The Transformation of Diamante Cabo San Lucas into a Golf Paradise

News Summary

Diamante Cabo San Lucas has transitioned from a quiet coastline to a premier golfing destination since 2004. Developer Ken Jowdy’s vision and collaborations, including with Tiger Woods, launched top-tier golf courses that host prestigious events. The region is now set for further growth as new courses are planned, promising to elevate its status in the golf tourism landscape.

The Rise of Diamante Cabo San Lucas: A Golf Paradise Transformation

Once upon a time in the realm of golf, there came a vision that would transform a sleepy stretch of coastline into a golfing hotspot. Fast forward to 2004, when an American golf course developer named Ken Jowdy was casting his net for land to develop a new resort. Little did he know, fate had an incredible opportunity waiting for him!

Jowdy’s journey began with a phone call from his broker about an impressive 89-year-old Mexican landowner sitting on a treasure trove of 1,500 acres of stunning Pacific Ocean land. Intrigued, Jowdy hopped on a plane to check it out. Upon arriving, he was mesmerized by the breathtaking ocean views and undulating sand dunes. It was love at first sight, and after a handshake amid a few language hurdles, a deal was sealed.

By 2006, the wine was pouring, and plans for a vibrant golfing future were underway. In 2009, Diamante Cabo San Lucas opened its doors with the Dunes Course, a masterpiece designed by the renowned Davis Love III. This course quickly made a name for itself, offering not just a round of golf, but an experience—right in the heart of this emerging tourist destination!

Fast forward a few years to 2014: the sands shifted again when Jowdy collaborated with none other than Tiger Woods to design a second course, El Cardonal. This was just the beginning! Over the years, three courses designed by Woods have been developed, with El Cardonal also putting its stamp on golf history by hosting the renowned World Wide Technology Championship—now the oldest PGA Tour tournament outside the U.S. and Canada. Can you say “game changer”?

The significance of hosting a PGA Tour event cannot be overstated. It was proving that this area was no longer just a pretty postcard; it was a serious player in the golfing world! The local tourism board chief noted that the courses at Diamante significantly boosted the region’s visibility as a tourist hot spot. Golf tourism in this area was about to soar.

Jowdy has great respect for the locals, applauding their unmatched hospitality and commitment to providing an unforgettable experience for every visitor. This attitude shines through in the overall ambiance and service of the Diamante resort.

Working closely with Woods, Jowdy cultivated a relationship over five months, paving the way for a fantastic golfing experience that combines challenge with beauty. El Cardonal delivers just that, with wide fairways intertwining with intricate design elements that keep golfers on their toes.

In 2023, a monumental event took place as Diamante played host to the WWT Championship. This was momentous because it marked the first time a course designed by Woods had hosted a PGA Tour event. It was a milestone moment for the resort and the area as a whole!

Among the buzz surrounding the event, the tournament director was quick to highlight the spectacular venue and its breathtaking views—adding to the allure of playing at Diamante. Austin Eckroat, the 2024 WWT Championship winner, echoed sentiments about El Cardonal’s “unique beauty and challenge”, proving that the course offers both scenery and substance.

But wait, there’s even more on the horizon! With plans for the Legacy Club at Diamante—a course designed by Woods set to open by 2026—there’s a new challenge on the way. This exciting addition aims to create a lush oasis, steering away from the more arid desert landscape. The Legacy Club will pick up where El Cardonal leaves off as it hosts the WWT Championship starting in 2027.

As if that weren’t enough, the local golf community is buzzing with optimism. With three additional new golf courses expected to pop up by 2026, the area is heading towards an exciting golfing expansion. However, not all is smooth sailing: environmental activists have stepped up their efforts impacting some developments near Cabo Pulmo, and the last new golf course emerged six years ago—the longest dry spell since 1987.

Even with these challenges, the excitement around golf tourism in this region is palpable. The transformations underway promise to solidify this once-sleepy coastal area as a premier golf destination for years to come. Get ready for a golfing delight at Diamante Cabo San Lucas, where the future looks bright, and the greens await!

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