In Puerto Rico, they call themselves Boricua. It’s a name that honors the island’s rich heritage, but it’s so much more than that.
“Boricua is a spirit, a flavor, and a rhythm that you’ll feel in every part of our island,” said Nicole Olmeda, a senior executive for Discover Puerto Rico, the island’s official destination marketing organization (DMO). “It’s a state of mind and a way of life, embodied by our proud, passionate people. When you bask in the warmth of our beaches, taste the love in our food, and embrace the call of our adventures, you’ll find that spirit in yourself, too.”
That same vibrant spirit can be found in Puerto Rico’s golf scene.
Few professional golfers embodied the joy of the game more than Juan Antonio Rodríguez. Known worldwide as Chi Chi, he was born into a humble family in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico. With a determined grin and an unmatched enthusiasm for the sport, he built a remarkable career, spreading his unique Boricua flair across the globe. A winner of eight PGA Tour events, Chi Chi became the first Puerto Rican inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
Chi Chi Rodríguez
Chi Chi Rodríguez
To tee off your Puerto Rican golf adventure, head south to the city of Guayama, where you’ll experience an unforgettable Caribbean golf outing. Designed by Chi Chi in 2002, El Legado is a challenging yet enjoyable course spanning 285 acres of a former horse valley. Surrounded by the breathtaking Cordillera Central mountains and the Caribbean Sea, this par-72 Parkland-style layout stretches over 7,000 yards. Prevailing strong winds add an extra challenge, requiring strategic adjustments as you navigate the course.
After your round, indulge in local culinary favorites across from the pro shop. The Guamaní Restaurant & Bar terrace offers scratch-made mofongo, tostones, and mouthwatering hamburgers. With a glass of Puerto Rican rum in hand, take in one of the island’s most stunning sunsets overlooking the 18th hole and the Caribbean Sea. Golf with the spirit of Chi Chi, savor exceptional food and drinks—this is Boricua in play.
El Legado
Keep the memories going by heading west to Costa Caribe. Just 40 miles from Guayama via Highway 52, you’ll arrive in Ponce, a city rich in history and pride. The Costa Caribe Golf & Country Club is nestled within a 600-acre waterfront property that includes the Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort. This 18-hole links-style championship course features breathtaking oceanfront holes, 14 picturesque lakes, Puerto Rico’s first island green, and pristine course conditions year-round.
In the evening, treat yourself to a dining experience at Mesa Cocina y Vinatería, where you can savor grilled octopus, vibrant ceviche, and a range of exquisite main courses, including the unforgettable paella negra.
Continuing east and then north, a 90-mile drive will take you near the stunning Carabalí Rainforest Park to Río Grande, home to the luxurious Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve. This resort offers first-class pool cabanas and a state-of-the-art Topgolf Suite. From here, it’s a scenic 15-minute drive to one of the island’s true gems—The St. Regis Bahía Beach Resort & Golf Club.
Courtesy
You’ve experienced fairway views of the Caribbean, and now it’s time to tee off with breathtaking Atlantic Ocean vistas. Designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., Bahía Beach is one of the Caribbean’s finest golf courses. Fifteen of its 18 holes border water, with panoramic views of the legendary El Yunque Rainforest adding to its allure.
Course Stats:
- 18 Holes
- Par 72
- 6,890 Yards
- Rating/Slope: 75.9/145
Set within a 483-acre nature reserve with a two-mile crescent beach, Bahía Beach offers a resort-style course that challenges golfers of all skill levels. It has earned certification for environmental sustainability from Audubon International. The course’s lush fairways and pristine greens weave through towering trees, creating an oasis-like atmosphere where it sometimes feels as if you and your golf buddies have the island to yourselves. While the course is beautifully maintained, its tight shots, fast undulating greens, and ever-present water hazards will keep you focused.
Puerto Rico
Don’t forget—at the turn, make sure to order a grilled hot dog from the Cocoteros Grill, a delicious reminder that you’re still in an American territory.
Just a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Miami, Puerto Rico is an enticing year-round golf destination. Planning your trip is seamless: as a U.S. territory, locals are American citizens, and American travelers don’t need a passport to visit. There’s no need for international phone plans, and the U.S. dollar is the official currency. Add in the warm, welcoming Boricua spirit, and Puerto Rico offers an unbeatable golf getaway.
