRAVEL:

The Mexican Caribbean

White Sand,Blue Water,Great Golf!The home of the Mayans is packed

with amazing places to stay and play

What the Pros SayTop PGA Professionals talk about their

favorite destinations

White Sand,Blue Water,Great Golf!The home of the Mayans is packed

with amazing places to stay and play

What the Pros SayTop PGA Professionals talk about their

favorite destinations

Big Break Hits theRiviera MayaIberostar Playa Paraíso Golf Club hoststhe Golf Channel show

Big Break Hits theRiviera MayaIberostar Playa Paraíso Golf Club hoststhe Golf Channel show

Play Where the Pros PlayThe OHL Classic brings the PGA Tour to theRiviera Maya this fall

Play Where the Pros PlayThe OHL Classic brings the PGA Tour to theRiviera Maya this fall

Our innovative Forged Speed Frame™ Face Cup, combined with an Internal Standing Wave, creates

incredible distance from all over the golf course. Now your distance doesn’t just come from the tee.

See the technology behind the distance at callawaygolf.com/xhotfairwaywoods

©2013 Callaway Golf Company. Callaway, the Chevron Device, Speed Frame and X Hot are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Callaway Golf Company. Distance claims based upon player testing of X Hot vs Diablo Octane. Best individual player average total distance gain from each location. Individual results will vary. 13-0087

# BR I N G I T

�� ƫ � � � ƫ đ ƫĮ � �� ƫ

LONGER

FROM

EVERYWHERE.

U P TO + 3 1 F R O M T H E T E E

UP TO + 3 2 F R O M T H E F A I R W A Y

U P TO + 1 3 F R O M T H E R O U G H

S E R I O U S L Y .

http://callawaygolf.com/xhotfairwaywoods

THE PGA PROFESSIONALS’ GUIDE TO TRAVEL: THE MEXICAN CARIBBEAN | 2013 EDITION 1

Greetings From the Mexican Caribbean!

The Mexican Caribbean Golf Course Association offers you a hearty

welcome – ¡bienvenidos! – from all of our 13 member golf destinations.

We believe these facilities along the Caribbean coast from Cancun to

Tulum combine to represent one of the top golf vacation areas in the entire world,

and we invite you to experience our Mayan Golf Trail for yourself!

With courses designed by renowned architects and golf legends such as Jack

Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Nick Price, Tom Weiskopf, Robert Trent Jones II, P.B.

Dye and Robert von Hagge – with Tom Fazio soon to join this elite fraternity – the

Mexican Caribbean has more world-class courses than most people realize. This

area is a traveler’s delight, thanks to the high number of daily flights into Cancun

International Airport, the wide variety and availability of resort accommodations,

a thoroughly modern and safe infrastructure and a truly warm, welcoming local

population. We believe no other destination offers this unique combination of

great golf and lodging in such an ecologically diverse area, featuring everything

from the blue-green waters of the Caribbean Sea to mystic Mayan archeological

sites for you to explore.

This inaugural edition of the PGA Professionals’ Guide to Travel: The Mexican

Caribbean is filled with information and insider tips on how to plan your trip to

experience everything that the Mexican Caribbean have to offer. We look forward

to seeing you soon on and off the fairways of the Yucatan Peninsula!

Our golf courses are your golf courses!

¡Nuestros campos de golf son sus campos de golf!

Phillip Krick Jr.

Phillip Krick Jr.

PGA Master Professional

President, Mexican Caribbean

Golf Course Association

2 THE PGA PROFESSIONALS’ GUIDE TO TRAVEL: THE MEXICAN CARIBBEAN | 2013 EDITION

Mexican Caribbean Golf Course Association: www.mexicancaribbeangolf.org

President: Philip Krick Jr., PGA Master Professional; e-mail: [email protected]

VP & Director of Advertising Sales: Luis Sosa; e-mail: [email protected]

General Director: Liz Melo; e-mail: [email protected]

On the cover:

El Camaleón at Mayakoba is

host of the PGA TOUR OHL

Classic at Mayakoba.

Table of Contents

20 26 54

Welcome Letter............................................................................................................ 1

Cancun: The Inside Story............................................................................................. 4

TPC Cancun at Cancun Country Club .......................................................................... 6

Riviera Cancun Golf Club............................................................................................. 8

Cancun Golf Club at Pok-Ta-Pok ................................................................................ 10

IBEROSTAR Cancún Golf Club .................................................................................. 12

Moon Spa & Golf Club................................................................................................ 14

Puerto Cancun Golf Club............................................................................................ 16

Playa Mujeres Golf Club............................................................................................. 18

Destination Spotlight: Cancun ................................................................................... 20

Riviera Maya: The Inside Story .................................................................................. 26

Riviera Maya Golf Club at Grand Bahia Principe Riviera Maya................................... 28

The Golf Club at Playacar........................................................................................... 30

The Mexican Caribbean Golf Course Association....................................................... 32

Grand Coral Riviera Maya .......................................................................................... 34

IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club ......................................................................... 36

El Camaleón at Mayakoba .......................................................................................... 38

OHL Classic at Mayakoba........................................................................................... 40

El Manglar at Mayan Palace Riviera Maya.................................................................. 44

Destination Spotlight: Riviera Maya........................................................................... 46

Cozumel: The Inside Story......................................................................................... 52

Destination Spotlight: Cozumel ................................................................................. 54

Cozumel Country Club............................................................................................... 60

PGA Professionals on the Mexican Caribbean: A Great Place to Stay and Play! .......... 62

Closing Thoughts....................................................................................................... 64

http://www.mexicancaribbeangolf.org

mailto:[email protected]



Cancun’s status as one of the world’s great vacation destinations extends back more than 40 years.

In that time, the jewel of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has become famous for its stunning sandy

beach, blue Caribbean waters, tourist-friendly accommodations and year-round perfect weather.

While Cancun once had a reputation as a spring break destination for college kids, the city has grown into

a family-friendly site that also caters to upscale travelers seeking top-end luxury. And don’t forget the golf

courses – Cancun is ready to take its place as one of the best golf destinations in the world. We asked Cancun

director of tourism Jesus Almaguer to give us the inside story on Cancun for golf travelers, and here’s what

he told us:

What should golfers from outside Mexico know about Cancun as a golf destination?

Cancun is home to some of the most beautiful golf courses in the world. With challenging and breathtaking

courses designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman, Cancun offers 13 state-of-the-art courses

designed to the highest professional standards, and that combine a high degree of difficulty for better

players with designs that are fun for all golfers.

What sets Cancun apart from other international vacation destinations?

Cancun’s natural beauty can be admired from every vantage point of the top golf courses found here. With


Cancun: The Inside Story

With blue waters, white sand, bustling nightlife and family-friendly activities, Cancunhas earned its reputation as a world-class destination

Jesus Almaguer says visitorsshould try to see all thatCancun has to offer.

scenery full of lush green jungle, turquoise sea, underground cenotes, mangroves, channels, lagoons and

wetlands – and regional fauna, such as iguanas, herons, parrots, and water birds – it is really a sight to see

while you play a round of golf. In addition, Mayan culture is present in some courses built near the sites of

one of the most enigmatic civilizations on earth. Cancun is also home to more than 150 hotels, some of which

are incredibly luxurious, including four that are recipients of the coveted AAA Five Diamond Award. The

destination’s up-and-coming culinary scene is also a big highlight to foodies from around the world. Fun

outings like driving Lamborghinis or the Audi R8 at Exotic Rides or climbing the great pyramid of the

ancient city of Coba are just a few of the many activities available beyond the golf course.

How has your area changed in the last decade?

The destination recently celebrated its 43rd birthday and has changed tremendously in that small amount

of time. From a sleepy fishing village to one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Cancun’s

airport alone operates more than 500 daily domestic and international flights. It is also Mexico’s largest

resort destination with a total of nearly 35,000 rooms that range from affordable to upscale. Cancun is also

known for its small, boutique-style hotels, friendly hospitality, comfortable facilities, incredible

entertainment, adventure excursions – like zip-lining through the Mayan jungle or diving in one of the

many cenotes – and incredible museums like the Underwater Museum and the Cancun Maya Museum.

What's your best tip for first-time travelers to your area?

The best tip for first-time travelers is to not get so comfortable in their hotels –

they should get out and actually explore Cancun! Don’t just check out the bars

and spend all your time on the beach. Come and have dinner at La Habichuela, a

restaurant in the hotel zone that specializes in Yucatan cuisine, or take a 30-minute

ferry ride and explore Isla Mujeres. Be adventurous and dive into a cenote, visit

ancient ruins like Tulum and Coba, explore the Underwater Museum, try the

famous lobster pizza in Isla Holbox, enjoy a Mayan-inspired massage at one of

Cancun’s top resorts, or try mezcal and an original flambé Mayan coffee. Visitors

should try to see all the sides of Cancun, not just the outstanding resorts but also

the one-of-a-kind adventures you can only have here. ■


Cancun has a wonderfulblend of modern amenitiesand timeless ecologicalwonders, from undergroundcenotes (above) to the bluewaters of the Caribbean (left).

Golfers and golf fans around the world know the TPC name represents a standard of excellence.

Starting with TPC Sawgrass at PGA Tour Headquarters in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., in 1980, the

TPC network of courses has continually expanded and raised the bar for how golf courses should

look and play.

Now the TPC network has expanded outside the U.S. for the first time with the new TPC Cancun at

Cancun Country Club. Located just south of Cancun International Airport, this new facility includes every-

thing the TPC name stands for: A challenging course with an outstanding design, great conditioning that

is worthy of hosting a tour event, and a practice facility that is fit for the world’s best players.

The first TPC Cancun course opened in 2012 and was designed by major championship winner Nick

Price. Price combined his traditionalist views on course design with an eco-friendly approach to create his

18-hole design at TPC Cancun, which covers more than 1,000 acres of native plant life. Five natural lakes

provide strategic challenge and support the many species of wildlife that call the property home.

Price’s design features wide, rolling fairways. There are 79 bunkers to navigate, and the platinum

paspalum grass used throughout the course remains in outstanding condition year-round. With five sets

of tees ranging from the tips at 7,439 yards to the red tees at 5,616 yards, resort guests will be able to choose

how challenging they want their round to play. When playing from the more forward tees, there are few


The Nick Price design at TPCCancun has rolling fairways,and will soon be joined by anew course designed by TomFazio.

The first course outside the U.S. to carry the TPC name includes a fresh Nick Pricedesign and an extensive practice facility

TPC Cancun at Cancun Country Club

forced carries, meaning even golfers who have trouble

getting the ball airborne, including juniors and

seniors, can enjoy the TPC Cancun layout.

One of the signature holes of Price’s design at TPC

Cancun is No. 5, a long par-4 that plays 483 yards

from the tips. After an uphill tee shot, the golfer is

left with a long iron or hybrid to a green with a lake

looming to the right. There’s plenty of room on the

left to make a safe shot and get in with a par or bogey,

but an aggressive approach could lead to either birdie

or double bogey depending upon whether your shot

finds the green or the water.

