When it comes to golf courses, Southeast Asia may not rank as high as say Scotland or Ireland, but that’s not to say we don’t have some pretty amazing world-class courses. After all, there’s no shortage of spectacular scenery and landscapes around the region, so it’s easy to see why so many golf course architects have been drawn to this part of the world. From rolling greens in the midst of urban settings to challenging clifftop holes and beachside bunkers, these stunning golf courses offer hours of entertainment and incredible experiences for golfers of all levels.
Angkor Golf Resort, Siem Reap, Cambodia
While most people visit Siem Reap to see the incredible temples of Angkor Wat, golfers in the know also come here to tee off on the impressive greens of the Angkor Golf Resort. This 18-hole course was designed by renowned golfer Nick Faldo, and it provides plenty of challenges for all levels spread out over 7,279 yards. The last three holes are by far the most challenging and interesting, as they require long shots over deep bunkers and water hazards.
Angkor Golf Resort, Kasekam Village, Siem Reap, Cambodia. p. +855 63 767 688
Black Mountain Golf Resort, Hua Hin, Thailand
Nestled in the foothills of massive black granite mountains just 12 kilometres from Hua Hin is the Black Mountain Golf Resort. Once largely jungle and pineapple plantations, the site now features three courses, the newest of which was just opened in 2016. The course plays up the natural features of the land with plenty of creeks, rocks, and trees interspersed throughout. At the clubhouse you’ll find a fine dining restaurant, golf pro shop, driving range, and spa.
Black Mountain Golf Resort, 565 Moo7 Nong Hieng Road Hin LekFai Amphoe Hua Hin, Prachaubkirikhan 77110, Thailand. p. +66 32 618 666
The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip, Vietnam
Greg Norman designed this world-class golf course perched on a plateau next to the South China Sea. Even the most experienced golfers will find plenty of challenges here including huge sand dunes and strong coastal breezes at the higher elevations. Although the course is not directly on the ocean, some of the holes offer incredible views of the water over the greens. The resort is also home to a five-star hotel, plenty of restaurants, and a convention centre.
The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip, Phuoc Thuan, Xuyen Moc, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Vietnam. p. +84 254 378 8666
The Els Club Teluk Datai, Langkawi, Malaysia
Designed by champion golfer Ernie Els, the Els Club Teluk Datai is nestled in a nature reserve between rugged mountain peaks and the Andaman Sea. The 18-hole course snakes its way through an ancient rainforest before spilling out onto sands lapped by turquoise waters. Throughout the course you’ll see natural streams and native trees along the wide fairways, and you might even meet some of the resident monkeys that live in and around the course.
The Els Club Teluk Datai, Jalan Teluk Datai, Langkawi, Malaysia. p. +60 4 959 2700
Handara Golf Resort Bali, Indonesia
Set in the crater of an extinct volcano in Bali’s central highlands, Handara Golf Resort Bali is one of the most unique golf courses in the region. The course is surrounded by lush green mountains on all sides and features a good mix of uphill and downhill playing holes and picturesque fairways lined by mature trees. We suggest coming in the early morning when the mist rising over the treetops and mountains creates an ethereal atmosphere.
Handara Golf Resort Bali, Desa Pancasari, Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia. p. +62 362 342 2646
The Legends Golf & Country Resort, Johor, Malaysia
The Legends Golf & Country Resort actually consists of two spectacular golf courses: an 18-hole championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus and a 9-hole course designed by Arnold Palmer. Surrounded by lush tropical trees and flowers, the courses offer plenty of views as well as challenging shots over water and across ridges. The resort also boasts an equestrian centre, mountain bike trails, jacuzzis, saunas, and a spacious Chinese restaurant.
The Legends Golf & Country Resort, Lot 1302, Kebun Sedenak, Kulai, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia. p. +607 652 4388
Luang Prabang Golf Course, Luang Prabang, Laos
The rolling hills and deep valleys overlooking the mighty Mekong River make for a magnificent setting for this 18-hole, 72-par championship golf course. The course is unique in that it was designed to mimic old mountain trails, so the fairways wind and through lush vegetation and offer sweeping vistas over the temple-studded town of Luang Prabang. Spend the day connecting with nature as you make your way through this scenic and stimulating course.
Luang Prabang Golf Course, Ban Houiphai, Phatamnai, Ket SangkhaLok, Luang Prabang. p. +856 71 260 912
Sentosa Golf Club, Sentosa Island, Singapore
Sentosa Golf Club was recently ranked No. 79 of the World’s 100 Best Golf Clubs by Golf Digest and is one of the best golf courses in Singapore. The site was once the home of tropical mangroves and kampungs, but world-class designers transformed it into what it is today. A multi-million dollar revamp in 2007 produced two stunning courses: The Serapong and The New Tanjong, both of which offer challenging bunkers, lakes, and spectacular views of the Singapore Straits and city skyline.
Sentosa Golf Club, 27 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa Island, Singapore. p. +65 6275 0090
Thai Country Club, Bangkok, Thailand
Officially opened in 1996, the Thai Country Club was designed to US PGA international standards, and consistently ranks as one of the best golf courses in Thailand. Here you’ll find plenty of water features, sand hazards, rolling greens, and professional tees. After a challenging day out on the greens, head to the 19th hole bar for sundowners, then make your way to the elegant clubhouse dining room for excellent Asian and Western cuisine.
Thai Country Club, 88 Moo 1, Bangna-Trad Km. 35.5, Thambon Pimpa, Bangpakong District, Chacheongsao. p. +66 38 570 234
