About Riviera Cancún Golf & Resorts
Riviera Cancún Golf Club is a premium 18-hole Jack Nicklaus–designed championship course nestled in Cancún’s Hotel Zone. Opened in 2008 on a protected coastal reserve, it offers a lush tropical layout (Par 72, 7,060 yards) that winds through mangroves, lagoons and dunes (cancunrivieramayagolf.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). The setting provides unparalleled Caribbean Sea views and abundant wildlife (iguanas, coatis, birdlife), creating a tranquil, nature-immersed experience (www.tripadvisor.com ) (rivieracancungolfclub.com ). What sets Riviera Cancún apart is its “all-inclusive” philosophy: the green fee includes endless food and drink, so players are served complimentary snacks and beverages on-course and a gourmet meal at the clubhouse bar afterward (www.tripadvisor.com ) (rivieracancungolfclub.com ). In short, this is not just a golf course but a tropical “oasis” retreat – a top-rated venue for golfers seeking both a challenging layout and resort-style indulgences in Cancún (www.tripadvisor.com ) (rivieracancungolfclub.com ).
Events and Programming
Unlike resort concert halls, Riviera Cancún is primarily a golf venue. Its calendar centers on sporting events – private tournaments, charity outings and corporate golf days. Weekly club competitions and occasional pro-am tournaments are common for enthusiasts. Special events (such as charity fundraisers) have featured on-course entertainment, reflecting a trend of combining golf with gastronomy and music in Cancún (elpais.com ). However, the club does not usually host large public concerts or festival-style performances; its focus remains on golf and private celebrations. (Nearby Cancún resorts host major music festivals, but Riviera Cancún’s own events are more intimate and golf-centric.)
Tickets and Booking
There is no separate “ticket” required – golfers simply book tee times. You can reserve times through the course’s pro shop or affiliated hotel concierge. Many Cancún resorts (e.g. Palace or Hard Rock brands) bundle Riviera Cancún rounds into all-inclusive packages (www.palaceresorts.com ). Green fees are typically around $250 USD for an 18-hole morning round (rivieracancungolfclub.com ), with lower twilight rates around $197. These rates often include shared golf carts, range balls and food/drink credits. Payment is usually made when booking: the club works with online tee-time platforms (like those shown on local golf sites) or by phone. During high season (winter/spring), tee times can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to book at least a few weeks in advance. Special stay‐and‐play packages may offer unlimited golf for resort guests (www.palaceresorts.com ).
Seating and Layout
Riviera Cancún is an expansive, open-air course, so there aren’t “seating” sections like a stadium. Players and spectators can walk along tee boxes and greens, or relax on the clubhouse patio overlooking the 18th hole. The layout is challenging: holes snake through natural terrain, with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. Highlights include the 7th hole (a daring tee shot over lagoon and a second carry over water to a green) (nicklausdesign.com ), and a punishing closing stretch – Nicklaus’s trademark “finishing punch” – on holes 15–17 (nicklausdesign.com ). In general, the back nine is tougher and windier. Club staff can advise beginners on safer routes; experienced players appreciate the smaller, undulating Nicklaus greens that reward precision (nicklausdesign.com ). For the best views, many golfers stake out the clubhouse deck (the Hole 19 terrace) before or after play, where they can watch finishing shots under the Caribbean sky.