Price’s design at TPC Cancun will soon be joined

by a new 18-hole course designed by legendary archi-

tect Tom Fazio. This will be Fazio’s first course in the

Mexican Caribbean, bringing yet another famous

name to the region’s growing golf portfolio.

TPC Cancun has a large practice facility that in -

cludes an expansive range and practice greens for working on your

putting and chipping. Plans call for a TPC Academy that will have

in struction programs for golfers of all skill levels. TPC Cancun also

offers rental clubs from and rental shoes from high-end golf equipment

companies, meaning you can play the course without having to bring

your equipment on vacation with you. TPC Can cun also has a full

service clubhouse with a golf shop and restaurant. ■

TPC Cancun at Cancun Country Club

Cancun, Mexico

Travel Time: 10 minutes from Cancun International Airport

A Nick Price design

Par 72, 7,439 yards

USGA rating 74.6/Slope 142

TPC Cancun includes round-trip transportation from Cancun resorts,

bottled water, use of the practice facility and a shared golf car as part

of its green fees. The practice facilities include a driving range, putting

and chipping greens. The clubhouse includes a full-service golf shop

and restaurant, and rental of golf clubs and shoes is available for an

extra charge.

Jack Nicklaus won the British Open three times among his 18 professional major championships, and he

has always loved the seaside links courses of England, Scotland and Ireland. In creating his Signature

Design at Riviera Cancun Golf Club, Nicklaus called upon his decades of experience playing those

classic links courses – then he created a modern masterpiece along the coast of the Caribbean Sea.

Instead of the gorse bushes and thistle you’d find in the British Isles, Riviera Cancun is routed through

tropical mangroves and native palm trees. But despite the different setting, Nicklaus has transported the

spirit of links golf to the sunny warmth of Cancun. The rolling contours of the land and prevailing winds

off the water invite players to play low shots while avoiding the course’s pot bunkers.

Riviera Cancun gets off to a gentle start, with wide fairways providing many paths to its undulating

greens. As your round progresses, the fairways subtly narrow and you find yourself confronted with

strategic decision on every tee. Nicklaus has included some thrilling risk-reward holes that present the

chance to hit heroic shots in pursuit of an elusive eagle or birdie. Even at its toughest, however, Riviera

Cancun remains a fun place for golfers of all abilities to play the game.

Overall, the course is more forgiving than it may appear from some of the tees. Because precision is more

important than distance on the links layout, shorter hitters are not at a disadvantage at Riviera Cancun.


The skyline of Cancunwatches over Riviera CancunGolf Club, which winds itsway through densemangroves populated bycoastal wildlife.

Riviera Cancun Golf Club

Timeless links golf design gets a contemporary, tropical twist at this Jack NicklausSignature Design

And everyone will enjoy the oceanfront vegetation,

coastal wildlife and views of the Cancun skyline to

the north.

There is no hotel on-site at Riviera Cancun, but

the course is open to all guests of all Palace Resorts

and Hard Rock properties in and around Cancun.

Upon arrival at Riviera Cancun, guests will be greeted

by the striking contemporary design of the modern

Mexican clubhouse, with its sleek lines and state-of-

the-art amenities. Riviera Cancun also has a complete

practice facility, including a driving range, chipping

and putting greens and a practice bunker.

Tee it up at Riviera Cancun and discover why Jack

Nicklaus says Riviera Cancun is one of his greatest

eco-friendly designs – a place where golf balances

with natural tranquility. ■


Riviera Cancun Golf Club

Cancun, MexicoTravel Time: 10 minutes from Cancun InternationalAirportA Jack Nicklaus Signature Design

Par 72, 7,060 yardsUSGA rating 76.2/Slope 146

Riviera Cancun has a contemporary modern clubhousewith open terraces and panoramic views of the 18thhole. The clubhouse has an air-conditioned snack bar,golf shop, reception area, locker rooms and saunafacilities. Bag storage is available, as are rental clubs. Apractice area includes range, chipping and puttinggreens and a practice bunker.

The first hotels in Cancun opened in 1974, but it wasn’t until the 1976 opening of Cancun Golf Club

at Pok-Ta-Pok that the city became a golf destination. More than three decades later, the Robert

Trent Jones II classic remains one of the area’s most scenic courses. Jones made the most of the

spectacular land he was given within the hotel zone, routing an 18-hole course so two holes would play

along the beach on the Caribbean Sea, while another five holes border the Nichupte Lagoon. Throughout

the layout, panoramic views of the water will have you reaching for your camera – especially if you play in

the late evening, a perfect time to catch a Cancun sunset over the lagoon waters.

Cancun Golf Club at Pok-Ta-Pok is also home to Mayan ruins, and “pok-ta-pok” in Mayan means “stroke

by stroke.” The limestone ruins that can be seen from hole No. 3 are thought to be at least 1,000 years old,

and sometimes come into play on errant tee shots.

Recent renovations have added some length to the course, which can now play as long as 7,051 from the

tips. There’s a good variety to the course, with a mix of birdie opportunities alongside dramatic doglegs and

risk-reward holes. The highlights are the 12th and 14th holes, which play toward the Caribbean Sea along

the Cancun beach. No. 12 is a dogleg left par-4 that requires an accurate tee shot, while No. 14 is a short par-3

with an elevated tee that provides a studding view of the green and the blue Caribbean waters behind it.

Located in the hotel zone, Cancun Golf Club at Pok-Ta-Pok is easily accessible from throughout the

region, but is especially convenient if you’re staying downtown. There’s nothing like seeing the stunning

Caribbean waters during your round, knowing you can be back at your hotel and on the beach within

minutes of holing out on No. 18. ■


Cancun Golf Club at Pok-Ta-Pok has gorgeous views ofthe Nichupte Lagoon andthe Cancun skyline, as well asthe Caribbean Sea.

Cancun GolfClub at Pok-Ta-Pok

Cancun’s first golf course is still a must-see, thanks to a classic design from thelegendary Robert Trent Jones II

Cancun Golf Club at Pok-Ta-Pok

Cancun, Mexico

Travel Time: 15 minutes from Cancun InternationalAirport

A Robert Trent Jones II design


Cancun Golf Club at Pok-Ta-Pok has a clubhouse with afull-service golf shop and a restaurant with free wirelessInternet access. There is a driving range and two practicegreens, and rental clubs and shoes are available. Greenfees include beverages and food on the course.

WE’VE GOT THE REST.BRING YOUR GAME.

CANCUN . PUNTA CANA . VALLARTA . COMING SOON: RIVIERA MAYA™ ALL DAY. ALL NIGHT. ALL INCLUDED.

HRHALLINCLUSIVE.COM

866.280.8274

*$1,500 Resort Credit based on a minimum 5-night consecutive stay per room. Bookings of 4 nights receive $750 and 3 nights receive $500.Activities are subject to availability. Restrictions may apply. ©2013 Hard Rock International (USA), Inc. All rights reserved. SeeTheShow™

For golf, spa, upgrades & more.

Don’t shoot for par – shatter it with access to signature courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and

Robert von Hagge, world-class instruction at the Nicklaus Golf Academy, and no-limit luxury at

the All Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels in Cancun, Vallarta, Punta Cana, and coming soon, Riviera Maya.

Book today and we’ll toss in a $1,500 resort credit for the spa, upgrades, tours, and yeah, even golf.

That’s our game, and we play it well.

http://HRHALLINCLUSIVE.COM

Agolf oasis among Cancun’s many downtown resorts, the IBEROSTAR Cancún Golf Club combines

great location with a fun, friendly layout. Japanese golf legend Isao Aoki’s design firm created the

course layout, conjuring an experience that will allow less-skilled players to enjoy a beautiful day

on the course while still challenging better players.

The nearby Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon are visible from several holes at IBEROSTAR Cancún

Golf Club, and the El Rey ruins that date to Mayan times are adjacent to the 16th hole. Add in the lush

mangroves and indigenous wildlife – including crocodiles, iguanas and many species of tropical birds –

and this is a course that looks as fun as it plays.

There’s water on 10 of the course’s 18 holes, including the lagoon and its inlets, but it seldom comes into

play. The resort’s wide paspalum fairways are very forgiving, and the well-conditioned greens are smooth

throughout the year. IBEROSTAR Cancún Golf Club can play as long as 6,734 from the tips, but multiple

tees on each hole allow guests to choose their level of challenge.

The signature hole at IBEROSTAR Cancún Golf Club is the par-3 12th, which has a spectacular view of

the area’s lush greenery. The 172-yard hole requires a tee shot over an inlet of the lagoon – try not to worry

about the crocodiles that frequently sun themselves on the banks.

Beyond the course layout, IBEROSTAR Cancún Golf Club also provides great hospitality and value.

Your green fee extends the IBEROSTAR all-inclusive experience to the golf course, including unlimited

food and beverage on the course and a golf car. There’s also a full-service golf shop in the clubhouse, offering

a wide selection of golf equipment, apparel and souvenirs. The 19th Hole restaurant is a great place to finish

your golf experience by adding up your score – and making plans to return soon. ■


The IBEROSTAR CancúnGolf Club is dramaticallysituated between theCaribbean Sea and theNichupte Lagoon.

IBEROSTAR Cancún Golf Club

Located in the heart of the Cancun hotel zone, this beautiful course is fun and forgivingfor visiting golfers

IBEROSTAR Cancún Golf Club

Cancun, MexicoTravel Time: 15 minutes from Cancun International AirportAn Aoki Design course


IBEROSTAR Cancún Golf Club has a clubhousewith a full-service golf shop and the 19th Holerestaurant. There is a driving range and practicegreen, and rental clubs and shoes are available.Green fees include beverages and food on the course.

If you’re the sort of person who likes to go big, then Cancun’s Moon Spa & Golf Club is an ideal place for

your next golf getaway. Not only does the golf include three distinct nine-hole layouts by Jack Nicklaus

himself, but the clubhouse and courses are a short golf car ride from one of the largest all-inclusive

resorts in the entire Caribbean: Moon Palace Resort & Spa. With more than 2,400 guest rooms, this is the

sort of place where you can really live large.

Moon Spa & Golf Club’s three nines are called Jungle, Lakes and Dunes for the different types of land

each plays through. The Jungle Course sweeps across wetlands and marshes, presenting golfers with

strategic challenges at every turn. Water comes into play on six of the nine holes on The Lakes Course,

including the scenic par-3 eighth hole. And The Dunes Course is one of Nicklaus’ most intriguing design

gems, with deceptively wide landing areas leading to well-guarded greens. All three courses will challenge

even the best golfers if played from the back tees, but casual golfers will find them fun and forgiving from

the more forward tees.

Conditions on all 27 holes at Moon Spa & Golf Club are tour-quality throughout the year, and there’s an

excellent practice facility near the clubhouse with a short game area. While you’re on the course, keep your

camera ready to snap photos of the many wildlife species you’re likely to see: Crocodiles, deer, coati, iguanas


The majestic clubhouse atMoon Spa & Golf Club is thehub of activity for 27 holes ofgolf, and is a short golf carride away from the all-inclusive luxury of MoonPalace Resort & Spa.

