Riviera Nayarit: World-Class Golf Amidst Sea, Jungle, and Sophistication

Jorge Chávez
Jan. 29, 2026
1 views

Riviera Nayarit doesn’t just seduce with its golden sand beaches and leisurely Pacific rhythm; it has also established itself as one of Mexico’s most refined golf destinations. Here, the game is transformed into a sensory experience where athletic skill coexists with landscapes that seem designed for pure contemplation. Ten championship courses, conceived by legendary figures such as Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, and Tom Fazio, comprise an offering that elevates golf into a comprehensive experience—as challenging as it is inspiring.

Playing in Riviera Nayarit means immersing oneself in natural settings that shift with every hole. From the ocean breeze to the lush vegetation of the Sierra Madre Occidental, the environment imparts character to every round. It is not merely about perfecting your swing, but doing so as the horizon opens to the sea or the jungle silently accompanies every stroke.

Among the most emblematic names are the courses at Punta Mita, designed by Jack Nicklaus. The Pacífico course is world-famous for its iconic “Tail of the Whale” (Hole 3B), a natural island green that interacts with the tides, turning every shot into a memorable moment. The Bahía course, for its part, proposes a constant dialogue with the ocean along seven strategically located oceanfront holes.

The offering at Vidanta Nuevo Nayarit expands the experience with three courses of distinct personality. Nayar Vidanta Golf unfolds between the jungle and the coast, while Greg Norman Vidanta Golf incorporates a standout feature: the longest golf cart suspension bridge in the world. Joining them is Lakes Vidanta Golf, an innovative option that allows for play until 11:00 PM—ideal for those who wish to extend their day beyond sunset.

Other high-level alternatives complete this journey of excellence. El Tigre Golf Course, recognized by Rolex among the top one thousand in the world, offers a demanding and elegant layout. Flamingos Golf Course, one of the region’s pioneers, integrates seamlessly into the tropical jungle, while Higuera Golf Club—a Greg Norman design in Punta de Mita—fuses beach and vegetation in precise balance. For those seeking a different experience, Nayar Club Campestre proposes a mountain setting away from the sea, but not away from the technical challenge.

Adding to this collection is Nauka Riviera Nayarit, an ambitious project located in Costa Canuva, Compostela. Spanning over 370 hectares surrounded by beaches and jungle, this 18-hole course was designed by Tom Fazio, who considers it one of the top three in his portfolio.

Altogether, these courses offer a diversity of challenges that turn every round into a unique experience. Thus, Riviera Nayarit presents itself as a destination where golf redefines luxury: not just as a sport, but as a way to experience the landscape, the time, and the pleasure of being fully present by the sea.

Comments