Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera

Vista Vallarta - Tom Weiskopf Design

MAZATLAN - punta mita - RIVIERA NAYARIT - vallarta - costa alegre - manzanillo - ACAPULCO

MEXICO TOURISM BOARD Golf in Mexico Supplement

TOP 20 GOLF COURSE COMMUNITIES IN MEXICO The BEST places to invest or retire in Mexican Riviera

GREG NORMAN PERSON OF THE YEAR The Legend the life and the Legacy

Mexican riviera

NINETEEN world class chaMpionship golf courses

Publisher’s Letter Best’s Golf Guide to Mexico 1540 South Coast Highway #206 Laguna Beach, Caliifornia 92651 USA (949) 494-8561 • (949) 494-9292 fax www.golfinmexico.net Publisher Charles Kinder Associate Publisher Fabiola Thébaud-Kinder Creative Director Analise Hannah Art Director Ara Bedelian Editor Maria Ring Special Thanks to: Kristen Purll Jaime Alvarez del Castillo Enrique Castellanos Marta Cereghino Ralph Coster Carlos Hampe Sho Kaneko John Lara Jose Antonio Murillo Cayetana De Regil Chris Partida Eva Evans Advertising Sales Offices USA Eleanor Kreis (949) 494-8561 Guadalajara Andrés Castellanos (333) 640-1180 Cancun Arianna Conde Ferrini (998) 841-3919 Puerto Vallarta Carlos Farias (322) 225-8158 Riviera Nayarit Golf Fam Trip 2012 Location: Jack Nicklaus Golf Academy

To advertise in Best’s Golf Guides, visit: www.golfguidetomexico.com

Published semi-annually by Golf Publishing International, a California Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission from Golf Publishing International. Every Effort was made to insure the accuracy of the material presented. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions of data for golf courses, facilities, resorts or rates. © Copyright 2012SF

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Table of Contents

MAZATLAN - punta mita - RIVIERA NAYARIT - vallarta - costa alegre - manzanillo - ACAPULCO

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4 6 8 8

10 24

Top Real Estate Communities in Mexico IDEAL FOR SECOND HOME FOR RETIREMENT

30 31 10

32 2012 PERSON OF THE YEAR

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Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera 3

CLUBCORP

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LOCATION

Puerto Vallarta

COURSES

18 holes; Jack Nicklaus Signature 18 holes; Tom Weiskopf Signature

CONTACT KC Crandall, Director of Golf Vista Vallarta: 011-52-322-290-0030 Marina Vallarta: 011-52-322-221-0073 www.vallartagolfclubs.com

Vista Vallarta 18 hole complex designed by Jack Nicklau

Vista Vallarta 18 hole complex designed by Tom Weiskopf

www.hotelcasavelas.com

www.plazapelicanos.com.mx

www.marival.com

www.villagroupresorts.com

www.crownparadise.com

www.plazapelicanos.com.mx

http://www.velasvallarta.com/

www.puertovallartamarriott.com/

Great Stay and Play Packages at All of Our Partner Resorts www.best4mexicoteetimes.com

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9th Hole, Par 3, 145 Yards - El Corazon de Manzanillo

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Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera  9

GRAND BAY

O

n the Pacific Coast of Mexico, the Wyndham Grand Resort–Isla Navidad

is the centerpiece of a private, 1200-acre estate first admired by Hernán Cortés in 1524. Bordered by ocean-sculpted coves and a beautiful lagoon, the hotel is designed to reflect the rich heritage and culture of Mexico. Stunning and spacious guest rooms with marble floors and private balconies with views of water in the Marina, Lagoon or Ocean…Fine dining and top notch service to each guest. The hotel is a AAA 4 Diamond Award winner.

GOLF AT ISLA NAVIDAD: The 27-hole championship course, with greens carved into ocean dunes against a spectacular backdrop of mountains was conceived

by Robert von Hagge and is one of his masterpieces. This outstanding golf course has maintained its top 10 ranking for Resort courses in Mexico. Located minutes away from the Wyndham Grand Resort, the Clubhouse is designed in Mexican colonial style, with some 60,000 square feet of construction, complete facilities for men and women, comfortable and inviting. The two-story pro shop provides a complete line of golf accessories, and it boasts a full service restaurant and 19th hole. real estate: Isla Navidad's Master Plan includes a selection of prime locations for its limited edition of luxury condominiums. Hand-pick your perfect hideaway by the golf course and enjoy unobstructed views of the greens and fairways, live the Mediterranean lifestyle close to the marina, or go for the breathtaking vistas of ocean, lagoon, and distant blue mountains.

In perfect harmony with the environment, the condominiums' architecture has a distinct Mexican style. The spacious interiors are an invitation to a free and easy lifestyle, surrounded with the utmost comfort and finesse.

MARINA ISLA NAVIDAD: Located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, between Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta, the resort is just 25 minutes away by car or from Manzanillo’s Playa de Oro International Airport. Manzanillo (ZLO) has direct flights from Los Angeles, Phoenix and Huston and connecting flights from Mexico City. The 207-slip marina accommodates boats from 30 to 150 feet. Electrical wiring, fresh potable water, and fire main systems connect conveniently at the

10 Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera

gangway. Additional services, such as a fitness center and spa, wireless internet and laundry. Guests using the services of The Marina Isla Navidad can also use the swimming pool and golf course and it offers diesel, Magna and Premium gasoline.

