International Living Magazine recently posted an article written by Gregory Herman which shares what he considers to be the three best golf courses in Costa Rica.

“I have played in recreational and national tournaments here in Costa Rica over the years, and it is a wonderful country for the novice and advanced golfer alike. Not only are the conditions of the courses exceptional, but—compared to prices in the States—golf here is a true bargain. Most green fees are well under $100, and if you live here, the rates can be even cheaper.

The larger resort courses located in the northern Guanacaste region are geared for the experienced golfer, and they come with heftier green fees. Courses centered around the capital, San José, are better suited for novice golfers,” reads the article.

The top three courses listed by Herman in the article titled, “A Golfer’s Guide to Costa Rica’s Best Courses” include:

Cariari Country Club: One of the first golf courses in the country, it is located in Heredia right next to the DoubleTree Hotel. “ With the 18-hole championship course measuring at 6,577 yards, par 71, this is one of George Fazio’s masterpieces. The course itself is a wonderful journey through massive, tree-lined fairways frequented by wild parrots and monkeys, and with beautiful views of the mountains that surround San José”.

Hacienda Pinilla in Guanacaste: “One of a few hundred courses in the world that is certified by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, which encourages golf courses to be environmentally friendly, this 18-hole championship course hosts many national tournaments. It is considered one of the most challenging courses in the country, due to its length. (However, at 7,274 yards and par 72, its five different tee boxes make it a fair game for golfers of all skill levels.)”

Parque Valle del Sol: Located in Santa Ana, San Jose. Valle del Sol Golf Club is found within a luxury residential community, home to many expats. “ (…) this 7,011-yard, par-72, 18-hole, championship golf course can be enjoyed by all. Green fees ($67) are modest, and you also have a full-service restaurant. The course is always immaculately manicured, and the greens are amazing. Membership here will also give you access to semi-private courses throughout the country”, describes Herman.

The sport of golf in Costa Rica has grown considerably throughout the years and today the country has many amateur and professional players representing the Costa Rica in international tournaments. In fact, the country itself has become an attractive destination to host international events; for instance, for second consecutive year Costa Rica is one of the stops of the PGA Tour Latin America which started May 7th and will carry on through May 13 at the Reserva Conchal Golf Course in Guanacaste; the Costa Rican Golf Federation is also working on hosting the Latin America Amateur Championship (LAAC) in 2022.