TPC Danzante Bay: Epic Golf in Mexico

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TPC Danzante Bay - The 17th hole at TPC Danzante Bay in Loreto, Mexico is legendary - and stunning.
The 17th hole at TPC Danzante Bay in Loreto, Mexico is legendary – and stunning. Photo credit: Jamie Bartosch

Every golfer has a bucket list of golf courses they’d love to play one day. For many, TPC Danzante Bay, in Loreto, Mexico, is on that list,

With good reason.

The world-famous 18-hole golf course borders the Sea of Cortez in the Baja Peninsula (aka Baja California Sur), providing absolutely stunning views. The 17th hole, in particular, juts out from the cliffs and cacti onto a small peninsula in the blue seawater.

To see the 17th hole on TikTok or YouTube is one thing. To actually be there? And play it? (and in my son’s case, birdie it? It’s a lifetime highlight for any golfer.

The desert landscaping and water views are so beautiful, the golf course staff regularly carts non-golfing visitors up to the 17th hole just to see it and take photos.

What does TPC stand for?

TPC Danzante Bay isn’t just the best golf course in Mexico, it’s one of the top courses in the world. It’s in the TPC Network, an elite group of 30 golf courses worldwide that meet the high standards for the PGA Tour. (TPC stands for Tournament Players Club).

There’s a table full of trophies and awards naming TPC Danzante Bay a top golf destination at the adjacent all-inclusive resort, the Villa Del Palmar-Islands of Loreto.

That doesn’t mean average golfers like my husband can’t enjoy 18 holes here. My husband described his round with our 18-year-old son as “a spectacular and unforgettable experience.” Here’s his exact quote:

“For a golfer who normally plays their local municipal course, getting the chance to shoot a round on a world-class one like TPC Danzante Bay was a real treat. At times, you’ll want to just stop and admire what you’re looking at, regardless of the quality of your game.”

TPC Danzante Bay - The desert landscape is stunning at the TPC Danzante Bay golf course in Loreto, Mexico.
The desert landscape is stunning at the TPC Danzante Bay golf course in Loreto, Mexico. Photo credit: Jamie Bartosch

What’s the condition of the course?

During our visit in December 2023, TPC Danzante Bay was finishing a yearlong restoration project of its greens and fairways, which took a beating from a strong hurricane and extreme heat. The work wasn’t quite done; the greens and fairways were still a little patchy.

But by the time you read this, the work should be completed and everything should be in tip-top shape.

TPC Danzante Bay - The driving range at TPC Danzante Bay.
The driving range at TPC Danzante Bay. Photo credit: Jamie Bartosch

What are the features at TPC Danzante Bay?

The course includes everything you’d expect at a place of this caliber: a practice facility with a driving range, a 9-hole putting course, classes and lessons, and a pro shop.

At the driving range, nestled in a valley between two cliffs, there’s a metal donkey. If you hit it, the staff says they’ll give you a free beer.

The clubhouse has a small open-air restaurant and bar, Casa Club, which serves everything from guacamole and burgers to gourmet entrees like scallops and lobster tail. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (reservations are required for dinner).

What is the average cost of a round at TPC Danzante Bay?

During our visit in December 2023, the average cost for a round was hovering around $245 a person, including a cart. Golf club rental was $65 per person. In the spring of 2023, the rates are listed at $282 per round.

If the course’s condition is in less-than-perfect shape, discounts will be offered.

TPC Danzante Bay - Golfing at TPC Danzante Bay should be on every golfer’s bucket list.
Golfing at TPC Danzante Bay should be on every golfer’s bucket list. Photo credit: Jamie Bartosch

A few other things about TPC Danzante Bay

  • You’ll probably be able to save money with their special offers and golf packages at the adjacent Villa Del Palmar. You can combine your stay with golf, or their Sabila Spa or snorkeling getaways.
  • There’s a live cam of the 17th hole and the golf course.
  • It’s OK to tip in USD. No need to convert to Mexican pesos.
  • Loreto, Mexico is far from Cabo San Lucas. To get there, you’ll need to fly to Loreto and either rent a car or take a 30-minute shuttle ride to the Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa. The resort has a trolley that will take you on a 2-minute uphill ride to the resort course.
  • According to the staff, TPC Danzante Bay is owned by a California resident. His $10 million home is perched on a beautiful piece of real estate that overlooks the course. He’s rarely there, however, the staff said.
  • The course was designed by Rees Jones, who’s behind dozens of championship golf courses in the U.S. (and around the world).
  • This is obvious, but it’s important: make your tee times in advance.
TPC Danzante Bay - Even non-golfers come to the 17th hole at TPC Danzante Bay just to soak in the views.
Even non-golfers come to the 17th hole at TPC Danzante Bay just to soak in the views. Photo credit: Jamie Bartosch

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