Hilton Cancun Golf Club

With its pyramid-like shape, the Hilton Cancun Golf & Spa Resort strongly resembles the Mayan ruins found throughout the property. Sitting on the largest beach in the area, Hilton Cancun is the only resort on the island with an 18-hole championship golf course alongside other top amenities. A state-of-the-art wellness spa and fitness center, seven spectacular pools, more than 700 yards of exclusive white sand beach and—fitting with the country’s love of fútbol—a regulation soccer field, offer recreational activities for the entire family.    
    The journey begins at the Spa at the Hilton Cancun. A wide range of body and beauty treatments includes relaxing massages, soothing aromatherapies and rejuvenating facials. Many of these treatments are also offered outdoors in a secluded spa garden or at one of the intimate beachside palapas. In the quest for total relaxation and renewal, guests may choose from any of the invigorating paths that fit perfectly among this mystical setting: Harmony, Serenity, Purity or Vitality.
    Guests also enjoy preferential tee times and discounted green fees at the course, conveniently located right across the street on Nichupte Lagoon. A round is an adventure in itself, as a veritable menagerie waits behind every hole. Peacocks, crocodiles, iguanas and untold numbers of pelicans, geese and herons can be found along the Bermuda fairways or perched within the mangrove jungles. 
    Approximately $6 million was recently invested in the Hilton Cancun Golf Club, including brand new Paspallum Sea Isle 1 turf—highly salt resistant thereby insuring optimum course conditions year round, as well as reshaped fairways, bunkers and tee boxes. In addition to other new design features, the golf course boasts a renovated practice facility, including driving range and putting green, deluxe golf carts and a top-quality pro shop offering the latest in golf equipment, fashion and apparel. Guests can also find the acclaimed restaurant, Hoyo 19, at the clubhouse, and enjoy breakfast, lunch or simply a well-deserved cocktail after a round.    
    Manicured fairways and greens, spectacular scenery and an attentive staff await with traditional Mexican hospitality.

What makes the property so special? The 16th hole provides the unusual opportunity to appreciate the El Rey Mayan Ruins. In fact, shots missed right will end up in the middle of them. Dating back to the 10th century, the El Rey ruins were named for a sculpture discovered of a human face with an elaborate ornament on his head that resembled a king.

What will visitors be surprised to find when they visit?  The Hilton Cancun’s location couldn’t be more ideal. Situated in the heart of the Zona Hotelera—the main drag for Cancun’s finest hotels—the Hilton is far enough away from the action to maintain a sense of seclusion, though close enough to enjoy all of the area’s amenities.

What phrase best describes the property?  Challenging but playable

Playa Mujeres Golf Club

After opening in July 2006, Playa Mujeres (meaning “beach of the women”) is already considered one of the top courses in Mexico. A Greg Norman Signature Course, Playa Mujeres Golf Club measures 7,260 yards over 18 holes and fully integrates golfers into the area’s natural environment. The course meanders alongside carefully crafted water holes, jungles, bunkers and greens that have been conceived and maintained with respect for the indigenous flora and fauna. With several lagoon and oceanfront holes, four of which play from or toward the white-sand beaches and  turquoise waters, views of the Caribbean Sea and Isla Mujeres are always within sight. 
    While the course is accessible to all skill levels, the daily trade winds demand accuracy and challenge even the most practiced of players. “Not only does this course have great vistas, but it also provides strategic challenges for everyone who has the opportunity to play it,” said Norman. “[Playa Mujeres] calls for a golfer’s complete concentration from the first tee shot to the final putt, yet it is an enjoyable experience for players of all abilities.” 
    Guests will find practice facilities including a driving range, two putting greens and a short-game area as well as a well-appointed clubhouse, pro shop and expert staff throughout the resort. Playa Mujeres is operated by Troon Golf.

What makes the property so special?  With the amount of wildlife roaming the grounds of Playa Mujeres, it could be mistaken for a zoo. Foxes, iguanas and tarantulas can be found throughout the property.

What will visitors be surprised to find when they visit?  Coco the alligator, who comes when called and eats out of the cart girl’s hand, may give guests the biggest shock.

What phrase best describes the property?  Awesome tropical location.