ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo Golf Course is recognized as one of Golf Digest's 'Top 100 Courses Outside the United States' and is certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for its environmental stewardship.
About
The Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo Golf Course, designed by Arnold Palmer and opened in 2004, is an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary known for panoramic ocean views on most holes. The 18-hole, par-72 resort course blends challenging elevation shifts with wide, undulating fairways, contoured greens, and lush tropical scenery, making it a must-play in Costa Rica for both beauty and playability.
Caddie Tip
With elevation changes and swirling ocean breezes, play one club less on downhill holes and pay close attention to wind direction. The grain on greens is often towards the ocean, affecting putts. Trust local yardages and avoid missing greens on the short side, as recovery shots can be challenging. Course management is key to scoring well.
The Main Challenge
The biggest challenge is managing the hilly terrain, frequent elevation changes, swirling winds near the ocean, and large, undulating greens. Precision off the tee is required to handle tight landing areas, and recovery shots demand creativity due to the natural vegetation framing most holes. The closing stretch demands both skill and focus.
The Good
Golfers rave about the panoramic Pacific Ocean views from nearly every hole, with abundant wildlife including monkeys and tropical birds enhancing the experience. The course routing showcases Costa Rica’s lush landscape and dramatic elevation changes, offering memorable holes and a tranquil resort setting that stands out among world golf destinations.
The Not So Good
Criticisms focus mainly on the course’s high green fees, limited access for non-resort guests, and challenging walkability due to hilly terrain and long transitions between holes. Some golfers note that strong ocean winds can add to the difficulty, and that maintenance can occasionally lag during the green season.
Signature Hole:
#
6
The 6th hole is a dramatic par 4 featuring a large elevation drop and a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. Players are challenged to navigate the downhill tee shot, where the visual intimidation and winds demand precise club selection. The green is exposed and often affected by breezes, providing a memorable risk-reward opportunity framed by stunning coastal vistas.
Clubhouse
The luxurious 28,000-square-foot clubhouse offers upscale dining at Nemare Latin steakhouse, a well-appointed pro shop, locker rooms, and a private member lounge. Guests enjoy panoramic views, attentive service, and a relaxing environment that complements the course’s five-star resort amenities.
Practice Facilities
Comprehensive practice facilities include a full driving range, extensive short game area, and well-maintained putting greens set against a backdrop of ocean views. Instruction is available from PGA professionals, and rental equipment is high quality, catering to both beginners and seasoned players.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
.avif)
.png)
.png)
