Panama provides golfers with a variety of championship courses, some of which are open for public day use, others as part of an all-inclusive resort. Close to Panama City, Summit Golf & Resort (tel. 232-4653; www.summitgolfpanama.com) is the ideal venue for those staying in the capital; it's located on the east bank of the Panama Canal on the Gaillard Highway, and is accessible by taxi from the city for about $15 one-way. There is no hotel here, but there are swimming pools, a restaurant, and a pro shop. Designed by noted architect Jeffery Myers, the course is spread across rolling hills, with sweeping views of the Gaillard Cut of the Panama Canal. It's very classy, and there is a traditional 18-hole course as well as a 6-hole course for juniors and beginners. Rates Monday through Friday are $90 per person; Saturday and Sunday $100 per person, which includes a golf cart; and clubs are available for an additional $15. The course is open every day from 6am to 6pm; call ahead to book a tee time.
The Coronado Golf & Beach Resort (tel. 240-4444; www.coronadoresort.com) is a long-standing, premiere golf resort located on the Pacific Coast, about an hour from Panama City. Designed by Tom Fazio, this is the only seaside 18-hole course in the country; players can come for the day from Panama City, but the resort specializes in packages with lodging included.
Costa Blanca Golf & Villas (tel. 986-1915; www.costablanca.com.pa) is located next to the Decameron Resort on the Pacific Coast, about 1 1/2 hours from Panama City. It has an 18-hole course that, because of its lights, you can play both day and night. The cost is closer to a bargain than other resorts: Monday through Friday it's $30 per person, with an additional $22 for a cart; weekends $72 per person (including cart). The course is within a residential development, and there are a clubhouse and restaurant.