Nearby Recreation: Barra de Navidad, a friendly, traditional village with cobblestone streets, authentic seafood restaurants, shops and open-air market stands, is located right across the harbor via water taxi. Guests can also enjoy horseback riding and a wide array of water sports including some of the best deep sea fishing available on the Pacific Ocean.

Other amenities: The Wyndham Grand Resort is a wonderful wedding and honeymoon destination, providing spectacular outdoor venues and style for any size ceremony. Corporate golf retreats are a perfect fit at Wyndham Grand Resort.

Isla Navidad is a must stay and play for a unique and "away from it all" Golf Getaway in Mexico.

www.golfinmexico.net

For more information go to http://www.wyndham.com/hotels/ZLOGB/main.wnt or call 52-314-3310500

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Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera 11

SIGN ME UP!!

Vista Vallarta - Nicklaus Design Group

2012 MEXICO, THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW... GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW Mexico has a rich history of golf dating back to the 1890’s when some of the British Communities in the mining city of Pachuca, Hidalgo determined that all that was missing in Mexico was a golf course, hence a thirteen hole dirt golf course was created with greens made of sand and burnt oil. They called it the Pachuca Country Club. Mexico's 223 golf courses sport a variety of features including aqua blue waters accenting spectacular beaches, plush green paspalum grass, and fairways. In jungle settings and historic colonial towns, visit the best courses of Mexico - built by world class top designers like, Nicklaus, Player, Norman, Doak, von Hagge, Love III and Trent Jones II. With over 700,000 golfers traveling to Mexico each year, Mexico remains the #1 International Golf Destination for US Golfers. Discover the Mexico you need to know….Play Golf in Mexico…NOW

GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW

2012 2012

Isla Navidad, Robert von Hagge

MEXICAN RIVIERA

G

ood golf travel advice would not be complete without some focus on the Mexican Riviera, located along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. From Mazatlan to Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, Ixtapa and south to Acapulco, this area has a legitimate claim to some of the BEST GOLF in the world.

MAZATLAN

Mazatlan is on the northern tip of the Mexican Riviera.

El Cid, the mainstay, is home to a Lee Treviño designed nine hole expansion for a total of 27 holes of playable golf. Down the beach, Estrella del Mar Golf Course (25) has a top-rated Robert Trent Jones II course with eleven holes on the water. Recently opened, is a stylish David Fleming designed Marina Mazatlan Golf Club (New).

THE TWO VALLARTAS

minutes north of Puerto Vallarta is Punta de Mita, with two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses, the top rated Pacifico (3) and the new Bahia (14). New to this area is a championship Greg Norman design at Litibu (20).

MANZANILLO

Las Hadas and its Roy Dye designed La Mantarraya (30) began the move to hire top-rated architects to design courses in Mexico. Close by is Isla Navidad (10), a von Hagge masterpiece with 27 holes of oceanfront and lagoon nines. Just north is the fantastic jungle on the ocean El Tamarindo (5), designed

by David Fleming. Enrique Valenzuela created a private golf experience called El Corazon de Manzanillo (New).

IXTAPA

Ixtapa is home to two courses; Palma Real by Robert Trent Jones II and Robert von Hagge’s Marina Ixtapa Golf Course.

Nearby is the lovely Zihuatanejo for an old world experience.

Puerto Vallarta is home to The Vista Vallarta Golf Club and its two championship courses, one by Tom Weiskopf (7) and ACAPULCO the other by Jack Nicklaus (6). Both of which have hosted the further south, the Mexican Riviera is being restored to its luster, PGA-sponsored World Cup in 2002 and The Champions Tour partly through an initiative by the Mexican Tourism Board and Carlos Slim, in 2006. Also under ClubCorp management is the Marina Val- and partly due to the top-rated Tres Vidas Golf Club (4). This plush, private larta Golf Course (27). Across the Rio Ameca Bridge northward, country club, is an incredible von Hagge lay-out hugging the Pacific Ocean, one will find several golf properties. The Mayan Resort (New) using the offshore breezes as friend and foe. Work has been completed on now features its recently redone Nicklaus designed course. Next the Fairmont's Acapulco Princess (26) and a new layout called Turtle door is Paradise Village, with its top-ranked Robert von Hagge Dunes. The Mayan Acapulco Resort has an enjoyable and playable 18 hole designed El Tigre Golf Course (12) with 11 water holes. 40 golf course designed by Pedro Güereca. Acapulco offers great golf followed by the best nightlife in Mexico. Golf by day, dance by night.

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GOLF GUIDE TO MEXICAN RIVIERA SUPPLEMENT

THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW

2012

MEXICO’S TOP GOLF RESORTS IN THE MEXICAN RIVIERA - PACIFIC COAST Comfort and style you can count on...these world-class GOLF resorts offer the BEST in luxury and service on the Mexican Riviera. Experience the traditional service and the warmth of Mexico…later to be cooled by the pool after golf. REST well....

PLAY well.

