Diamante Cabo San Lucas: A World-Class Golf and Residential Community
Spread across 1,500 acres on the Pacific coast just north of Cabo San Lucas, Diamante has established itself as one of the premier luxury residential developments in all of Latin America. With two championship golf courses — including the Tiger Woods-designed El Cardonal — a private beach club, and a growing collection of residences ranging from condos to oceanfront estates, Diamante represents the next chapter of luxury living in Los Cabos.
For American buyers, Diamante offers a compelling combination of world-class amenities, strong developer backing, and a Pacific-front setting that distinguishes it from the corridor's Sea of Cortez communities.
The Golf: Two Courses That Rival the World's Best
The Dunes Course by Davis Love III
Opened in 2009, The Dunes was Diamante's inaugural course and immediately earned international recognition. Designed by Davis Love III, it's a true links-style layout built on towering sand dunes that rise 200 feet above the Pacific. The course has been ranked among the top 100 in the world by Golf Digest and offers an experience unlike anything else in Mexico.
The Dunes features firm, fast fairways, deep pot bunkers, and greens that run with the speed of a U.S. Open setup. Wind is a constant factor, with Pacific breezes adding complexity and drama to every round.
El Cardonal by Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods' first completed course design, El Cardonal opened in 2014 and takes a different approach from The Dunes. Set slightly inland, it features a more traditional parkland-desert layout with views of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains. The course incorporates native cardón cacti, arroyos, and desert vegetation into its design.
El Cardonal is more playable than The Dunes, making it popular with members of all skill levels. It has received widespread acclaim and helped put Diamante on the map as a true golf destination — not just a resort with a course attached.
The Oasis Short Course
In addition to the two championship layouts, Diamante offers The Oasis, a par-3 course designed by Tiger Woods. With holes ranging from 50 to 130 yards, it's perfect for casual rounds, family play, and settling friendly wagers. The Oasis also features a stunning clubhouse and swimming pool that serve as a social hub for members.
Residential Options and Pricing
Diamante offers a range of residential products to suit different budgets and preferences:
Homesites (Vacant Lots)
Diamante's homesites range from approximately 8,000 to 30,000+ square feet, with prices from $250,000 to $2.5M+ USD. The most desirable lots sit along the Pacific bluffs or front one of the golf courses. Buyers who purchase homesites can select from approved architects or bring their own, subject to Diamante's design review process.
The Residences at The Dunes
These luxury condominiums and villas are situated along The Dunes course and offer turn-key living with resort services. Units range from two-bedroom condos starting around $750,000 to four-bedroom villas exceeding $3M USD.
Pacific Estates
The crown jewels of Diamante are the Pacific-front estate lots, offering direct ocean views and access. Custom homes on these lots typically range from $5M to $15M+ USD, with some of Mexico's most impressive residential architecture.
Alvar by Diamante
A newer phase of development, Alvar offers a collection of contemporary residences with a focus on indoor-outdoor living. Starting prices for Alvar units begin around $800,000 USD.
Membership and Amenities
Diamante operates as a private club community. Property ownership includes membership, which grants access to:
- Two championship golf courses plus The Oasis short course
- El Cardonal Clubhouse with dining, locker rooms, and pro shop
- Beach Club on the Pacific with infinity pool, restaurant, and beach service
- Equestrian Center offering trail rides through the dunes and desert
- Tennis and pickleball courts
- Fitness center and spa
- Kids' club and family programming
Membership initiation fees and annual dues vary depending on the tier. Golf membership initiation starts at approximately $75,000 USD, with annual dues around $15,000. Social memberships are available at lower rates for those less focused on golf.
The Developer: Ken Jowdy
Diamante is the vision of American entrepreneur Ken Jowdy, who has invested over $500 million in the project since its inception. Jowdy's long-term commitment to the development provides buyers with confidence in continued investment in amenities, infrastructure, and community management. Unlike some Mexican developments that have stalled or changed hands, Diamante has consistently delivered on its roadmap.
Investment Perspective
Diamante's property values have shown steady appreciation since the community's founding. Several factors support the investment thesis:
- Scarcity of Pacific-front land: The Pacific coast of Cabo has far less development than the corridor, making Diamante's 1,500-acre footprint increasingly valuable.
- Golf tourism: Los Cabos has become Mexico's premier golf destination, and Diamante's two Tiger Woods/Davis Love courses are major draws.
- Developer commitment: Ongoing investment in new phases and amenities supports property values across the community.
- Airport proximity: San José del Cabo International Airport (SJD) is approximately 40 minutes away, with frequent direct flights from major U.S. cities.
Rental income potential varies by property type. Oceanfront homes and premium villas can generate $1,500 to $5,000+ per night during peak season. However, Diamante is primarily an owner-use community, and the club's policies around rentals should be reviewed carefully.
How to Buy at Diamante
Diamante maintains an in-house sales team, but buyers can also work with independent real estate agents who are familiar with the development. As with all coastal Mexican property, purchases by foreigners require a fideicomiso (bank trust). Diamante's sales team is well-versed in guiding American buyers through this process.
Property taxes remain low by U.S. standards — typically $1,000 to $4,000 annually. HOA fees and club dues are separate and vary by property type and membership level.
For golfers, beach lovers, and buyers seeking a large-scale, well-managed community with world-class amenities, Diamante is one of the strongest options in Los Cabos today.