The Ultimate Guide to Golf in Sarawak (updated 2025)
Looking for a golf destination that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful stretches? Let’s golf in Sarawak, one of Malaysia’s most underrated golfing gems. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Sarawak’s golf scene, from the best courses and ideal seasons to local tips and everything else you need to know before you hit your first swing in Sarawak.
General weather and best time to golf in Sarawak
Sarawak is heavily influenced by the tropical rainforest climate. Therefore, the weather here is hot and humid all year round with average temperatures usually ranging from 30 to 33°C and humidity almost above 80%. Showers are typical of the weather in Sarawak, in the dry months there will still be rain but less and not as long. Therefore, the best time to play golf in Sarawak is in the dry season from June to August or the shoulder season from March to May or September, October. At this time, the possibility of rain is lowest, the weather is quite stable and cool, allowing you to plan activities such as playing golf and having fun all day.
General weather of Sarawak
However, you should avoid the rainy season from December to February every year. This is not the ideal time for playing golf and having fun because heavy rains and even lightning can slow down traffic, reduce visibility or even close the course. However, if you want to have a budget golf trip, this time will be perfect because this is the low season in Sarawak. All services will be discounted and have many incentives to stimulate tourism. And you will save a lot if you go at this time!
Best golf courses in Sarawak
Dalit Bay Golf Country Club
Dalit Bay Golf Country Club
Designed by Ted Parslow, the championship golf course at Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club is set within the 400 acres of the luxurious and renowned Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort. The course is approximately 30 km or 40 minutes drive from Kota Kinabalu and offers a superb playing experience in a beautiful natural setting.
The course has been designed to blend in with the local and rustic environment of Sabah Malaysia and is on par with the great golf resorts of the world. The course winds through the Tambalang River, wild rainforests and mangrove swamps. Most holes offer spectacular views of the pristine Pantai Dalit Beach and Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak. Water is present on most holes and challenges more experienced golfers to choose the back tees. However, the wide fairways make Dalit Bay ideal for beginners.
Here, golfers are offered a full-service golf experience and the amenities of a 5-star resort. Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club features a spacious clubhouse with a restaurant, driving range, putting green, short game practice area and bunkers, locker rooms and one of the best-equipped pro shops in Kota Kinabalu.
Damai Golf Country Club
Damai Golf Country Club
Damai Golf & Country Club is the first golf course in Malaysia designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer. The course has a truly spectacular setting, nestled along the foothills of Mount Santubong and playing alongside beaches, rocky outcrops and mangroves on a peninsula jutting out into the South China Sea. Damai Golf and Country Club has hosted major golf events such as the Damai Challenge, World Golf Amateur Challenge and Carlsberg Golf Classic.
Damai comprises Mountain Nine and Ocean Nine, which are significantly different in character. The former offers a challenging golfing experience with a backdrop of rugged natural rainforest while the latter hugs the South China Sea and features picturesque fairways and stunning beaches with coastal mountains in the distance. The greens are generally small and are suited to precise approach shots.
Damai Golf and Country Club also offers facilities such as a grass driving range, practice area, golf café, pro shop and locker rooms. The clubhouse is a bit old but still meets most Sawarak golfer’s needs.
Sibu Golf Club
Sibu Golf Club
Located in the charming town of Sibu, Malaysia, Sibu Golf Club is a haven for golf enthusiasts looking for an exceptional golfing experience. The course is designed to accommodate players of all skill levels with bunkers, water hazards and undulating fairways.
In addition to the fairways, Sibu Golf Club boasts a wide range of facilities to enhance your experience. The club offers fully equipped clubhouse facilities, including a pro shop, locker rooms and a restaurant serving delicious food. In addition, the club hosts various tournaments and events throughout the year, fostering a vibrant and inclusive golfing community.
Eastwood Valley Golf and Country Club
eastwood valley golf and country club
Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club is located just outside the coastal city of Miri, in northeastern Sarawak, very close to the border with Brunei. Opened in 2005, the 18-hole course at Eastwood Valley was designed by Californian Doug Nickels of Nickels Golf Group, an architect who has worked with Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Des Muirhead. The course is built with Seashore Paspalum fairways and Tifdwarf Bermuda greens, and features water hazards on more than half of the holes, notably the two par threes on the back nine, where golfers tee off to an island green on the 13th and a peninsula green on the 17th.
As the oldest golf resort in Miri, Eastwood Valley boasts the city’s largest clubhouse, which boasts top-notch facilities including a grand ballroom and six banquet halls. Eastwood Valley has been the venue for some of Miri’s most prominent parties and events.
> > > Craving more world-class fairways beyond Sarawak? Malaysia is a golfer’s paradise, with stunning courses stretching from coastal escapes to cool highlands. Here’s a look at some of the best golf courses in Malaysia.
What to do beyond golf in Sarawak
Experience eco-tourism and explore Sarawak’s nature
Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak
Sarawak is a famous eco-tourism destination with many world-famous national parks such as Bako, Gunung Mulu, Miah, Lambir Hills and Loagan Bunut. The parks have extremely diverse ecosystems, home to many rare species of flora and fauna such as proboscis monkeys, pigs, silver-cheeked monkeys, orchids and famous for the world’s largest flower, Rafflesia. Besides, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the wild beauty of tropical rainforests, giant caves and conquer challenging trails.
Walk along Kuching Waterfront and visit iconic destinations
Some famous tourist destinations you can visit in your free time
Kuching Waterfront stretches nearly 1 km along the Sarawak River, and is home to a variety of dining, entertainment, and accommodation options. That’s why it’s also known as “People’s Place”. You can find everything you need at the pier, from delicious food, unique souvenir shops to historical architecture. The most prominent feature here is the cat statue, the symbol of Kuching city.