EL CID EL MORO BEACH El Cid Marina Beach Hotel, one of three hotel complexes owned by El Cid truly offers the best of both worlds. Only minutes from the colorful festivals, attractions, and restaurants of the Golden Zone. Av. Camaron Sabalo S/N PO Box 813 Mazatlan, Sinaloa.

1-800-525-1925 www.elcid.com/marina_beach/

PARADISE VILLAGE/EL TIGRE Paradise Village is quietly tucked away on the north shores of Puerto Vallarta with its alluring, unspoiled beaches of Nuevo Vallarta. It is here that Paradise Village Beach Resort and Spa occupies a fabulous, private, 12-acre peninsula embraced by the sapphire seas of Banderas Bay on one side and a world-class marina on the other. Paseo de los Cocoteros # 1 local 16 int 7 Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit.

1-866-334-6080 www.paradisevillage.com

GRAND BAY/ISLA NAVIDAD Experience the luxury of modern conveniences complemented by the charms of Old Mexico at Grand Bay Hotel - Isla Navidad Resort in Manzanillo, Mexico. Situated on the glittering Pacific Coast, against a spectacular mountain backdrop, this magnificent AAA 4 Diamond Hotel is the ideal destination for Mexico vacations. Circuito de los Marinos S/N Fracc. Isla Navidad Manzanillo, Colima.

1-800 849 2373 www.islanavidad.com.mx

ACAPULCO PRINCESS Discover the enchanting paradise: The Fairmont Acapulco Princess. Set among tall palm trees and lush tropical blooms on the Pacific Coast, this gateway to enchantment holds the key to your ultimate vacation and experience in Mexico. Abandon yourself to The Fairmont Acapulco Princess -- where fantasy and reality meet. Playa Revolcadero S/N Col. Granjas del Marques Acapulco, Guerrero.

1-800-441-1414 www.fairmont.com/acapulco

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GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW

2012

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5

3

4

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(1) Jeffery Nordling, (2) Robbie Williams (3) Rafael Campos (4) Lorena Ochoa (5) Jesse Ventura (6) Greg Norman

WHAT CELEBRITIES ARE SAYING

will receive proceeds from the 2012 Soccer Aid. He will also be creating a short film that was aired during the Soccer Aid. Jesse Mexico’s celebrity appeal continues as bright as the stars that Ventura loves to reside in his Los Cabos home, after a court fiasco visit and play world class golf in Mexico. Justin Bieber just recently that took place in 2011. Golf course designer Greg Norman put on a free, open air concert in Mexico City that attracted more appeared in his first Humana Challenge since 1986 back in the then 200,000 fans. Lady Gaga was seen surfing the clear waters beginning of the year and now is continuing to work with his in Sayulita and the Kardashian family is never far from the warm, design team to create more amazing golf courses. sunny beaches. Even President Obama himself was in Los Cabos, Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park offers more star sightings along with many finance leaders as they met for the G20 Summit. and celebrity encounters of the aquatic kind than Hollywood can Although they were all there for important business, they none shake an Oscar at. So grab your camera and head off the beaten the less soaked up all the sun they could. path, where Cabo Pulmo rolls out the blue carpet for ocean fanatTiger Wood’s love for Mexico is legendary as he has won ics everywhere. Costa Careyes has long been the hideaway for the multiple Majors in the US and then headed directly to Cancun rich and famous from the days of Robin Leach. President of or Los Cabos to savor his victories.

France, Nicolas Sarkozy, really enjoyed a well deserved break In the mean time the most influential celebrity in world of at El Tamarindo and now the French are enchanted with a golf for the last decade, Jack Nicklaus has claimed Mexico as an new luxury retreat in Mexico. expanding canvas for his world wide acclaimed golf course Mexico has a grand history of stars and celebrities from designs with a scattering of 24 top rated golf courses through the early film days, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton left out the entire county. Lorena Ochoa is the goodwill ambas- there mark on Puerto Vallarta, Bing Crosby, John Wayne and sador of Mexico with her charm and grace. Sammy Hager Desi Arnez were all fans of Acapulco and the Baja. Come live has made a home in Los Cabos with his Cabo Wabo. Oscar the grand life as well…the red carpet is out, your special table for de la Hoya loves golf and fishing and can’t get enough of two is reserved by candle light. Join the many celebrity and pro Mexico. Robbie Williams was in Mexico City for a UNICEF am tournament events, or special concerts with top headliners, charity event, helping to raise awareness about the children that culture and music for all ages. The TIME to GO! Is NOW.

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GOLF GUIDE TO MEXICAN RIVIERA SUPPLEMENT

THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW

2012

TOURNAMENTS - THE BEST PROFESSIONAL MENS & LADIES Televised golf throughout Mexico has brought the sights and sounds of the Professional and Amateur tournaments to millions of viewers around the world. Thanks to all of the producers, promoters, professionals and participants that these events bring.

PGA TOUR FEBRUARY MAYAKOBA GOLF CLASSIC

MONTERREY SEPTEMBER RIVIERA NAYARIT CLASSIC

The first PGA tour event in the Yucatan.

