Golf in Hainan: Top Courses and Travel Tips for First-Timers

Have you ever swung in an atmosphere full of ocean wind and the scent of tropical sunlight? Your ball scrolls in the fairway in Hainan, leading you to the vibrant natural sand dunes and unique culture. In this guide, we provide a comprehensive guide to golf in Hainan. Let’s find out!

Is it worth golfing in Hainan?

Hainan, China, is considered the “golf heaven” of Asia due to its year-round comfortable weather conditions, spectacular natural landscapes, and top regional golf courses. Long beaches, green hills, and quiet spaces separate this region from the mainland, creating ideal conditions for the development of leisure tourism, particularly golf.

In recent years, Hainan has become a favourable destination for international golfers due to its prestigious tournaments and modern amenities. This is also the motherland of several world-class golf courses, such as Mission Hills Haikou, a golf complex with more than 10 international-standard courses that has hosted renowned tournaments such as the World Cup of Golf and PGA events. Hainan’s golf courses are known for their design, services, and views.

In addition, visitors can have a premium experience at beachfront resorts, savour local cuisine, and explore unique local cultures. This combination of golf, tourism, and natural immersion makes Hainan one of the most impressive golf destinations in Asia.

Best golf courses in Hainan

Mission Hills Haikou

Mission Hills Haikou is an unmissable destination for every golfer when they come to Hainan. Located in Haikou city, the golf course has a large scale and is known as the “Asian golf heaven”. It is the largest golf course in the region, with 10 international standard golf courses, each with a unique design and a strong natural imprint of a unique volcanic zone. Among them, Blackstone course is the most prominent name and has hosted many famous tournaments, such as the World Golf Cup and PGA Tour events.

The black volcanic terrain of Hainan, remnants of ancient volcanic activity, attracts most golfers to the region. The architect has skilfully used these natural features to create intriguing challenges for players. The golf course enhances the quality of the courtyard and offers high-end holiday experiences, including hotels, hot springs, spas, restaurants, and entertainment centres. With its year-round comfortable climate, first-class services, and impressive natural space, Mission Hills Haikou is the perfect choice for golf, relaxing, and exploring the local culture.

The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula

The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula is one of the most unique and beautiful coastal golf courses in Asia. Designed by legendary Tom Weiskopf and his partner Phill Smith, the course comprises two 18-hole courses: East Course and West Course.

The East Course opened in 2012 and is famous for its diverse terrain and challenges. One of the unforgettable holes is par-5 hole 16th, with a multi-storey fairway facing the sea, ending in a green lying on a small tip of land protruding out to the sea, creating a sense of golfing in the middle of the ocean. Meanwhile, the West Course, opened in 2010, is appreciated for its curved design along the coastline, with many holes lying near the water’s edge, offering a golfing experience amidst majestic natural scenery. Both these courses need electric cars and caddies, but players can still walk if they want. The Sheraton Shenzhen Peninsula Resort is one of the area’s many high-end resorts, making it easy for visitors to combine golf and vacation. All things considered, it is fair to say that The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula are a must-see for golf fans who want to see the perfect mix of sport and nature.

Yalong Bay Golf Club

Located right in the centre of the famous Yalong Bay resort, Yalong Bay Golf Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in Hainan. The course was designed by the well-known Robert Trent Jones Jr, who meticulously combines tropical lush green with large winding fairways in a course that caters to both beginner and seasonal players.

One of the most outstanding features of the course is its convenient location. Just a few minutes’ walk from the course, visitors can get to the beach; therefore, during your round, you can feel the cool breezes and the salty flavour of the coastal region. Within the course, there are palm trees, lakes, and bunkers, which are reasonably arranged to enhance the tropical beauty of the course and, at the same time, make each hole more tactical for players. Yalong Bay Golf Club has hosted many large-scale domestic and international tournaments, which is an ideal choice for short-term golf holidays and professional events. With professional service, the golf course has always been in good condition, bringing a complete golf experience in the fresh nature of Southern China.

Sanya Luhuitou Golf Club

Still a coastal golf course but having a different vibe, Sanya Luhuitou Golf Club is a stunning course located in the poetic Luhuitou peninsula. Just a 10-minute drive from the city centre, you can feel the perfect tranquilly and spectacular natural scenery; on one side is the green Luhuitou Park, and on the other is the blue East Sea. The course was designed by Nelson Haworth. this 18-hole course is 7,310 yards long, par 72, with the special seashore paspalum, making the game more engaging. Nelson Haworth strategically placed the course with 64 bunkers and lakes, creating fascinating challenges for players of all levels. Especially holes 9, 16, and 18 are considered difficult, requiring players to have good accuracy and excellent tactics.