Moon Spa & Golf Club

This Jack Nicklaus Signature Design includes three nine-hole routings on the propertyof one of the Caribbean’s largest resorts


and a wide variety of birds all call this Audubon-

recognized area home, and their presence adds to the

eco-friendly atmosphere at Moon Spa & Golf Club.

The all-inclusive luxury experience of Palace

Resorts can be found before, during and after your

round at Moon Spa & Golf Club. Guests at Moon

Palace are brought to the beautiful golf clubhouse

via golf car limousine, where you can check in for

your round in air-conditioned comfort.

Moon Palace Resort & Spa features three separate

sections of accommodations, from the family-friendly

Nizuc and Sunrise sections to the more private Grand

section. Numerous pools, restaurants, bars and enter-

tainment options can be found throughout the

sprawling resort. And for the ul timate in golf luxury,

a number of exclusive villas can be found near the

fairways of Moon Spa & Golf Club. ■

Moon Spa & Golf Club

Cancun, MexicoTravel Time: 10 minutes south of Cancun InternationalAirportA Jack Nicklaus Signature Design

The Jungle Course: Par 36, 3,599 yardsUSGA rating 75.3/Slope 133

The Lakes Course: Par 36, 3,602 yardsUSGA rating 75.5/Slope 138

The Dunes Course: Par 36, 3,597 yardsUSGA rating 75.6/Slope 139

Moon Spa & Golf Club has a luxurious clubhouse withopen terraces and breathtaking views of the Lakes andJungle courses. The clubhouse has an air-conditionedsnack bar, golf shop, reception area, locker rooms andspa facilities. Bag storage is available, as are rental clubs.A practice area includes range, chipping and puttinggreens and a practice bunker.

One of the newest courses located in Cancun itself is at Puerto Cancun Golf Club, a resort community

along the eastern edge of the city between the hotel zone and the downtown area. Golf legend

Tom Weiskopf designed the course, which has spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and holes

that play directly along the water.

The golf course at Puerto Cancun opened in April 2013. The course plays around a marina, with water

coming into play on many holes. The proximity to the water also means you’ll have panoramic views of

Cancun’s famed Caribbean Sea vistas.

Weiskopf has used Puerto Cancun’s location to create a course with several dramatic water holes. The

par-4 14th hole is a particular highlight, as the 400-yard hole plays parallel to the beach for a truly unique

seaside golf experience. The 18th hole promises a memorable finish to your round, with an island green on

the main canal leading to the marina.

Puerto Cancun’s golf course is routed through a 270-acre ecological reserve, giving golfers views of the

water and dense jungle as you work your way around the course. Weiskopf’s design will have you using

every club in your bag, and giving your camera a workout, too.

Golf is one of the amenities offered at Puerto Cancun, which is an 800-acre property that includes

residential lots facing canals, the golf course and the beach. The community’s marina will be the largest

boating facility in Cancun, and will accommodate yachts up to 125 feet in length. ■


Puerto Cancun Golf Clubhas multiple holes along thefacility’s marina, creatingspectacular water views.

British Open Champion Tom Weiskopf’s golf course design is the centerpiece of thisdevelopment in the heart of Cancun

Puerto Cancun Golf Club

Cancun, MexicoTravel Time: 15 minutes from Cancun International Airport

A Tom Weiskopf design

Par 72, 7,107 yards

Puerto Cancun has a practice facilityavailable to guests.

Puerto Cancun Golf Club

Directly north of Cancun and west of Isla Mujeres is a thin peninsula, which lies between the

stunning waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Chacmuchuc Lagoon. This is home to Playa Mujeres

Golf Club, a Greg Norman Signature Course designed and operated with great respect for the

ecological wonders that surround it.

Norman’s artful design incorporates the area’s native plant life and trees without disturbing the ecosystem

for the indigenous wildlife. By using Paspalum SeaDwarf grass, which thrives near saltwater, Playa Mujeres

Golf Club is ecologically sustainable and in excellent condition for golf throughout the year.

Throughout the course, visitors find breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and Isla Mujeres. The

course is routed with holes that play along the Chacmuchuc Lagoon, and others that provide views of the

sea. On the ground, natural cenotes –deep natural pits that expose groundwater through collapsed limestone

bedrock – run along some of the fairways.

Don’t forget to focus on the golf course, which Norman has designed to be playable by all golfers of any

skill level. The holes are framed by white sand bunkers and lush jungle vegetation, and the fairways are

wide and forgiving. The large greens are challenging but not severe – as a resort course, Playa Mujeres is

fun for the casual player and a test for more skillful players.

Take note of the wind when you tee it up at Playa Mujeres Golf Club. On a windy day, you’ll find some


With stunning views of IslaMujeres and the CaribbeanSea, Playa Mujeres Golf Club is one of the mostpicturesque golf facilities inthe Cancun area.

Playa Mujeres Golf Club

Bordered by turquoise tropical waters, this Greg Norman Signature Course is anatural beauty

holes playing two or three clubs longer or shorter. A

great example is the 13th hole, a 519-yard par-5. Into

a strong breeze, this is a true three-shot par-5. But on

a calm day, long hitters can easily get home in two.

Either way, reaching the green gives you one of the

best views on the course: A panoramic view of the

Caribbean Sea’s turquoise waters.

Green fees at Playa Mujeres Golf Club include

golf car rental, practice balls on the club’s range and

bottle water on the course. There are stay and play

packages available with nearby resorts, such as

Excellence Playa Mujeres, La Amada and Villas del

Palmar, some of which included unlimited golf

during your stay. ■


Playa Mujeres Golf Club

Cancun, MexicoTravel Time: 15 minutes north of the Cancun hotel zoneA Greg Norman Signature Course


Playa Mujeres Golf Club has a stunning contemporaryclubhouse overlooking a tranquil lake. The full-servicegolf shop carries many major brands of equipment andapparel, as well as souvenir items and necessities fromgolf balls to sunscreen. Rental clubs and shoes areavailable as well. Located inside the clubhouse is theLagoon Grill, serving hot food and cold drinks with yourchoice of indoor or outdoor seating.

Destination Spotlight: Cancun

In just four decades, Cancun has evolved into a vacationhotspot with something for everyone

Many visitors to Cancun may not know that the city and its surroundings

are younger than they are. Like a fine wine, however, Cancun is getting

even better with age. As recently as the late 1960s, Cancun was essentially

a deserted island at the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. The area was called “Kankun”

on most maps, and the Quintana Roo area had yet to be granted statehood by the

Mexican government. The city was conceived in 1969 as a master-planned tourist

city, complete with separate areas for resorts and for residential development.


Cancun’s most enduringimage is of white sandybeaches and the stunningturquoise waters of theCaribbean Sea.

All About Cancun

Travel Time: Most resorts in Cancun are within 15–20 minutes of Cancun International Airport.

Population: 630,000

Currency: The official currency is the Mexican Peso,but American dollars are also widely accepted.Banks and currency exchange houses can be foundthroughout the area.

Language: Spanish is the official language, but mostMexicans in the tourist industry speak English, andmany speak French, Italian and German. Manylocals also speak Mayan.

Weather: Average temperatures range from highs inthe 80s and lows in the 60s (Fahrenheit) fromOctober through March, with highs in the low 90sand lows in the 70s from April to September.

Transportation: Taxis are easy to find throughoutCancun. The airport has its own taxi system forgetting travelers to their accommodations.

Construction started in 1970, with a road from Puerto Juarez and an airstrip serving the newly named

Cancun area first on the agenda. Then came the work of transforming a narrow strip of sand dunes and

coastal marshes into inhabitable land with electricity and drinking water.

A number of massive engineering projects followed, and the first resorts opened in the hotel zone in

1974 – the same year Quintana Roo gained statehood. What those first visitors found was what today’s

travelers still marvel at: Miles of sandy beaches and endless views of stunning blue Caribbean waters.

By the 1980s, Cancun wasn’t just on the map: It had become one of the hottest, fastest-growing tourist

destinations in the world. The city’s master plan anticipated such growth, making it easy to accommodate

the addition of more resorts, golf courses and a large, modern airport just south of the city. It has surpassed

the Bahamas and Puerto Rico as the premier destination in the Caribbean, and regularly ranks as the most

desirable vacation spots for U.S. travelers.

In its teenage years, Cancun got a reputation as a spring break party town – thanks, of course, to teenagers

and college students from the U.S. descending upon the city to enjoy its affordable hotels and amazing

weather. Over the past decade, however, Cancun has matured and now appeals to an incredibly wide

spectrum of travelers. The area’s many resorts cater to all segments of the travel world, including families,

couples, newlyweds, retirees, ecotourists and, of course, golfers. There are still spring breakers that make

the pilgrimage to Cancun, but they’re a much smaller part of the area’s identity than they once were.

Of course, that’s not to say that Cancun has forgotten how to have a good time! The downtown nightlife

is still the stuff of legend. If you like dancing all night, nightclubs such as Coco Bongo, The City, Dady’O

and others have laser light shows and the latest music from international DJs. Bars such as Senor Frog’s and

Carlos n’ Charlie’s stay open until the early hours of morning with great party atmospheres. And there’s live

music at clubs such as the Bulldog Cafe or Dady Rock with everything from rock music to local salsa and

merengue bands.

Among the newest trends in Cancun travel is ecotourism, which attracts active travelers looking to

enjoy the diverse natural beauty of the area. A number of eco-parks offer zip lines that allow guests to fly

through the jungle, while the clear Caribbean waters are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. And with

an easy drive on your own or in a guided tour, you can be at ancient ruins in Tulum or Chichen Itza – and

back in time to hit the clubs that night.

Many resorts are also catering to a more sophisticated clientele that expects

five-star accommodations, dining and spa experiences. There are a number of

world-class resorts that offer amenities such as butler service, spas created by

famous designers and some of the finest chefs in the Caribbean offering a diverse

variety of cuisine options. There is also duty free shopping at everything from

ultra-chick designer stores to small shops with handcrafted wares made locally.

At the same time, families now represent a growing portion of Cancun’s vis-

itors. Many resorts offer “kids club” services that provide fun, supervised

activities that kids love – and that give mom and dad some alone time to relax.


“Cancun is a terrific experience on all levels.The golf courses are fun, and my wife lovedtaking advantage of the spas. I know my clubmembers will be very interested in Cancun.There really is something for everyone, fromdancing in the nightclubs to quiet moments onthe beach!”

– PGA Professional Judd Stephenson, Avon Oaks Country Club, Ohio

Cancun has greatly

diversified its image as a

vacation destination, as it

now offers many options for

families (top left), golfers

(bottom left) and spa

enthusiasts (above).

There are also plenty of fun family activities offered

throughout the Cancun resort community, from

swimming with dolphins in the Caribbean to water

slides and surf simulators.