El Camaleon golf course by Greg Norman shows off the best of the Cancun Riviera Maya area. www.mayakobagolfclassic.com

Second stop on the NEW PGA LatinoAmerica tour at the La Harradura GC, Monterrey. www.pgatourla.com

NATIONWIDE TOUR JUNE MEXICO OPEN

SCPGA PRO-AM OCTOBER LOS CABOS

The Mexican Open or Abierto Mexicano de Golf is a national open tournament, taking place in 2012 in El Bosque Golf Club, León. www.pgatour.com/tournaments/h095

One Club Golf Professional with four Amatures playing three great courses, Palmilla, Cabo Real and Club Campestre San Jose. www.golfinmexico.net/dilc12/index.htm

YUCATAN COUNTRY CLUB NOV MERIDA

INVITATIONAL LPGA NOVEMBER LORENA OCHOA

First stop on the NEW PGA Latino America tour at the La Harradura GC, Monterrey. www.pgatourla.com

Guadalajara GC is the home course to Mexico’s female golfer, Lorena Ochoa.

In 2011 Catriona Matthew defeated I.K. Kim. www.lpga.com

TOUR LAS AMERICAS MAY ACAPULCO PRINCESS

MUNDO MAYA OPEN SEPT PARADISE VILLAGE

Televisa TLA Players Championship Acapulco Princess is a classic Ted Robinson, palm tree-lined resort layout. Acapulco, Mexico. www.tourdelasamericas.com

Second Stop on the NEW PGA Latinomerica tour at the La Herradura GC, Monterrey. www.pgatourla.com

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GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW

2012

GREAT GOLF...GREAT SPAS MEXICO HAS IT ALL World renown spas beckon your tired and aching bodies... rejuvinate, meditate, relax. Enjoy and unwind with the best spas in Mexico after your golf outing. Go ahead, you deserve it. Make a spa visit part of your golf experience!

APUANA SPA AT FOUR SEASONS http://www.fourseasons.com/

RENOVA SPA http://www.renovaspa.com/

METAMORPHOSIS DAY SPA http://www.metamorfosisdayspa.com/

LAS ALMANDAS http://www.alamandas.com/

HOTELITO DESCONCIDO http://www.hotelito.com/

PUNTA SERENA VILLAS AND SPA http://www.puntaserena.com/

GRAN VELAS http://rivieramaya.grandvelas.com/

HEALING HANDS MASSAGE & AYURVEDA SPA http://www.tridosha.com/

OHTLI SPA, CASAMAGNA MARRIOTT http://www.marriott.com/

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GOLF GUIDE TO MEXICAN RIVIERA SUPPLEMENT

THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW

2012

GOLF IN MEXICO REAL ESTATE AND GOLF COURSE DEVELOPMENTS - UPDATE With over $100 billion in build out development under way…now is the time to find your dream home in Mexico. On the golf course, in a gated community, in a high rise, a hillside villa, or a quaint little bungalow. Enjoy the unique lifestyle that only Mexico can offer!

La Paz / Costa Baja

Loreto / Loreto Bay

Los Cabos / Puerto Los Cabos

http://www.costabaja.com/

http://www.innloretobay.com/

http://www.puertoloscabos.com/

Mazatlan / Estrella Del Mar

Mérida / Yucatan Country Club

Los Cabos / El Dorado

http://yucatancountry.com/

http://www.eldoradogolfandbeachclub.com/

Nayarit / Punta Mita

Nayarit / Paradise Village

http://www.estrelladelmar.com/index.asp

Manzanillo / Grand Bay

http://www.wyndham.com/

http://www.fourseasons.com/puntamita/

GOLF GUIDE TO MEXICAN RIVEIRA SUPPLEMENT

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http://www.paradisevillage.com/

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GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW

