Golfing in Panama Is a Hole in One

Posted by doug

June 12, 2009

panama Golfing in Panama Is a Hole in One

In the past decade, retirees have flocked to this tiny Central American country as much for its superb weather as its friendly people, lush landscape, and gorgeous white sand beaches. And with its world-class medical facilities, stable economy, very low crime rate, and low taxes, retiring to Panama has never been more attractive—or more affordable.

Add to those pros the fact that Panama has no hurricanes, no earthquakes, and enjoys rainforests, mountains, and the thrills of two oceans—Atlantic and Pacific—as well as the some of the world’s most exciting bars, discos, casinos, and nightclubs, and you’ll begin to realize why so many Americans are calling Panama home.

All this is great, of course, but we’d be remiss not to mention one of Panama’s new and growing passions—golf. Millions have been spent recently to make Panama a first-class destination for golfers, and the courses are amazing. Whether you choose to visit Panama or live there, you won’t soon forget your experience on the Panamanian links.

There are many options available to visitors, like packages connected to fabulous Panama hotels and resorts, but whatever you elect, you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few of the most often visited golf resorts, a few that you absolutely must try:

Coronado Golf and Beach Resort

Just an hour outside of Panama City, the Coronado is one of the most beautiful golf resorts in the country. Designed by the celebrated Fazio golf architects, this course boasts a par 72, 18-hole course, but the attraction may really be the accommodations themselves.

With four professional tennis courts, an Olympic-size swimming pool, Jacuzzis galore, a bar, nightclub, karaoke club, and billiard room, as well as a beach club, equestrian club, and eight (that’s right—eight) restaurants, your stay at the Coronado will be with you for a long time to come.

panama map Golfing in Panama Is a Hole in One

Mantaraya Golf Club Panama

An hour and a half from Panama City, Mantaraya is located in the dry region of Farallón, which can lay claim to some of the most spectacular coastlines in Panama—and some of the best sports fishing. But you’re not here for fishing; you’re here for golf! And golf you shall on the par 72, 18-hole course in Mantaraya. With a private beach club and beaches, pools, tennis courts, and mind-blowingly beautiful greens, Mantaraya is a golfer’s paradise.

Summit Golf and Resort

Located in Panama City proper, Summit is just a 20-minute drive from city center, but feels like a thousand miles away from it all. An enormous campus, Summit consists of a professional 18-hold course, a putting green, driving range, and junior 6-hole course. In addition, you’ll be wowed by other first-rate amenities, like restaurants, bars, an enormous gym, and a full-service daycare facility.

One of the oldest courses in Panama, Summit was originally built in the 1930s for Americans working on the Panama Canal, but it was recently renovated by world renowned golf architect Jeffrey Myers to create a championship course.

If you’re planning your next golf vacation, you absolutely must give Panama a try. Few destinations can compare to Panama’s unique mix of championship courses for the budget-conscious traveler. And whatever your handicap, you’re sure to leave feeling like you’ve hit at least one hole in one.