Designer: Robert Trent Jones, Sr.
Number of holes: 18.
Par: 72.
Length: 6,990 yards
Opened: 1976.
Playa Dorada is known for its spectacular views from the Isabel de Torres high hill, just south of the course. Caoba trees, sea grapes, almond trees, giant cayenne pepper trees, coconut palms and the majestic royal poinciana trees are everywhere. There is even a mangrove forest, a small rainforest and fifty year old palm trees, all carefully conserved.
The holes circle the gardens of the Playa Dorada hotel complex. One of the best hotels in Playa Dorada for keen golfers is The Victoria Resort. Another good one is the Blue Bay Villas where you can request as golf club rack for your room.
The par 4 4th hole requires you to tee straight off from a narrow pine grove at a right angle, while fighting the strong sea winds. This is perhaps the most difficult hole out of the first nine. The 7th hole has gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean, which can be seen from under the almond trees.
Prepare to stop at the 9th hole, the course’s most photographed point, to take in the impressive view of the Isabel Torres hill for a few minutes. The 15th hole is equally as beautiful and surprises golfers with a display of tropical jungle almost reaching the end of the course. A legion of ducks acts then guard the water traps for the 17th hole, making it one of the most difficult holes in the course.
The final hole, a par 5, gives free rein to the wind to also play, and even decide the game.