When most people dream up a bucket-list golf trip, Vietnam probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. Or the second. Or even the tenth.
But after spending two unforgettable weeks there with my dad, I’m here to tell you: it should be.
We were looking for the perfect mix of world-class golf, incredible food, vibrant culture, and just enough adventure to make the whole thing feel special. Thanks to the team at Asia Golf Trips, we found exactly that — and then some.
From championship layouts framed by jungle-covered mountains to beachfront holes that felt straight out of a dream, Vietnam surprised us at every turn. This wasn’t just a great golf trip. It was one of the best travel experiences of my life.
In this post, I’m not just going to share the highlights of our trip (although there were plenty). I’ll also walk you through everything you need to know to plan your own Vietnam golf adventure — from the best courses to play, to the must-visit cities, to the food, culture, and travel tips that made it all unforgettable.
Let’s dive in with the obvious question:
Why take a golf trip to Vietnam in the first place?
Way back in 2009, the very first blog post I ever published was my “bucket list.”
I was in a job I hated, and wanted some accountability for doing more in my life. So I wrote down a list of a whole bunch of stuff I wanted to do in life.
- Live on a tropical island: Check.
- Play Pebble Beach: Check.
- Go to Cuba Before the Embargo is Lifted and Have a Cigar: Check.
- Climb a Mountain: Check.
I’ve crossed off dozens of things at this point. But two really important ones, I hadn’t:
- Take an international trip with my mom
- Take an international trip with my dad
16 years later, it was time to make it happen.
My dad is a *very* casual golfer. And previously, the only golf trips we’d done were a few days at Bandon Dunes and a quick trip to Pronghorn.
So I knew I wanted to do something unique and memorable.
Enter: Vietnam.
If you think Vietnam is just motorbikes, street food, and backpackers — think again.
Golf in Vietnam is world-class, and the experience around it is even better. During our two-week adventure, my dad and I discovered that Vietnam delivers so much more than just great courses:
- Incredible Variety: Seaside links, mountain golf, lush parkland layouts — every round felt totally different, and every course came with its own “wow” moments.
- Luxury That Won’t Break the Bank: Five-star resorts, personal caddies, and VIP-level service at prices that would be unthinkable in the U.S. or Europe.
- Food That’s Worth the Trip Alone: Fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable. Every meal was an experience — from $2 banh mi sandwiches to beachfront seafood feasts.
- Unforgettable Culture and History:
Ancient towns, vibrant cities, and landscapes that looked straight out of a movie. Every day offered something new to explore off the course. - Still a Hidden Gem: Pristine courses, uncrowded fairways, and a feeling like you’ve stumbled onto a secret that’s too good to keep.
In the next sections, I’ll break down each of these in detail — plus share all the tips and stories you’ll need to plan your own trip to one of golf’s best-kept secrets.
The Four Courses We Played in Vietnam
One of the best parts of our trip was how every round felt like a completely new experience. Each course had its own vibe, its own scenery, and its own little moments that stuck with us long after we holed out.
I think that was one of my biggest surprises from the trip, was just how much variety there was, both in terms of the golf and the different regions we traveled through.
Here’s a look at the four courses we played, in the order we experienced them:
BRG Kings Island
We kicked off the trip just outside of Hanoi at BRG Kings Island, a sprawling 54-hole property tucked away among lakes and towering trees.
There are three courses here — Lakeside, Mountainview, and Kings — and we played the newest (and best) of the bunch: the Kings Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus.
One of the most unique aspects of the club? You have to take a 5-minute speedboat ride to get there. Literally, the only thing on this island is the golf club – so it’s a pretty cool experience.
The Kings Course was everything you’d want for a first round in Vietnam: lush fairways, big elevation changes, and enough water hazards to keep you honest.
The scenery was beautiful — a mix of forest and lakes — but what really stood out was the 19th hole: a bonus par 3 with two different greens that played over a beautiful lake. It’s one of the coolest little “Bye” holes I’ve ever played.