Part of the plan for all of these tourist segments is

golf, which is now a mainstay of the Cancun tourist

scene. There are more than 10 courses in the area –

by designers such as Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman

and Robert Trent Jones – with more planned in

coming years. The new TPC Cancun facility near the

airport is the first course to bear the TPC name outside

of the U.S., and golfers have seen nearby courses to

the south thanks to Golf Channel’s “Big Break

Mexico” and coverage of the PGA TOUR’s OHL

Classic at Mayakoba.

Whatever brings you to Cancun, you’ll enjoy the

same benefits as your fellow travelers to this vacation

paradise. For example, Cancun International Airport offers more airlift than any other airport in the

Caribbean, making it easy to find flights from cities throughout the U.S. and Latin America. Most U.S.

travelers can have breakfast at home and be on the beach in Cancun by early afternoon thanks to the number

of flights available. Cancun’s variety and number of resort options – including more than 34,000 hotel

rooms – also offer the chance to find exactly what you’re looking for in terms of price, location and experience.

As Cancun continues to grow in its fourth decade as a premier destination, it continues to evolve. If

you’ve been to Cancun in the past, it’s time to come back for another look. And if you’ve never been, what

are you waiting for? And make sure you bring your golf clubs! ■

www.nizuc.com

1.855.MY.NIZUC

A Mex ican Sp i r i t

A Mayan Sou l

Rising from the mystical land of

the Yucatan Peninsula and the

shimmering waters of

the Mexican Caribbean,

NIZUC Resort & Spa invites you to

GLVFRYHU�D�QHZ�VWDQGDUG�LQ�UH´QHPHQW�

http://www.nizuc.com

Few places on earth cause as much amazement as Riviera Maya. What makes this destination special

is the privileged location on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, where the turquoise waters of the Caribbean

Sea embrace the powdery white sand of the beaches that cover the coastline. The 86 miles of

Caribbean coast that stretches the length of Riviera Maya exudes the multifaceted spirit of the destination.

Sun and Sand, Maya Culture, ecotourism and adventure, cenotes, diving, snorkeling, shopping and nightlife

are just a few of the many exiting options Riviera Maya offers to provide our guests with a truly unique and

marvelous experience. We asked Riviera Maya director of tourism Dario Flota to tell us more about this

unique part of the Mexican Caribbean, and here’s what he told us:

What should golfers from outside Mexico know about Riviera Maya as a golf destination?

Riviera Maya, located on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula along Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, is

home to a diverse collection of golf courses designed by some of the world’s most recognized course designers.

From white sand beaches to Mayan temples and tropical jungles, the Rivera Maya offers players of all

abilities a unique and unparalleled golfing experience while being surrounded by unmatched beauty and

culture. The Riviera Maya is currently home to seven golf courses ranging in styles including beachfront

courses, tropical jungle inland courses and courses designed around ecological interests. The region also

has a new luxury course scheduled for completion in 2014.


Riviera Maya: The Inside Story

This coastal stretch offers a multidimensional look at Mexican golf and culture, withoff-course activities that range from ecotourism to nightlife and shopping

Dario Flota says the RivieraMaya region has a richcultural heritage, includingthe Mayan ruins throughoutthe area.

What sets Riviera Maya apart from other parts of the region?

Riviera Maya is a unique destination in many different ways. First, there is the rich cultural heritage from

the Mayas, a millenary culture that inhabited the area many centuries ago. As silent witnesses of this once

very important culture you find various ceremonial and commercial sites that are now open for visitors.

Then there is the modern Maya Culture, with more than two million Mayas that live on the Yucatan Peninsula,

who speak their native language and who are faithful to their roots and traditions. Another Maya heritage

is the local gastronomy were delicious dishes are prepared with traditional ingredients and according to

ancient recipes. Riviera Maya is blessed with gorgeous nature, several protected areas and biosphere

reserves offer amazing experiences for nature lovers, and just offshore in the waters of the Caribbean Sea is

the Mesoamerican Reef, the largest coal barrier reef on the Northern Hemisphere. Riviera Maya is visited

by tourists from all corners of the world giving the destination a unique and very cosmopolitan atmosphere

rarely found in other destinations.


Riviera Maya has experienced a tremendous growth in the last decade. Many hotels & resorts have opened

along the coastline, all of them built with great care to protect the surrounding natural environment. Very

interesting is the growth of the luxury market; hotels such as Fairmont, Rosewood, Banyan Tree and Grand

Velas All Suites and Spa Resort have opened their doors in Riviera Maya, catering to the most demanding

traveler. Also, the downtown walking area of 5th Avenue with its exciting boutiques, bars and restaurants

has become the hub of the region attracting people from all over the world who come here to shop, dine or

dance the night away in Playa del Carmen. And Tulum has become very famous for its laid-back bohemian

atmosphere, attracting those visitors that want to rest and relax away from the hustle and the bustle of big

cities. There hotels are small, mostly built with regional materials and in harmony with the natural

environment. Many people come here to practice yoga and to meditate, giving the destination an intriguing

spiritual touch.

What’s your best tip for first-time travelers to your area?

Riviera Maya offers a wide variety of excursions, parks and tours for you to enjoy. A vacation is not complete

without a visit to one of the Mayan archeological sites that are located in the area. Parallel to the coastline

runs the Mesoamerican Reef, offering amazing options for snorkeling and scuba diving, and then there are

also the cenotes, the mystical fresh water sinkholes that connect underground caves and rivers – and which

represented the entrance to the Xibalba, the ancient Mayan underworld. Nowadays the cenotes are open

for scuba divers to explore.

The lush jungle that covers the Yucatan Peninsula

is great for those seeking eco-tourism and adventure.

Companies dedicated to outdoor activities offer

ziplines, rappelling, snorkeling and swimming in

cenotes, the skycycle – which was invented in Riviera

Maya –and even the unique Avatar, a human roller-

coaster zipline that make you scream until you splash

into a cenote. The parks of Riviera Maya offer fun for

the whole family and in Tulum and in Playa del

Carmen you will find attractive options for shopping,

dining and nightlife. With seven golf courses and

the many spas in the different hotels there is so

much to do and see that one really needs to plan their

vacation well in order not to miss out on anything,

or simply come back and explore more of this won-

derful destination. ■


Eco-tourism is a major drawin the Riviera May, withopportunities to explore theCaribbean Sea and inlandfreshwater cenotes.

Riviera Maya Golf Club at GrandBahia Principe Riviera Maya

The Mayan ruins at Tulum are one of the most visited areas of the Riviera Maya. And if you’re

looking to combine archeology with golf, the Riviera Maya Golf Club at Grand Bahia Principe

Tulum gives you a chance to enjoy this rare combination.

Located just south of Playa del Carmen and only 20 minutes north of the Tulum ruins, Riviera Maya Golf

Club features a 27-hole design by Robert Trent Jones II. The layout includes an 18-hole championship

course and a 9-hole par-3 course, providing both a challenge to skilled players and a more relaxing experience

for novice golfers.

Riviera Maya Golf Club is nestled within a 290-acre tropical forest along a limestone quarry just inland

from the Caribbean Sea. Jones and his design team were able to build all 27 holes in the space of 90 acres,

using the newest construction equipment and technology to leave the majority of the lush greenery

untouched. Natural lakes, cenotes and the majestic Mayan jungle are part of the golf course, which looks

as if it has been part of the landscape for centuries.

Jones employed his “listen to the land” philosophy of golf course architecture to create dramatic golf holes

that are framed by jungle with exposed limestone and cenotes. Jones has also given golfers many options on

how to play each hole, from bombing away off the tee to carefully working their way around the course with

hybrids and irons off the tee. Riviera Maya Golf Club also has outstanding year-round conditions thanks to


Robert Trent Jones II’s design at Riviera Maya GolfClub incorporates thenatural terrain, includinglakes and cenotes.

This southern Riviera Maya course has 27 holes and a location near Tulum’s famousMayan ruins

tee-to-green use of Paspalum Platinum grass, which thrives in warm weather and near saltwater.

On the championship course, the sixth hole provides a prime example of the options Riviera Maya Golf

Club provides its players. Golfers may choose to hit a fairway wood or hybrid off the tee and leave themselves

a mid-iron into this par-4. Or you can hit driver and hope to leave a short wedge approach – taking care to

avoid the large cenote that guards the left side of the green.

Riviera Maya Golf Club is part of the Gran Bahia Principe Riviera Maya Resort. This five-star hotel

complex consists of four distinct hotels: Luxury Bahia Principe Sian Ka’an, Grand Bahia Principe Tulum,

Grand Bahia Principe Akumal and Grand Bahia Principe Coba. Guests at these all-inclusive luxury resorts

can make reservations to play Riviera Maya Golf Club at a special resort rate. Each of the three Grand Bahia

Principe properties in the complex is located on the Caribbean Sea with white sand beaches, and a mini-

train connects the properties so you can enjoy the best of all three. ■

Riviera Maya Golf Club

Riviera Maya Golf Club

Tulum, Mexico

Travel Time: 80 minutes from Cancun

International Airport

A Robert Trent Jones II design course

Championship course (18 holes)

Par 72, 7,272 yards


Par-3 course (9 holes)

Par 27, 1,265 yards

Riviera Maya Golf Club has a clubhouse with a

full-service golf shop, restaurant and bar, as well as a

social area. A full practice facility includes a driving

range, chipping green and putting green, and golf

clubs and shoes are available for rental.

Architect Robert von Hagge designed critically acclaimed golf courses throughout the Caribbean,

and The Golf Club at Playacar is one of his greatest works. Opened in 1984, Playacar was the first

golf course in the Riviera Maya – and it has matured magnificently, with the demanding layout

now blending seamlessly with the lush tropical jungle surroundings.

The course requires both power and precision to score well, especially from the back tees at more than

7,100 yards. Choose an appropriate set of tees for your skill level – there are four to choose from – because

Playacar plays long with the prevailing winds sweeping in off the nearby Caribbean Sea. By playing a more

forward set of tees, you can have fun and appreciate the beauty of the Mayan jungle. But if you’re looking

for a challenge, play the course from the tips and see how well you handle von Hagge’s design.

If you do seek a challenge, The Golf Club at Playacar provides it. Rolling mounds and sloping fairways

create lies that will test the best players, while several holes present blind tee shots or approach shots. You’ll

use every club in the bag, yet Playacar never becomes a punishing brute: Golfers leave the course with a

smile, and ready to return for another shot at Von Hagge’s masterpiece.

The 2nd hole serves as an example of the beauty and difficulty The Golf Club at Playacar presents

throughout the layout. The long par-5 has an elevated fairway that runs down to the green, creating the


The Golf Club at Playacar isone of the most demandinggolf courses in Mexico.

The Golf Club at Playacar

Beautifully designed in a dense tropical jungle, this perennial favorite is one of thetoughest courses in all of Mexico

opportunity for long hitters to go for the green in

two by letting a fairway wood or hybrid shot run

up onto the putting surface. The back half of the

green, however, is surrounded by a lake that is

only paces away from the back fringe. Anything

running onto the green with much pace is likely

to roll into the water and dash any hopes you had

of eagle or birdie on the hole.

