Punta Cana is a world-class golf destination, with more than a dozen championship courses. It offers a variety of experiences, from dream courses designed by famous architects to options featuring local landscapes and challenges for all skill levels.

History and Best Golf Courses

The La Cana Golf Club was the first course in the area, built by P.B. Dye in 1999. The Punta Espada course at Cap Cana, designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in 2006, was another milestone that further boosted its fame. Corales Golf Course, designed by Tom Fazio and opened in 2010, is only the last of the most important golf courses in Punta Cana, an exclusive and dramatic 18-hole course that hosts international events such as the Corales Punta Cana Championship.

The most iconic and highly rated golf courses in Punta Cana are for sure Punta Espada and Corales. Punta Espada is recognized for its Jack Nicklaus design and natural beauty, while Corales, designed by Tom Fazio, stands out for its stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, its cliff-top holes, and for hosting the only PGA TOUR event in the Dominican Republic.

Punta Espada Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus.

It has 18 holes that offer spectacular views of the ocean and the Cap Cana landscape. The 17th hole, with its tee shot over the bay, is particularly iconic. It has been named the best golf course in the Caribbean and Mexico by publications such as GolfWeek.

Corales Golf Club, designed by Tom Fazio

Nestled among cliffs and bays, this 18-hole course offers six oceanfront holes. The final three holes, known as “The Devil’s Elbow,” are world-famous for their difficulty and spectacular nature. It hosts the only PGA TOUR tournament in the country and is considered one of the jewels of Caribbean golf.

Corales Punta Cana Championship

It has been held six times to date, establishing itself as an important stop on the PGA Tour calendar. The most recent edition, in 2025, crowned South African Garrick Higgo as its champion.

The Corales Punta Cana Championship is characterized by the diversity of nationalities it brings together. In the 2025 edition, 132 golfers from approximately 20 countries across five continents participated. While the American representation is traditionally the largest, the tournament also features a significant presence of players from:

–  Europe: Golfers from countries with a strong tradition in the sport, such as England, Sweden, and Denmark, are regular competitors.

– Latin America: The region has had a notable participation over the years, with players from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Venezuela, and, of course, the Dominican Republic.

– Other regions: It is also common to see athletes from countries such as Canada, Australia and South Africa competing for the coveted trophy.

This international character not only enhances the competition but also positions the Dominican Republic as a world-class golf destination.

Other Golf Courses

Other notable courses worth mentioning for their quality and design include:

La Cana Golf Club
A popular 27-hole course with ocean views in the Punta Cana Resort & Club area.

Hard Rock Golf Club at Cana Bay
An 18-hole course designed by Jack Nicklaus, located in the Cana Bay area.

Iberostar Bávaro Golf Club
An 18-hole course located in the Bávaro Beach area.

Punta Blanca Golf Club
Another high-quality 18-hole course in the Bávaro Beach area.

Cocotal Golf & Country Club
A 27-hole course designed by Pepe Gancedo, located on the grounds of a former coconut plantation.

The Lakes at Barcelo Golf Course
This Redesigned 18-hole course is a masterpiece within the mangroves, designed by P.B. Dye.

The most challenging holes

The most challenging holes on Punta Cana’s main courses include Corales Golf Club’s 18th hole (“The Anchor” or “Devil’s Elbow“), known for playing over the ocean and its green overlooking the bay, and Punta Espada’s 15th hole, which demands playing over the water and is a Jack Nicklaus masterpiece. Some holes on La Cana’s courses also stand out, bordering the sea in spectacular fashion.

Hole 18: “The Anchor” or “Devil’s Elbow”, Corales Golf Club

This is considered one of the most iconic holes in the Caribbean and the most challenging at Corales Golf Club. It features a shot over the Atlantic Ocean, with the sea as a backdrop, making it visually spectacular and difficult to play. The green is suspended over Corales Bay, offering a unique experience.

Hole 15: Punta Espada Golf Club

This hole is a Nicklaus masterpiece, famous for demanding play over the water and being part of a design that borders the Caribbean Sea. Punta Espada is considered one of the best courses in the Caribbean, and the 15th hole contributes to its reputation as a challenge for players.

Accommodations and Services

The golf clubs and resorts in Punta Cana offer a wide range of services and amenities, including world-class golf courses, clubhouses, restaurants and bars, access to private beaches with infinity pools. There are also activities such as water sports, spas, wellness centers, casinos and family entertainment, in addition to golf club rentals and beach shuttles.

If you want to learn to play or improve your technique, Punta Cana offers instruction and course options. Punta Cana offers various golf academies and instruction programs for all levels, from beginners to experienced players, with options such as golf clinics, individual or group lessons at renowned courses such as Casa de Campo, Cocotal Golf, Barceló Bávaro and La Cana Golf Club. These programs utilize advanced technology such as Trackman simulators and offer comprehensive training in all areas of the game.

Instruction Type

• Individual and Group Lessons: You can choose personalized lessons or join groups to learn different aspects of the game.
• Clinics and Camps: Intensive sessions and golf camps are offered to improve your skills and take your game to the next level.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Some centers, such as Casa de Campo, use Trackman simulators for more precise training throughout the year.

Prices

Here are approximate prices to play at the different Golf Clubs. Please note that prices vary depending on the schedule, season, and equipment required. Check the golf club’s website for more info:

La Cana Golf Club: from 165 usd

Punta Espada Golf Club: from 395 usd

Cocotal Golf Club: from 275 usd

Corales Golf Club: from 395 usd

Iberostar Golf Course: from 209 usd

Barcelo Golf Club: from $95

Hard Rock Golf Club: from $250

Best Time to play Golf in Punta Cana

The best time of year to play golf in Punta Cana is from December to April, during the dry season, which offers warm weather, less rain, and sunny days. However, this is peak season with more tourists, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure the desired times and prices.

Conclusions

In short, more than just a place to play, Punta Cana offers a comprehensive, luxurious, and memorable golf experience that satisfies both the passionate amateur and the most demanding professional. Combined with the region’s luxury resorts, warm hospitality and a year-round sunshine, Punta Can truly shines as a premier destination where the love of golf meets paradise.