If you’re looking for a warm-up round that’s challenging without being overly punishing, Kings Island is a perfect place to start.
Hoiana Shores Golf Club
If Kings Island got us excited, Hoiana Shores took things to a whole different level.
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Hoiana Shores sits just 15 minutes outside of Hoi An and feels like someone plucked a piece of Bandon Dunes and dropped it on the coast of Vietnam.
This is legit links golf — firm fairways, sandy waste areas, and ocean breezes that can turn a wedge into a five-iron real quick.
The course conditioning was immaculate, and the views? Unreal. I’ve played over half of the top 100 in the world, and Hoiana would hold its own against any of them.
If you love true seaside golf and want to play somewhere that feels a little wild and untouched, this is a must.
Here’s my full recap of Hoiana Shores.
Legend Danang Golf Resort
We had an early tee time at Legend Danang, which had us streaming the last few holes of the Masters on the bus ride to the course.
The resort is home to two courses, a Norman design and a Nicklaus design.
We played the Norman course, and it didn’t disappoint.
The bunkering here was standout: big, bold, and strategic without being gimmicky.
The course plays tighter than some of the others we experienced, so accuracy off the tee mattered more than usual – something that on this particular day was not my forte.
The highlight was the par-3 16th, the signature hole that plays straight out toward the ocean. One of those shots where you almost forget to swing because you’re too busy soaking in the view.
Legend Danang felt like the kind of place you could easily play multiple times and keep finding new things to love about it.
Laguna Golf Lang Co
We wrapped up our golf journey with what I found to be the biggest surprise of the trip: Laguna Golf Lang Co.
Set about an hour outside Danang, this Nick Faldo design feels like you’re playing golf in Jurassic Park — massive jungle backdrops, dramatic mountains, and oceanfront holes that make you want to pull out your phone every three minutes.
The bunkering was beautiful, and the routing took you through rice paddies, forests, and beachside dunes — it was like playing four different courses in one.
A fun bonus: the 19th hole here (yes, another!) sits right on the ocean and is a must-play after you finish your front nine.
Laguna Golf Lang Co wasn’t just a great way to end the trip — it might have been one of the most visually stunning courses I’ve ever stepped foot on.
And this is just the tip of the iceberg for golf…
And when it comes to golf in Vietnam, these courses are just the tip of the iceberg.
Montgomerie Links is another course outside Hoi An that’s supposed to be fantastic.
Ba Na Hills also routes through a jungle landscape with impeccable conditioning.
And The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram is widely regarded as the best course in Vietnam. It’s about two hours outside Saigon and much more similar to Hoiana Shores than anything else. But on this particular trip, we stayed North (it can be pretty hot down South in April), so we didn’t get a chance to see it.
Hanoi is an Exciting, Crazy SE Asian City: Here’s What to Do
This was my third trip to Vietnam, but I was particularly excited for this as both previous trips I stayed in Saigon.
The trip started off in Vietnam’s second biggest city, Hanoi, which has around 11 million people.
Vietnam’s capital city is an electric mix of old-world charm and nonstop energy — and it’s one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever wandered through.
Here are some highlights from our stay:
The Sofitel Legend Metropole Truly is Legendary
If you’re coming to Hanoi, do yourself a favor: stay at the Metropole.
You can absolutely save money by staying at any number of other places, but the Metropole provides a truly unique experience.
It’s not just one of the best hotels in the city — it’s easily one of the best city hotels anywhere in the world.
The Metropole is a total oasis in the middle of the chaos. From the moment you walk into the French colonial lobby, it feels like you’ve stepped into another era. Originally built in 1901, the history here runs deep, and it shows in every detail.
We even took a tour of their Cold War-era bomb shelter that was rediscovered during renovations about a decade ago. Also, the list of notable people who have stayed here over the years is never-ending.
We stayed on the original side of the hotel, and it oozed old-school class. Add in a phenomenal breakfast spread (seriously, it’s worth waking up early for), and you’ve got a stay that is memorable in its own right.
