ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
San Buenas Golf Resort is the only golf course in Costa Rica’s Osa region and was created with sustainability in mind, using Paspalum grass which thrives in salt water and helps reduce weeds naturally.
About
San Buenas Golf Resort, designed by Canadian architect Dan Lavis in 2010, offers a scenic and ecological 9-hole layout (planned for 18) nestled between mountains and rainforest, just minutes from the Pacific. The course uses salt-tolerant Paspalum grass, features wide fairways, big sloping greens, and a variety of water features, with abundant wildlife and distant ocean views.
Caddie Tip
San Buenas rewards smart course management—take a conservative approach on long par 5s where water comes into play and favor the wide side of fairways, especially when playing in strong coastal breezes. Carefully study the contours on approach shots—undulating greens can create tricky putts even from the right tier.
The Main Challenge
Water comes into play frequently with multiple creeks and rivers cutting across fairways. The long par 5s require ambitious driving and strategy, while the deep rough and elevated greens demand precision on approach shots. Swirling winds from the ocean and mountain valleys can quickly change play conditions, testing all skill levels.
The Good
Golfers rave about the tranquil setting, surrounded by lush rainforest and mountain views with distant glimpses of the Pacific. The peaceful environment, natural wildlife (including parrots and monkeys), and the ecological design that protects local trees and streams make every round feel like a retreat into nature.
The Not So Good
Players sometimes note that fairways can get dry at the end of the dry season if maintained water is limited, and the current 9-hole setup means repeat loops rather than 18 unique holes. Expansion and continuous improvements to irrigation could make the playing conditions more consistent year-round.
Signature Hole:
#
18
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Clubhouse
The clubhouse provides a casual environment with drinks, snacks, and golf supplies. There are private vacation rentals and resort accommodations, along with a dedicated pro shop, covered lounge spaces, and spectacular sunset vistas from the terrace.
Practice Facilities
San Buenas offers a full-length driving range, a beautiful putting green, and regularly available golf lessons. Rental clubs of all hand orientations and skill levels are available, along with electric carts and pull carts for rent.
Dress Code:
Casual
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.
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