Getting There and Parking
The club is located on Boulevard Kukulcán in Cancún’s Hotel Zone at about kilometer 25 – roughly 20–30 minutes’ drive from Cancún International Airport. (Boulevard Kukulcán is the main strip along the lagoon and ocean.) If driving, free parking is available on-site. Rideshare services (like Uber or Didi) and regular metered taxis serve the Hotel Zone; simply share the Kukulcán Km 25 landmark with your driver. For public transit, city buses R1 and R2 run frequently up the Hotel Zone. Both lines stop near Riviera Cancún (for example, the R1 Beach Zone route and R2 Delfines route cover this area) (gocancunguide.com ) (gocancunguide.com ). A single ride to the Hotel Zone costs only about 12 MXN (under US$1) (gocancunguide.com ). There is no dedicated airport shuttle to the golf club, but many resort hotels nearby can arrange transport. The nearby Mayan ruins site (Kukulcán Boulevard / Km 12) and shopping malls also anchor transit routes that pass close by the course.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, golfers check in at the clubhouse. Expect a relaxed tropical atmosphere: palms and mangroves border the fairways, and the friendly staff are attentive. Security is light – you’ll show your reservation (or green fee receipt) and they’ll direct you to the tee or driving range. The clubhouse (often called the “19th hole”) is spacious and modern, with separate men’s and women’s locker rooms, showers and steam rooms (cancunrivieramayagolf.com ). The fully stocked Pro Shop offers clubs, balls, gloves and apparel (club rentals are about $50 USD, shoes $15 (hotel.hardrock.com )). Food and drink options are excellent: a rotating snack-bar or “bar cart” moves around during play offering cold drinks and light snacks at no extra charge (www.tripadvisor.ca ). After your round, the restaurant at Hole 19 serves a gourmet buffet and has an upscale bar. One recent reviewer noted that you can “go to the restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal and drinks included without limit” once the round is complete (www.tripadvisor.ca ). Free Wi-Fi is typically available in the clubhouse area (ask at reception). There’s also usually a small lounge area for socializing. Overall, Riviera Cancún feels like a full-service resort amenity rather than a bare-bones public course.
Nearby Amenities
Being in Cancún’s Hotel Zone, Riviera Cancún is surrounded by top resorts, restaurants and activities. Within a few minutes’ drive are large hotels such as Excellence Riviera Cancún (adults-only) and Moon Palace (family-friendly all-inclusive), which together offer dozens of dining options – from steak and seafood to Mexican cuisine. The Laguna Nichupté side (the hotel strip’s west side) has casual beach clubs and bars; on the Caribbean side you’ll find shops and galleries. For pre-round dining, there are informal cafés near the club entrance, but most golfers fuel up at their hotel. In the Zona Hotelera you’ll also find grocery stores and drugstores if you need supplies. Downtown Cancún (El Centro) is about 15–20 miles southwest – easy to reach by R1 bus or taxi – and has numerous Mexican and international eateries. Late-night options are limited near the course (the club closes by 5 pm), but the main nightlife spots (like Calle 12’s clubs or the Coco Bongo area) are accessible if you stay at a nearby resort after golf. In short, Riviera Cancún is isolated enough for tranquility on the course, yet just minutes from Cancún’s restaurants, bars and hotels.
What Makes This Venue Special
Riviera Cancún stands out for blending world-class golf with resort luxury. The club’s design is a Nicklaus “masterpiece”: each hole is carved into the natural mangrove habitat, creating dramatic water carries and scenic vistas (rivieracancungolfclub.com ) (nicklausdesign.com ). For example, the 7th hole forces a bold tee shot over jungle and lagoon, and the back nine demands very precise play (Nicklaus even notes the finish punishes players on holes 15–17) (nicklausdesign.com ). Unlike many beachfront courses, Riviera Cancún is surprisingly inland, but its elevated tees still offer glimpses of the Caribbean (nicklausdesign.com ) (rivieracancungolfclub.com ). Culturally, it marked Cancún’s evolution into a golf destination: opening in 2008 alongside the new Moon Palace resort, it was built to launch a luxury residential/hotel project (nicklausdesign.com ). The club’s all-inclusive style is also unique – you won’t have to carry cash on the course because pizza slices, sandwiches and premium drinks (even beer and cocktails) are served for free during and after play (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ca ). Local players and visitors love that combination: many say the course is “very well maintained” and “fun but challenging,” and they rave about the quality of food and service (www.tripadvisor.es ) (www.tripadvisor.ca ). In short, Riviera Cancún is special because it feels like an oasis: a meticulously kept golf course, filled with tropical wildlife and luxury comforts, right in the heart of Cancún’s resort strip.
