10 Best Golf Courses in Cabo: Nicklaus & Norman Designs

Thinking about a golf trip to Cabo? You've come to the right place. This area is packed with amazing golf courses, many designed by legends like Nicklaus and Norman. We've checked out some of the best cabo golf courses out there, and let me tell you, the views alone are worth the trip. Whether you're looking for dramatic cliffside holes or challenging desert layouts, there's something for everyone. Get ready to pack your clubs and hit the links! ### Key Takeaways * Cabo is a top-tier destination for golf, featuring courses designed by golf architects like Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. * Quivira Golf Club offers dramatic cliffside holes with stunning Pacific Ocean views, a favorite among many. * Palmilla Golf Club, known as the 'Grand Dame,' was Nicklaus's first design in Latin America, offering 27 diverse holes. * Cabo Del Sol Golf Club is famous for its Ocean Course, designed by Nicklaus, and its challenging Desert Course. * Many of these cabo golf courses provide breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez and the surrounding desert landscapes. ## 1\. Quivira Golf Club When you think of Cabo golf, Quivira Golf Club is probably one of the first places that comes to mind. And for good reason! Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this course is a real stunner. It opened back in 2014 and pretty quickly got itself onto Golf Digest's list of the world's 100 greatest courses. That's not something that happens overnight, you know. The big draw here, besides the Nicklaus design, is the absolutely wild terrain. You've got these dramatic cliffside holes that just drop off towards the Pacific Ocean. It's pretty breathtaking, honestly. **Every single hole offers incredible ocean views**, which is a pretty rare feat. Here's a quick rundown of what makes Quivira stand out: * **Designer:** Jack Nicklaus * **Par:** 72 * **Yardage:** 7,085 yards * **Key Feature:** Dramatic cliffside holes with sweeping Pacific Ocean vistas. * **Recognition:** Consistently ranked among the world's top courses. It's worth noting that Quivira is a private course, so access is usually limited to guests of Pueblo Bonito Resorts or property owners. If you get the chance to play it, do it. The 13th hole, a par-3 that hugs the coastline, is particularly memorable. Just try not to get too distracted by the view! > The course really makes you think about your shot selection. The wind can be a factor, and the elevation changes mean you're not always hitting uphill or downhill. It's a good test of golf, for sure, and the scenery just makes it that much better. If you're planning a golf trip to Los Cabos, Quivira Golf Club should definitely be on your radar. It's a truly special place that lives up to the hype. You can find out more about [this premier beachfront location](https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g152515-d7386681-Reviews-Quivira_Golf_Club-Cabo_San_Lucas_Los_Cabos_Baja_California.html) and what makes it so unique. ## 2\. Cabo Del Sol Golf Club Cabo Del Sol is a spot you've gotta check out if you're hitting the links in Cabo. It's actually two courses, the Ocean Course and the Desert Course, both offering pretty different vibes but with that signature Cabo scenery. The Ocean Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is the one that really gets people talking. It's known for its dramatic holes that hug the coastline, giving you these incredible views of the Sea of Cortez. Seriously, some of the fairways are right there, practically touching the water. It's a par-72 that plays around 7,000 yards, and while it's beautiful, it can be a real test, especially when the wind picks up. Then there's the Desert Course, a Tom Weiskopf design. This one feels more inland, winding through canyons and arroyos. It's also a par-72, a bit longer at over 7,300 yards. It's got this cool mix of wide-open fairways that invite you to let loose, but then you hit these tricky approach shots over rugged terrain. It’s ranked pretty high, too, often showing up on lists of top courses in Mexico. Here's a quick look at what makes them stand out: * **Ocean Course:** Designed by Jack Nicklaus, known for its stunning oceanfront holes and challenging play. * **Desert Course:** Designed by Tom Weiskopf, featuring a unique layout through canyons and desert landscapes. * **Scenery:** Both courses offer breathtaking views, blending the desert environment with the vast blue of the Sea of Cortez. > Playing Cabo Del Sol is an experience. You get these amazing vistas from almost every hole, and the courses themselves are designed to make you think. It’s not just about hitting the ball; it’s about appreciating where you are. The 5th hole on the Desert Course, for example, is a par-5 that gives you a great look at the ocean while demanding accuracy. It’s one of those holes that sticks with you long after you’ve finished your round. ## 3\. Palmilla Golf Club Often called the "Grand Dame of Los Cabos Golf," Palmilla Golf Club holds a special place in golf history as Jack Nicklaus's very first design in Latin America. This place isn't just one course; it's a trio of distinct 9-hole loops – Mountain, Arroyo, and Ocean – that you can combine for a full 18. Each loop offers a different flavor, taking you through desert canyons, alongside sweeping mountains, and out to fairways that hug the coast with views of the Sea of Cortez. It's a spot that consistently gets high marks in Mexico and is known for being as beautiful as it is challenging. **Palmilla was Nicklaus's first design in Latin America.