Golf tourism revenue in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula has soared by 42% since 2020, transforming the region into one of Latin America’s most dynamic destinations for international players. At the center of this surge is the Tulum Country Club, home to the PGA Riviera Maya—a championship course masterfully designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. With a reputation for technical precision and environmental consciousness, the course has become a beacon for both elite competition and sustainable development.
The transformation has been dramatic for Carlos Mendez, a veteran caddie who has worked the greens for over a decade. “A few years ago, we’d see a handful of weekly visitors. Now, it’s like hosting a global summit every day,” he remarks as a foursome from Singapore prepares to tee off.
A New Era for Golf in the Americas
Stretching over 7,200 yards, the PGA Riviera Maya course weaves through the jungle’s natural contours, integrating renewable energy systems and preserving native vegetation. The club’s commitment to environmental stewardship has not gone unnoticed, with international recognition positioning it as a model for eco-conscious golf development.
The venue has catalyzed a powerful economic ripple effect as a host to high-profile tournaments, most notably the upcoming Latin America Amateur Championship, which will draw players from more than 30 countries. Industry experts estimate that golf-related activity centered around the club injects more than $200 million into local infrastructure and businesses annually.
Bridging Sport and Community
The growth of Tulum Country Club has extended far beyond the fairways. Small businesses throughout the region have seen measurable benefits. Local restaurateur María González, whose family-run taqueria sits near the 18th hole, shares her experience: “Golfers from everywhere stop by after their rounds. They’re curious about our traditions—it’s like a cultural exchange on every plate.”
Since the club’s expansion, revenue across the hospitality and service sectors has increased by approximately 35%. Boutique hotels, artisanal cafes, and tour operators report rising demand driven by a new wave of affluent, golf-focused tourism.
Youth engagement is also a cornerstone of the club’s mission. The club sponsors educational programs that have introduced more than 2,000 local children to the sport, and several scholarships are awarded annually to promising young athletes.
Innovation Meets Tradition
While embracing cutting-edge technology—such as AI-driven course management and real-time swing analysis—the Tulum Country Club remains deeply rooted in cultural heritage. The clubhouse architecture reflects traditional Mayan design principles, and menus showcase dishes like cochinita pibil, prepared by chefs trained in ancestral techniques.
This balance of innovation and identity has proven to be one of the club’s most compelling features, drawing visitors who value not only the sport but also the cultural richness of the experience.
Looking Ahead: Toward the Global Stage
With ambitions to host a PGA Tour event by 2026, stakeholders are investing further in environmental responsibility. A recently announced partnership with conservation groups aims to offset 100% of the club’s carbon emissions through reforestation efforts across the peninsula.
“We’re not just building a legacy for golf,” says Elena Ríos, the project’s director. “We’re ensuring the land thrives for generations.”
As twilight falls over the 9th hole, the final groups of the day take a moment to enjoy the quiet—reflecting not only on their game but also on the broader impact of a sport steadily transforming a community.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on how sports like golf can promote sustainable growth in local economies. Join the conversation on The Tulum Times’ social media channels.
