Thanh Hoa - the newest Golf Captial of ASEA?

Share this post

Thanh Hoa’s Bold vision for the future includes 11 Golf Courses to Power Tourism Growth from 2026–2030

Thanh Hoa province is making a strategic move to position itself as a major golf and tourism hub in Vietnam, with plans to prioritize investment in 11 golf course projects between 2026 and 2030. This initiative, officially announced by the Thanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee, is a key pillar in the province’s long-term economic and tourism development strategy.

Vision for the future

Under the plan, Thanh Hoa aims to develop a total of:

  • 4 golf courses (36 holes)

  • 6 golf courses (18 holes)

  • 1 golf course (27 holes)

With a projected total investment of approximately VND 8,300 billion, these projects will be distributed across key areas—from coastal districts like Hoang Hoa and Nghi Son to inland ecological zones such as Nhu Thanh, Cam Thuy, and Tho Xuan.

Notably, 8 projects are already included in the provincial master plan, while 3 additional projects are being proposed, highlighting a flexible and forward-thinking approach to capturing future investment flows.

More Than Just Golf: Integrated Destination Development

What sets this strategy apart is its modern, ecosystem-driven approach. Rather than standalone golf facilities, these developments are envisioned as multi-functional complexes, combining:

  • Golf courses

  • Resorts and hotels

  • Eco-urban areas

  • Commercial and service zones

This model not only maximizes land-use efficiency but also enhances real estate value and creates sustainable revenue streams for the local economy.

Several projects—such as those in Dong Quang (Thanh Hoa City) and Lam Son – Sao Vang (Tho Xuan)—are expected to move forward quickly, thanks to strong infrastructure connectivity, including expressways and proximity to airports.

A Proven Global Model

Thanh Hoa’s direction aligns with some of the world’s most successful golf destinations:

  • Mission Hills Golf Club (China): A mega golf and leisure complex that integrates tourism, events, and luxury hospitality.

  • Antalya (Europe): A leading golf destination built on the synergy between beachfront resorts and all-inclusive tourism.

  • Pebble Beach Golf Links (USA): A prime example of combining iconic golf experiences with high-end real estate and tourism.

The common thread? Golf is not the end goal—it’s the catalyst that drives a broader ecosystem of hospitality, lifestyle, and economic activity.

Why Thanh Hoa, Why Now?

Vietnam is rapidly emerging as a rising star on Asia’s golf tourism map, with strong growth in both the number of courses and active players. Thanh Hoa is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend thanks to:

  • Abundant land resources

  • Diverse terrain (coastline, plains, midlands, mountains)

  • Improving infrastructure, including the North–South Expressway and Tho Xuan Airport

By planning 11 golf courses at the provincial level—a notably ambitious scale—Thanh Hoa is effectively laying the groundwork for a clustered golf destination capable of competing regionally.

A Strategic Bet on the Future

This initiative reflects a long-term, high-impact vision. If executed effectively—with the right investors and a well-integrated service ecosystem—Thanh Hoa has the potential to become one of Vietnam’s leading golf, tourism, and resort destinations, with ambitions that could extend across Southeast Asia.