Besides, spend a few hours exploring all the historical buildings on both sides of the river. You can visit Tua Pek Kong Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Kuching, or the memorial of the last governor of Sarawak, Charles Brooke. In addition, you can also shop at major shopping malls such as Parkson Grand, Tun Jugah, and Sarawak Plaza. To cross the river, you can take a ‘sampan’, a river taxi, or cross the river via the Darul Hana suspension bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Sarawak River. The Kuching riverfront comes alive in the evening with buskers playing music, the aroma of delicious street food and even stunning light shows along the Sarawak River.
Explore Sarawak cultural village with traditional longhouses
Step into Sarawak Cultural Village, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Borneo’s diverse ethnic tribes
One of the attractive destinations for you to understand more about Sarawak culture is the Sarawak Cultural Village, located 32km from the capital Kuching. This is the most famous traditional cultural village and a living museum, authentically recreating the daily life and customs of the seven main ethnic groups here, including the Malays, Chinese, Ibans, Bidayuhs, Orang Ulu, Melanau and Penan.
Besides, you can also admire the houses, traditional costumes of each ethnic group, listen to the melodious music, and participate in traditional activities such as wood carving, weaving, pottery, and archery. In particular, you will enjoy interesting dances such as rhinoceros horn dance or ngajat dance, performed by talented artisans.
Enjoy diverse local cuisine
Savoring Sarawak’s signature dishes adds a flavorful twist to your golf getaway
Coming to Sarawak, you will have the opportunity to explore the culinary culture of the indigenous people of Sarawak such as Lepau or Dyak. The dishes have a strong culinary color. Specifically: Manok, lulun, umai and vegetables such as: Cangkuk, manis, midin, … are also equally attractive dishes. In addition, you should not miss enjoying the famous noodle dish in Kuching Chong Choon Poh Lam Laksa! For an authentic street food experience, go to Kuching Night Market or Siniawan Night Market. Try the famous Satay, chicken wings and local desserts such as Apam Balik.
> > > Ready to turn your golfing dreams into a complete holiday? Discover our curated Sarawak golf packages that combine championship courses, comfortable stays, and unforgettable local experiences, all in one seamless itinerary.
Estimated cost for your Sarawak golf trip
On-course fees
Golfing costs in Sarawak are generally much cheaper than other international golf destinations. Course rentals range from $25-$40 on weekdays and an additional $40-$55 on weekends and public holidays. Caddie and golf cart services are not mandatory but are recommended to enhance your experience, especially in Sarawak’s humid tropical climate. Courses also rent golf equipment such as clubs, shoes, etc. for $15-$25.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Sarawak is also quite cheap, with a wide range of options from type to price. Mid-range hotels in Kuching or near golf courses usually cost between $35-$60 per night, including breakfast and other basic amenities. If you want a more upscale experience, choose high-end hotels or luxury resorts such as Damai Beach Resort, the Riverside Majestic Hotel, etc. with world-class facilities and services such as spas, swimming pools and panoramic views of the surrounding nature. Room rates for one night are also not too high, ranging from $54-$110.
Estimated cost for a day golf in Sarawak
Transportation
Getting around Sarawak is quite simple and there are many options for you. Taxis and chauffeured cars are the two most popular services chosen by tourists, very suitable if you are traveling in a large group or have to bring a lot of equipment to the golf course. The price will be a bit higher than other means of transport, around $20 to $35 for 1 day. Sarawak also has extremely convenient car booking applications such as Uber and Grab, helping you easily move to the place you want with public prices. If you want to enjoy the beauty of Sarawak in the most intimate way, rent a motorbike and explore every corner and road.
Dining and other activities
As Malaysia’s foodie haven, Sarawak has a wide range of delicious street food that costs as little as $4-$8. If you’re eating in a hotel or a more upscale restaurant, meals can cost as much as $15-$21 per person. With so much to do and see besides golf, plan on spending at least a day exploring. Average entry fees to destinations like national parks and cultural villages range from $10-$25.
Some useful tips for your golf trip
Here are some helpful tips to help you make the most of your golf trip to Sarawak, from course preparation to local culture and weather considerations:
- Ideal time to go: Sarawak is hot and humid all year round, but your timing can affect your experience. The best time is from June to August, avoiding the monsoon season from November to February, which can be affected by storms.
- When to play: To avoid the heat and occasional afternoon showers, it’s best to book your tee time early in the morning, before 9am. Courses are also less crowded at this time, making for a more relaxing and private experience.
- What to bring: Bring light, sweat-wicking clothing suitable for Sarawak’s climate. Bring a cold towel, fan, and umbrella to avoid heatstroke while you play. Don’t forget to pack a light raincoat as a backup.
- Booking in advance: Although Sarawak is not as crowded as other popular golf destinations in the region, you can book tee times in advance, especially on weekends or public holidays. Some golf courses also offer early bird packages or weekday tee times.
- Respect local ethnic cultures: Sarawak has a diverse culture that includes ethnic communities such as the Iban, Bidayuh, etc. If you plan to visit their traditional villages, dress modestly and learn about their culture in advance to avoid any misunderstandings. Supporting local crafts is a great way to show appreciation and contribute, while also giving you a unique souvenir of your trip.
With this guide, you will be well-prepared to enjoy a smooth and unforgettable trip to golf in Sarawak. From choosing the right season to understanding green fees, local tips and cultural etiquette, every detail will help you make the most of your time on and off the golf course. Need help planning your trip? Contact us today and we will take care of the details while you focus on your swing.
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