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Fields of Green
by Vallarta Online Staff | published: 2/10/2004
More putt for less buck
 The Marina golf course is located right in the heart of the exclusive Marina Vallarta area, just minutes away from the airport and minutes away from downtown Vallarta. Within the Marina district, five star and Grand Tourism Resorts line the boat slips and the Bay of Banderas, all offering luxurious surroundings, lodging and amenities, with the golf course just steps away. Where to stay  Avid golfers who want to make the most of their vacation choose the Marriott Casa Magna as one of their favorite hotels to hang their hat. The Marriott offers well appointed rooms with plenty of amenities, lush grounds, beautiful pool, sauna and whirlpool perfect for relaxing after a great day on the greens. Surrounding the Marriott is the Marina boardwalk; filled with shopping, fine dining, bars, and art galleries. If the not-so-avid-golfer doesn't feel like playing 18 holes, there are hundreds of other activities to occupy. Or they can tag along and drive the golf cart for a $30.00 fee payable at the course. Considering three of the 18 holes are on the ocean, this may not be such a bad way to spend a few hours! About the course  Opened in 1986, the Joe Finger designed Marina golf course has become a favorite of locals and visitors alike. The course blends ocean breezes and well established flora and fauna at a price that cannot be beat. Since the course has been around for almost 20 years, the wildlife, trees and flowers flourish. Three small crocodiles call the course home, living in the ponds that line the grounds or in the water hazards, which really give "water hazard" a whole new meaning. Of course, the crocodiles are well fed and don't have a taste for golfers. Marina Vallarta course has 18 holes with 6701 yards and is a 72 par. For the men, there are four par five holes, a 72.8 rating and a slope of 129. For the women, there are five par fives, with a 70.3 rating and a slope of 120.  The course is well maintained having plenty of upgrades over the years and especially after Hurricane Kenna came to dump a load of salt water on two of the ocean side holes in 2002. Now, these same holes are lush and plush with a refreshing ocean breeze and the waves lapping on the shore.The Club The Marina Club de Golf has a wonderful restaurant for inside and outside dining; a Pro-Shop for golfing and attire needs, as well as a showcase from Viva Jewelry (located on Basilio Badillo) filled with "Sorry honey I am late from golfing" gifts, sure to please even the most unhappy mates. If you don't feel like lugging the clubs to Puerto Vallarta, club rentals are available at the Pro-Shop. Both men's and women's clubs are Jack Nicklaus brand, including clubs for lefties. Early risers will appreciate the early T-times; 7:32 AM is the earliest, which can get you in and off the course for a full day of exploring Vallarta. Of course, some may look at this as an opportunity to play a twilight round too.  More green for less greenAs mentioned before, the price is right. A round of golf is normally $99.00, but the Marina prices will be going up come November of this year.  Right now, anyone who reserves a round of golf at the Marina Vallarta Club de Golf will receive 10% off, but, the more you play the more you save. Anyone that purchases four rounds of golf will receive 10% off; and five to eight rounds will receive 15% off the normal price.The best deal is nine or more rounds at 25% off the regular price of $105.00 USD, and groups get excellent discounts when they reserve 20 rounds or more at a time. |
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