Visitor Tips and Information
Dress Code: Collared golf shirts and proper attire are strictly enforced (hotel.hardrock.com ) (hotel.hardrock.com ). Men must wear polo shirts, formal shorts or pants and golf shoes with socks; women similarly need collar or crew-neck tops, knee-length skirts/capris and golf shoes. No T-shirts, jeans or swimwear are permitted on the course (hotel.hardrock.com ) (hotel.hardrock.com ). Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before your tee time to check in, warm up on the range (practice balls are free (hotel.hardrock.com )) and get fitted for any rentals if needed. Bringing your own sunscreen, hat and sunglasses is wise – Cancún sun can be intense even early. Weather: The course is open year-round in the tropical climate; if a storm or lightning rolls through, play may be temporarily suspended (typical of outdoor courses). Rain is rare in summer but bring a towel for cart seats if there’s a brief shower. Food & Drink: Make the most of the all-inclusive perks. There are complimentary snack stations and staffed drink carts throughout the round (www.tripadvisor.ca ). Afterward, enjoy the clubhouse buffet (the menu is excellent) with unlimited drinks – many players say “the food in the clubhouse is some of the best” they’ve had at a golf course (www.tripadvisor.es ). You generally cannot bring outside alcohol or food (staff provide everything you need). Accessibility: The clubhouse has ADA parking and ramps, and there are accessible restrooms. The grounds are mostly smooth concrete around the clubhouse, but fairways are natural turf. The course does not offer special golf carts for wheelchair users, but guests with limited mobility are accommodated as needed. Etiquette: As an upscale venue, tipping is customary: about 10–15% on bar tabs and a few dollars to attentive staff or bag attendants per round. Finally, remember it’s an all-inclusive experience – feel free to ask for extra beverages or use the towel service; staff are focused on guest comfort. By planning ahead (especially in winter, when tours are busy) and adhering to the dress code, you’ll enjoy a seamless round at Riviera Cancún’s beautiful, one-of-a-kind golf clubhouse.
What are typical green fees and hours at Riviera Cancún Golf Club?
An 18-hole green fee in peak season is around $250 USD (morning rate), with a discounted twilight rate (around $180–$200) (rivieracancungolfclub.com ). Night golf is not offered; the course is generally open from about 6:30 AM or 7:00 AM until 5:00 PM daily (www.tripadvisor.ca ) (hotel.hardrock.com ). Early tee times and later “fallbacks” (teeing off late afternoon) are available. During booking you’ll see the exact opening hours, which may vary slightly by season.
Is food and drink included in the golf fee at Riviera Cancún?
Yes. Riviera Cancún operates on an all-inclusive model. When you pay for golf, unlimited snacks and beverages are provided on-course (via roaming drink carts and snack stations) and at the clubhouse bar (www.tripadvisor.ca ). After your round, you can enjoy a complimentary meal at the Hole 19 restaurant with premium bar service (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ca ). In other words, there’s no extra charge for food or drink once your green fee is paid.
How do I book a tee time at Riviera Cancún Golf Club?
Bookings can be made directly through the club’s golf office or through affiliated resorts and online tee-time platforms. If you’re staying at a nearby Palace or Karisma resort, their concierge can arrange your tee time (and sometimes offer deals). Non-guests can also book online (for example via major golf reservation sites linked from Riviera Cancún packages). It’s best to book several weeks ahead, especially during high season, to secure preferred times. Payment is typically done in advance to confirm the reservation.
What is the dress code?
Proper golf attire is strictly required. Men must wear a collared shirt and tailored golf shorts or pants, with golf shoes and socks (hotel.hardrock.com ). Women need a collared or crew-neck top and golf skirt, bermudas or slacks, with golf or athletic shoes (socks recommended) (hotel.hardrock.com ). Jeans, T-shirts, tank tops, athletic wear and any kind of swimsuit or beachwear are not permitted on the course. Hats are fine, but no headwear with inappropriate logos. Staff will enforce these rules at the clubhouse entrance.
Are children allowed, and is there a junior rate?
Yes, junior players are welcome. Generally, golfers under about age 12 play free with a paying adult (though policies can vary), and “junior” rates apply to teens. According to published rates, ages 13–17 typically qualify as juniors (around $70 USD) (hotel.hardrock.com ). Children must stay with an adult at all times. Keep in mind the dress code and walking distance; families often rent a double cart if a child is riding. Always confirm the current junior policy when booking.
What facilities are available at the clubhouse?
The clubhouse is well-appointed. It includes a full Bar & Grill (called Hole 19) with indoor and outdoor seating, changing rooms with lockers and showers (cancunrivieramayagolf.com ), and a modern Pro Shop. The Pro Shop sells golf equipment, apparel and souvenirs, and offers club and shoe rentals (as noted on-site, club rental ~$50 USD, shoes ~$15 (hotel.hardrock.com )). Free practice balls are available at the driving range (included with your fee) (hotel.hardrock.com ). Other amenities include restrooms and a small lounge area; Wi-Fi is usually offered in the clubhouse. All basic guest services are provided to make the round comfortable.