** Here's a quick look at what makes up Palmilla: * **Mountain Course:** This loop winds through desert terrain and offers elevated views. * **Arroyo Course:** Plays through natural desert arroyos, demanding accuracy. * **Ocean Course:** Features coastal fairways with stunning views of the Sea of Cortez. The 13th hole on the Mountain course is a real standout. It's a lengthy par-5, and if you're playing from the back tees, water runs all the way down the right side of the fairway. Getting a par here feels like a win. > This course really makes you think about your club selection and shot placement. The transitions between the desert, mountain, and ocean holes are quite something, offering a varied experience throughout the round. ## 4\. Puerto Los Cabos Golf Club Puerto Los Cabos Golf Club is a pretty interesting spot because it's actually two courses in one, designed by two big names in golf: Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. This setup gives you a real mix of challenges and scenery, which is pretty cool. You've got Norman's Mission Course and Nicklaus's Ocean Course, and they both really show off the natural beauty of the Baja Peninsula. It's a private club, so it feels exclusive, and the views are just fantastic. Here's a quick look at what makes each course stand out: * **Greg Norman's Mission Course:** This one is known for its strategic layout, demanding thoughtful play and good shot-making. It winds through the natural desert landscape and offers some really unique holes. * **Jack Nicklaus's Ocean Course:** As the name suggests, this course brings the ocean into play quite a bit. You'll find dramatic holes with stunning views of the Sea of Cortez, making for some memorable shots (and maybe a few nerve-wracking ones too). Playing here means you get to experience two different design philosophies on one property. It's a great way to see how two legendary designers approach the same piece of land. **The combination of desert challenges and ocean vistas makes Puerto Los Cabos a standout destination for golfers looking for variety and beauty.** > The club's location in La Playa puts it in a prime spot, offering that classic Cabo golfing vibe. It's the kind of place where you can easily spend a whole day, enjoying the game and the incredible surroundings. Just be ready for a bit of a challenge, as both courses are designed to test your skills. ## 5\. El Dorado Golf and Beach Club  El Dorado Golf and Beach Club is a pretty exclusive spot, tucked away in the Tourist Corridor. Jack Nicklaus designed this place, and you can tell. It's a private course, so you won't just stumble upon it, which adds to the whole vibe. The elevation changes are no joke, really making you think about your shots. And the views? Absolutely stunning, especially with the coastline right there. **This course offers a truly premium experience for those who are members or guests.** Here's a quick look at what makes it stand out: * **Designer:** Jack Nicklaus * **Type:** Private * **Key Features:** Dramatic elevation changes, coastal views * **Vibe:** Luxurious and exclusive > Playing El Dorado feels like you're getting a real taste of high-end golf in Cabo. It's not just about the holes; it's the whole package – the service, the setting, everything feels top-notch. You definitely get your money's worth if you're looking for that kind of experience. ## 6\. Club Campestre San Jose Club Campestre San Jose is a real gem, tucked away in the heart of San José del Cabo. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this place really makes you feel like you're playing golf in paradise. It opened its doors in 2008, and it's been a hit ever since. The front nine is pretty straightforward, letting you get into your rhythm. But then, the back nine? That's where things get interesting. It climbs up into the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, and let me tell you, the views are something else. You get these amazing, sweeping looks at the Sea of Cortez from up high. **Hole 10, a par-4, is probably the most famous for its incredible mountain perch and the stunning ocean vista it offers.** Here's a quick rundown: * **Designer:** Jack Nicklaus * **Opened:** 2008 * **Par:** 72 * **Yardage:** 6,996 yards It’s a public course, which is great because everyone gets a chance to play it. It's a favorite for a reason – it balances tough holes with just breathtaking scenery. You'll want to make sure your phone is fully charged before you head out, especially for those back nine holes, because you'll be snapping pictures non-stop. > This course really shows off the natural beauty of the area. The way the holes are laid out, climbing into the hills, gives you a different perspective on the coastline. It’s not just about the golf; it’s about the whole experience of being in such a beautiful place. ## 7\. Rancho San Lucas Golf Club Rancho San Lucas is a Greg Norman design that really makes you think about your shots. It's tucked away a bit from the main hustle, offering a more laid-back vibe compared to some of the beachfront giants. Norman really used the natural desert landscape here, so expect a lot of sandy areas and elevation changes that can mess with your ball. **The course is known for its unique routing, with holes that often play in different directions, making club selection a bit of a puzzle.