2012

BEST’S GOLF GUIDE TO MEXICO TOP 30 AWARDS TOP 30 RESORT

TOP 30 PRIVATE

1

Cabo del Sol Golf Ocean

1

El Dorado Golf Course

2

Palmilla Golf Club

2

Club de Golf Mexico

3

Punta Mita Pacifico

3

Guadalajara Country Club

4

El Camaleón Mayakobá

4

Club de Golf Tres Vidas

5

El Tamarindo Golf

5

Querencia Golf Club

6

Vista Vallarta Nicklaus

6

Yucatan Country Club

7

Vista Vallarta Weiskopf

7

Bosque Real Country Club

8

Cabo Real Golf Course

8

Las Misiones Club Campestre

9

Moon Palace

9

Club de Golf Chapultepec

10

Isla Navidad Country Club

10

La Loma Campo de Golf

11

Cabo del Sol Golf Desert

11

Tres Marias

12

El Tigre Paradise Village

12

Atlas Country Club

13

Riviera Maya Golf Club

13

Club Campestre Monterrey

14

Punta Mita Bahia

14

Club de Golf La Hacienda

15

Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club

15

Club de Golf Los Encinos

16

Playas Mujeres

16

Diamante Dunes

17

Club Campestre San Jose

17

El Rio Country Club

18

Playacar Club de Golf

18

Club Campestre Mexico

19

Puerto Los Cabos

19

Club de Golf Malinalco

20

Litibu Golf Club

20

Club de Golf Bellavista

21

Costa Baja Golf Course

21

Las Lomas Club de Golf

22

Riviera Cancun

22

Santa Anita Club de Golf

23

Cozumel Country Club

23

Club de Golf Valle Escondido

24

Mayan Peninsula de Cortes

24

Club de Golf Bosques

25

Estrella del Mar Golf Course

25

Club Campestre El Campanario

26

Club de Golf Acapulco Princess

26

La Vista Country Club& Golf

27

Marina Vallarta Club de Golf

27

Club de Golf Los Tabachines

28

Club de Golf Los Flamingos

28

El Cielo (Palomar) Country Club

29

Cabo San Lucas CC

29

Lomas Country Club

30

Las Hadas, La Mantarraya Course

30

Club de Golf Valle Alto

30b

The Links at Las Palomas

30b

Tijuana Country Club

To vote for YOUR Favorite Courses, go to: http://www.golfinmexico.net/top30/

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GOLF GUIDE TO MEXICAN RIVIERA SUPPLEMENT

THE PLACE YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW

2012

NEW RESORT AND PRIVATE COURSES IN MEXICO Come play these new courses, ranging from ocean-desert links to flowing inland fairways and plush green tropics. You and your favorite foursome are invited to discover these great new courses. Tell your friends that you were one of the first to play...

DIAMANTE CABO SAN LUCAS

LITIBU RIVIERA NAYARIT

A David Love III design, Diamante has inviting greens and endless views of the Pacific.

1-866-901-1456 www.diamantecabosanlucas.com

The start of a three resort development planned by Fonatur, Litibu is 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta.

1-877-847-8183 www.fonatur.gob.mx

BAHIA PRINCIPE RIVIERA MAYA GOLF CLUB

BAHIA DE LOS SUEﾃ前S LA PAZ - SEA OF CORTEZ

The Mayan jungle been integrated in to this 27 hole course designed by Robert Trent Jones II. 1-800-568-950 www.riveramaya-golfclub.com

This Tom Doak design has desert terrain, oceanfront topography and impressive vistas of the Sea of Cortez.

1-866-202-0789 www.bahiasuenosgolf.com

CAMPESTRE DE LEON LEON

COSTA BAJA LA PAZ

This David Fleming designed course is a particularly beautiful 18-hole golf course in Leon.

1-477-214-2129 www.clubcampestredeleon.com

A beautiful Gary Player designed course features breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez.

1-866-409-9940 www.costabaja.com

RIVIERA CANCUN CANCUN

VENTANAS SAN MIGUEL SAN MIGUEL

The golf course at Riviera Cancun is a Signature Designed course by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.

1-800-635-1836 www.palaceresorts.com

A balanced golf experience including natural surroundings, and a design by Nick Faldo.

1-520-829-0558 www.ventanasdesanmiguel.com

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GOLF COURSES YOU NEED TO KNOW

2012

Golf Contacts Federacion Mexicana de Golf Mexican Golf Federation www.fmg.org.mx

Golf Architects

David Fleming golfpropertiesdesign.com

Jack Nicklaus www.nicklaus.com

Greg Norman www.shark.com

Robert von Hagge www.vonhagge.com

Pedro Guereca www.pedroguereca.com

Gary Player www.garyplayer.com

Nick Price www.nickprice.com

Robert Trent Jones www.rtj2.com

P.B DYE www.pbdyegolf.com

Davis Love www.lovegolf-design.com

Nick Faldo www.nickfaldo.com

BEST4GOLF www.best4golf.com

Schmidt Curley www.schmidt-curley.com

Ernie Els www.ernieels.com

Mexico Online www.mexonline.com

Enrique Valenzuela valenzuelagolfdesign.com

Know Mexico www.knowmexico.com

Forrest Richardson www.golfgroupltd.com

Mexican PGA www.pgam.com.mx Internacional Golf Federation internationalgolffederation.org Mex Caribbean Golf Association www.cancungolf.org

Travel Contacts

www.visitmexico.com

Tourism Contacts CONSEJO www.visitmexico.com

Golf Websites www.golfinmexico.net www.infogolf.com www.golf.com.mx www.elrumboesgolf.com. mx www.purogolf.com www.loscabosgolf.com

Golf Publications www.golfguidetomexico. com www.golflifetravel.com golfluxurydestinations. com www.inrivieramaya.com www.editorialorange.com www.editorialtelevisa.com

Golf Marketing/ Strategy Executive Golf International www.execgolfintl.com

Golf Online Tee Times best4mexicoteetimes.com www.golfswitch.com www.egolf.com www.golfcabos.com

Golf Management Companies Troon Golf www.troongolf.com Club Corp www.ourclub.com Questro Golf www.questrogolf.com Mayan Group www.vidantagolf.com Mega Tourism www.megatourismo.com

Palace Resorts www.palaceresorts.com OB Sports Golf Management www.obsports.com

Golf Newsletters El Rumbo es Golf golfnewsletter@purogolf. com.mx TARGET GOLF Newsletter www.golfguidetomexico.com/ target.htm Boomer Golf News www.boomergolfnews.com On the Lip www.onthelip.com

Real Estate www.mexicogolfrealty. com

1-800-44 MEXICO (1-800 446 3942)

MEXICO REAL ESTATE

Top 20 Golf Course Communities in Mexico

By Chuck Kinder

N

ot all golfers seeking retirement, investment, second homes or condos are looking for golf course communities. After all, not all residents of golf course communities are golfers, but they do like to be near great golf in Mexico.

