Teeth of the Dog Golf

Teeth of the Dog is the course that put Dominican golf on the map. Designed by Pete Dye and opened at Casa de Campo in 1971, it plays along the Caribbean east of La Romana, with seven holes right on the sea where waves break against the coral rock. Its name comes from the Spanish "diente de perro", the sharp coral that lines the shore. It appears regularly in rankings of the best courses in the Caribbean and Latin America.

The oceanfront holes are the memorable part, with greens set right on the rocks and wind that changes the course from one day to the next. The inland holes are just as carefully designed, with Dye's trademark bunkering and small greens. It is a demanding course, and the sea holes punish any miss to the right or left.

Access: according to Casa de Campo's golf information page, the courses are reserved for resort guests, so plan to stay at the hotel or in a villa if you want to play. Casa de Campo's current rate sheet lists Teeth of the Dog at around $450 per round for hotel guests and around $550 for other registered resort guests, such as villa renters, plus 18% tax, including green fee, cart, bag storage and range use. Play-and-stay packages can bring the cost down. The resort also has Dye Fore, on cliffs above the Chavón River, and The Links, an inland course.

Seasonal closures: the course closes for maintenance for part of the year; in 2026 it was closed from July 6 to 26 and from September 21 to 27. Book tee times well ahead in the dry season, from December to April, which is peak golf season.

Tips: play early in the day, before the heat and the strongest winds. Caddies are available and worth it for reading the greens. Bring a couple of extra balls for the ocean holes.

Best for: serious golfers, golf groups and anyone who wants to play one of the region's landmark courses. Not for: casual players on a budget, who will find better value on Punta Cana's courses; see our Punta Cana golf page and golf guide. Non-golfers staying at Casa de Campo can still enjoy Minitas Beach and Altos de Chavón.