The Golf Club at Playacar is an all-inclusive golf experience, with food and drinks on the course and in

the clubhouse included with your round. The course is easily accessible from the many resorts in the

Playacar area, making it easy to move quickly from the course to the sandy breaches and turquoise waters

of the Caribbean Sea – or in a matter of minutes, you can be in the middle of the party on Playa del Carmen’s

bustling 5th Avenue. ■

Playacar’s fairways are

guarded by dense jungle,

rolling mounds and

strategically placed bunkers.

The Golf Club at Playacar

Playa del Carmen, Mexico



A Robert von Hagge design

Par 72, 7,136 yards


The Golf Club at Playacar’s clubhouse has a

full-service golf shop, a bar and grill, and locker and

shower facilities. A full practice facility includes a

driving range with a practice green for chipping and

putting. Golf clubs and shoes are available for rental.


The Mexican Caribbean

GolfCourse Association

This collection of outstanding golf courses is drawing visitors to Mexico from the U.S.,Canada and around the world

With 13 golf courses from Playa Mujeres in the north to Riviera Maya

Golf Club in the south, The Mexican Caribbean Golf Course Asso-

ciation (MCGCA) covers a lot of ground. With the area quickly

becoming one of the world’s hottest golf destinations, we asked MCGCA General

Director Liz Melo to give us the inside story on the area for golf travelers, and

here’s what she told us:

What sets the Mexican Caribbean apart from other destinations in the

Caribbean?

The Mexican Caribbean is home of the Mayans, a local culture that embedded

its heritage everywhere you go in the Yucatan Peninsula. The area has also

attracted immigrants from around the world, all of whom have brought parts of

their own culture to an already rich area. This makes the Mexican Caribbean a

shining destination where modern meets ancient, where the turquoise sea meets

white-powder sand, where international cuisine meets local ingredients – all

bonded with the hospitality of its residents and sealed with a warm and

welcoming smile.

How has the Mexican Caribbean changed in the last decade?

Cancun, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, together with the Riviera Maya, have rapidly

evolved to surpass the standards of the most discerning traveler. This includes

fantastic restaurants offering amazing food, and upscale accommodations

ranging from boutique hotels that cater to couples to family all-inclusive hotels.

And commercial developments such as Plaza La Isla in Cancun or 5th Avenue in

Playa del Carmen, where international clothing and accessories stores blend

with upscale local designers, have become part of the lifestyle of both residents

and visitors alike.

What’s the future of golf in the Mexican Caribbean?

As the news spreads about golf in the destination, more and more golfers that have played our courses are

recommending the area and becoming our greatest salespeople! Our visitors go home and talk about the

blue water, the white sand and the green of our courses, as well as the hospitality. This increasing awareness

prepares the terrain for future golf developments, and makes the Mexican Caribbean a fantastic option for

the U.S. and Canadian golfers due to the connections and flight times into Cancun. We’re also starting to see

golfers from South America, Europe and even Asia thanks to the efforts of our Mexican Tourism Board as

well as the regional Tourism Boards, and the tour operators who feel comfortable telling travelers about the

high quality of golf and lodging in the Mexican Caribbean. ■

UUUUUUnnniiiiiiiitttttttteeeeeedddddddSSSSSSStttttttttaaaaaaattttttttteeeeeeeessssss

MMMMMeeeeeeeeeexxxxxxxxxiiiiiiiiiiicccccccccoooo

Gulf ofMexico

Cuba

1 Playa Mujeres Golf Club

2 Puerto Cancun Golf Club

3 Cancun Golf Club at Pok-Ta-Pok 4 IBEROSTAR Cancun Golf Club

5 Riviera Cancun Golf Club

6 TPC Cancun at Cancun Country Club

7 Moon Spa & Golf Club

8 El Manglar at Mayan Palace Riviera Maya

9 IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club

10 El Camaleón at Mayakoba 11 Grand Coral Riviera Maya

12 The Golf Club at Playacar

13 Riviera Maya Golf Club at Grand Bahia Principe Riviera Maya

14 Cozumel Country Club

1

32

4

5

76

8

149

10

1112

13

3 Hours

2 Hours

Golf Locations in the

MexicanCaribbean


When Nick Price and his design team studied what would become the Grand Coral Riviera

Maya course in Playa del Carmen, they didn’t just think about fairways and greens – they also

took into account environmental impact, water preservation and how to disrupt the ecosystem

as little as possible.

A team of biologists and environmental consultants helped shape Grand Coral Riviera Maya into a case

study for how golf and the environment can benefit each other. The stunning course provides a fun and

challenging golf experience, but also preserves a vital habitat for local plant and animal life – without using

too many resources in the process.

As for the golf, Price authored a layout that winds through dense jungle that opens to stunning views

of the Caribbean Sea. The design is forgiving enough for casual golfers to enjoy themselves, while better

players will enjoy learning the nuances of the design through repeat visits.

Hole No. 6 is representative of the way the Grand Coral Riviera Maya course design works for different

types of players. The 399-yard par-4 has a lake that guards the entire right side of the gentle dogleg-right

design. The average player has plenty of room to play down the left side of the fairway for a safe angle of

attack into the green and a good chance at par or bogey. Meanwhile, a stronger player can challenge the

water by taking an aggressive line down the right side of the fairway, which again brings the water into play


Grand Coral Riviera Maya is an eco-friendly design thatprovides a habitat forindigenous wildlife.

Grand Coral Riviera Maya

Balancing the environment and playability, Nick Price’s new design in Playa del Carmenis a modern marvel

on their approach shot into the large green. Two

good shots will earn a putt for birdie, but one

mistake will lead to a watery bogey – or worse.

“With all the best beaches and the Caribbean

Sea, and all the vibrant city of Playa del Carmen

close by, this is a perfect place to play and enjoy

life,” Price says about Grand Coral Riviera Maya.

“The golf course is off to a great start.”

The golf course also includes a large, modern practice area and a spectacular contemporary clubhouse

near the Nick Price Residences at Grand Coral Riviera Maya. The facilities include a fitness center, swimming

pool, spa, snack bar and a full-service pro shop. A day pass for visitors includes green fees, use of the

practice facility and all-inclusive food and beverages in the clubhouse and throughout the resort. ■

Grand Coral Rivera Maya

also offers a spa for visitors

and resort guests.

Grand Coral Riviera Maya

Playa del Carmen, Mexico



A Nick Price design

Par 71, 7,043 yards


Grand Coral Riviera Maya has a large clubhouse with a full-

service golf shop, a snack bar, spa, swimming pool, and locker

and shower facilities. A full practice facility includes a driving

range with a practice green for chipping and putting. Golf

clubs and shoes are available for rental.

Reservations

US. 1 888 830 9008 [email protected] t Ph. (998) 881 3200

Hotel Zone Km 9.5, Cancun, Mexico

www.coralbeachcancunhotel.com


http://www.coralbeachcancunhotel.com

IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club is home to more than an outstanding P.B. Dye golf course – it’s also the

host site of Golf Channel’s popular Big Break reality competition series, which was recently held in Mexico

for the first time. “Big Break Mexico” brought six men and six women together for a series of competitions

that would determine an ultimate winner. That winner receives a prize package that includes an exemption

into either the PGA Tour’s OHL Classic at Mayakoba or the LPGA Tour Lorena Ochoa Invitational.

Speaking of the Mexican golf legend, Ochoa herself surprised the Big Break participants during filming

at the IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club. “Big Break Mexico” is airing on Golf Channel throughout the

summer of 2013, showcasing Mexico and the Mexican Caribbean as a vacation destination for golfers from

around the world.

When you visit IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club, you’ll find the same breathtaking P.B. Dye-designed

golf course that impressed the 12 Big Break participants – and has been drawing rave reviews from golfers

since opening in 2005. Taking his design cues from the Mayan ruins that surround the golf course, Dye

crafted a layout with dramatic elevation changes and exposed rock. As challenging as it is beautiful, the

course has narrow fairways and undulating greens, with deep bunkers guarding the landing areas. Dye’s

design balances difficulty with beautiful views, and includes a variety of tee boxes on each hole to allow

golfers of different skill levels to enjoy the game.


The P.B. Dye design atIBEROSTAR Playa ParaísoGolf Club was influenced bythe area's Mayan ruins andnatural beauty.

Thanks to Golf Channel’s popular reality show, this Riviera Maya gem is getting its“BigBreak” with millions of TV viewers

IBEROSTARPlaya ParaísoGolfClub

The par-5 18th hole serves as a prime exam-

ple of Dye’s design style at IBEROSTAR Playa

Paraíso Golf Club. At 548 yards from the tips,

the longest hitters can take a shot at getting

home in two if they’ve hit a long, accurate drive.

But the penalty for missing the green with a

fairway wood or long iron is severe, as the put-

ting surface is protected by pot bunkers, trees

and a collection area that make a bogey or

worse a likelihood. But golfers playing from

the white tees will find the hole playing 75

yards shorter, leaving wide landing areas for a

drive and layup that will make birdie or par a

realistic goal.

IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club is open

to guests of the five IBEROSTAR hotels in Playa

Paraíso: Grand Hotel Paraíso, Paraíso Beach,

Paraíso Del Mar, Paraíso Lindo and Paraíso Maya.

Each of these properties is an all-inclusive resort

just 12 miles north of Playa del Carmen. Golf is

often included in packages at the various

IBEROSTAR resorts in Playa Paraíso, and the

golf experience is all-inclusive – soft drinks, alco-

holic beverages and food during and after your

round are included at no extra charge. ■

IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club

Host of Big Break Mexico

At IBEROSTAR Golf Resorts in Mexico you’ll experience warm hospitality, the finest accommodations, unlimited

dining, a huge array of activities and some of the finest golf in Mexico. Enjoy spectacular playing conditions and

all-inclusive food and beverages at the 18-hole championship IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso and IBEROSTAR Cancún

golf clubs. Welcome to a golf experience unlike any other! IBEROSTAR Golf Resorts, where you are a star both on

and off the course.

Two amazing courses.

Each an unforgettable, all-inclusive golf vacation.

R I V I E R A M AYA - C A N C U N

For more information on golf packages: E-mail [email protected]

IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club

Playa Paraíso, Mexico

Travel Time: 30 minutes south of Cancun International Airport

Designed by P.B. Dye

Par 72, 6,641 yards


IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso Golf Club provides round-trip ground

transportation from all IBEROSTAR Riviera Maya properties.

Each round includes golf car, beverages and food before, during

and after your round. The course includes a full practice facility,

and professional golf instruction is available. Club rentals are

also available, and the clubhouse includes a full-service golf shop.


