Golf in the Southern Pacific Zone of Costa Rica is not like golf anywhere else. The only full course within reach of Vista Bendita sits in a jungle-covered mountain valley south of Ojochal — scarlet macaws flying overhead, iguanas crossing the fairways, and cloud forest on all sides. It’s not Augusta. But for a round of golf in one of the most biodiverse places on earth, it’s genuinely extraordinary.
For families or guests who want something lighter, there’s also a cheerful mini golf course in Uvita — one of the better family activity options in the area.
Osa Golf Course — The Only Full Course in the Southern Pacific Zone
📍 Google Maps ~20–25 min south of Vista Bendita · San Buenas · Website · Email: osagolfcourse@gmail.com
The Setting
The Osa Golf Course is located 24 kilometers south of Uvita near San Buenas — one of the wildest regions of Costa Rica, close to Corcovado National Park and the mangrove forests of Sierpe. Designed by Canadian architect Dan Lavis in 2007, the course leads through a gentle hilly landscape surrounded by tropical rainforest.
Golf in the midst of protected jungle teeming with flora and fauna. Scarlet macaws fly overhead during your round. Iguanas cross fairways without a care. The pool is available for a post-round dip. Located 7 miles from Playa Ventanas, 15 miles south of Uvita in San Buenas.
Reviewers who love it describe it as one of the most memorable rounds of their lives — not because of the course quality but because of the setting. One golfer from Southwest Florida where golf reigns supreme said nothing compares to a round of golf in the clouds of the Osa.
The Course
A well-maintained 9-hole course with Paspalum Platinum greens — highly drought-tolerant and designed to be watered with saltwater, which also effectively eliminates weeds. Contoured greens and a few long carries define the tropical jungle experience. 3,300 yards from the blue tees.
Honest assessment: This is not a manicured resort course. The bunkers are not maintained and are generally unplayable. Fairways are not always properly cut and ball location can be difficult. The 7th hole is particularly unusual and challenging to play in regulation. Greens are in good shape and true, though slow. Go for the experience and the setting, not for a competitive round. Guests who approach it with that mindset consistently rate it as extraordinary. Guests expecting a polished resort course may be disappointed.
Practical Details
Cost: $55 with cart for 9 holes · $75 for unlimited golf · Club rental $20
Booking: Book via WhatsApp — the website tee time system is reportedly unreliable. WhatsApp the number on the site and they respond quickly. Tanya handles check-in and is very helpful. Email: osagolfcourse@gmail.com
Stay & Play: A Stay & Play package is available — comfortable lodging for up to four persons in a San Buenas condo located on the course, with unlimited golf for two. Customizable for four golfers or extra rounds. A good option for a dedicated golf getaway within the region.
Birdwatching bonus: Over 100 bird species have been spotted on the course — the well-maintained greens and jungle surrounds make for exceptional birding between holes. Bring binoculars.
Getting there: Drive south on the Costanera from Ojochal past Playa Ventanas and Playa Tortuga. The course is at Costanera Sur km 186, 500 meters south of the highway in San Buenaventura. Standard car is fine — road to the course is paved.
Best for: Golfers who want a genuinely unique experience in extraordinary surroundings. Birdwatchers who happen to play golf. Anyone who wants to say they played the only jungle golf course on Costa Rica’s Southern Pacific coast.
Osa Mini Golf — Family Fun in Uvita
📍 Google Maps ~25 min north · Uvita · On the Costanera 50 meters past Pizza Time Restaurant
The Osa Mini Golf course is easy to access — located in Uvita on the main Costanera Highway, 50 meters past the Pizza Time Restaurant. The entrance is marked with a large sign.
A Costa Rican wildlife theme with bright colors, lush plants, and flowers landscaped throughout. Photo opportunities everywhere. Equally appealing for those looking for beautiful scenery and bonding time as for those who just want to play.
Current pricing: $6 for adults, $5 for kids under 12. Hours: Monday–Friday noon–8PM, Saturday–Sunday 10AM–8PM (may close early due to weather). No reservations required for small groups — walk in any time.
For large groups or birthday parties, advance notice is appreciated — the venue has lots of tables and seating and can even arrange a birthday cake for celebrations.
Best for: Families with kids, groups, a fun low-key afternoon activity, combining with lunch at Pizza Time or dinner in Uvita. One of the few genuinely walk-in family activities in the area.
Golf Beyond the Region
For guests who are serious golfers and want a world-class resort course during their Costa Rica trip, the Southern Pacific Zone is honest about what it offers — a memorable jungle experience, not polished resort golf. The top golf destinations in Costa Rica are:
Los Sueños Marriott — Jacó / Herradura, ~2.5 hours north. The best resort golf course on the Pacific coast, an Arnold Palmer-designed 18-hole championship course on the Pacific.
La Iguana Golf Course — Los Sueños area, adjacent to the Marriott. Also excellent.
Reserva Conchal — Guanacaste, 4–5 hours north. Consistently rated the best golf in Costa Rica.
Both Los Sueños and Reserva Conchal are worth adding to a broader Costa Rica itinerary for dedicated golfers — combine the Southern Pacific with a leg further north.
Quick Reference
| Option | Drive | Cost | Best For |
| Osa Golf Course | 20–25 min | $55–75 + $20 club rental | Jungle golf, unique experience, birding ⭐ |
| Osa Mini Golf | 25 min | $6 adults / $5 kids | Families, kids, casual fun |
| Los Sueños Marriott | ~2.5 hrs | Resort rates | Serious golfers, resort experience |
Have you played Osa Golf Course or mini golf in Uvita? Leave a comment with your experience — we’d love to hear how your round went.
Stay at Vista Bendita
After a day exploring waterfalls, beaches, whale watching tours, restaurants, and rainforest adventures, relax in the peaceful mountain setting of Vista Bendita overlooking Costa Rica’s South Pacific coast.
Enjoy ocean views, tropical wildlife, a private pool, and easy access to some of the region’s best experiences near Ojochal and Uvita.
More Details & Local Travel Tips
We’ve created a growing collection of travel guides, local recommendations, and insider tips to help you make the most of your stay at Vista Bendita and your time exploring Costa Rica’s South Pacific coast.
Browse our blog for information on:
- Restaurants and cafes in Ojochal & Uvita
- Beaches, waterfalls, and national parks
- Whale watching, snorkeling, and outdoor adventures
- Shopping, grocery stores, and local markets
- Travel tips, driving advice, and packing recommendations
- Wellness, relaxation, and hidden local gems
Whether you’re planning your itinerary or simply looking for inspiration after you arrive, our guides are designed to help you experience the region like a local.
Explore the Vista Bendita Travel Blog
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