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Get Away and Golf!
by Vallarta Online Staff | published: 3/10/2005
When the going gets tough, the tough go golfing
It seems you cannot go anywhere in Puerto Vallarta without hearing "FORE!" Great golf in Vallarta is easy to find, with seven spectacular courses within 18 miles (30 kilometers) of the city, locating a course to suit your tastes is just a short drive away.
In December of 2002, The Nicklaus Course and the Tom Weiskopf designed courses at The Vista Vallarta Golf Club was host to the EMC World Cup Golf Championship. Less than 10 minutes from the Marina area of Vallarta in the foothills, the Nicklaus course measures 7,057 yards and features long par-5 holes. Vista Vallarta also houses the widely acclaimed Weiskopf course, known for its challenging layout and scenic views. The more tee times you book at the Nicklaus and Weiskopf courses, the more you save (discount is not combined between courses). The Marina Vallarta Golf Club, with 18 championship holes, was designed by the American architect, Joe Finger. With abundant wildlife, majestic views of the Banderas Bay and tropical flora and fauna; it is hard to believe this spectacular course is within walking distance to many of the finest hotels. This course is a favorite of many who golf regularly in Vallarta, for its close proximity to the city and secluded peaceful design. Farther out of town, at the north end of the bay is the prestigious Jack Nicklaus designed Four Seasons Golf Course. This course features eight ocean side holes, and the world's largest water hazard, the Pacific Ocean. Hole three is the only natural black lava rock island with a natural green in the world. Stunning in its beauty, challenging in the design, this course is excellent for photo opportunities and golfing memories. 
The El Tigre Course at Paradise Village is a 7,239 yard masterpiece designed by Von Hagge, Smelek and Baril. The course, while challenging, is also forgiving for less experienced golfers. Holes worth mentioning are the par four dog-leg at five, the island green protected by a Scottish bunker at six, and the thorny eighteenth hole, a par five measuring over 600 yards from the back tees. Afterwards, enjoy the panoramic views from the 45,000 square foot luxury clubhouse. You will save 15% when you book four or more tee times at El Tigre.Next door to El Tigre is Mayan Palace Golf Course. Designed by Jim Lipe, this 6,700 yard course is one of the best options for golfers playing with mixed skill levels as it allows strategic tee placement. This course has breathtaking ocean views, a par three that plays over a lake to the ocean and a mean 580 yard, dog-leg par five that challenges the best golfers. Take advantage of the 32% discount on tee times at the Mayan Palace course. The last but not least is the most established golf course in the area, the Flamingos Golf Course. The Flamingos course benefited from a $3 million USD makeover over three years. The new Flamingos underwent a reconstruction of greens and bunkers, remodeling of the clubhouse, and installation of a new irrigation system. Known as the friendliest course in Vallarta with excellent caddies, the Flamingos is a mere 20 minutes north of Vallarta. This is a visually exciting course with many holes designed to challenge players to use every club in their bag. Not Just for Golfers  The best thing about Vallarta, besides the high concentration of excellent golf courses, is the abundance of excellent hotels, fantastic dining, and endless entertainment choices. Getting away for even a long weekend and experiencing a tropical golf destination on the same latitude as Hawaii but at half the price may be just the ticket.Special golf packages are currently available and can be designed to fit your specific needs and desires and our on-site concierge can work with you to plan a spectacular golfing vacation. We can custom design any package, including accommodations to fit your needs, just tell us what you want and we will put it all together for you. We also offer group discounts on hotels, tours, and of course, golf. Golf Only Vallarta Online is giving golfistas the opportunity to play one round of golf at the Vista Vallarta Jack Nicklaus, Marina, and Mayan place golf courses for just $315 US. Greens fees include tax, practice range balls, and shared cart. This special will not last long, book now, and grab your clubs. Contact the concierge to reserve this special. |
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