For travelers considering a golf trip to Vietnam, the country presents a diverse array of courses and cultural experiences. Insights from World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman, who has served as a Vietnam Tourism Ambassador and visited the nation numerous times, offer a valuable framework for planning an itinerary. His recommendations highlight four key regions, providing guidance on where to play, stay, and explore Vietnam's unique attractions.
Golfing in Northern Vietnam: Hanoi and Ha Long Bay
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, offers a compelling mix of historical sites, serene lakes, and tree-lined avenues. While the city center provides a rich cultural experience, several notable golf courses are accessible within a few hours' drive, often near UNESCO-listed heritage areas.
When visiting Hanoi, Greg Norman suggests staying at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. This hotel, established in the early 1900s, is noted for its architecture and design. Its proximity to the Old Quarter and other national landmarks allows guests to easily engage with Vietnam's historical and cultural depth. For golf, the FLC Ha Long Bay course is highlighted as particularly scenic, situated next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a unique playing environment. Following a round, a boat tour of Ha Long Bay is recommended for a closer appreciation of the natural landscape. Another course in the region is BRG Kings Island.
Recommended Venues in Hanoi and Ha Long Bay
- Play: BRG Kings Island, FLC Ha Long Bay
- Stay: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
- See: Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Imperial Citadel, Ha Long Bay
- Eat: Club De L’Oriental, El Gaucho
For those interested in exploring more of the capital's offerings beyond golf, consider reviewing Hanoi itinerary ideas for cultural, culinary, and scenic attractions.
Central Vietnam's Coastal Golf: Da Nang and Surroundings
Da Nang, once a quiet fishing community, has evolved into a dynamic urban center. The coastline stretching from Hue, the former imperial capital, to the ancient trading port of Hoi An, features a selection of modern golf courses and luxury resorts. This area is recognized for its varied topography, combining expansive coastlines with dramatic mountain ranges.
The region hosts several golf courses considered among the country's best maintained and most contemporary, including BRG Danang. Visitors often find that spending several days in Da Nang is beneficial to fully experience its offerings. Beyond golf, the area provides access to significant cultural and natural sites. For dining options in the nearby ancient town, a culinary guide to dining in Hoi An can be helpful.
Recommended Venues in Da Nang and Central Vietnam
- Play: BRG Danang, Hoiana Shores, Ba Na Hills Golf Club, Montgomerie Links, Laguna Lang Co
- Stay: Sheraton Grand Danang Resort
- See: Marble Mountains, Golden Hands Bridge, Hue City, Hoi An Ancient Town
- Eat: Nen, Olivia’s Prime
Southern Beaches and Links: Nha Trang
Nha Trang is known for receiving more sunshine annually than most other locations in Vietnam. The city attracts visitors for its clear waters and beaches, suitable for snorkeling, swimming, and sailing, alongside its active beachside establishments. Norman notes the quality of the beaches and water in Nha Trang.
Along the route from the airport to the city, several boutique resorts are available. Mia Nha Trang is specifically mentioned as a place for relaxation, offering an isolated beach setting and a spa with traditional Vietnamese massage services. The KN Golf Links in Cam Ranh Bay is described as a distinctive course. It features a championship Links Course, designed to challenge players across natural sand dunes, and an Oasis Course, which offers a more forgiving, parkland-style experience, catering to different skill levels. Future developments around these courses are expected to establish it as a significant destination in Asia.
Recommended Venues in Nha Trang
- Play: KN Golf Links, Vinpearl Golf Nha Trang
- Stay: Mia Resort Nha Trang
- See: Do Dien Khanh Gallery, Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam
- Eat: Sandals @Sailing Club, Chef’s Club @Skylight
Urban Golf and Luxury in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, a major southern metropolis, has historically been a center for commerce and cultural exchange. Its lively atmosphere is evident in its streets, characterized by numerous motorcycles and diverse cafes. District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City is considered a convenient area for combining professional engagements with leisure activities.
Accommodations such as the Park Hyatt and Intercontinental are suggested for their suitability for business meetings, allowing time for evening dining at nearby restaurants. A relatively short trip from District 1 leads to Ho Tram, home to The Bluffs course. This course is consistently recognized among the top golf destinations globally. For those interested in local markets, a guide to Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City offers insights into shopping and culture.
Recommended Venues in Ho Chi Minh City
- Play: The Bluffs Ho Tram, Tan Son Nhat Golf Course
- Stay: Park Hyatt Saigon, Intercontinental
- See: War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral
- Eat: Anan Saigon, Prime XXI
Comprehensive Golf and Travel Recommendations in Vietnam
This table summarizes the expert-recommended golf courses, accommodations, attractions, and dining options across Vietnam's key golfing regions. Note that specific addresses and phone numbers for these venues were not provided in the source material.
| Category | Hanoi & Ha Long Bay | Da Nang & Central Coast | Nha Trang | Ho Chi Minh City |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golf Courses | BRG Kings Island, FLC Ha Long Bay | BRG Danang, Hoiana Shores, Ba Na Hills Golf Club, Montgomerie Links, Laguna Lang Co | KN Golf Links, Vinpearl Golf Nha Trang | The Bluffs Ho Tram, Tan Son Nhat Golf Course |
| Accommodation | Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi | Sheraton Grand Danang Resort | Mia Resort Nha Trang | Park Hyatt Saigon, Intercontinental |
| Attractions | Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Imperial Citadel, Ha Long Bay | Marble Mountains, Golden Hands Bridge, Hue City, Hoi An Ancient Town | Do Dien Khanh Gallery, Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam | War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral |
| Dining | Club De L’Oriental, El Gaucho | Nen, Olivia’s Prime | Sandals @Sailing Club, Chef’s Club @Skylight | Anan Saigon, Prime XXI |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Vietnam a good destination for golf travel?
Vietnam offers a combination of diverse landscapes, modern course designs, and cultural experiences. Golf courses are often situated near scenic coastlines, mountains, or historical sites, providing unique backdrops for play. The country's developing tourism infrastructure also supports a comfortable travel experience for golfers.
Are there options for different skill levels of golfers in Vietnam?
Yes, Vietnam's golf courses cater to various skill levels. For instance, the KN Golf Links in Cam Ranh Bay features both a challenging Links Course and a more accessible Oasis Course. Many destinations offer a range of courses, from championship layouts to more forgiving designs, ensuring options for both experienced players and those new to the sport.
What kind of non-golf activities are available in these destinations?
Beyond golf, each recommended destination in Vietnam provides a wealth of non-golf activities. Hanoi offers historical sites and cultural immersion, Da Nang boasts beaches and proximity to ancient towns like Hoi An, Nha Trang is known for its water sports and relaxation, and Ho Chi Minh City provides a vibrant urban experience with museums and dining. Many courses are also located near natural attractions like Ha Long Bay.
Is it necessary to book tee times and accommodations in advance?
While not explicitly stated for all venues, it is generally advisable to book tee times, especially at popular courses, and accommodations in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons. This helps ensure availability and can often secure better rates. For luxury resorts and highly-rated courses, early booking is recommended.