Real Estate marketers seek out golfers as a desirable target group known for their higher net worth, premium spending for airlines, hotels, restaurants and real estate. Golfers tend to travel and love to play golf year round, which is something that Mexico offers.

The fact is, today the economic balance in real estate has shifted from a seller’s market to a buyer’s delight, especially in the search for homes in the US. The Mexican real estate market should expect the same. Mexico has over $300 billion worth of build out value in the planning stage or in process of development. All of Latin America is aware of Mexico’s real estate growth as an investment opportunity with plenty of direct flights from Rio, Buenos Aires, Lima and Bogotá.

Sustainable, eco-sensitive, smart homes are the buzz words of the day, and projects that promote these concepts are reaping the benefits and separating themselves from the competition. The growth of world class golf in the key areas of Los Cabos, Vallarta and Cancun / Riviera Maya have helped stimulate and enhance accumulated appreciation of real estate projects.

The US and European Union lead the way with experienced and well financed companies planting the seeds for over 30 new golf courses with designer labels like Nicklaus, Fazio, Dye, Love, Player, Norman, Doak and even Tiger Woods.

You can bet that all of these courses are real estate plays: hotels, full ownership and fractional ownership homes, villas, and condos, and to some degree, time shares, residence clubs, or exchange clubs. Where to live and invest is a matter of preference, knowledge of locations in Mexico, proximity to airports, health services, safety and sanitation. Typically golfers who have traveled about Mexico have experienced one or more destinations, and are attracted to areas with multiple courses to choose from, among daily fee, resort courses, or private country clubs.

Although beach destinations are the favored location for many US and Canadian second home or retirement investors, inland cities are getting on board and are becoming attractive due to lower cost of land and housing, living expenses, fee simple title, and thriving US ex-PAT communities. Areas such as Ajijic /Lake Chapala near Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende, and Merida are fast becoming terrific communities befitting old world colonies, with modern health services, gourmet restaurants, and private country club amenities at respectable rates.

We have created a directory of select real estate projects and golf course communities in most of Mexico’s key locations. Some are private, guard-gated golf communities, while others are stand-alone condos, villas, single family homes, or townhouses near golf courses. For your convenience we have an updated website featuring these same properties at www.golfinmexico.net/re_dir or www.mexicogolfrealty.com Mexico has become more American consumer friendly with the availability of title insurance and escrow companies, which assure secure title and transfer of funds, and ease in the closing process.

About the only thing left to do is to pack your clubs, clothes, and sun lotion and head south for a look at your next new home. For a primer and your own quick tour guide of golfer’s paradise, take a read of the areas mentioned below:

24 Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera

Chuck Kinder Panelist, Speaker, Writer Publisher/President Golf Publishing International

www.golfinmexico.net

Vi s t a Va l l a r t a 36 hole complex

created by

Jack Nicklaus &

To m W e i s k o p f

25 Best’s Golf Guide Mexican Riviera

www.golfinmexico.net

MEXICO REAL ESTATE MEXICAN RIVIERA Good golf travel advice would not be complete without some focus on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, more specifically, the Mexican Riviera. From Mazatlán to Puerto Vallarta, and Manzanillo south to Acapulco, this area has a legitimate claim to some of the most picturesque golf in the world.

The two VALLARTAs Puerto Vallarta, with commanding views of Banderas Bay, is far from a lazy onecourse town. The Vista Vallarta Golf Club, with its two dynamic championship courses, having hosted the PGA-sponsored World Cup in December 2002 and The Champions Tour in 2006, is making the Vallarta area a major golf destination in Mexico. Occupying the property’s highest elevations, Vista Vallarta’s first course designed by Nicklaus offers golfers a variety of terrain and challenges as they play across rolling hillsides, dense palm forests, giant ficus trees, and at least a dozen natural arroyos. With dramatic views of the town and bay, golfers will want to play this course twice—once with a camera, and again with their clubs. The other Vista Vallarta course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, takes players across deep natural ravines and swift creeks that are characteristic of the property’s lowest elevations. Weiskopf has done a masterful job of working the terrain’s natural features into an incredible, playable and memorable course, from the first tee to the green of the “drivable” 18th hole.

The Marina Vallarta Golf Course, designed by Joe Finger, was Puerto Vallarta’s first golf course. Located between the marina and the ocean, the course is owned and managed by ClubCorp. Resident Director of Golf, KC Crandall, maintains U.S. standards, services and upkeep.

By crossing the Rio Ameca Bridge northward, into the State of Nayarit, and then the Nuevo Vallarta area, one will find several golf properties. The Mayan Resort, a highly successful timeshare project with mfive locations throughout Mexico, has just completed a redo of its entire 18-hole golf course by the Nicklaus design team.