Not to mention the fact that if it’s your first time visiting Hanoi, or really any big SE Asian city, having a relaxing place to serve as your home base will make your adjustment quite a bit easier.
Eat (and Drink) Everything in Sight
Next to Bangkok, Hanoi might be my favorite street food city on the planet.
Whether it’s grabbing a fresh, crusty banh mi from a sidewalk vendor, slurping a steaming bowl of pho at a tiny roadside stall, or diving into Michelin-recognized Bun Cha at Bun Cha Dac Kim, the food here is next-level — and ridiculously affordable.
Drink Some of the Best Cocktails in Asia
Slightly pretentious fact about me, along with my golf quest, I’ve got this stupid goal of visiting the Top 100 Bars in the world as well.
I’ve made pretty good progress, on some previous lists, getting to as many as 60/100 on the 2018 list.
So anytime I hit a new city, I like to find the best cocktail spots. While Hanoi isn’t as recognized as places like Hong Kong, Tokyo, or Seoul for cocktails – the scene is definitely coming around.
I hit a couple that were legitimately memorable.
Bar Hafflington is a loft-style bar packed with quirky relics and antiques, and the drinks are every bit as memorable as the space. It’s been recognized as one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars for good reason.
Bar Ne is where things get even wilder. Their signature “Pho” cocktail doesn’t just taste like pho — it actually works as a drink. It’s one of those rare novelty drinks that’s not just a gimmick but something you’ll be talking about long after you leave.
The Bambo Bar at the Metropole is an equally memorable hotel bar. Sipping a happy hour gin and tonic in the courtyard overlooking the beautiful pool is about as good as it gets – especially when the weather starts getting a little steamy.
Explore on Foot (and Dodge Some Motorbikes)
Hanoi is one of the most rewarding walking cities I’ve ever experienced.
Lakes, shops, cafés, historic architecture — there’s something worth checking out around every corner. Just know that crossing the street feels like a real-life game of Frogger thanks to the endless motorbikes zipping by. (Pro tip: walk slowly and confidently — they’ll dodge you.)
Wandering Hanoi without a strict agenda ended up being one of the highlights of the entire trip.
You can also shop for just about anything you can imagine… just be ready to question how (and if) some of it actually ended up for sale.
$250 North Face bags for $24? $160 Hoka shoes for 18 bucks?!
Are they knock-offs or did they simply “fall off the back of the truck?” It’s sometimes tough to tell, and while buying them may be ethically questionable, you can’t deny the quality is often great, and the value is even better.
Hoi An is a Chill, Stunning Touristy Town
Flying into Danang, you get a real sense that you’re arriving somewhere significant (and the airport was far nicer than I expected it to be).
As Vietnam’s third-largest city, Danang is a great choice if you’re looking for a bigger urban vibe paired with beautiful beaches. But for this trip, we had something a little quieter in mind.
About 45 minutes south, you’ll find Hoi An — and trust me, that’s where the real magic happens.
Hoi An is a charming riverside town of about 100,000 people. Life moves slower here. Everything feels more relaxed, more personal. After the buzz of Hanoi, Hoi An felt like hitting the reset button — in the best way possible.
Stay at the Anantara Hoi An Resort
When it comes to luxury in Hoi An, there’s really only one true five-star option: the Anantara Hoi An Resort.
The location couldn’t have been better. It was an easy walk to the riverfront and all the best parts of the city, but the resort itself felt like its own peaceful hideaway. The courtyard pool is a lovely place to spend an afternoon, and if you can snag one of the riverfront view rooms (book early!), it’s absolutely worth it.
Elegant without being stuffy, the Anantara nailed that perfect balance of comfort and understated luxury.
Get Something Custom Made
Hoi An is famous for its tailors and leatherworkers, and if you need an excuse to justify packing an extra suitcase, this is it.
Need a new custom suit? Want a pair of handmade leather shoes? Thinking about some unique jewelry?
Do it here.
The craftsmanship is top-notch, the prices are reasonable, and the turnaround time is shockingly fast. (Pro tip: leave a little time for fittings if you want to get it perfect.)
