Types of Golf Courses in Vietnam for Every Skill Level

Types of Golf Courses in Vietnam

1. Links Courses in Vietnam

The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip

Links courses are the oldest style of golf courses, originally developed along the sandy coastal areas of Scotland. Known for their natural, windswept landscapes, links courses offer a distinct and authentic golfing experience, often featuring undulating fairways, firm sand-based soil, and minimal tree coverage. In Vietnam, links courses are typically situated along the coastline in areas like Ho Tram, Quy Nhơn, and Cam Ranh. These courses make the most of the open, sandy terrain and rolling dunes, with few trees and natural grasses allowing for challenging rounds in often windy conditions. The unpredictable coastal winds and sandy roughs demand precision and strategy, making these courses ideal for intermediate to advanced golfers who enjoy a challenge and scenic coastal views.

Notable Links Courses in Vietnam:

• The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip: Designed by Greg Norman, this course is known for its stunning ocean views and challenging layout.
• FLC Golf Links Quy Nhon: This course features expansive views of the South China Sea and rolling fairways affected by coastal winds.
• KN Golf Links Cam Ranh: Situated in Cam Ranh, this course combines wide fairways, sand dunes, and coastal breezes.

2. Parkland Courses

Long Thanh Golf Resort

Parkland courses are among the most popular types of golf courses, known for their lush, manicured landscapes and tranquil, tree-lined fairways. Originally inspired by park-like settings, these courses often feature rich green landscapes, water features, and carefully maintained roughs, offering a more controlled environment compared to links courses. In Vietnam, parkland courses are typically found inland near urban areas or tourist destinations such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang. These courses provide golfers with a peaceful round surrounded by beautiful, scenic surroundings, making them accessible for players of all levels.

Parkland courses are ideal for golfers who appreciate a relaxing, visually appealing environment with less exposure to wind. With a balanced layout of water and sand hazards, these courses offer challenges suited to golfers of various skill levels.

Notable Parkland Courses in Vietnam:

• Vinpearl Golf Nha Trang: Located on an island, this course provides stunning ocean views and well-maintained, tree-lined fairways.
• Tan Son Nhat Golf Course: Close to Ho Chi Minh City, this course is known for its serene setting and a mix of water and sand hazards.
• Long Thanh Golf Resort: With mountain and lake views, this course offers a relaxing yet engaging experience for golfers near Ho Chi Minh City.
• Montgomerie Links Vietnam: This course, located near Da Nang, blends parkland features with links-style terrain for a unique golfing experience.

3. Heathland Courses

BRG Ruby Tree

Heathland courses resemble links courses but are generally located inland, offering open, rolling landscapes with heath vegetation and sandy soil. Originating in Britain, heathland courses feature undulating fairways, low shrubs, and open spaces with fewer trees than parkland courses. In Vietnam, heathland courses are typically found in highland regions like Da Lat, where the cooler climate and elevated terrain create a unique playing environment.

Heathland courses are perfect for intermediate to advanced golfers who enjoy an open, natural environment and are drawn to the challenges posed by the rugged, sandy terrain. These courses require strategic thinking and adaptability, making them exciting for players looking for a unique experience.

Notable Heathland Courses in Vietnam:

• Dalat Palace Golf Club: Located in the highlands of Da Lat, this course combines rolling terrain with mountain views, offering a distinctive heathland golfing experience.
• BRG Ruby Tree: Set in Hai Phong, this course is known for its natural beauty and unique, open design.
• Sacom Tuyen Lam Golf Club: Located in Da Lat, this course is nestled in a cool climate, offering a mix of heathland and mountainous terrain.

4. Championship Courses

BRG Kings Island Golf Resort

Championship courses are built to meet the standards of professional tournaments, offering a challenging and skill-demanding layout. These courses typically feature long holes, advanced bunkers, undulating greens, and a variety of hazards, all meticulously designed to test the abilities of even the most experienced golfers. In Vietnam, championship courses are found near major cities and popular tourist areas like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, where they attract professional events and experienced players seeking high-level challenges.

Championship courses are best suited for experienced golfers who enjoy a high level of difficulty and want to test their skills on layouts built for competitive play. These courses offer a premium golfing experience that showcases Vietnam’s capacity to host world-class events.

