5 Best Links Golf Courses in Vietnam

Vietnam is quickly becoming one of Asia’s most exciting destinations for links golf. With strong coastal winds, sandy dunes, and firm fairways, Vietnam really sets the new bar for golf courses in the area and the whole of Asia for the defining traits of true links golf.

What Makes a True Links Golf Course?

Links golf courses are traditionally built along coastlines, where the terrain is shaped by wind, sand, and sea. Unlike parkland courses, links layouts are typically more open, with fewer trees and greater exposure to the elements.

The ground tends to be firm and fast, encouraging a style of play that relies on creativity rather than just power. Wind becomes a constant factor, influencing every shot. In many ways, links golf is as much about adapting to nature as it is about technique.

With over 3,000 kilometers of coastline, Vietnam offers ideal conditions for developing links-style courses. Natural sand dunes, oceanfront landscapes, and a tropical climate combine to create environments that closely resemble traditional links settings.

In recent years, world-class designers have taken advantage of these conditions, building courses that not only meet international standards but also reflect Vietnam’s unique geography. The result is a growing collection of links courses that are both challenging and visually spectacular.

The 5 Best Links Golf Courses in Vietnam

1. The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip – Vietnam’s Most Iconic Links Course

Set along a rugged stretch of coastline, The Bluffs is widely considered one of the best golf courses in Vietnam. Designed by Greg Norman, it makes full use of natural dunes and dramatic elevation changes.

What sets it apart is the intensity of the environment. Strong winds, rolling fairways, and constantly changing conditions create a course that feels different every time you play. It is not the easiest course, but it is one of the most rewarding.

For golfers seeking a true links challenge, this is often the benchmark.

2. Hoiana Shores Golf Club – A Pure Links Experience

Hoiana Shores offers one of the most authentic links experiences in Asia. The layout is minimalist, with wide fairways, minimal tree coverage, and a natural flow that follows the coastline.

The course emphasizes strategy over power. With constant wind exposure and subtle terrain changes, players need to think carefully about every shot. It captures the essence of traditional links golf—simple in appearance, but complex in play.

3. KN Golf Links Cam Ranh – Modern Links with Scenic Appeal

Located along the coastline of Cam Ranh, KN Golf Links blends classic links elements with a more modern design approach. The course features wide fairways, sandy waste areas, and beautiful ocean views.

Compared to more extreme links layouts, it offers a slightly more forgiving experience while still maintaining the core characteristics of links golf. This balance makes it appealing to a wider range of players.

4. FLC Quy Nhon Golf Links – A Coastal Golf Destination

FLC Quy Nhon stands out for offering more than just a single course. Its Ocean Course delivers a strong links-style experience, with wind exposure and seaside terrain shaping the game.

The combination of coastal views and varied layouts makes it a versatile destination. While not as pure in its links identity as some others on this list, it offers a compelling mix of challenge and scenery.

5. Laguna Golf Lang Co – Links Meets Landscape Diversity

Designed by Nick Faldo, Laguna Lang Co takes a slightly different approach. While it incorporates links-style elements, it also blends them with lagoons, rice paddies, and jungle surroundings.

This creates a more varied playing experience, where no two holes feel the same. It may not be a traditional links course in the strictest sense, but it captures the spirit of coastal golf in a uniquely Vietnamese way.

Vietnam - a whole different experience of links golf

Each of these courses offers a different take on links golf.

The Bluffs is arguably the most challenging, with dramatic terrain and strong winds. Hoiana Shores provides the purest links experience, focusing on simplicity and strategy. KN Golf Links offers a more balanced and accessible round, while FLC Quy Nhon adds variety with its dual-course setup. Laguna Lang Co stands out for its diversity, blending multiple landscapes into one course.

Together, they show the range of what links golf in Vietnam can be.

FAQs

What is the best links golf course in Vietnam?

Many consider The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip to be the most iconic, while Hoiana Shores Golf Club offers the most authentic links experience.

Are links courses harder than other types?

Generally, yes. Wind, firm ground, and open layouts make them more challenging.

When is the best time to play?

The dry season, especially in Central Vietnam, provides the best conditions.

Are links courses beginner-friendly?

They can be challenging for beginners, but still enjoyable with the right mindset.

 

Vietnam’s links golf scene is still evolving, but it is already impressive. With world-class designs, stunning coastal landscapes, and a growing reputation among international golfers, the country is quickly establishing itself as a must-visit destination for links golf. Whether you are chasing a challenge or simply looking for a unique golf experience, these courses offer something truly special.

Read more:  Links Golf Courses, Parkland and other Styles of Golf Courses.