Let’s be honest: no one goes on an all-inclusive vacation to spend two hours sitting in a shuttle bus with a golf bag between their knees.
When you’re in paradise, every minute counts—especially when you’re trying to squeeze in 18 holes before a sunset dinner. That’s why we’ve overhauled our list of the best all-inclusive golf resorts to focus on the “Goldilocks Zone” of proximity.
Whether the first tee is literally in the resort’s backyard or just a short hop down the coast, these Mexico and Caribbean gems ensure that the only thing “long” about your day is your drive off the tee. Fore!
Couples Resorts – Yes ALL of them!

Fast Facts:
- Course Distance: Each Couples Resort is located a short 15-20 minutes via complimentary shuttle to the golf course.
- Inclusions: Unlimited green fees and round-trip transportation are included in your stay.
- The “Catch”: Caddies are mandatory and require a cash tip (approx. $20+); golf carts are not included (extra cost applies).
- Best For: Couples who want a traditional, lush Jamaican hillside golfing experience.
Sandals Emerald Bay, Great Exuma, Bahamas
Sandals Emerald Bay is undergoing major renovations and is expected to re-open as a Beaches Resort. We expect that, much like at the Beaches Ocho Rios (below), Golf will continue to be complimentary and, since the golf course isn’t moving, close by. We will update information about this resort as soon as we have more details – stay tuned!
Beaches Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Fast Facts:
- Course Distance: 15-20 minutes to Sandals Golf & Country Club.
- Inclusions: Unlimited green fees and transfers; plus, they offer a free one-hour golf clinic for kids twice a week.
- The “Catch”: While green fees are free, mandatory caddie fees apply (approx. $20 per bag).
- Best For: Families where the parents want a serious round while the kids learn the basics.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Fast Facts:
- Course Distance: On-site (the course winds through the resort grounds).
- Inclusions: Tee times can be booked as part of the all-inclusive experience, often using “Resort Credits.”
- The “Catch”: It is no longer “strictly” free; most guests pay a service fee OR use credits to cover the rounds.
- Best For: Golfers who want a rock-star atmosphere and a Jack Nicklaus-designed challenge right outside their door.
Iberostar Cancun, Mexico

Fast Facts:
- Course Distance: On-site (the clubhouse is steps from the main resort area).
- Inclusions: Preferred rates for guests; unlimited snacks and beverages are included while you play.
- The “Catch”: Golf is rarely “free” here—expect to pay a guest green fee that includes the cart.
- Best For: Travelers who want to play a quick 18 and be back at the swim-up bar in minutes.
Moon Palace Cancun, Mexico

Fast Facts:
- Course Distance: On-site (Moon Spa & Golf Club).
- Inclusions: Unlimited golf is available via specific “Stay & Play” packages; food and drinks at the clubhouse are part of the all-inclusive deal.
- The “Catch”: There is a mandatory cart fee (approx. $38 per person) even on “unlimited” packages.
- Best For: The “Golf-Obsessed”—with 27 holes on-site, you can play a different combination every day.
Atelier Playa Mujeres, Mexico

If you’re looking for a sophisticated “adults-only” golf getaway where the architecture is as stunning as the fairways, Check PricesAtelier Playa Mujeres is your spot. You’ll be teeing off at the Greg Norman-designed Playa Mujeres Golf Club, which is practically an extension of the resort’s lush, tropical grounds.
- Course Distance: On-site (3-minute shuttle or short walk from the lobby).
- Inclusions: Guests in “INSPIRA” suite categories receive up to 2 complimentary green fees (on stays of 7+ nights).
- The “Catch”: Golf balls aren’t included, and unless you’re in an Inspira suite, green fees can be a bit pricey.
- Best For: Couples and luxury seekers who want a “quiet-luxury” vibe without leaving the property.
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, Mexico

- Course Distance: Less than 10 minutes via resort shuttle.
- Inclusions: Guests typically enjoy one complimentary green fee per person, per day.
- The “Catch”: Premium tee times (before 1:00 PM) often come with a mandatory surcharge, and golf carts are extra.
- Best For: Serious golfers who still want a high-end, romantic beach experience.
Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort, Mexico

