Ernie Els' Cabo Masterpiece Nears Completion, Promising Rugged Coastal Golf

Four-time major champion Ernie Els' highly anticipated golf course design in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, is rapidly taking shape. Oleada Golf Links, set to be the first Els-designed course in Mexico, is poised to become a centerpiece of the luxurious Oleada Pacific Living & Golf community. The course promises a unique, rugged, and links-style experience, leveraging the natural desert and coastal terrain.

Key Takeaways

• Ernie Els' first Mexican golf course, Oleada Golf Links, is nearing completion in Cabo San Lucas.

• The course is part of an 860-acre resort community featuring luxury amenities.

• Preview play is scheduled for July, with a grand opening in mid-November.

• The design emphasizes a rugged, links-style play, utilizing natural dunes and oceanfront views.

A Prime Location

Cabo San Lucas continues its ascent as a premier golf destination, with Oleada Golf Links set to join an impressive roster of courses by renowned designers like Greg Norman, Fred Couples, and Tiger Woods. Situated approximately 15 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas, the course will span a mile of oceanfront property within the Oleada Pacific Living & Golf development. This development is designed to be an 860-acre resort community, integrating luxury accommodations, wellness centers, and recreational trails alongside the golf course.

Els' Vision for Oleada

Els has described the site as one of the most exceptional natural properties he has encountered. Working alongside design partner Greg Letsche, the course is routed to begin in the higher desert terrain, characterized by cacti and rumpled ground, before descending towards the Pacific Ocean. The design aims to capture a rugged, links-like feel, though not a traditional links course. Wind is a significant factor in the design, with wide fairways and multiple strategic options encouraging creative shot-making along the ground. The natural contours of the land require minimal earth-moving, allowing the course to blend seamlessly with its dramatic surroundings.

Development and Access

The broader Oleada development includes plans for two luxury resorts, extensive wellness and fitness facilities, and dedicated trails for hiking and biking. Importantly, residential and other infrastructure will be situated well back from the playing corridors to preserve the golf experience. Access to the course will primarily be for resort guests and homeowners, with limited tee times expected to be available through select stay-and-play packages. Preview play is slated to commence in July, with the official grand opening anticipated for mid-November.

Sources

• Ernie Els course design coming to life in booming Cabo San Lucas, GOLF.com.

• Ernie Els Course Design Coming to Life in Booming Cabo San Lucas, National Today.