Next door is Paradise Village, the super sports residential resort complex, and a one-of-a-kind property in Mexico catering mainly to families. Its top-ranked Robert von Hagge golf course has 11 water holes. Paradise Village has a complete range of real estate offerings from marina villas, Porto Royal, ocean view high rise condos and golf course single family home sites on the El Tigre golf course.

In this community, you will also find several unique, independent developments that cater to active seniors looking for Paradise.

The Costa Bandera area is north of Nuevo Vallarta and before Punta de Mita.

Approximately forty minutes north of Puerto Vallarta is the master-planned residential resort community of Punta de Mita, in the state of Nayarit. A huge success story developed by Grupo Dine, Punta Mita Resort has two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses designed as a semi-private club for hotel guests and Punta Mita residents and their invited guests. The Pacific Golf Course, which opened in 1999, has either 8 holes on the Pacific Ocean or Banderas Bay, with a challenging Hole 3B, also known as “the Tail of the Whale”, with its impressive, optional island green which is accessible by amphibious golf cart depending on the tide. The Bahia Golf Course, which opened 10 years after The Pacific Golf Course, has a noteworthy hole alongside the beach, next to the famous El Faro surf spot. Punta Mita includes Four Seasons’ and St. Regis’ first resort hotels in Latin America. These luxurious hotels accommodate the most sophisticated, discriminating travelers who spare no expense.

26 Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera

"Pacifico Golf Course was named the number one golf course in the world by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler,"

www.golfinmexico.net

Tail of the Whale,

The

only natural island green in the world

Pacifico Golf Course by

Jack Nicklaus

MEXICO REAL ESTATE

MEXICAN RIVIERA Tres Vidas Acapulco, Guerrero MX: 01 (744) 444-5126 www.tresvidas.com.mx Robert von Hagge golf course design.

Estrella del Mar

Sensara Vallarta

Mazatlan, Sinaloa US: 1 (800) 967-1889 www.estrelladelmar.com Robert Trent Jones II designed golf.

Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 386-4976 www.sensaravallarta.com Active adult living along El Tigre Golf Course.

Marina Mazatlan Mazatlan, Sinaloa MX: 011 52 (669) 998-0484 www.marinamazatlan.com.mx New golf course designed by David Fleming.

Turtle Dunes Country Club

Serena Marina & Golf Residences

Acapulco, Guerrero MX: 011 52 (744) 469-1000 www.turtledunescc.com Site of Lorena Ochoa Golf Academy.

Mazatlan, Sinaloa MX: 52 (669) 126-8094 www.serenaresidences.com Affordable residential condos with marina frontage.

Vallarta Gardens La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 598-2580 MX: 01 (800) 229-2583 www.vallartagardens.com Unique residences part of the Registry Collection Exchange Program.

Luma Living

Lagos del Mar Punta Mita Punta Mita, Nayarit MX: 011 52 (800) 814-2133 www.lapuntarealty.com Realty next to two Jack Nicklaus designed golf courses.

Manzanillo, Colima US: 1 (866) 601-2090 MX: 01 (555) 292-0100 www.bvg.com.mx/english Oceanfront residential living.

Mazatlan, Sinaloa US: 1 (800) 525-1925 MX: 01 (800) 716-9800 www.elcid.com 27championship holes incuding a Lee Travino 9-hole expansion.

Emerald Estates, Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan, Sinaloa US: 1 (619) 793-4907 MX: 01 (669) 998-0691 www.pbemeraldstates.com Greg Norman golf course design

28  Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera

Puerto Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 601-2090 MX: 01 (555) 292-0100 www.bvg.com.mx/english Oceanfront residential living.

Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (866) 554-5862 MX: 01 (800) 123-5862 www.lumaliving.com Residences near El Tigre Golf Course.

Isla Navidad

El Cid Resorts

Bay View Grand

Paradise Village El Tigre Golf Course Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit US: 1 (888) 778-3639 www.paradisevillagerealestate.com Robert von Hagge designed course.

La Punta Estates Punta Mita, Nayarit MX: 011 52 (800) 814-2133 www.lapuntarealty.com Realty next to two Jack Nicklaus designed golf courses.

www.golfinmexico.net

Estrella del Mar

golf course dreamed by

Robert Trent Jones, Jr

ESTRELLA DEL MAR

W

Golf and Beach Resort in Mazatlan

ake up to the peaceful sound of the rolling Pacific Ocean. Walk along miles of uninterrupted goldensand beaches. Tee off on your very own championship golf cours e . E s t r e l l a d e l M a r G o l f a n d B e a c h Resort offers owners and visitors these fabulous experiences and much more.

Estrella del Mar is perfectly situated for buyers seeking a second home. Just 10 minutes from the Mazatlán International Airport, this gated American master-planned community, boasts 816 total acres with 3.5 miles of pristine, golden-sand beach. While Estrella del Mar feels like a world unto itself, the legendary local color of Mazatlán is just 30 minutes away. the largest private Turtle Preserve in Mexico, fitness center, tennis, swimming pool, and jacuzzi’s.

Owners and visitors to Estrella del Mar are immediately drawn to the infused architecture and colorful flavor of Old México that brings a stylish, tropical ambience to the property and its surroundings.

