Riviera Maya at Riviera Maya Golf Club

Riviera Maya Golf Club, carved into the dense Mayan jungle near Akumal, is a testament to Robert Trent Jones Jr.'s ability to harmonize challenging golf with breathtaking natural beauty. Built in the early 2000s, the course presents a modern take on resort golf, demanding strategic play across its undulating fairways and cleverly placed hazards. The signature is its abundance of water and native flora, with cenotes and lagoons weaving throughout, turning errant shots into jungle adventures. Favoring a controlled fade, the course nonetheless offers moments of respite with generous landing areas, though blind approaches and cunning doglegs keep even seasoned players guessing.

While Riviera Maya has not hosted any major professional championships, it has become a popular venue for regional tournaments and corporate outings. The golf course meanders through a resort campus, so it is a great place for vacationers to test their skill while traveling. This has given the course a reputation for its excellent condition and player-friendly atmosphere.

Beyond the course, Riviera Maya boasts a welcoming clubhouse, where golfers can find traditional fare and ice-cold margaritas. The membership, a mix of locals and expats, creates a convivial atmosphere, fostering a sense of community around the game. It is a social hub for the Akumal area where players gather for friendly matches, and stories are exchanged about the elusive par or near miss with one of the local iguanas.

With the jungle as its backdrop and the Caribbean breeze as its companion, Riviera Maya offers more than just a round of golf. It's an immersive experience, a chance to connect with the natural world while testing one's game in a truly unforgettable setting.