Punta Mita Invitational: Where Luxury Meets High-Level Golf
The Punta Mita Invitational isn’t simply another pro-am golf tournament; it’s evolved into a unique experience blending high-level competition with luxury accommodations in a stunning destination. Now in its 11th year, the event brings together passionate amateur golfers, seasoned Tour winners, and industry leaders for an unforgettable week.
Founded in 2014, the most recent playing concluded in January. Here’s a closer appear at what makes the Punta Mita Invitational special and how you can participate in the future.
A Dynamite Field of Golfing Talent
What sets Punta Mita apart from traditional pro-ams is the accessibility of its professional field. The 2026 lineup featured major champions, Tour winners, and international standouts who engaged with amateurs as teammates, dinner companions, and storytellers.
Michael Campbell, the 2005 U.S. Open champion, served as event host, anchoring a field that included Players Championship winner 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 daily, ensuring each of the three rounds is played with a different star.
Teams of three amateurs, paired with a rotating pro, compete over three rounds for the title. The atmosphere is more akin to a high-end member-guest event, fostering camaraderie with drinks, laughter, and friendly competition. An annual shootout, where pros compete in teams over four holes in front of guests, homeowners, and resort members, adds to the excitement.
A Premier Destination: Punta Mita
The location itself is a major draw. Once a quiet peninsula known for surfing and fishing, Punta Mita has been transformed by developer DINE into a private luxury enclave boasting world-class real estate, curated amenities, and two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses.
The 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 communities. The St. Regis Punta Mita serves as the event host, offering guests five nights of luxury accommodations, beach access, spa experiences, and nightly social events.
The golf courses are equally impressive. The Pacifico Course is famous for its “Tail of the Whale” island green, which is only playable during low tide, offering a unique and memorable experience.
Beyond the Golf Course
Evenings at the Punta Mita Invitational are just as captivating as the days. Events include sunset happy hours, beachside gatherings, and exceptional dining experiences, including Hector’s Kitchen, recognized as one of Mexico’s Top 100 Restaurants for 2026 by critic Marco Beteta.
This environment fosters genuine connections, where business relationships evolve into friendships. Clients become playing partners, and the line between competitor and companion blurs.
“The idea from the beginning was never just great golf,” says Derek Oakey, the event founder. “When Carl Emberson and I started this in 2014, we wanted it to feel different, something that truly embraced the vibe of Punta Mita. Over the years it’s grown into an experience that’s just as much about the people and the place as it is the competition.”
The event has also become an attractive location for hosting high-value clients and prospects, offering access that cannot be replicated in a traditional hospitality setting.
Looking Ahead with 8AM Golf
The 2026 Punta Mita Invitational marked the second edition of a fresh partnership with 8AM Golf, focused on growing the game and enhancing the golfer experience. 8AM Golf brings credibility, access, and operational expertise, elevating an already special event to new heights.
After 11 years, the Punta Mita Invitational has become a rare gem in modern golf: an event that feels exclusive yet accessible, competitive yet welcoming, and seamlessly integrates paradise into the game.
To learn more about the Punta Mita Invitational, visit their official website.