TPC Danzante Bay: Home to Mexico's Most Instagrammable Hole
A Mexican golf escape with canyons, desert and show-stopping ocean views.
In a world where great golf courses are increasingly judged by the sum of their parts, the idea of having a “signature hole” has gone slightly out of fashion. But TPC Danzante Bay in Mexico boasts a hole that could change anyone’s mind. It’s so photogenic, in fact, it could make a vitamin D-deprived golfer book a trip on a whim.
The 17th, a 175-yard par-3, sits dramatically on a cliff edge, with the Sea of Cortez presenting a stunning backdrop—and a potential hazard. Even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by the winds whipping off the water.
But the 17th isn’t the only highlight. The course features par-4s and 5s that wind through canyons, and the rugged desert terrain is never far away. The most memorable moments occur when the volcanic rock and towering cacti give way to reveal those breathtaking views of crystal-blue water.
Beyond the golf course itself, the Loreto Islands offer a wealth of attractions, including vibrant marine life and all-inclusive resorts like the Villa del Palmar, which is connected to TPC Danzante Bay. To understand why TPC Danzante Bay deserves a spot on our list of must-visit courses, we spoke with Rich Taylor, the director of golf.
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
Can you describe the design of the golf course and what makes it worthy of the TPC status?
Rees Jones designed the course—which is best known for its high-stakes drama and jaw-dropping visuals—and has maintained that it is one of his best. As a TPC-designated course, we uphold it at the standard required for hosting a PGA TOUR event.
What’s the natural setting of the course and how does it affect the playing experience?
TPC Danzante Bay is a brilliant golf course that runs over and through valleys, arroyos, dunes, and foothills. It’s enveloped in panoramic vistas that show off the natural beauty of the region. From every angle, striking images of the Islands of Loreto and the surrounding Sierra de la Giganta mountain range take your breath away. The challenging yet rewarding golf course beckons you to return for more. Each hole at TPC Danzante Bay provides a truly unique experience—the front nine leaves you entranced with exquisite views, and the back nine increases the drama with cliff holes that hang over the Sea of Cortez and Danzante Bay.
What would a day at Danzante look like for someone who isn’t interested in golf?
Danzante Bay sits on a peaceful, crescent-shaped beach right in the heart of the Loreto Bay National Marine Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Galápagos of Mexico.” This incredible park is home to nearly 800 animal species, from manta rays and dolphins to majestic whales. Guests can hop on hotel-led boat and scuba diving tours to get a closer look at the amazing underwater world of the park. Plus, there are plenty of other outdoor adventures to dive into, like whale watching, ATV desert rides, snorkeling, LED night paddle boarding, sport fishing, surfing at Scorpion Bay, cultural city tours, and exploring Loreto’s famous islands by boat.
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
Tpc Danzante Bay
How do you create a sense of community at a club that doesn’t have regular members or frequent visitors like a typical club?
We have a growing club membership of homeowners who live in the development. Danzante Bay’s real estate offering is great for guests seeking a longer-term, authentic Mexican lifestyle intertwined with nature and luxury. Beyond our homeowners, we treat every guest like they are a member by offering personal service at the practice area, storing clubs during their stay, and going above and beyond to make their experience a memorable one. We also just opened a new clubhouse, The Casa Club, which has stunning views overlooking the resort, golf course, and Sea of Cortez and includes a new golf shop and bar and a full remodel of the outdoor kitchen and dining areas. It is open to golfers, resort guests, and members for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
What’s your elevator pitch for Danzante Bay as the perfect winter golf retreat. What would you say?
Imagine playing the #1 golf course in Mexico in the morning, followed by a trip to the hotel’s luxurious Sabila Spa in the afternoon, having cocktails watching the sunset over the Sea of Cortez, and a great dinner at Danzante restaurant. You can’t find much more of a perfect day than that in the winter!