The only PGA TOUR event held outside the U.S. is a special tournament, and it takes a special course

to host it. El Camaleón, nestled within the Mayakoba enclave along the Caribbean Sea near Playa del

Carmen, has hosted the OHL Classic at Mayakoba since its inception in 2007. Centered in the resort

area between the Fairmont, Rosewood and Banyan Tree properties, the golf course fits seamlessly into its sur-

roundings. At various times you’ll see the Caribbean Sea, dense vegetation and luxury gondolas moving

along Mayakoba’s limestone canals.

El Camaleón’s 18 holes work their way through three separate ecosystems: jungle, mangroves and ocean-

front. The connection to nature is evident on the first hole, where a cenote – a natural cave leading through

limestone to an underground river –looms in the middle of the fairway.

The course is truly a chameleon: The PGA TOUR players who tee

it up in the OHL Classic at Mayakoba find themselves challenged by

Greg Norman’s layout, which can stretch to more than 7,000 yards

from the tips. With five sets of tees on each hole, however, resort

guests can enjoy El Camaleón from a more reasonable yardage and enjoy

around that blends championship-level golf with striking beauty.

Guests at El Camaleón can also work on their game at the Jim

McLean Golf School Mayakoba, which offers one of the country’s

top practice facilities and teaching centers. Featuring state-of-the-

art teaching technology, top instructors and a practice area that

includes a 350-yard double-sided teeing area and a 40-yard chipping

area, the Jim McLean Golf School Mayakoba can get your swing in

shape before you challenge El Camaleón. ■


At El Camaleón, you can playthe same course as the PGATour professionals whocompete in the OHL Classicat Mayakoba.

El Camaleón at Mayakoba

Greg Norman designed this championship course to test the world’s best players, but everyone can enjoy this modern classic

El Camaleónat Mayakoba

Riviera Maya, MexicoTravel Time: 40 minutes southof Cancun International Airport

A Greg Norman Design

18 holes, Par 72, 7,024 yardsUSGA rating 73.8/Slope 137

El Camaleón has acontemporary clubhouse withfull locker room and showerfacility and a full-service golfshop. The clubhouse is alsohome to the Aaktun Grill, whichhas a full menu and bar service.High-end golf clubs andfootwear are available for rental.El Camaleón has a PGATour-quality practice area, andthe golf course also offerstournament services for single-day or multiple-day events.

Big changes have come to Mexico’s PGA TOUR event at Mayakoba, and they should result in an even

better event for spectators and competitors alike. Starting this year, the event formerly known as

the Mayakoba Golf Classic becomes the OHL Classic at Mayakoba.

Along with the new name come new dates on the calendar, moving from the previous dates in February

– opposite the World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship – to mid-November. The

new dates mean the OHL Classic at Mayakoba is no longer held opposite an event for the world’s top 64

players, meaning the world’s best are now free to play at Mayakoba.

There’s also big money at stake, with the OHL Classic at Mayakoba increasing its purse to $6 million

(U.S.) with a winner’s share of more than $1 million with 500 FedExCup points. This makes the OHL

Classic at Mayakoba one of the biggest purses on tour, with the largest payout of any golf tournament in

Latin America.


OHL Classic at Mayakoba

Greg Norman designed this championship course to test the worldÕs best players, buteveryone can enjoy this modern classic

The PGA TOUR began hosting this event at Mayakoba in 2007, when it became the first PGA TOUR

event played outside the U.S. or Canada and became Mexico's first PGA TOUR event. The event is set to stay

at Mayakoba through at least 2018, and the event has shown steady growth in attendance and prominence.

This year, the new November dates mean the OHL Classic at Mayakoba will receive hours of live

tournament coverage on Golf Channel, with the potential to reach viewers in more than 200 countries. That

brings a great deal of attention to Mayakoba and the entire Mexican Caribbean region as a golf destination.

The tournament itself is a favorite of fans and players.

The fans love the unique Heineken Beach Club set up

along the beach behind the 15th hole, where resort guests

in bikinis mingle with golf spectators watching the action.

There’s nothing else like it on the PGA TOUR, and it spot-

lights the casual Caribbean charmof Mayakoba. Many of

the fans also stay at one of the on-site resorts, giving them

a chance to sometimes rub shoulders with their golf

heroes.


Thousands of localspectators and millions ofgolf fans around the worldwatch the OHL Classic atMayakoba, the PGA TOURevent that was won in 2012by John Huh (inset).

OHL Classic at Mayakoba

Riviera Maya, Mexico

November 11–17, 2013

PGA TOUR Official Event

Purse: $6 million (U.S.)

Field: 132 PGA TOUR professionals

TV: Golf Channel

www.OHLClassic.com

Photography by Michael O’Bryon

http://www.OHLClassic.com

Players love playing in the OHL Classic at Mayakoba because of the El Camaleón course and the hospitality

of the on-site resorts. The Greg Norman design at El Camaleón is challenging but fun, with great risk-

reward holes and superb conditioning. The players also enjoy bringing their families along to enjoy the

sun-kissed luxury of the Mayakoba resorts, with many players returning year after year to combine business

with pleasure. ■


Mayakoba includes great golf and resorts

Mayakoba is a luxurious enclave in the Riviera Maya just north of Playa del Carmen, with the island of Cozumel visibleacross the sparking waters of the Caribbean Sea. In addition to the El Camaleón golf course and Jim McLean GolfSchool, there are three world-class resorts located on the property, each of which use boats to transport guests to theiraccommodations along six miles of canals.

Fairmont Mayakoba: With 410 guest rooms and suites, the Fairmont Mayakoba is spread across 45 acres of lushtropical mangroves. The accommodations include beach and lagoon casitas, each with amazing views. The resort’ssignature restaurant is Las Brisas, serving Latin Americacuisine in a traditional setting under a large palapa – athatched roof. The resort’s Willow Stream Spa overlooksmangrove forests and opulent gardens for secludedrelaxation.

Rosewood Mayakoba: Voted Best Hotel in Mexico byTravel+Leisure, the Rosewood Mayakoba has 128 suiteslocated among the mangroves or on the beach. Thearchitectural design of the suites is unsurpassed, with lagoonsuites suspended over the water and beach suites featuringrooftop sitting areas and plunge pools. Private butler serviceis just part of the personalized experience each RosewoodMayakoba guest receives. The Punta Bonita restaurant servesMexican specialities just steps from the Caribbean Sea, while the Tequila Library at Agave Azul celebrates the heritageof Mexico’s unique beverage. Sense, a Rosewood Spa, is situated on a private island with a crystal clear cenote guestscan explore, and offers a golf-specific massage for increased flexibility.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba: This opulent resort adds touches of Asian hospitality to the Mexican surroundings to create aunique sense of place. All 107 villas at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba are freestanding units on land or above water. TheSaffron restaurant serves contemporary Thai cuisine prepared by chefs from Phuket. The Banyan Tree Spa featuresThe Rainforest, a complete hydrothermal experience based upon Asian wellness philosophies.

OHL Classic PastChampions

2012: John Huh2011: Johnson Wagner2010: Cameron Beckman2009: Mark Wilson2008: Brian Gay2007: Fred Funk

Other players to tee it up at pastOHL Classics include BubbaWatson, Graeme McDowell, GregNorman, Rich Beem, Mark Brooks,Mark Calcavecchia, K.J. Choi, BenCurtis, Jason Dufner, David Duval,Steve Elkington, Matt Kuchar,Shaun Micheel, Larry Mize, JoseMaria Olazabal, Corey Pavin, NickPrice and Jeff Sluman.

Players enjoy visitingMayakoba because of thewarm crowds and manyactivities for their families.

At the OHL Classic at

Mayakoba, fans get the

chance to see their favorite

players up close.

What the pros say about El Camaleón

“I remember the first year of the event, the guys who came down had a bit of trepidation. But the word got out after the

first practice round; the players said, ‘Wow, what a great golf course.’ And it continued to what a great time they’re

having at Mayakoba, at the resorts and the beaches. So that reputation built on itself. The guys said, ‘Boy, you’ve got to

get down to Mayakoba and enjoy what they have to offer.” —Greg Norman

“The golf course is in great shape, it’s matured nicely. I think you’re going to see even more really nice courses coming

into this area over the next 10 years.” —Nick Price

“The spectators were so good. We had an eight-hole playoff and they all stayed to watch us. I’m really looking forward

to playing here again next year.” —John Huh

“What a beautifully conditioned golf course, one of the best we play all year. The fairways are perfect, and it’s a

challenging golf course if you’re not hitting it well. I’ve loved every minute I’ve been here. I want to come back with my

wife on a vacation; it has been incredibly beautiful.” —Johnson Wagner

Bigger isn’t always better, and the El Manglar golf course at Mayan Palace Riviera Maya is proof. This

18-hole Nicklaus Design course plays 2,923 yards – compared with many full-length courses that

stretch beyond 7,000 yards. As a result, El Manglar can provide a unique golf experience to players

of all skill levels.

For example, El Manglar’s shorter length off the tee can make it the perfect place to introduce juniors

and new golfers to the sport. The course has all the hallmarks of a full-length Nicklaus Design course – out-

standing conditioning, rolling fairways, undulating greens and plenty of water and sand to avoid – but in

a layout that is the right size for a young or new player to navigate. From the forward tees, holes play from

69 to 181 yards, and all are par-3s.

But the experienced player can also enjoy a round at El Manglar. Because of the shorter yardage, a round

moves more quickly at El Manglar, which makes it ideal for an early morning round before joining the family

for lunch and an afternoon at the beach, or for a late-afternoon round to settle bets with your golfing buddies.

The Nicklaus Design team didn’t shortchange the El Manglar layout in terms of strategy or natural

beauty. The course coexists wonderfully with the ecologically sensitive wetlands and lush jungle vegetation

that surrounds the area. And even the most skilled golfer will find themselves presented with challenging


El Manglar's collection of 18 par-3 holes is perfect forfamilies, or for skilled golfersseeking a quick round earlyor late in the day.

El Manglar at Mayan Palace Riviera Maya

This outstanding 18-hole short course is great fun for new players and skilled golfersalike, proving good things come in small packages

shots throughout the course thanks to the creative hole designs.

Perhaps the best example is the par-3 17th hole, which features what’s known as the “Donna” green.

This green is has a bunker in the middle of the putter surface, and has another two bunkers protecting it

around the outside of the green. The hole only plays 132 yards from the back tees, but even a scratch golfer

is happy to leave the 17th hole with a par.

The round ends with a most memorable hole. The island green on the 18th hole

makes for a heroic final tee shot. From the back tees, finding the putter surface from

195 yards is hardly a sure thing. And from 159 yards at the blue tees, lofting an iron

shot onto the green can make a memory most golfers will never forget.

Chances are that you’ve never seen a short course as interesting or fun as El

Manglar. And don’t forget that playing 18 par-3s means 18 chances at an elusive

hole in one – the course provides special hole in one certificates to any golfer lucky

enough to score an ace on El Manglar, and you get your name on the clubhouse’s

special board.

El Manglar is located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen at the Mayan Palace

Riviera Maya resort, an outstanding place for a family vacation or an adult getaway.