I’d gotten suits made in Saigon years ago, including getting custom suits for all of my groomsmen for the princely sum of $105 each.
They were a little more this go around, but I knew I wanted to try and get a couple more made.
Yaly is the most common answer you’ll get for the best tailor in Hoi An, but I visited a friend of a friend’s shop Thanh Tu, and May did a great job helping me get two suits done.
To accommodate our busy schedule and short time frame, she even came by my hotel to help with final measurements and came back to drop off the finished products before our 5:45am departure time.
And if you’re looking for more casual souvenirs, the bustling night market has you covered with endless stalls full of goods to dig through.
Eat (Even) More Amazing Food
Just like Hanoi, Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise — and we found one of the coolest ways to experience it.
We joined a motorbike food tour, hopping on the back of Vespas and weaving through town as we sampled five different local dining spots. From chicken rice to the famous white rose dumplings (a regional specialty), and even “snakehead” catfish (trust me — it tastes way better than it looks and sounds), it was one of the most fun and unique experiences of the trip.
And then there’s Chef Duc.
Chef Duc is the mastermind behind some of Hoi An’s best restaurants, including Mango Rooms and Mai Fish – he’s one of the most celebrated chefs in Vietnam.
We had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to do a private dinner at his villa — hands down one of the best culinary experiences I’ve ever had. (One of the major perks of traveling with a tour operator like Asia Golf Trips — its owner, Scott Resch, seemingly knows everyone in Vietnam.)
If you’re exploring on your own, make sure to grab a table at Mango Rooms down by the river and order the smoked duck. You can thank me later.
Hue: A Detour Worth Taking
After checking out of the Anantara in Hoi An and squeezing in an early morning round at Legend Danang, we hopped in a private bus and made the two-hour drive north to Hue — the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
At first, it felt like a slight detour from our golf-centric adventure. But by the end of our stay, it was clear: this side trip was absolutely worth it.
Stay at Azerai La Residence
Hue’s energy is a world away from the hustle of Hanoi or even the laid-back vibe of Hoi An — and Azerai La Residence matched that shift perfectly.
Originally built as the French governor’s mansion, the resort has been lovingly restored into a stunning Art Deco-style hotel that felt like stepping back into a more elegant time.
The rooms were sleek and modern (bonus points for the incredible showers), the spa offered a welcome recharge after days of golf and travel, and the pool? Arguably the best pool of the entire trip — a massive, palm-lined centerpiece that was just begging for an afternoon lounge session.
The only downside was that there was some construction happening right on the other side of the hotel’s property line, which threw off the views a bit.
But if you’re looking for a spot to unwind in true style, Azerai nails it.
Touring the Imperial City
While Hue might not be as instantly recognizable as cities like Hanoi or Saigon, it holds a deep cultural and historical significance.
For nearly 150 years, it served as the capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty — the country’s last royal family — and touring the Imperial City was one of the most fascinating experiences of our entire trip.
We spent about three hours exploring this sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site: massive moats, intricately carved gates, royal residences, and ancient temples — all telling the story of Vietnam’s regal past.
Fun fact: Hue was home to 13 emperors over its dynastic history, and although the city suffered heavy damage during the wars of the 20th century, ongoing restoration efforts have brought much of it back to life in stunning detail.
We even saw the exact spot where the final King abdicated from the throne, thus ending hundreds of years as a monarchy.
It was humbling and awe-inspiring at the same time — the kind of experience that made me realize just how rich and complex Vietnam’s story really is.
Hue wasn’t just a detour. It ended up being one of the most interesting parts of the entire trip.
Final Stop: Laguna Lang Co
After nearly two weeks of golf, travel, and adventure, ending our trip at Laguna Lang Co couldn’t have been more perfect.
We started with the fast-paced energy of Hanoi, gradually slowed things down through smaller towns like Hoi An and Hue, and finished by fully embracing vacation mode at a stunning beachfront resort. If you’re looking for the ultimate way to wind down after an action-packed trip, this is it.
