El Camaleón Golf Course

El Camaleón Golf Course in Mayakoba, Mexico, is a popular golf course in the Riviera Maya. This 18-hole, par-72 championship course was designed by Greg Norman and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

The course is 7,024 yards long with a course rating of 74.8 and a slope of 139. It caters to players of all skill levels through five tee options per hole.

As one of the best golf courses in Riviera Maya, El Camaleón features tropical jungle, mangrove forests, limestone canals, and ocean views along the Caribbean Sea. Audubon International also recognises it for its eco-friendly efforts.

Course Layout

The layout of El Camaleón Golf Course winds through three distinct ecosystems: dense mangrove jungles, limestone canals, and expansive oceanfront stretches.

The fairways and greens use Paspalum grass that stays in good shape all year in Mexico’s tropical weather.

Golfers encounter a variety of terrains, from jungle-lined holes that demand precision to open seaside sections where strategic play is essential.

These features make the course a good choice for anyone looking for challenging golf courses in Mexico, with GPS-equipped carts enhancing navigation across the diverse 18 holes.

Challenges

El Camaleón presents challenges that require adaptability and accuracy. Winds from the Caribbean Sea influence play, particularly on exposed holes, while tides can alter conditions daily.

Natural hazards, such as cenotes (old sinkholes with clear water), add strategic depth, forcing players to weigh risks carefully. The course is also home to birds and iguanas, reminding golfers to respect the environment.

All these features make the course enjoyable for both beginners and experienced players, helping it stand out as a top golf course in the Riviera Maya.

Signature Holes

Among the signature holes at El Camaleón Golf Course, Hole 7, known as the “Devil’s Mouth,” stands out as a par-3 that plays over a large cenote. This hole blends mystery and precision in a visually stunning setting.

Hole 1 introduces the cenote theme right from the start, with the hazard flanking the opening fairway. Additionally, Hole 18, “El Vigía,” offers a scenic oceanfront finish, where wind plays a pivotal role in this challenging par-4.

These holes show off the creative design of the course, making them must-experience features for visitors exploring signature holes on Mexican golf courses.

Facilities

El Camaleón has many helpful facilities for visitors. The pro shop stocks clothes, gear, and PXG golf clubs you can rent. There is a 350-yard driving range, a putting green, and a short game area to practice short shots.

The locker rooms have showers and lounge seating with views of the 18th hole. Golf lessons are offered by the Jim McLean Golf School, which uses Trackman technology to help improve your swing.

You can eat at the Clubhouse for a fancy meal or at Koba Sports Bar for casual food like ceviche. Drinks are also served on the course. There is a dress code that asks guests to wear collared shirts and proper shoes.

Hosted Tournaments

El Camaleón is well known for hosting major golf tournaments. It held 16 PGA TOUR events, including the World Wide Technology Championship from 2007 to 2022.

The course also hosted LIV Golf Mayakoba in 2023 and 2024, and in 2025, it was the site of the LPGA Riviera Maya Open, which was the first LPGA event in Mexico since 2017.

El Camaleón is the only golf course in the world to host PGA TOUR, LIV Golf, LPGA, AJGA, and LACC events.

These tournaments attract global talent and spectators, showing their role in PGA Tour golf in Mexico and beyond.

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El Camaleón Golf Course in Mayakoba is known for its beautiful scenery, strategic challenges, and luxury amenities. It is a popular place for people who want to play golf in the Riviera Maya. With its rich tournament history and commitment to sustainability, this course promises an unforgettable experience.