** It's not the longest course out there, but it demands accuracy. You'll find yourself hitting off slopes and dealing with tricky lies, which is part of the fun if you're up for a challenge. The views are pretty great too, with glimpses of the Pacific and the surrounding mountains. Here's a quick rundown of what to expect: * **Strategic Bunkering:** Norman loves his bunkers, and this course is no exception. They're placed to really make you consider your approach. * **Desert Vistas:** You're playing through a natural desert environment, so enjoy the rugged beauty. * **Varied Holes:** No two holes feel quite the same, keeping you engaged throughout the round. It's a course that rewards smart play over brute force. If you like a thinking golfer's track with a bit of a wild feel, Rancho San Lucas is definitely worth checking out. ## 8\. Solmar Golf Links Solmar Golf Links is a newer addition to the Cabo golf scene, opening its fairways in 2020. Greg Norman designed this course, and you can really tell. It's got that classic links-style feel, reminiscent of courses you'd find across the pond, complete with plenty of those tricky pot bunkers that can really test your short game. **This course offers a unique blend of oceanfront holes and desert landscapes, making for a visually striking and strategically demanding round.** Here's a quick look at what to expect: * **Designer:** Greg Norman * **Par:** 72 * **Yardage:** 7,241 yards * **Style:** Links-style with oceanfront and desert elements > The signature hole here has to be the 17th. It's a par-3, playing around 191 yards, and it's an island green surrounded entirely by water. Talk about pressure! Even the best golfers will find this one a serious challenge. If you're staying at one of the Solmar Resorts, this course is super convenient. It's a great spot for a luxurious golf vacation, combining challenging play with stunning views of the Pacific. ## 9\. Cabo Real Golf Club Cabo Real Golf Club is a Robert Trent Jones Jr. design that really makes you think about your shots. It's not just about hitting it far; you've got to be smart out there. The course has been around for a while and has even hosted PGA Senior Grand Slam events, which tells you something about its challenge. They actually switched the nines a while back, so now the front nine is a bit more forgiving, letting you ease into your round. But don't get too comfortable, because the back nine is where things get serious. It's designed so that holes going uphill play with the wind, and downhill holes play against it. Pretty clever, right? It keeps you on your toes. Here's a quick look at the stats: * **Par:** 71 * **Yardage:** 6,848 yards * **Designer:** Robert Trent Jones Jr. * **Known for:** A tough test of golf, ocean views > The 18th hole is a memorable finisher. You've got the Sea of Cortez in the distance, and a lake just waiting to catch errant shots to the left of the fairway. It's one of those holes where anything can happen on your last swing. If you're planning a visit, try to play in the morning. The conditions are usually better, and you can avoid the stronger winds that tend to pick up later in the day. Plus, if you're there between December and April, you might even see whales breaching offshore from a few of the holes overlooking the water. It's a nice bonus to an already great round, and you can find more information about courses like this on [Puerto Los Cabos golf course](https://golfscape.com/cabo-san-lucas-golf-courses/puerto-los-cabos). ## 10\. Diamante Golf Club  Diamante Golf Club is a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away near San Jose del Cabo. It's home to the Dunes Course, which was designed by Davis Love III. This place is private, so you won't just stumble upon it, but if you get the chance to play, you're in for a treat. **The course is famous for its massive white sand dunes that really shape the holes.** It feels like you're playing through a natural desert landscape, with the ocean always in sight. Playing here is a real test of your game. The wind can be a factor, and the elevation changes keep you on your toes. It’s not just about hitting it long; you need to think about your shots and how the terrain will affect them. The views are pretty spectacular, too, with the Pacific stretching out before you. Here's a quick rundown of what makes it stand out: * **Unique Dune Landscape:** The course is built around and through large sand dunes, creating a visually striking and challenging environment. * **Ocean Vistas:** Expect plenty of holes with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. * **Challenging Design:** Davis Love III crafted a course that demands strategic thinking and rewards good shot-making. * **Exclusive Atmosphere:** As a private club, it offers a more secluded and refined golfing experience. > The Dunes Course at Diamante is a course that really sticks with you. It’s not your typical resort villas in Cabo track; it’s got a bit more grit and character. You’ll find yourself using every club in your bag, and the dramatic setting makes every shot feel important. It’s definitely a place for golfers who appreciate a course with a strong identity and a bit of a wild side. ## So, Ready to Tee Off? Alright, so we've looked at some seriously amazing golf courses in Cabo, many of them dreamed up by golf legends like Nicklaus and Norman. It's pretty clear that this place is a golfer's paradise, with views that'll make you forget about your score and challenges that'll test even the best players. Whether you're looking for dramatic cliffside holes or sweeping desert fairways, Cabo's got something special. Planning your next golf trip here is a no-brainer if you want a memorable experience. Just imagine yourself out there, the sun on your back, the ocean breeze, and a perfectly struck shot. Yeah, it sounds pretty good, doesn't it?