By aussiematesvietnam 
G’Day to Golf Paradise: Vietnam’s Fairways Are Calling
When Tracy and I first moved to Vietnam nearly two decades ago, I would’ve laughed if you’d told me this country would become a world-class golfing destination. Back then, finding a decent course was harder than scoring an eagle on a par 5! Fast forward to today, and crikey, Vietnam’s golfing scene has exploded faster than my handicap after a few months without practice.
Vietnam now boasts some of Asia’s most spectacular courses, designed by legends like Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus, and Luke Donald. The combination of stunning landscapes, top-notch facilities, and prices that won’t send you broke makes Vietnam an absolute ripper of a destination for Aussie boomers looking to combine their love of travel with a few rounds.
After spending years exploring these courses (purely for research purposes, I tell Tracy), I’ve put together this guide to help fellow Aussies discover the joy of teeing off in Vietnam. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just enjoy a casual hit, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your clubs, slip on your best golf attire, and let’s explore Vietnam’s fairway paradise!
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Why Vietnam is a Golf Holiday Dream for Aussie Boomers
Before we dive into the specific courses, let me tell you why Vietnam should be on every Australian golfer’s bucket list:
- Year-round golf weather (though check the rainy season for your specific destination)
- Courses that cost a fraction of what you’d pay back home
- World-class designs with breathtaking scenery
- Luxurious clubhouses with exceptional service
- Non-golfing activities nearby for your travel companions (Tracy’s shopping expeditions have been as legendary as my golf outings)
- Easy connections from Australia with plenty of direct flights
Having spent nearly 20 years calling Vietnam home, I’ve watched this country transform into a golfer’s paradise. The courses here don’t just offer a game – they offer an experience that combines sport, culture, and natural beauty in a way that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Central Vietnam: Golf Heaven in Danang and Hoi An
Central Vietnam has become the country’s premier golf destination, and fair dinkum, it’s not hard to see why. Within a 30km stretch along the coast, you’ll find some absolute beauties.
Ba Na Hills Golf Club – Designed by Luke Donald, this mountain course sits about 25km from Danang. The cool mountain air makes it perfect for a midday round, even during the hot season. Tracy and I love the dramatic elevation changes and the way mist sometimes rolls through the valleys in the morning – it’s like playing in the clouds! The facility is world-class with a stunning clubhouse and practice areas.
Montgomerie Links – One of Vietnam’s first championship courses, designed by Colin Montgomerie. This links-style course has hosted numerous professional tournaments and offers a proper challenge with its undulating fairways and strategic bunkering. The wind can pick up in the afternoons, adding another dimension to your game. It’s just 15 minutes from Danang, making it easily accessible.
Danang Golf Club (Dunes Course) – Designed by Greg Norman, this is consistently rated as one of Vietnam’s best. The Shark created a true links experience, with the East Sea visible from many holes. The natural sand dunes have been incorporated brilliantly into the design. I’ve played this course dozens of times, and it never gets old watching your ball soar against the backdrop of the Marble Mountains.
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Southern Delights: Saigon and Surrounds
The Ho Chi Minh City area offers plenty of quality tracks that combine accessibility with impressive designs.
The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip – About a 2-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, this Greg Norman design is absolutely worth the journey. Built on coastal sand dunes, it has a rugged, natural feel that reminds me of some Australian courses. The elevation changes are dramatic – I nearly fell over from vertigo on some tees! – and the ocean views are spectacular. The resort facilities are top-notch too, so you can make a weekend of it.
Vietnam Golf & Country Club – Comprising two excellent 18-hole courses (East and West), this club is conveniently located just 20km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City. The East Course, designed by Lee Trevino, is more challenging with narrower fairways, while the West Course offers a bit more forgiveness for us social golfers. Tracy and I often bring visiting mates here for their first Vietnamese golf experience.
Long Thanh Golf Club – With 36 holes divided between the Lake Course and the Mountain Course, Long Thanh offers variety and quality about 40 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City. The courses are beautifully maintained, with plenty of water hazards to keep you honest. The clubhouse is a beauty too – I reckon it’s one of the most impressive in Southeast Asia.
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Northern Gems: Hanoi and Beyond
The north might be less known for golf, but some absolute crackers are found around Hanoi.
BRG Kings Island Golf Resort – Located about an hour from Hanoi, this resort features two excellent 18-hole courses: the Lakeside and the Mountain View. The Lakeside course involves water on 13 of its 18 holes – I learned that the hard way when I lost half a dozen balls my first time out! The setting around Dong Mo Lake is spectacular, especially in the early morning when mist hangs over the water.
Tam Dao Golf Resort – Set in the mountains about 65km from Hanoi, this course offers cooler temperatures and spectacular views. The elevation makes for some interesting shot-making decisions, and the mountain air gives your ball a bit more carry (always a bonus for us older blokes!). Tracy loves coming here even though she doesn’t play – the scenery and mountain atmosphere are worth the trip alone.
FLC Ha Long Bay Golf Club – Designed by Schmidt-Curley, this relatively new course offers stunning views of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonder. Playing alongside the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay is an experience you simply can’t replicate anywhere else. Some holes run right along the coastline, creating a dramatic backdrop for your round.
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Practical Tips for Your Vietnam Golf Holiday
After countless rounds across the country, I’ve picked up a few tips that might save you some hassle:
- Consider the weather – Central Vietnam is best from February to September, while the South is good year-round (though prepare for afternoon showers during rainy season from May to November).
- Book tee times in advance – Vietnam’s popularity as a golf destination means the best courses get booked up, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Use club rentals – Most courses offer quality Titleist, TaylorMade or Callaway sets for around $50 USD, which can save you the hassle of lugging your clubs across the Pacific.
- Hire a caddie – They’re mandatory at most courses anyway, but they’re invaluable for reading greens and finding balls in unfamiliar terrain. Plus, they’re incredibly affordable by Australian standards.
- Package it up – Many resorts offer stay-and-play packages that can save you a bundle. Some even include transfers from major cities.
- Pace yourself – The heat and humidity can be challenging if you’re not used to it. Stay hydrated, wear a hat, and maybe opt for morning tee times.
Beyond the Fairways
One of the best things about golfing in Vietnam is that there’s so much to do when