Punta Cana, known for its luxury resorts, also offers some of the best golf courses in the Caribbean. Let's start our journey at Corales Golf Course, Puntacana Resort & Club, which is a true gem among Dominican golf courses. This 18-hole course designed by the famous Tom Fazio impresses not only with its layout, but especially with its spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Corales is famous for its challenging finishing holes, including the famous 'Devil's Elbow' - the last three holes played along the cliffs above the ocean. The course, which opened in 2010, quickly gained a reputation and now hosts PGA Tour tournaments. Guests praise not only the course layout itself, but also the excellent service and professionalism of the caddies. Prices per round range from $250 to $450, depending on the season (as of 2024).

Another no less impressive facility is Punta Espada Golf Club, part of the Cap Cana complex. This course, designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, is often listed among the best golf courses in the world. Punta Espada offers 18 holes, eight of which border directly on the Caribbean Sea. Particularly impressive is the 13th hole - a par 4 played over an ocean bay. The course is famous for its excellent maintenance and breathtaking views. Prices per round are similar to those at Corales, hovering around $400 (as of 2024). It is worth noting that at both Corales and Punta Espada, the use of a caddy is mandatory, which incurs an additional fee.

For those looking for a slightly more affordable, but still high-end golf experience, a great choice would be La Cana Golf Club. This 27-hole course is also part of the Puntacana Resort & Club complex and offers three interesting 9-hole loops: Tortuga, Hacienda and Arrecife. La Cana, designed by P.B. Dye, offers slightly milder challenges than Corales or Punta Espada, but still provides great views and excellent playing conditions. Prices per round here are slightly lower, starting at around $180 (as of 2024).

Each of these courses offers a unique experience, but they all have one thing in common - they all provide play surrounded by breathtaking Caribbean scenery. Whether you're an experienced golfer looking for a challenge or an amateur looking to enjoy the game in a beautiful setting, Punta Cana's golf courses are sure to meet your expectations.

Moving east from Punta Cana, we arrive at the legendary Casa de Campo Resort and Villas complex, which is a true mecca for golf enthusiasts. This luxurious destination offers not one, but as many as three world-class golf courses, all designed by the famous Pete Dye. Casa de Campo is a complex that has attracted golfers from all over the world for years, offering not only excellent playing conditions, but also luxurious accommodations and a range of additional attractions.

Without a doubt, the most famous and highly regarded course at Casa de Campo is Teeth of the Dog Golf Course, considered one of the best golf courses in the world. Opened in 1971, Teeth of the Dog is a true legend of Dominican golf. The course is famous for its seven spectacular holes played directly on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, which Dye called 'created by God.' Particularly impressive are holes 5, 7 and 16, where players are faced not only with the difficulties of the course, but also with a mesmerizing view of the azure waters. The course is regularly ranked among the top 20 golf courses in the world. Prices for a round at Teeth of the Dog start at around $380 for resort guests and $450 for outsiders (as of 2024).

In addition to Teeth of the Dog, Casa de Campo also offers two other outstanding courses: Dye Fore and The Links. Dye Fore is a 27-hole course offering three different 9-hole loops: Chavon, Marina and Lagos. This course is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and spectacular views of the Chavon River and the Caribbean Sea. The Links, as the name suggests, is a course inspired by classic links, offering a completely different experience from the other courses in the complex.

What sets Casa de Campo apart from other golf resorts? First and foremost, the variety. With three completely different courses, golfers can enjoy multi-day stays, experiencing new challenges every day. The resort also offers excellent training facilities, including the Jim McLean Golf Academy, where you can polish your skills under the guidance of professional instructors.

It is worth noting that Casa de Campo is not just about golf. The resort offers luxury villas and suites, a private beach, a marina, tennis courts, a horseback riding course and much more. This makes it an ideal place not only for die-hard golfers, but also for families, where there is something for everyone.

When comparing the golf courses in Casa de Campo with those in Punta Cana, you'll find that they offer a slightly different experience. While the courses in Punta Cana, such as Corales or Punta Espada, are more modern and often more technically challenging, Teeth of the Dog in Casa de Campo offers a more classic, but no less exciting golf experience. Prices are comparable, although Casa de Campo often offers attractive packages for guests staying at the resort.

When planning a golf vacation in the Dominican Republic, there are several key aspects to consider that will help make your stay unforgettable. First of all, the best time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is most favorable for golf. During this time, the temperature is pleasant and rainfall is less likely. Remember, however, that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices are highest then and the courses are the most crowded.

When choosing where to stay, consider staying at one of the golf resorts, such as Puntacana Resort & Club or Casa de Campo Resort and Villas. They not only offer direct access to the golf courses, but often also attractive golf packages for their guests. For example, Casa de Campo offers packages that include lodging and unlimited play on all three courses, which can be financially advantageous for avid golfers.

Keep in mind that playing the Dominican Republic's top courses comes at a high cost. Prices for a round at top courses such as Teeth of the Dog or Punta Espada can exceed $400. On top of that, you have to add mandatory caddy fees (usually around US$50-60 plus tip). If you're planning a longer stay and want to play several courses, consider buying a golf package, which often proves more economical.

When preparing to play Dominican courses, be sure to dress appropriately. Most clubs require polo shirts and khaki pants or golf shorts. And don't forget sun protection - a hat, sunglasses and high sunscreen are an absolute must.

It's also worth remembering that the Dominican Republic is not just about golf. When planning your stay, make time to explore the island's other attractions. Puntacana Resort & Club, for example, offers exciting excursions to Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve, where you can enjoy natural lagoons and abundant flora and fauna. Casa de Campo guests, on the other hand, can visit the charming town of Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village, or take a boat trip on the Chavon River.

All in all, the Dominican Republic offers an unparalleled golf experience combined with a luxurious vacation in a tropical paradise. Whether you choose the modern Punta Cana courses or the classic Casa de Campo routes, you're in for an unforgettable time on some of the world's most beautiful golf courses. However, be sure to plan your stay in advance, especially if you want to play the most popular courses during peak season. With good preparation, your golf vacation in the Dominican Republic is sure to become an unforgettable experience, combining your passion for golf with relaxation in a Caribbean paradise.