One Course, Two Unique Resorts
Laguna Golf Lang Co isn’t just home to one of the best golf courses in Vietnam — it also features two fantastic resorts side-by-side, each with its own distinct vibe.
Angsana Lang Co: Bigger, Family-Friendly Luxury
We stayed at Angsana Lang Co, and it absolutely blew away my expectations.
This beachfront resort has around 220 rooms, a huge pool complex (complete with a massive lazy river), and multiple restaurants spread throughout the property.
Side note: Ever since visiting the Four Seasons Punta Mita, I’ve been a sucker for a good lazy river — it’s one of the most underrated family resort features out there. Angsana’s version did not disappoint.
Our room? A massive three-story, two-bedroom suite with floor-to-ceiling ocean views, a private rooftop deck, and our own infinity pool.
Waking up every morning with the ocean framed perfectly outside the windows was about as good as it gets — it was one of the ultimate “this is why we travel” moments.
Banyan Tree Lang Co: Romantic, High-End Escape
If you’re looking for something even more exclusive and romantic, Banyan Tree Lang Co — located right next door — is a dream.
It’s a smaller property (around 70 villas) and offers a mix of beachfront and clifftop villas, each with private pools and stunning views over the South China Sea.
You can easily walk between the two resorts or hop on a charming little boat that cruises along the lagoon between them every 20 minutes — a simple but surprisingly fun detail that made the whole place feel even more magical.
We loved being able to pop over for dinner and drinks. The Library at Banyan Tree served up the best cocktails at Laguna Lang, while Moomba, right on the beach at Angsana, quickly became a favorite for sunset dining.
The Golf at Laguna Lang Co
Of course, no stop here would be complete without mentioning the golf.
As I said earlier, playing at Laguna Golf Lang Co feels like stepping onto the set of Jurassic Park. Massive jungle-clad mountains, ocean views, rice paddies — the landscape is absolutely surreal.
The clubhouse was the most impressive of any we visited in Vietnam, and the practice facilities are excellent.
Bonus: They’ve built their own version of the Himalayas putting green (inspired by the famous one at St. Andrews) called The Gongs. So even when you’re not on the course, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
It was the perfect place to wrap up our golf adventure — blending a world-class resort, unforgettable golf, and a full-on tropical paradise.
Final Thoughts: Why Vietnam Should Be Your Next Golf Trip
Looking back, this trip to Vietnam was so much more than just a golf vacation.
Yes — the golf was incredible. We played some of the most scenic, well-designed, and memorable courses I’ve ever set foot on. From the wind-swept links at Hoiana Shores to the jungle-lined fairways at Laguna Golf Lang Co, it was a lineup of world-class experiences that rivaled any traditional golf destination out there.
But what made this trip truly special was everything around the golf: The energy of Hanoi. The peaceful charm of Hoi An. The historical weight of Hue. The unforgettable meals. The rooftop infinity pools. The sunrise views. The stories swapped over cocktails and coffee with my dad. It was a rare combination of adventure, luxury, connection, and culture — the kind of trip that reminds you why we travel in the first place.
Vietnam is still flying under the radar for most golfers.
But after nearly two weeks on the ground, I can confidently say it shouldn’t be. If you’re looking for your next big golf trip — one that’s equal parts exciting, relaxing, and completely unique — Vietnam delivers in every possible way.
And the best part? The secret’s still kind of safe… for now.
Vietnam Golf Trip Frequently Asked Questions
I feel like I covered a lot of these throughout this post, but just in case you’re thinking about visiting and looking for some quick hit answers to common questions, I figured I’d add this section in.
When is the best time to visit Vietnam for golf?
The ideal time is November through April. This avoids the hottest, wettest months and gives you cooler, drier weather — perfect for both golf and sightseeing.
Keep in mind: Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay) can get surprisingly cool in winter, while the Central and Southern regions (Danang, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City) stay warm year-round – but can be pretty wet at various times.