From the luxurious accommodations to white sand beaches and activities for all

ages, Mayan Palace Riviera Maya can be a wonderful home base for a golf vacation

to the Mexican Caribbean. ■

El Manglar at Mayan PalaceRiviera Maya

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Travel Time: 30 minutes south of Cancun


A Nicklaus Design

Par 54, 2,923 yards


El Manglar at Mayan Palace offers a driving range

and putting green for practice and warming up

before a round. Green fees include transportation

to and from area hotels, and high-end golf clubs and

shoes are available for rental. A full-service golf shop

and the Green Break restaurant and bar are located

in the El Manglar clubhouse.

El Manglar at Mayan Palace Riviera Maya blends seamlessly into thesurroundings, which include ecologically sensitive wetlands and lush junglevegetation along the Caribbean Sea.


Destination Spotlight:RivieraMaya

The ancient home of Mayan civilization remains a magicalplace filled with new destinations for travelers to experience

Few places on earth blend the past and the present quite as magically

as the expansive area known as the Riviera Maya. Stretching along

the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula from south of Puerto

Morelos to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, the Riviera Maya is home

to the ancient Mayan civilization – including the archaeological sites of

Tulum and Coba. But amidst the remnants of another time, a dazzling

array of new resorts and attractions have emerged to bring this historic

area into prominence in the 21st century.

The archeological site at

Tulum are one of Mexico’s

biggest attractions, and

within an easy drive of all the

resorts in the Riviera Maya.


The turquoise and greenwaters of the Caribbean Sea provide endlessopportunities for recreationand relaxation.

All About the Riviera Maya

Travel Time: 30–45 minutes south of CancunInternational Airport

Population: 187,573

Currency: The official currency is the Mexican Peso,but American dollars are also widely accepted.Banks and currency exchange offices can be foundthroughout the area.



Transportation: The Cancun airport has its owntaxi system for getting travelers to theiraccommodations in the Riviera Maya. Once there,taxis and chartered transportation can be bookedthrough resorts and golf courses.

If you’re considering a trip to the Riviera Maya, keep in mind that you’ll be staying in a land that is

believed to have been settled as early as 2600 B.C. The Maya descend from the people who came to North

America via the Bering Strait, and eventually settled in what would become Mexico, Belize, Honduras, El

Salvador and Guatemala. By 250 A.D., the Maya were an advanced civilization with unique religious beliefs

and many advancements in science, mathematics and the written word.

While the Maya were conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century, they left behind amazing works

of architecture that are still a vital part of the Riviera Maya area. The ruins at Tulum and Coba are stunning

reminders of the past, and there are as many as 500,000 Maya living in the Yucatan Peninsula and speaking

the native Maya language.

Interest in Mayan culture is seeing a renaissance thanks to the growth of the Riviera Maya area over

the past 20 years. As Cancun grew in popularity, travelers continued to push south into this historic area

in search of different experiences. As a result, the Riviera Maya now includes a great diversity of accommo-

dations, from large all-inclusive resorts and five-star boutique hotels to rustic lodges along the coast and in

the lush jungle.

Unique to the Riviera Maya is the seclusion offered by the resorts in the area. Aside from the buzzing

central town of Playa del Carmen, most resorts in the Riviera Maya are situated in small groupings and

quiet enclaves. Instead of towering high-rises, travelers are more likely to find

themselves in smaller lodges or stand alone casitas. This creates a great feeling

of privacy – that your vacation is truly your own – that entices many to become

return visitors to the area.

Seclusion, however, doesn’t mean you have to be cut off from the world, or

miss out on any comforts. The Riviera Maya boasts some of the most luxurious

resorts in all of Mexico, with the most upscale amenities and latest technologies.

These new resorts and modern flourishes don’t overwhelm the deep Mayan

heritage in the area – they amplify it: The resorts are built with eco-friendly

designs that have added health and stability to the native flora and fauna; spas

offer treatments using plants and rituals used by the Maya in their ceremonies;

and chefs prepare international cuisine that fuses local crops and spices with

global culinary trends.

The singular nature of the resorts and enclaves of the Riviera Maya also leads

to visitors creating their own itineraries for truly unique experiences in the area.

Ecotourists can discover new attractions such as the eco parks Xplor and Rio

Secreto, or spend a day exploring the cenotes – fresh water cave and cavern

system – that have become exposed over many centuries. Families can spend


The inviting waters of theCaribbean Sea can serve as aplace to explore marine life(right) or as the tranquilbackdrop for a day at thebeach (below).

quality time together on the white sand beaches or snorkeling in the turquoise Caribbean waters along the

large barrier coral reef that protects the coast. Food and drink aficionados can sample the indigenous cuisine

and fresh seafood, along with the many types of tequila available in the area.

Visitors to the Riviera Maya do have interesting options for nightlife and shopping, thanks to the

downtown area of Playa del Carmen. This modern collection of shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs

offers something for everyone, and is easily accessible from throughout the Riviera Maya. Playa del Carmen

is also where visitors can catch hourly ferries to the island of Cozumel for another unique experience.

And, of course, golf is exploding in the Riviera Maya. Thanks to the OHL Classic at Mayakoba, the El

Camaleón course designed by Greg Norman brings many of the world’s best players to the Riviera Maya

each year. As the only PGA Tour event played outside of the U.S., the OHL Classic at Mayakoba brings golf

along the Caribbean Sea to the TVs of millions of golf fans around the world each year. And with Golf

Channel conducting its “Big Break Mexico” televised competition at IBEROSTAR Playa Paraíso earlier this

year, there is unprecedented interest in the area as a golf getaway.

With its rich history and recent growth, the Riviera Maya is poised to continue its growth as a popular

destination well into the future. And with the abundance of daily flights into Cancun International Airport

– just 30 to 45 minutes away from most resorts in the area – the Riviera Maya is a convenient place for a

unique golf getaway. ■


You can choose youradventure in the RivieraMaya, whether that’s quiettimes along the shore (left)or the raucous nightlife onPlaya del Carmen’s 5thAvenue.

“As we look to the future for golf in this area, especially the OHL Classic atMayakoba and throughout the Quintana Roo area, we see nothing but blue skiesand endless future for the game of golf here.” —Greg Norman

Cozumel is Mexico’s third-largest island, making it a unique part of the Mexican Caribbean.

Accessible via high-speed ferries that run throughout the day – a crossing typically takes 40

minutes – Cozumel has a small-town feel that is a contrast to the activity seen in many areas with

large cities. The island is surrounded by breathtaking coral reefs, making it a favorite of divers and snorkelers.

Cozumel has a single golf course, but it is regarded as one of the best in all of Mexico. We asked Cozumel

director of tourism Ignacio Cureño to give us the inside story on the island for golf travelers, and here’s what

he told us:

What should golfers from outside Mexico know about Cozumel?

Golfers from outside of Mexico should know that Cozumel is an island where the principal leisure activity

is diving – Cozumel enjoys the second-largest reef barrier in the world, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier

Reef System. In 2001, however, golf started to become the second-biggest activity when the Cozumel

Country Club opened. This course is the only course on the island, and it is one of the most beautiful golf

courses Nicklaus Design has created. Since 2006 it has been officially certified by the Audubon Society,

making it the first golf course in Mexico to hold this prestigious ecological honor.


Ignacio Cureño saysCozumel is a relaxingdestination.

Cozumel: The Inside Story

Enjoy the peace and quiet of a Caribbean island with amazing diving and great golf,and see how Cozumel’s traditions are being preserved

What sets Cozumel apart from other parts of the region?

Cozumel is the second-largest island in Mexico by population, with a great diversity of wildlife and great

cultural history. It is separated from the mainland by 14 aquatic miles. This makes the island very safe, and

the island residents are very kind and hospitable. Visitors find this the best destination to relax and enjoy

the natural life. With the beautiful surrounding areas, visitors find this to be a private place to rest and

enjoy the magical beauty of being on an island in the Mexican Caribbean.


The population growth in the Riviera Maya has been dramatic, but our island culture has not changed. In

fact, 75 percent of Cozumel is still uninhabited jungle. We have added more hotels and places for visitors to

enjoy, but we still maintain the essence of a small town that preserves its customs and traditions, such as

Carnaval Cozumel in February and the Festival of El Cedral at the end of April or beginning of May. These

events fill the streets with celebration.

What’s your best tip for first-time travelers to

Cozumel?

Enjoy the beauty of all the relaxing areas around the

island. Take the time to dive in our waters and ex -

perience the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park.

And, of course, enjoy the spectacular golf at Cozumel

Country Club. ■


Cozumel is surrounded bycoral reefs that make forgreat scuba diving andsnorkeling (opposite). Theisland’s Festival of El Cedral(below) is a beloved tradition,while Cozumel Country Club(bottom) ranks as one ofMexico’s best golf courses.


Destination Spotlight: Cozumel


This tropical island is conveniently close to the mainland, but has itsown small-town personality and traditions

Just 14 nautical miles off the coast of the Riviera Maya sits the island of Cozumel.

Though the island is as close as a ferry ride or a quick flight, it certainly stands

alone as a unique part of the Mexican Caribbean culture. Cozumel is east of

Playa del Carmen, where visitors can board one of the hourly ferries that carries

passengers on the 45-minute ride across Caribbean waters. The island is visible

throughout the day from throughout the Riviera Maya, and at night its lights can

be seen as far away as Cancun.

Despite its proximity, Cozumel has always been distinctly different from mainland Mexico. This started

around 300 A.D., when the first Mayan settlers came across and made the island their home. The Maya

believe their goddess of fertility, Ixchel, lived on the island, and throughout the centuries women have

come to Cozumel to pay homage.

Today, Cozumel still has reminders of the Mayan presence on the island in the ruins at San Gervasio. But

as with the rest of the region, it has moved into modern times without losing its sense of tradition.

In fact, visitors to Cozumel find it to have a distinctly small-town feel. Many of the businesses in the

main city of San Miguel are family-owned, and the resorts are mainly staffed by workers who have been at

those facilities for years – and live on the island. This creates a warm, friendly familiarity, especially for the

many visitors who make return trips to the island. While there are several resorts on Cozumel, the ambiance

is much closer to what you would find in a quiet, non-tourist Mexican town.


All About Cozumel

Travel Time: 45 minutes south of CancunInternational Airport and a 40-minute ferry ride fromPlaya del Carmen; or accessible via direct flightsinside Mexico to Cozumel International Airport.

Population: 90,000

Currency: The official currency is the Mexican Peso,but American dollars are also widely accepted.Banks and currency exchange houses can be foundthroughout the area.



Transportation: Taxis are available throughout thehotel zone and around the island, including near theferry dock in San Miguel. High-speed ferries to themainland run hourly throughout the day.

“When you’re here on Cozumel, you get the safe and quiet feeling of being on anisland. But we’re close enough to all the activities on the mainland that you canplan a vacation that gives you the best of both worlds.”

– PGA Professional Benny Campos, general manager, Cozumel Country Club

Many visitors get their firsttaste of Cozumel while on aCaribbean cruise.