Is parking available at Riviera Cancún Golf Club?
Yes. The golf club has an on-site parking lot that is typically free for guests and players. Because the course lies along the Hotel Zone highway, the lot is gated but open during club hours. Handicap parking spots are available near the clubhouse entrance. (Security guards or attendants are on duty during operating hours.) No reservation is needed for parking; just arrive a few minutes early to park before your tee time.
Which bus or public transit goes to the golf club?
Public buses R1 and R2 (sometimes labeled “Zona Hotelera” routes) serve Boulevard Kukulcán and stop near Km 25. The R1 route runs along the main Hotel Zone corridor (Downtown to Punta Cancun) (gocancunguide.com ). The R2 also travels the Hotel Zone, ending at Playa Delfines (gocancunguide.com ). You can flag the bus at any stop on the lagoon side to go north toward the club, or on the beach side to return downtown. The fare is very low (about 12 MXN each way) (gocancunguide.com ). Note that buses stop only at marked shelters, so it’s wise to check a current map app or ask locals for the nearest stop to “Riviera Cancún Golf” (often riders point out the mall stops nearby).
Can I bring outside food or alcohol onto the course?
No. Riviera Cancún does not allow outside alcoholic beverages or food. The green fee is all-inclusive, and course staff provide snacks and drinks throughout the round. Your best approach is to enjoy what’s offered (snacks on the 5th , 10th , etc., and a full lunch afterward). Outside bottles or coolers would simply be turned away, in keeping with the resort-style inclusive policy.
What should I expect at the Hole 19 restaurant?
"Hoyo 19" is the clubhouse bar and grille. After your round, you’re invited to enjoy the lunch buffet and open bar at Hole 19 at no extra cost (www.tripadvisor.ca ). The menu typically includes Mexican favorites, grilled meats, salads and desserts, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Greens fees often come with meal and highest-quality drink credits. Many guests rave about the food here – one review noted the clubhouse cuisine is “some of the best” on the circuit (www.tripadvisor.es ). The setting overlooks the 18th green and palm gardens, so it’s pleasant for relaxing with a drink and watching any late holes. Dress is casual golf attire here (no need to re-change). Tip: try the local ceviche or margarita for a true Cancún treat.
What wildlife or natural sights can I see on the course?
Because Riviera Cancún lies in a preserved coastal wetland, you’ll see plenty of wildlife. Iguanas and coatis (raccoon-like mammals) are common on the fairways (www.tripadvisor.es ). Tropical birds flit among the holes, and the surrounding mangrove and flooded lagoons attract aquatic birds. The course’s tidied greens and fairways contrast with the wild preserve, giving it the feel of a “jewel in the jungle.” During play you may spot groups remarking on the wildlife; it’s part of the unique charm. Players should still keep carts on paths (where available) near water hazards for safety. On hole 12 and 15 in particular, expansive mangroves and lagoon vistas make for picture-postcard holes. Photos taken on tees often capture blue sky and greenery together – a signature view of Riviera Cancún.
How long does a round of golf typically take here?
Plan for about 4 to 4½ hours for an 18-hole round, especially if you are playing during a busy time. The course has a flexible tee-time interval (often 10 minutes), so play moves reasonably steadily. If you start early or late (twilight), you may finish in closer to 3½ hours. Most groups ride in carts (shared or single), which speeds things up; walking would take longer. Allow extra time for pre-round warm-up on the range (range balls are unlimited) and a post-round meal. Staff generally enforce a minimum pace: expect marshals to keep scoring and pace-of-play on track. Under no-pressure rounds with slower players can reach 5 hours, but most average rounds fall in the 4–5 hour range.
Does Riviera Cancún GC host private events or weddings?
Yes, the facility often serves as an event venue. Outside of golf hours, the spacious clubhouse and grounds can be rented for corporate meetings, golf tournaments and wedding receptions. The architecture of the Clubhouse (a modern Mexican-Contemporary design) and expansive patio make it attractive for special events (rivieracancungolfclub.com ). If planning a wedding or large party, the club offers catering through its restaurant and can handle AV/equipment setups in the banquet areas. (Couples often book tournament packages that include a reception.) To inquire, one should contact the golf club’s events manager directly – they can tailor food, drinks and layout. Be aware that strict golf dress code and timing constraints still apply to any daytime events during open hours; evening events are limited by the 5 PM closing time unless special permission is granted.
