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Writer's pictureGavin

Riviera Cancun Golf Club & Course: Cancun´s most challenging golf course.

Updated: May 8


best golf hole at Cancun's golf course

Having played the golf course hundreds of times this is what we think of the Rivera Cancun Golf Course:

 

Overview: Riviera Cancun Golf Club & Course

The Riviera Cancun Golf Club & Course boasts a Jack Nicklaus Signature Design course that is one of Cancun´s most picturesque. The course is a natural extension of the surrounding ecosystem, set on a pristine natural reserve with mangroves, exotic flora and fauna, and views of the Caribbean Sea.

Undulating fairways and greens and plenty of water hazards add an extra layer of challenge to the game, rewarding those who carefully calculate the risk vs. reward shot value. The unique layout of the course takes golfers through the natural wetlands and palm hammocks of the area, offering an unparalleled experience of playing amidst nature's wonders.

Whether you're a seasoned golfer seeking a challenging round or a novice looking to soak in the beauty of the Caribbean landscape, Riviera Cancun Golf Club provides the perfect setting. As you navigate through this golfing oasis, you'll not only test your skills but also revel in the tranquility of the surroundings, creating the ideal conditions for a perfect game in a truly unique atmosphere

 

Technical Info:

Designed by Jack Nicklaus

Par: 72

Black T box: 7,060 yards

Course Rating: 76.2

Opens: 7 AM Closes:4.30 PM

 

Green fees include A Golf Buggy, food and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) during and after the round, and food at the restaurant before and after your round.

Continental breakfast (Coffee, Fruit Juice yogurts, etc is served until 11 AM when the restaurant opens.


Closest Hotels: within 10 minutes: Nituz Resort and Spa, Club Med Cancun, The Westin Resort & Spa, Club Regina, Sun Palace Cancun, Royal Solaris, Residence Inn by Marriott, Moon Palace.Cancun, Haven Resort, Hilton All-inclusive Cancun. All hotels in Cancun´s hotel zone are within 20 minutes.

The Moon Palace often uses the course for customers purchasing their golf packages.


Riviera Cancun Golf Club & Course putting green

 

 

UNIQUE FEATURES:

 

No development, set in a natural reserve (unlike many golf courses with hotels and luxury residences lining the fairways this course is surrounded by nature)

 

Best Club House views in Mexico overlooking the 18th

 

Hardest of all the Golf Courses in the State.

 

Lots of water and undulating greens.

 

 

Practice Putting Green


Top Tee Time Tips:


Crocodiles at the PGA Riviera Cancun Golf Course, part of the Moon Palace Golf Resort riviera Maya

1.      Pretty much every hole has water, you are either on the fairway or in the mangroves, so make sure you take plenty of spare golf balls.

 

2.      The golf course closes at 4 pm (for the last few years) despite it getting dark in Cancun at 6.15 pm at the earliest, so book your Tee-Time accordingly.             

 

3.      It´s a challenging course with 4 different Tee Boxes, maybe consider playing a forward-positioning one to make it easier.

 

4.      Due to its location over the mangroves mosquitos can be a problem so bring some repellent.



Strategies for Conquering the Toughest Hole:


Hardest golf hole at the Riviera Cancun golf and resort

Navigating hole number 3, marked with a challenging Handicap (HCP) of 1, demands a strategic approach. The Tee box configuration is particularly unforgiving, posing a watery hazard for any shots veering into the slice territory. To mitigate risks, consider stowing away the Driver and opting for a more controlled hybrid off the box.


This Par 5 hole boasts a narrow fairway and strategically placed bunkers, making it imperative to rely on your reliable "go-to" club to secure a safe spot in the middle of the fairway. With a bit of luck, you'll find yourself facing a straightforward wedge shot for an easier approach to the green. A couple of well-executed putts, and you could secure a respectable par.


However, in the wise words of Mike Tyson, "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth!" A more likely scenario is:

You´ll spray a few balls into the lake, then get annoyed at 4 paring on the undulating green!, Although the thought of abandoning golf might cross your mind. Fear not! Remember, the green fee comes with the added perk of complimentary food and drinks. This might just be the opportune moment to crack open that first beer of the day and take a moment to recalibrate.


Signature Hole (hole 12 Hole).


12th hole at the Riviera Cancun Golf Club

Picture this: the Tee Box perched atop a mound overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you in awe. This challenging par 3 promises an exhilarating experience, as you navigate through a strategically designed hole with just the right touch of difficulty.

Immerse yourself in the thrill of precision as you tee off, facing a fairway that's both narrow and demanding, adorned with a serene water feature and strategically placed bunkers that guard the undulating green. Your journey to the green takes you on a delightful ride over a charming wooden bridge, providing a unique and picturesque pathway.


But that's not all – keep your eyes peeled, as you may catch a glimpse of the local crocodiles basking in the sun along the way. This Signature Hole isn't just about golf; it's an immersive experience that combines natural beauty, skillful design, and a touch of local wildlife, making it my absolute favorite. Get ready to make memories and conquer this extraordinary golfing gem.



Exotic Wild-life at the Riviera Cancun Golf Course.


18th hole of Cancun´s Riviera Golf Course

Bore your golfing partners with stories of your heroics and enjoy an ice-cold beer with some Yucatain Cerviche or The Boss Burger at the Riviera Cancun Golf Club restaurant overlooking the 18th hole.
















After tee time food & drinks at Cancun toughest golf course

We put on a few pounds after sampling the entire menu!










Restuarant overlooking 18th Green at Riviera Cancun Golf Course

The Riviera Cancun Golf Club restaurant overlooks the 18th hole.












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Paul Wilson
Paul Wilson
Dec 28, 2023

Loved the wildlife on the course, especially the crocodiles and spoonbill. Some tough approach shots, lots of places to lose balls. Proper Cancún golf!

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