We got lucky with the weather. We didn’t have any rain during our trip which was mid-April. And while it was warm, we also didn’t have a single unbearably hot day. We did avoid Saigon for this trip, as traditionally you can expect it to be getting pretty warm by April.
Do I need a tour guide to plan a golf trip to Vietnam?
Not technically — but it helps a lot.
My previous two trips to Vietnam I did on my own, but I stayed in Saigon and didn’t leave the city or play any golf.
This go around, we went with Asia Golf Trips and am so glad we did. Having someone local to coordinate tee times, caddies, transport, and special experiences (like our private dinner with Chef Duc) made a huge difference. It turns a great trip into a seamless, unforgettable one.
What should I pack for a Vietnam golf trip?
- Breathable golf clothing (humidity is real!)
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Collared shirts – required at most courses
- Lightweight rain jacket (just in case)
- Swimsuit for hotel pools and lazy rivers
- Comfortable shoes for walking in cities
- Optional: Travel adapter, bug spray, and a couple of extra golf gloves (you’ll sweat through them)
Here’s my full guide on how to plan a golf trip.
What are the must-play golf courses in Vietnam?
Hanoi Area (North Vietnam)
These are perfect if you’re starting or ending your trip in the capital:
- BRG Kings Island (Kings Course) – Nicklaus-designed and scenic; the best of the three courses on site.
- Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club – Regularly ranked among the top in Vietnam, with beautiful views and strong shot variety.
- Van Tri Golf Club – A private club between the airport and downtown with great conditions and exclusivity.
- Silk Path Dong Trieu – A brand new Faldo design that is already garnering international attention and is on the way to another UNESCO World Heritage site: Halong Bay
- BRG Legend Hill Golf Resort – Unique “twin green” design by Jack Nicklaus, conveniently near the airport.
Danang / Hoi An Area (Central Vietnam)
This is the heart of Vietnam’s golf coast, with some of the best layouts in Asia:
- Hoiana Shores Golf Club – Robert Trent Jones Jr. links design; a true standout and must-play.
- Laguna Golf Lang Co – Sir Nick Faldo’s jungle-meets-ocean masterpiece with a wild, scenic layout.
- Ba Na Hills Golf Club – Mountain golf with cooler temps and great elevation; designed by Luke Donald in collaboration with IMG.
- Montgomerie Links Vietnam – A fun, well-designed track near the beach that plays well for all skill levels.
- Legend Danang Golf Resort (Norman Course) – Bold bunkering and tight fairways make it one of the more challenging — and visually impressive — rounds in the region.
Ho Chi Minh City / Saigon Area (South Vietnam)
Not as dense with top courses, but still has a few standouts — especially if you’re flying in or out of the south:
- The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram – Greg Norman’s coastal gem, often ranked among Asia’s best. An absolute must if you’re near Saigon.
- Tan Son Nhat Golf Course – Right in the city, close to the airport, and a convenient, well-maintained option.
- Long Thanh Golf Club – Large 36-hole facility with both hill and lake courses; great value and variety.
- Vietnam Golf & Country Club – Another 36-hole facility not far from downtown, whose East Course was designed by Lee Trevino and has hosted the Asian Tour.
Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa, but many countries (including the U.S., UK, and much of Europe) are eligible for an e-visa, which is quick and easy to apply for online. Always double-check with your country’s travel site before booking.
This is one benefit of going with a tour operator. They handled our visa, and even got us expedited customs for once we landed.
Are caddies required in Vietnam?
At most courses, yes — but that’s a good thing!
Caddies are part of the experience and make the rounds feel more fun, relaxed, and efficient. Many are extremely knowledgeable and bring a lot of local personality to your round. But you can definitely expect a little bit of a language barrier at times.
Is Vietnam a good destination for non-golfers too?
Absolutely. With beaches, spas, incredible food, cultural tours, and vibrant cities, Vietnam is perfect for a couples or group trip — even if some of the crew doesn’t golf.
Any Questions? Drop a Comment!
There you go! I hope you enjoyed my recap of my time in Vietnam, and if you have any questions about our trip or planning one of your own, feel free to drop a comment!
