Introduction to Los Cabos and its Tourism Strategy
Despite receiving approximately 10,000 tourists daily, Los Cabos continues its pursuit of increased international attention. A crucial component in this endeavor is golf, backed by the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA).
The PGA and its Global Golf Tour
The PGA owns the most significant professional golf tour in the world, featuring over 30 events across three continents. One of these events is the World Wide Technology (WWT) Championship, which has been held in Los Cabos since 2023.
The WWT Championship: History and Impact
Originating in 2007, the WWT Championship was previously held in the Riviera Maya (Mayakoba) until 2023 when it moved to Los Cabos. The contract ensures its presence in Los Cabos until 2027, aiming to enhance the destination’s visibility.
Gabriel Cardona on WWT Championship’s Importance
Gabriel Cardona, Manager of Special Segments for the Los Cabos Tourism Trust (FITURCA), emphasizes the significance of the PGA Tour in positioning Los Cabos as a prestigious destination. He highlights the economic impact, visibility, and social contributions, including job creation through local organizations and associations.
Global Reach and Golf’s History in Los Cabos
The 2024 WWT Championship was broadcast to over 220 countries in more than 20 languages. Los Cabos has a long-standing golf history, with 18 professional-standard courses designed by renowned figures like Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Davis Love III, and Robert Trent Jr.
Economic Impact and Beyond
While the golf sector contributes to economic growth and job creation, FITURCA underscores the WWT Championship’s role in promoting Los Cabos’ visibility strategy alongside other tourism niches such as adventure, romance, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Cardona on Golf’s Significance to Los Cabos
Cardona stresses that golf is one of Los Cabos’ pillars, as the destination was built with golf in mind. He views the WWT Championship as a global window for Los Cabos, attracting new visitors and golf enthusiasts who enjoy additional services like dining, wellness, and excursions.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
Although FITURCA did not disclose the 2023-2024 tournament’s economic impact, Cardona mentioned that golf accounted for 4% of Los Cabos’ total tourists in 2024. Golf tourists reportedly spend up to 30% more than traditional visitors, contributing significantly to the region’s economy.
Additional PGA Tour Events in Mexico
Currently, Mexico hosts two PGA Tour events. The WWT Championship takes place in November with a prize purse of $6 million, while the México Open at Vidanta occurred in February with a $7 million prize purse. In the women’s division, an LPGA tournament returned to Mayakoba and Los Cabos in 2025, leaving room for future events.
Conclusion
Key Questions and Answers:
- What does the WWT Championship mean beyond the numbers? The golf tourist spends up to 30% more than a traditional visitor, contributing significantly to the region’s economy through golf and other services like dining, wellness, and excursions.
- Is there any government investment in the WWT Championship? No, the investment comes from the FITURCA trust fund, which is financed by a tax paid by tourists staying in hotels. A portion of this tax supports destination promotion efforts.
- Are there plans for an LPGA tournament in Los Cabos? While no specific plan exists, Los Cabos welcomes the possibility of hosting future LPGA events.
