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There may be many reasons to retire in Panama. Certainly, the country’s outdoor activities and natural beauty are at the top of many retirees’ lists. However, you may not know that Panama has also been recognized as a haven for golfers. Many Canadian and U.S. retirees decide to settle in Panama for year-round golfing opportunities.
If you’re a golf enthusiast, being able to practice your favorite sport throughout the year is of utmost importance. Panama doesn’t disappoint with its golf courses and country clubs. Indeed, many who decide to relocate look for housing within these developments.
Keep in mind that the real estate and rent prices will be much higher if you choose to live in a golf course community. However, you could always live near a golf course and pay the weekly or monthly fees. There are a few affordable golf courses in Panama.
Now, let’s check out Panama’s best greens (for golf!).
Coronado
Coronado Golf and Beach Resort
This golf course is known as one of the best in Latin America. The grounds are kept to pristine conditions, and golfers can play on a beautiful yet challenging course. And with the beach nearby, you can enjoy an ocean breeze as you play.
Coronado is a popular settling place for expats because of its location and offerings. You can find everything you want and need in Coronado. However, as we mentioned, using this exclusive golf club will significantly increase your budget. If golf is your thing, it’s likely worth the cost.
The resort also offers a variety of luxury amenities for its members, such as tennis courts, a spa, a fitness center, and even an equestrian club.
See details about Coronado Golf here
Vista Mar and Golf Beach Resort
Another popular golf community on Panama’s Pacific Coast is the Vista Mar and Golf Beach Resort. The Vista Mar Golf Course is an 18-hole, 72-par course. The course layout is challenging but can be enjoyed by all levels.
The resort offers a marina, beach club, tennis courts, and a variety of dining options. This community also offers social events and gatherings for its members.
See details about Vista Mar golf here
Located in the Buenaventura Resort in the Pacific beach town of Rio Hato, this course was designed by renowned golf course architect Jack Nicklaus. This 18-hole golf course offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and lush tropical surroundings. The Buenaventura Golf Course is ranked the #1 premier golf course in Panama.
See details about Buenaventure Golf Facebook Page
Other Golf Courses in the Coronado area include Mantarraya Golf Club at Royal Decameron and Bijao Golf Club.
Boquete
Lucero Golf and Country Club
Another popular area for expats to settle in is Boquete. In this lush mountain setting, you’ll also find one of the best golf courses in the country. You’ll have stunning mountain views as you make your way through this 18-hole, par-72 golf course. And, as opposed to the tropical, salty breezes you’d enjoy in Coronado, here you’ll be able to sport a sweater and enjoy the cool mountain air.
The offerings at the Lucero Golf and Country Club are extensive. Members and residents will enjoy a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, and restaurant. There are also plenty of social events to form a tight-knit community. At Lucero, you’ll experience much more than just a day of golf: you’ll become a part of the community if you choose.
See more details about the Lucero Golf Club here
Quebrada Grande Golf and Country Club
A smaller golf course with exceptional views is located within the Quebrada Grande Golf and Country Club. This 9-hole course will offer a unique playing experience, one which all levels of golfers will be able to enjoy. The course is located within Valle Escondido Resort.
The course is located in the rural countryside of Boquete, so those who use it will enjoy the tranquility and nature that this area offers. Of course, members will have access to exclusive amenities and high-end facilities within the resort. The resort has a clubhouse, restaurant, swimming pool, fitness center, and tennis courts.
Learn more about golf at Valle Escondido here
Panama City
Tucan Country Club and Golf Resort
Formerly a U.S. military recreational facility, the Tucan Country Club and Golf Resort is a perfect option for those looking to be in close proximity to Panama City. The views offered by this golf course are truly one-of-a-kind. You’ll be able to see the Panama Canal as you take on this challenging yet accessible course.
Tucan offers its members a fitness center, tennis courts, and swimming pool. One key benefit of living within this golf resort community is its location. With Panama City just a 15-minute drive away, you can enjoy all the benefits of urban life, while also having the tranquility offered by this golf resort.
Learn more about Tucan Country Club and Golf here
Summit Golf Club
Also located just outside of Panama City, the Summit Golf Club offers a world-class golf course. The club is a part of the Radisson Summit Hotel and is just a short drive from the Panama Canal. This course was one of the first of its kind. First created in the 1930s, the course has been completely renovated. Located within a tropical rainforest, golfers may get surprise visits from monkeys!
The course is diverse and unique. And it even offers a children’s course! This is possibly one of the most unique golf courses in Panama. You’ll enjoy the city nearby while also experiencing Panama’s rich flora and fauna.
Learn more about Summit Golf Club here
Santa Maria Golf & Country Club
This Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course is located in the Santa Maria development in Panama City. It’s known for its challenging design and well-maintained fairways and greens.
Learn more about the Santa Maria Golf course here
CHITRE
Club de Golf de Chitre (Most Affordable)
Chitre is in the Azuero Peninsula. It’s home to the most affordable golf course in Panama. This is a public 9-hold course that will challenge even the best golfers. After joining the club, you can enjoy unlimited golf for only $100 monthly.
Learn more about the Club de Golf de Chitre on its Facebook page
Golf Community
These are just a few of the noteworthy golf courses in Panama. The country’s diverse landscapes and climate make it an appealing destination for golfers. When planning your visit, check the availability, green fees, and any reservations that might be required to ensure you have a great golfing experience.
You can learn more about golf courses in Panama on this website.
As a prime location for golfers, these are just some of Panama’s many golf courses. And with the country’s large expat population, avid golfers who retire or relocate to Panama will easily find their community.
However, it’s essential to consider the cost of using these types of facilities. While one large appeal of Panama is the lower cost of living, living within a resort or being a member of these clubs will significantly raise your monthly and yearly expenses. If golf life is your top priority, Panama is an excellent option. Just be sure to plan accordingly based on the type of lifestyle you choose to lead!
I am glad to see an article promoting golf in Panama. Thanks for that. As an avid golfer I offer a few observations.
Coronado Country Club is a fine golf course but lacks sufficient water in the dry season and therefore is not always in good condition, although club membership offers other benefits beside golf. The same water shortage is true but even worse for Vista Mar in the dry season. In the Coronado (Gold Coast area) you left out two other fine courses: Mantarraya (one of the most interesting and challenging layouts but with plenty of water during the dry season and very popular with expats due to low fees, especially Canadians, many of whom own houses on the golf course). The other is Bijao. This is a nine hole course and only open to residents and guests but is one of the best maintained courses (similar to Buenaventura) in the area. Memberships also include the beach club at Decameron on Playa Blanca.
In the Panama City area is also the Panama Golf Club (Club de Golf Panama) that is I believe the oldest course in Panama. It is also very well maintained and challenging and like Buenaventura has hosted professional golf tournaments.
Lucero is a fine course with some stunning elevation changes and view.
Todd, thanks for your feedback. I did include a link to both the Decameron and Bijoa golf courses. The dry season in Panama can present a water problems. Watering a golf course is not a top priority in many communities.