Playing at Playa Grande (Mar del Plata) is unmatched. If you have not experienced it yet, or want to relive it, do not miss this article full of secrets, anecdotes, and history.

The Mar del Plata Golf Club is one of the founding clubs of the Argentine Golf Association and one of the most traditional in South America. It features two courses: the “Old Course,” known as “Playa Grande” (which also includes 6 holes from the so-called “Short Course”), and the “New Course” (also known as “Tulsa”). It is the Playa Grande course in particular that holds a unique charm and tradition in Latin America. It may not be the most competitive, the most difficult, or the best maintained, but it has that special aura—just like the Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland.

Argentina’s greatest golfers have played here, and many even grew up here during the era when families from Buenos Aires spent three months of summer in Mar del Plata. In its early years, many members came from Buenos Aires, mainly from Golf Club Argentino, Jockey Club Argentino, San Isidro GC, San Andrés GC, and Hurlingham Club. Over time, the membership base changed, and today most members are local players from Mar del Plata. Still, those who grew up playing here maintain a passion and affection for this course that cannot be compared to any other in the region.

What has never changed—and never will—is what it feels like to play at Playa Grande. Whether it is a casual round with friends, one of the tournaments held throughout the year, the team event organized by the club in October, or the prestigious Abierto del Sur with professionals, playing here is something special. The ultimate challenge: teeing off on the extraordinary par 4 first hole, which may seem harmless with a tailwind, but into the wind, a 5 is an excellent score.

Aerial images of Mar del Plata Golf Club taken in 2018

What makes Playa Grande unique?

1) Architecture and design. 18 holes on the main course plus 6 short holes within just over 20 hectares, featuring great design variety: five par 3s that are among the best in Argentina. The natural terrain movement and the creativity of the greens reflect the genius of designer Juan Dentone. A true work of art.

2) Competitiveness. It will never be a 7,200-yard course due to space limitations, but it remains competitive and extremely fun. Every year it hosts the Abierto del Sur, and when the weather turns, it can become one of the toughest tests in South America.

3) The weather. Wind makes Playa Grande a different course every day.

Playa Grande is, was, and will always be the Cathedral of Argentine Golf.