Chileno Bay - Mexico

Chileno Bay Golf Course is located midway between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. It’s an 18-hole championship layout featuring breathtaking views of the coastline along the Sea of Cortez. Originally designed by Tom Fazio in 2009 as two 18-hole courses, it never opened due to the economic downturn. The property was purchased in 2013 and they hired Ross Coburn from Vancouver to oversee the renovations. The front 9 is on the lower portion of the property but all holes have views of the sea. One of my most memorable holes is the #6, a long snake-like par 5 that slithers down towards the ocean. A demanding tee shot over a waste land is required to reach the fairway so don’t be short or right or it’s “adios amigo”. Next you’re faced with a dog leg left second shot followed by a dog leg right approach shot to a green that is tucked into a valley protected by a hill. This may be one of the most difficult par 5’s you will ever play since every shot is demanding. However 3 out of 4 par 5’s are ranked as the toughest so there is plenty of bite to this course. Hole #6 is a very unique par 4 at 270 yards but the sliver of a green will make it much more challenging than it looks. Don’t be left on your approach as a huge bunker protects the green and leaves you with no room to work with as another bunker looms on the other side. The back nine climbs dramatically with the 11th green and 12th tee box being the highest points. Both holes offer magnificent views of the entire course. The fairways are wide and very receptive. Overall I thought this course was well designed, in great condition, with very irregular shaped contoured greens and bunkering that vary considerably in size. This is a private course but if you get chance make sure you play this gem.