Notable Championship Courses in Vietnam:

• BRG Kings Island Golf Resort: Near Hanoi, this resort offers multiple courses, including the challenging Kings Course, which is ideal for advanced players.
• Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club: Known for its stunning views and challenging layout, this course attracts skilled golfers seeking a competitive edge.
• The Grand Ho Tram Strip: A world-class course located in Ho Tram, designed to host major international tournaments.

5. Desert Courses

FLC Golf Links Quy Nhon

Desert courses are designed to replicate the feel of arid desert landscapes, featuring expansive sandy wastelands, sparse vegetation, and rugged, wide fairways. Originating in desert regions of the United States, these courses require golfers to navigate large sandy areas and sometimes incorporate unique rock formations. In Vietnam, desert courses can be found in regions with drier climates, such as the central coast around Cam Ranh and Quang Binh.

Desert courses are ideal for experienced golfers who enjoy a distinct and demanding challenge, as well as those who prefer playing in warmer, dry conditions. The sandy roughs and wide-open fairways test both precision and adaptability, making these courses a unique option for adventurous players.

Notable Desert Courses in Vietnam:

• KN Golf Links Cam Ranh: Located in Cam Ranh, this desert-style course combines sand dunes, coastal winds, and challenging fairways for a memorable experience.
• FLC Golf Links Quang Binh: This rugged course incorporates desert terrain with natural sand features, offering a true desert golfing experience.
• FLC Golf Links Quy Nhon: Featuring large dunes and sandy terrain, this course offers another desert-style experience with coastal views.

6. Par-3 Courses

Vung Tau Paradise Golf Resort

Par-3 courses are shorter courses composed entirely of par-3 holes, designed to allow players to practice their short game or enjoy a quick, relaxing round of golf. These courses are perfect for golfers who want to work on precision with their shorter irons and wedges, as well as beginners who are building their skills. In Vietnam, par-3 courses are commonly found near resorts and urban areas, making them easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

Par-3 courses are ideal for beginners, families, and players with limited time who still want to enjoy a round. They provide an excellent way to practice putting and chipping while offering a low-pressure, enjoyable golfing experience.

Notable Par-3 Courses in Vietnam:

• Vung Tau Paradise Golf Resort: This par-3 course provides beautiful coastal views, making it an enjoyable setting for a quick game.
• Van Tri Golf Club: Located near Hanoi, this club’s par-3 course is perfect for practicing the short game in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Ocean Dunes Golf Club: Located in Phan Thiet, this club offers a compact and accessible par-3 course for players of all levels.

7. Executive Courses

Vinpearl Golf Hai Phong

Executive courses are compact courses that typically feature a mix of par-3 and par-4 holes, designed to allow golfers to play a full round in a shorter amount of time. These courses are accessible, offering a convenient option for business travelers, beginners, and casual golfers who may not have the time or desire for a full 18-hole course. In Vietnam, executive courses are often found near major cities and resorts, providing an easy option for quick rounds.

Executive courses are suitable for beginners and golfers looking for a quick, enjoyable experience. The shorter course layout provides a less intense round, allowing golfers to focus on accuracy and precision without the full commitment of a standard course.

Notable Executive Courses in Vietnam:

• Long Thanh Golf Resort: With beautiful surroundings and a shorter course layout, this course is designed for quick, enjoyable play.
• Vinpearl Golf Hai Phong: Located in northern Vietnam, this executive course offers a convenient and accessible golfing experience.

How to Choose the Perfect Golf Course in Vietnam

Choosing the right golf course in Vietnam depends on various factors such as your skill level, desired golfing experience, and the type of course you prefer. If you’re a beginner or want a more relaxing round, par-3 and executive courses are great choices. For more experienced players, championship and links courses provide a thrilling challenge. Parkland and heathland courses offer a balance of beauty and difficulty, while desert courses provide a unique and rare golfing experience.

When selecting a course, consider its location and the type of amenities it offers. For example, if you're looking for a resort-style experience, choose a course with additional services like accommodation, spas, and fine dining. If you’re traveling to Vietnam for a golf holiday, it’s also worth exploring courses in different regions to take in the country's diverse landscapes.

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Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and growing number of world-class courses make it an exceptional golf destination in Asia. Whether you're a seasoned player looking for a challenging round or a beginner interested in exploring the world of golf, various types of golf courses in Vietnam offer a memorable golfing experience.