Oceanfront condominiums and home sites are just yards away from the rolling surf of the Pacific Ocean. Designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Estrella del Mar’s

30 Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera

championship 18-hole course is one of the top-rated courses in all of México. The golf course winds through the entire resort and serves as the community’s centerpiece. Six of the course’s fairways are situated along the shore with the everphotogenic Pacific as a backdrop.

Estrella del Mar provides opportunity for ownership of luxurious, one, two, or three b edro om condominiums and penthouses. Phase III condominiums offer a variety of floor plans ranging in size from 1,000 to nearly 3,000 square feet, each with exceptional living environments. All are full-ownershi p p r o p e r t i e s secured by Stewar t Title and First Amer ic an Tit l e.

The lush tropical landscaping, beautiful beach, tennis courts, club house, restaurants, and toptier country club amenities and services can also be enjoyed. The newly expanded Wyndham, Las Villas Hotel and Spa provides guests with the ultimate in resort hospitality and comfort.

Estrella del Mar is a community that feels like home from the minute you pass through the gates. We invite you to visit www.estrelladelmar.com to learn more or contact the Customer Relations Office at 1-877-629-2852. 

www.golfinmexico.net

El CID This Is a Golf Destination You Don’t Want to Miss for Next Winter’s Offerings!

M

azatlan, Mexico El Cid Golf Resort Is commited to become positioned as an international golf resort. Sr. Marcelino Moreno, a renowned Mexican golf course architect, has been retained to upgrade the El Cid courses and improve the traveling golfers’ experience. As part of the recognition of their development plan, El Cid is now offering attractive golf packages to the International and domestic golfers and their members, which include golf at the El Cid course, outstanding choice of hotels with ocean view, and great dining experiences. In addition, a special new golf package included two great courses nearby to insure that clients can experience the maximum quality and variety of golf in Mazatlan. Whale Watching and Deep Sea Fishing options add to a memorable stay. Knowing that the traveling golfers are special, the golf packages are all based on El Cid’s Elite All Inclusive Plan. Great value…Great Golf at El Cid Golf Resorts in Mazatlan…for more information go to their website at www.elcid.com or call 1-866-796-5571

www.best4mexicoteetimes.com

Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera 31

Greg Norman

Best’s Golf Guide to Mexico presents:

“Pe r s on of t h e y e a r 2 0 1 2 ”

G

reg Norman has been selected to be the PERSON of the YEAR, 2012 by Golf Publishing International.

With unparalleled charm and energy, Greg Norman, also known as “The Shark,” has won more than 90 professional tournaments around the world, and claims the unique distinction of having held the No. 1 position on the world rankings for 331 weeks.

His crowning achievements are British Open Championships in 1986 and 1993. Norman set the lowest final round score of 64 in 1993, securing his second major at the Open Championship at Royal St. Georges Golf Club. In recognition of his accomplishments both on and off the golf course, Greg was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001.

32 Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera

Greg Norman BEST Golf Guide to Mexico Person of the year 2012

www.golfinmexico.net

Norman became interested in the game of golf at the age of 15, when he offered to caddy for his mother during her regular mid-week game.

Following the round, Norman borrowed her clubs and set out on his own. Just six years after first picking up the game of golf, Norman started his professional career. He would become the first player to surpass more than $10 million in career earnings.

Norman’s aggressive style and charisma delighted fans as he was uniquely different than the other golfers of his time. Norman, who drove the ball incredibly high, long and straight is regarded as one of the best drivers of the golf ball.

As time went on, Norman became more involved in building businesses with his now famous shark logo and the Greg Norman brand. He currently has a variety of signature lines, including: golf apparel and accessories, wine , beef and his signature designed golf courses.

In Mexico, his impact has been profound. Norman’s design of the El Cameleon at Mayakoba is the toprated course in the Riviera Maya, and site of the only PGA TOUR event in Mexico. His other courses include Playa Mujeres in Cancun and his new Litibu creation in Riviera Nayarit. Big things are on the horizon for Greg Norman

goals for your game “isSetting an art. The trick is in setting them at the right level, neither too low nor too high.

- Greg Norman

”

Career Highlights:

1978

Order of Merit: Winner 1980 PGA Tour of Australia

Order of Merit:

Winner

1982 European Tour

Order of Merit: Winner 1983 PGA Tour of Australia

Order of Merit: Winner 1984 PGA Tour of Australia

Order of Merit: Winner 1986 The Open Championship

PGA Tour of Australia

Order of Merit: Winner

PGA Tour Leading Money Winner

1988

PGA Tour of Australia

Order of Merit Winner

Byron Nelson Award 1989 Vardon Trophy 1990 PGA Tour Leading Money Winner Vardon Trophy

Byron Nelson Award 1993 The Open Championship

Byron Nelson Award

1994

Vardon Trophy

Byron Nelson Award 1995 PGA Tour Leading Money Winner

PGA Player of the Year

Byron Nelson Award 2001 World Golf Hall of Fame

2008

Old Tom Morris Award Charlie Bartlett Award

For more information on what’s happening with Greg Norman, go to: www.theshark.com www.best4mexicoteetimes.com

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34 Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera

www.golfinmexico.net

www.best4mexicoteetimes.com

Best’s Golf Guide to Mexican Riviera 35