8.5

Punta Mita (Pacifico)

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Resort
EST.
1999
GRASS
Bermuda
SEASON
Year Round
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
295
?
CADDIES
Available
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10
City
Punta Mita

Score

8.5
Design
40%
8.8
Conditions
25%
8.4
Desirability
15%
7.5
Scenery
10%
9.1
Fun
5%
8.2
Uniqueness
5%
8.4

Difficulty

Overall
Moderate

Slope 131

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
250
$
295
$
340
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

The Pacifico Course features the world's only natural ocean island green, played on hole 3B, often called the 'Tail of the Whale.'

About

The Pacifico Course at Punta Mita, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a celebrated resort course stretching over 200 acres along Mexico's stunning Pacific coast. Featuring wide Bermuda fairways and greens, the layout blends dramatic ocean views, strategic bunkers, and a unique natural island green on the famous ‘Tail of the Whale’ hole. Players enjoy world-class facilities reserved for resort guests and club members.

Caddie Tip

For your first round, focus on club selection and conservative line off the tees, as coastal winds vary. Pay special attention to approaches on seaside holes—greens are spacious but undulating, so favor center targets and respect ocean-side hazards. Ask staff about the tidal conditions if you hope to play the optional island hole.

The Main Challenge

The front nine features a stretch of holes routed along the rugged coastline, demanding strategic tee shots and cautious approach play in swirling winds. Hole 5 is noted for its challenging length, protected green, and creek crossings, while the 'Tail of the Whale' island green adds a nerve-wracking finale for those who play it.

The Good

Golfers rave about the Pacifico's spectacular oceanfront holes, notably the 'Tail of the Whale', which delivers one-of-a-kind views and excitement. The lush resort ambiance, conditioning, attentive staff, and scenic holes provide a memorable experience not only for skilled players but also for guests and families enjoying the setting.

The Not So Good

Players occasionally cite high greens fees and limited public access due to its resort-only policy. Some recent reviews desire further updates to fairway turf and bunker sand, though a multi-year renovation is underway aiming to upgrade course agronomy and features for all guests.

Signature Hole:

#

3

The signature hole is the alternate par 3 'Tail of the Whale', a breathtaking 180-yard shot to a natural island green in the Pacific Ocean. Only playable at low tide, this world-renowned hole demands both power and precision to reach its exposed green amid crashing waves.

Clubhouse

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Clubhouse features include luxurious locker rooms, dining with ocean views, pro shop stocked with premier gear, shaded lounge areas, shower facilities, and attentive staff serving guests from check-in to departure. Relax and enjoy refreshments or panoramic vistas after your round.

Practice Facilities

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Expect a full grass driving range, short game area, and multiple putting greens, plus access to the Punta Mita Golf Academy with professional instruction. Facilities are maintained to luxury resort standards, providing a top-tier warm-up and training environment before rounds.

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.

Mexico