Notably, this used to the venue for several international tournaments, such as the Hainan Open, which is a part of the Challenge Tour, drawing many professional players from all over the world. In addition, the course offers amenities such as night courses, a clubhouse, a restaurant and a pro shop, providing a complete experience for visitors.

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Haikou Meishi Mayflower Golf Club

Located along Binhai Avenue on the west side of Haikou city, Haikou Meishi Mayflower Golf Club is one of the first coastal courses and most outstanding in Hainan. The course was designed by the legendary Montgomerie and IMG and officially introduced in 2003; it quickly became a favorite destination among both the local and international golf communities.

The course is mostly flat, but there are strategically placed bunkers and lakes, as well as ocean winds, that make the game more difficult. The “signature hole 13”, which is in the middle of a forest and has ladders and water hazards, requires players to be very precise and use advanced strategies. The course is also close to well-known beaches, like Holiday Beach, which makes it easy to relax after the course. Particularly, visitors can book golf packages that include green fees, caddies, electronic cars, and insurance to enjoy a complete game.

What to do after golf in Hainan?

Relax on Yalong Bay beach

After the game, there is nothing better than relaxing on one of the most beautiful beaches of China, Yalong Bay. The beach boasts crystal-clear water, smooth white sand, and fresh air, perfect for visitors letting their hair down. Along the beach, there are several resorts that provide long chairs, food, and interesting water activities such as kayaking or ski-diving.

Watch sunset from Luhuitou Peninsula

Luhuitou Peninsula is known for its stunning sunsets and touching legend. From the observation deck at the top of the mountain, you can see a panoramic view of the city, beaches, and vast oceans, which are all dyed orange at sunset. This spot is an ideal place to end a day of playing golf and collect an unforgettable moment on the trip.

Enjoy hot spring bath at Mission Hills Haikou

The complex of hot spring baths at Mission Hills Haikou is a great destination for golfers to recover their physical strength. With more than 160 pools inspired by Japanese, Thai, and Turkish culture, visitors can choose to experience bathing in herbal pools, mineral saltwater, hot stones, or relaxing hydrotherapy. This is the ideal way to relieve muscle pain, fight fatigue after exercise, and regain energy for the next competition days.

Visit Nanshan Temple and Buddha Statue

Nanshan is a large cultural and regional complex in the south of Hainan. The temple has a large campus with shady trees, ideal for visitors to stroll around and temporarily disconnect from the hustle of life. There is an outstanding 108-meter-high statue facing the sea. For many golfers, this is not just a temple visit but also an opportunity to regain inner balance, recharging the mental energy after days of intense golf rounds.

Savor delicious seafood at Sanya Night Market

Reward yourself with a food tour at Sanya Night Market after a stressful golf round. Sanya Night Market is a heaven of seafood. You can choose fresh lobsters, crabs, and fish, then ask the counters to prepare it on the spot by steaming, grilling, or stir-frying with garlic or spicy sauce. Your golf trip will undoubtedly be unforgettable due to the vibrant atmosphere, attractive aroma, and oceanic taste!

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Helpful Tips for your Golf Holiday in Hainan

Below are some helpful tips we think might make your time in Hainan more enjoyable:

• Book tee time ahead: Some famous courses, such as Mission Hills Haikou, Yalong Bay or The Dunes, tend to be full in the peak season (from October to April); therefore, you should book tee time at least 1 or 2 weeks before you go. This helps ensure your preference, especially when you go with a group.
• Check the weather: The weather in Hainan is quite comfortable; however, from May to September, there might be heavy rains and storms. Therefore, you should check the weather carefully when planning your holiday. It is recommended to visit Hainan in the dry season (from October to March) because it’s cool and dry, perfect for golf and tourism.
• Bring your frequently used clubs: If you regularly play with a specific set of clubs, it is advisable to bring them with you (they can be checked on the plane). However, if you want to travel light, many courses in Hainan have high-quality club rental services you should contact in advance to ensure the right set is available.
• Combine golf with relaxation: In Hainan, there are many golf courses within luxury resorts such as Mission Hills and Yalong Bay; you should spend about 2-3 nights staying & playing. After golf rounds, you can enjoy spas, beaches, and local cuisine. This would be worth your time and much more memorable compared to playing golf and leaving immediately.

In conclusion, a golf holiday to Hainan, China, would be an unforgettable experience because you will not only challenge your skills at world-class golf courses but have the chance to immerse yourself in beautiful beaches and unique local culture. Contact us for more information about planning a golf holiday in Hainan; our experts are willing to help at any time!

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