There’s a real debate among Punta Cana golfers about whether Corales or Punta Espada is the better course. Both arguments are valid — but Punta Espada has one thing going for it that’s hard to argue with: GolfWeek ranked it the number one course in the Caribbean and Mexico for over 12 consecutive years. Golf Digest had it as high as 35th in the world. That’s not a fluke.
What Nicklaus Built at Cap Cana
Opened in 2006, Punta Espada is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design at the Cap Cana resort complex, just south of Puntacana Resort along the Dominican coastline. The par-72 layout stretches 7,396 yards and was built around the natural bluffs, beach, lagoons, and jungle foliage that make this stretch of coastline so dramatic. All 18 holes have Caribbean Sea views. Eight play directly along or over the water — and when Nicklaus had ocean to work with here, he used every bit of it.
The par-five 2nd hole is 611 yards and plays from one of the highest points on the property, doglegging right past a tidal lake and beach bunker. It’s one of the hardest holes on the course and sets the tone early.
The 13th Hole
Every great course has a signature hole that people talk about for years after the round, and at Punta Espada it’s the 13th. A 249-yard par three that requires a full carry over the Caribbean Sea to a green surrounded by water on three sides. It draws comparisons to Pebble Beach, and they’re not undeserved. The PGA Champions Tour held three events here between 2008 and 2010, with Fred Couples closing out the last one with a course-record 62. That hole played a role in every one of those tournaments.
Logistics
Punta Espada is open to the public and sits just a few miles from the main resort corridor, making it an easy add to any Punta Cana itinerary regardless of where you’re staying. Paspalum turf throughout, immaculate conditioning year-round.
If you’re building a serious Punta Cana golf trip, Punta Espada belongs on the list alongside Corales. They’re different enough in character that playing both in the same trip makes complete sense.
Putting together a Punta Cana golf package? Coastal Golfaway has been building custom Caribbean golf trips for over 35 years. We’ll get you on the right courses at the right times.