- Course Distance: On-site / 2-minute shuttle.
- Inclusions: Complimentary green fees are included in the “Unlimited-Luxury” package.
- The “Catch”: There is a mandatory “Premium Tee Time” charge for morning rounds which covers the golf cart rental.
- Best For: Golfing families who don’t want to sacrifice 5-star luxury for kid-friendly amenities.
Hyatt Zilara / Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Located in the ultra-exclusive Cap Cana enclave, these twin resorts – Check PricesHyatt Zilara Cap Cana and Check PricesHyatt Ziva Cap Cana put you on the doorstep of Punta Espada — often ranked as the best golf course in the entire Caribbean. Whether you choose the adults-only Zilara or the family-friendly Ziva, the proximity to these iconic oceanfront holes is unbeatable. It also doesn’t hurt to be on one of the most beautiful stretches of beach (Cap Cana) in the Dominican Republic at a 5-star resort!
- Course Distance: 5 to 8 minutes via private transfer.
- Inclusions: Golf is a paid add-on, but the resort concierge handles all the “VIP” arrangements for preferred tee times.
- The “Catch”: This is a “bucket list” course, so expect to pay premium green fees even as a resort guest.
- Best For: Pro-level enthusiasts who want to play a world-renowned, Top-100 course.
Majestic Mirage Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

- Course Distance: 2 minutes (just 200 meters from the resort entrance).
- Inclusions: One free green fee per day, per adult (on stays of 5+ nights).
- The “Catch”: While the green fee is free, the mandatory golf cart fee is around $50 per person.
- Best For: Social groups and travelers who want to play every single day without breaking the bank.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian, St. Lucia

- Course Distance: 5 minutes via complimentary shuttle.
- Inclusions: Unlimited green fees and round-trip transfers are included for all guests.
- The “Catch”: Golf carts are mandatory (approx. $50) and caddies are recommended for navigating the new layout.
- Best For: All-inclusive purists who want everything (including the golf and the ride there) bundled into one price.
Royalton CHIC Antigua, Antigua

- Course Distance: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi.
- Inclusions: Preferred rates are often available for guests, though it is primarily a paid add-on.
- The “Catch”: It’s a local club rather than a resort-owned course, so expect a more “authentic” island feel rather than a manicured hotel experience.
- Best For: Younger crowds or “golf-and-party” groups who want to be near the action of St. John’s.
Casa de Campo, La Romana, Dominican Republic

Fast Facts:
- Course Distance: On-site (Teeth of the Dog, Dye Fore, and The Links).
- Inclusions: Significant guest discounts on green fees; “Unlimited Golf” packages are available as a room add-on.
- The “Catch”: Teeth of the Dog (the #1 course) usually requires a premium surcharge even on unlimited plans.
- Best For: Serious golfers looking for a “bucket list” experience on world-ranked courses.
Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Fast Facts:
- Course Distance: 5-10 minutes to Cocotal Golf & Country Club.
- Inclusions: Unlimited green fees for all guests (at most room levels).
- The “Catch”: Golf cart rental is mandatory and usually costs around $45–$50 per person.
- Best For: Luxury travelers who want a high-end resort with “hassle-free” golf access included.
Half Moon, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Fast Facts:
- Course Distance: On-site (Half Moon Golf Course).
- Inclusions: Guests receive preferred rates; “Total Design” packages often include unlimited rounds.
- The “Catch”: It is a world-class tournament course, so caddie fees and cart rentals are strictly enforced.
- Best For: Purists who appreciate classic, Robert Trent Jones Sr. course architecture.
Pro Tips: Know Before You Go
You’ve picked the resort and cleared your calendar, but there are a few “pro moves” that can make the difference between a good golf trip and a legendary one. Here’s what you need to know before you zip up your suitcase.
Golf Clubs – Ship or Rent?
This is the age-old question. If you’re planning to play daily (or at least three or more rounds), bringing your own sticks is usually worth the effort. Services like Ship Sticks or ShipGo are great; they offer door-to-door service and about $1,000 in insurance, which beats dragging a heavy travel bag through the airport. However, if you’re just squeezing in one “vacation round,” most 5-star resorts now stock the latest TaylorMade or Callaway sets for about $60–$90 USD. It’s a great way to “test drive” new tech without the shipping fees.
The Tipping Etiquette
While “all-inclusive” technically means tips are included, the golf course is often the exception to the rule—especially when caddies are involved.
- Caddies: Golf courses are challenging in the Dominican Republic and Mexico, and a caddie can make or break your round. A tip of $20–$40 USD per person is standard for a job well done. If they’re reading your putts like a pro, err on the higher side.
- Shuttle Drivers: For those 5-15 minute rides, a quick $2–$5 is a nice gesture that ensures you’re never “waiting” for your ride back to the pool.
- Bag Attendants: A simple $1–$2 per bag at the pro shop is customary.
Don’t Forget the “Humidity Essentials”
The Caribbean sun and humidity are no joke for you OR for your gear. Always pack two gloves (one will inevitably get sweaty by the turn) and a cooling towel. Most high-end resorts provide bottled water on the cart, but bringing your own electrolyte tabs can be a lifesaver when you’re on the 15th hole in 90+ degree heat. Finally, check the dress code! Most of these 5-star courses strictly require collared shirts and tailored shorts—leave the cargo shorts for the beach.
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