The resorts on Cozumel run the range from larger all-inclusive resorts to small, boutique hotels. Most

are located on the west side of the island, which is also where cruise ships sometimes dock during the day

before setting sail in the late afternoon. Visitors to Cozumel can reach the island via ferry from Playa del

Carmen after driving down from Cancun International Airport – total travel time from the airport can be

less than two hours – or via direct flight into Cozumel International Airport, which has daily flights

from multiple Mexican cities during the winter months and is just a five-minute drive from the island’s

hotel zone.

Because of its proximity to the mainland, visitors to Cozumel can easily enjoy day trips ashore. You can

catch the first ferry and be at Coba or Tulum early in the day, or book a tee time at one of the Riviera Maya

or Cancun golf courses and be back in time for dinner.

Or you can even catch an evening ferry to Playa del

Carmen and enjoy the shops and nightlife of the city’s

famed 5th Avenue before coming back to a quiet

night on the island.

Not that Cozumel doesn’t have a more boisterous

side, of course. The island is known for its annual

festivals: Carnaval in February, El Cedral in late April

or early May, and Independence Day in mid-Septem-

ber. These traditional celebrations date back more

than a century, and include fairs, parades and live

musical performances that bring thousands of resi-

dents and visitors to the streets. San Miguel also has

a number of shops and restaurants, including Senor

Frog’s if you’d like to enjoy a night on the town

without leaving the island.


The people of Cozumel arewarm and friendly, whetherthey’re celebrating El Cedral(below) or entertainingvisitors in the streets of SanMiguel (bottom). CozumelCountry Club (opposite),the island’s only golf course,is a challenging NicklausDesign layout.

But once you’re on Cozumel you’re not likely to want to leave.

Especially if you love exploring the island’s natural beauty.

Approximately 75 percent of the island is uninhabited jungle,

filled with exotic plant life and an indigenous wildlife – Cozumel

is a favorite spot for nature photographers, bird watchers and

wildlife enthusiasts. And just offshore is the Mesoamerican

Barrier Reef – only the Great Barrier Reef off Australia is larger.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and the clear Caribbean waters

mean Cozumel is surrounded by great locations for scuba diving

and snorkeling, and there are many diving shops and tour guide

companies to help you safely enjoy the experience.

Nature is also a big part of Cozumel’s only golf course, the

Cozumel Country Club, which is located just three miles from

San Miguel. This Nicklaus Design course is a certified Audubon

Sanctuary, and home to several different species of plants and

wildlife. The course is open to the public and offers stay-and-

play packages with nearby resorts, and is kept in tournament

condition year-round.

At the end of the day, what you’ll find in Cozumel is a quieter,

slower-paced vacation experience than you might have on the

mainland. And at the end of the day is when you’ll notice one

other spectacular advantage to being on the island: Because of

the 14 nautical miles that separate Cozumel from Playa del

Carmen, there’s plenty of Caribbean Sea to reflect the spectacular

sunsets over water. ■


Cozumel Country Cluboffers a quiet, secludedround of golf that isconsistent with the relaxedisland setting.

Cozumel Country Club

Cozumel Country Club

Cozumel, Mexico

Travel Time: 45 minutes from Playa del Carmen

A Nicklaus Design course


Cozumel Country Club has an open clubhouse witha restaurant and a full-service golf shop. A fullpractice facility includes a driving range with apractice green for chipping and putting. Golf clubsand shoes are available for rental.

It is fitting that Cozumel’s only golf course perfectly suits the island’s character. Cozumel Country Club

combines natural beauty with warm hospitality that makes every visitor feel like an old friend, and the

Nicklaus Design golf course presents the kind of challenge that makes golfers want to return again.

You notice the relaxed differences of Cozumel Country Club upon your arrival at the facility, which is

central to the hotel zone and the main city of San Miguel. The clubhouse is an open air palapa looking out

onto the 18th hole, with a restaurant serving delicious made-to-order meals throughout the day. A fully

stocked golf shop is adjacent to the clubhouse, and a full practice facility is yours for warming up.

Once you’re on the course, you’re in a world of your own. Unlike many resort courses, Cozumel Country

Club has no hotels or real estate surrounding it. Nearly every hole is designed to stand alone, allowing you

to focus on your round of golf and the amazing variety of wildlife you’re likely to see as you play through the

jungle vegetation. Cozumel Country Club was the first golf course in Mexico to achieve certification as an

Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, and the course even hosts daily bird watching tours led by local biologists.

The golf course strikes a balance between challenging and forgiving, with the Nicklaus Design making

use of the jungle corridors to create holes that wind around lakes and sandy areas. The course features

Bermuda grass from tee to green, which creates a familiar chipping and putting feeling for golfers from the

southern U.S. While the course plays just more than 6,700 yards from the back tees, it’s not a course long

hitters can overpower – the jungle is essentially one big lateral hazard, and keeping your ball in play is key

to scoring well.

The course partners with nearby resorts to offer stay-and-play packages, and even golfers staying at

resorts in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya can easily make a day trip out of a round at Cozumel

Country Club. ■

With a world-class course and a small-town feel, this island gem allows you to focus ona relaxing round of Caribbean golf

Golfers look to PGA Professionals for expertise in all areas of the game, from instruction to buying

equipment – and that includes travel. According to a PGA Magazinesurvey of club professionals

from around the United States, more than 80 percent of PGA Professionals at private clubs travel

with their members to play golf, and nearly 40 percent of those professionals like to travel internationally

with their members.

The average length of these golf trips is 7–9 days, and the PGA Professional is usually either in charge of

selecting the destination or suggesting one for members to choose. And this survey showed one more

important piece of information: When choosing a destination to recommend to members, the No. 1 factor

for PGA Professionals is having personally visited the destination themselves.

As the numbers show, PGA Professionals have a huge influence on the travel decisions made by golfers.

And many PGA Professionals have traveled to the Mexican Caribbean in recent years – and they have many

reasons to recommend the area to the golfers who ask their advice or travel with them.

Take, for example, PGA Professional Kevin Weeks. As one of the game’s most in-demand teachers – he

works with everyone from talented juniors to PGA Tour players the likes of Kevin Streelman, Michael

Bradley and Dicky Pride – Weeks’ schedule takes him to some of golf’s best-known destinations. And as

the PGA director of instruction for Chicago’s Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, he knows what golfers are

looking for from a golf getaway. Weeks says the Mexican Caribbean has everything that vacationing golfers

could possibly want.


Dozens of PGA Professionalsfrom across the U.S. havevisited the MexicanCaribbean, then returnedhome to tell their membersabout the destination.

PGA Professionals on theMexican Caribbean: A Great Place to Stay and Play!

In their travels, PGA members have found the area to be convenient, safe and a greatdestination for golfing and relaxing

“My students know I’ve flown into Cancun on golf trips, and I always tell them the same thing when

they ask me about the area: Go. Just make your plans and go, because you’ll love it,” says Weeks, ranked

one of Golf Digest’s Top 50 Golf Instructors. “The resorts are awesome, and the service and hospitality of

the people are wonderful. It’s a relaxed area with a very welcoming people.”

In terms of golf in the Mexican Caribbean, Weeks says courses in the area have the elements his golfers

are looking for: Interesting layouts, good conditioning, impressive practice areas and outstanding service.

And, according to Weeks, the convenience and safety of the Mexican Caribbean are selling points for

the region.

“There’s great airlift into and out of Cancun International Airport. You can get a non-stop flight to or

from any major U.S. city, and the resorts help you with transportation options that make it a breeze to get

through the airport,” Weeks says. “I know the first time I was planning to go to the Mexican Caribbean, I

was apprehensive because of the security issues you hear about Mexico having.

But the thing I stress to my golfers is that when I’ve been in the area, at no time

did I ever feel in danger or even worried.

“To me, it’s more like being on an island in the Caribbean than being in

Mexico. I think the golf is great, and so is the water for snorkeling.”

A number of PGA Professionals have visited the Mexican Caribbean in recent

years to attend PGA Magazine Conference Series events at Moon Palace Golf &

Spa Resort, and many others have toured the area as part of the PGA Magazine

Ambassador travel program.

The variety of experiences available from Isla Mujeres south to Playa del

Carmen, Cozumel and Tulum also appeals to PGA Professionals such as PGA

Master Professional David Graf, the longtime head professional at Inverness

Club in Toledo, Ohio, where members travel extensively during the cold winter

months. Graf enthusiastically recommends the Mexican Caribbean.

“The weather and the facilities in the Mexican Caribbean are a tremendous

draw – I tell my golfers to bring plenty of sunscreen!” Graf says. “In addition to

all the golf courses and the warm weather, the quality of the accommodations

make it easy to recommend the area. The entire environment is relaxing and

first-class.” ■


Top golf instructor KevinWeeks (above) recommendsthe Mexican Caribbean as asafe, easy-to-reach area forgolfers to explore.


Closing Thoughts

I’ve had the good fortune to make multiple trips to

the Mexican Caribbean in researching and writing

this PGA Professionals’ Guide to Travel. Most of

my visits have been made alongside PGA Professionals

from throughout the United States, and I’ve had many

great conversations with my fellow visitors about our

experiences in the Mexican Caribbean. We all seem to

share the same reasons for enjoying this amazing area

of the world:

Golf – The rest of the world is just beginning to

discover that the Mexican Caribbean is a full-fledged

golf destination. With more than a dozen courses by

top architects, and with year-round great weather,

there’s never a bad time to tee it up here.

Convenience – Cancun International Airport is

one of the easiest airports in the world to get in and out

of. I can eat breakfast at home, catch a non-stop flight

and find myself eating lunch in Cancun, the Riviera Maya or Cozumel. If you live

anywhere near a decent-sized airport in the U.S., the Mexican Caribbean is

practically in your backyard.

Variety – Beyond golf, there are nearly endless options for the types of

vacations you can plan and experiences you can have in the Mexican Caribbean.

You can play in the surf, go scuba diving or snorkeling, shop for exclusive interna-

tional brands or find local artisans, explore different ecosystems, tour archeological

wonders, experience myriad food and beverage options – you can do it all, or you

can do as little as you want.

Hospitality – The warmth of the people in the Mexican Caribbean is un -

paralleled. I’ve never been to another international destination where I felt so

welcome and safe. And with decades of experience in hosting guests from around

the world, the resort staffs in the area are uniquely skilled and professional:

Whether you’re enjoying a romantic trip for two or a group golf trip for 16, your

entire party will soon feel like part of the Mexican Caribbean family.

I hope The PGA Professionals’ Guide to Travel: The Mexican Caribbean helps

you learn more about this great destination and inspires you to experience it for

yourself. Once you do, I feel certain that you’ll join me in becoming a regular

visitor to the Mexican Caribbean!

Don Jozwiak, Editor

pga professionals' guide to travel the mexican caribbean 2013

Documents

golf courses

golf legends

mayan golf trail

golf vacation areas

member golf destinations

golf son sus campos

t h e f

pga tour