The most respected golf course ranking in the world is published biannually by GOLF Magazine. Last September 2011 Oitavos Dunes jumped 20 places up the list to be considered the 68th best course in the world and the second best in mainland Europe. The recognition is a result of 15 minor changes to the course, including new tees on holes 7 and 9, and the placement of sand dunes in strategic holes such as the 10th.

In 2001, the focal point of Quinta da Marinha was the Championship golf course Oitavos Golfe, designed by Arthur Hills to surround a 5-Star Hotel set to open in fall 2010. As the course became recognized internationally as a Links experience, the decision was made to change the name to Oitavos Dunes to reflect the natural sand dunes, impacts of the Ocean and Scottish like playing conditions, which all contribute to the way many view Oitavos Dunes as Natural Links Golf.