The Punta Mita Invitational isn’t just another pro-am. Here’s why

of Punta Mita Invitation it’s not just trying to be a pro-am. Now in its 11th year, the event has become one of golf’s most unique experiences – an intersection of high-level competition and luxury accommodations in one of the most magnificent destinations in the sport.

The event, established in 2014, brings together passionate amateurs, tournament winners and industry leaders. The most recent match was concluded in January. Here’s what you need to know about it and, better yet, how you can get involved next time.

A field of dynamite

Punta Mita is different from a traditional pro-am because of its access to the professional field. The 2026 line-up featured major champions, tournament winners and international standouts. They weren’t far-fetched celebrities, but teammates, dinner companions and, at times, beachside storytellers.

Michael Campbell, 2005 US Open champion, served as host of the eventanchoring a field that included player champion Fred Funk and pros like Stuart Appleby, Chris DiMarco, Heath Slocum, John Rollins, Ricky Barnes, Notah Begay III and Esteban Toledo. The Invitational rotates pros with amateurs each day, so all three rounds are played with a different star.

Teams of three amateurs (and their fellow professionals) compete in three rounds for the title. But this is not high stress and mega pressure – think more like a high-level guest member. There’s drinking and there’s laughter – but there’s also competition, like the annual swap, where the pros are split into two teams for a four-hole match. Better yet, play in front of guests, homeowners, and resort members. It’s also a blast.

A destination worth visiting

The location itself is a star. Once a quiet peninsula for surfers and fishermen, Punta Mita was transformed by developer DINE into a luxury private enclave with world-class real estate, curated amenities and two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses.

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita opened in 1999 and today Punta Mita is home to four elite hotel properties: Four Seasons, St. Regis Punta Mita, Montage Punta Mita and Pendry Punta Mita. There are also 20 residential (and private) communities. St. The Regis Punta Mita plays host to the event, and here guests enjoy five nights of luxury accommodations, beach access and spa experiences. There are also nightly social events.

Golf, of course, is also good. The most famous hole may be the Pacifico Course’s “Whale Tail” island green. It appears and disappears with the tides – so it can only be played when available – and is truly a bucket list experience. (As long as the tide is on your side.)

Off the ropes

If the days belong to golf, the nights belong to Punta Mita.

Evenings unfold with sunset happy hours, beachside gatherings and exceptional dining experiences – including an unforgettable night at Hector’s Kitchen, recently named one of Mexico’s 100 Best Restaurants for 2026 by renowned critic Marco Beteta.

This is where the Invitation is shared. As the evidence continues on the stories of the mezcal trade and amateurs, real bonds are formed and business relationships soften into friendship. Customers become playing partners. And the line between competitor and companion disappears.

“The idea from the beginning was never just great golf,” says Derek Oakey, the event’s founder. “When Carl Emberson and I started this in 2014, we wanted it to feel different, something that really embraced the Punta Mita vibe. Over the years it’s grown into an experience that’s as much about the people and the place as it is about the competition.”

The ideal environment is also transformed into an intriguing place to host high-value clients and prospects, as access like this cannot be replicated in a traditional hospitality tent.

The future

The 2026 Punta Mita Invitational was the second edition of a new partnership with 8AM Golf, which is focused on growing the game and elevating the golfer experience. With deep relationships between professional golf, media, instruction and equipment, 8AM Golf brings reliability, accessibility and operational excellence, helping to take an already special event to a whole new level.

And 11 years later, the Punta Mita Invitational has become something increasingly rare in modern golf: an event that feels exclusive without feeling unattainable and competitive without losing its soul.

Paradise doesn’t just surround golf – it becomes a part of it. To learn more, click here.

“>