Golf in Hainan: The Ultimate Guide to Golfing in China’s Island Paradise

If you’re searching for your next golf holiday destination, Hainan Island should be at the top of your list. Known as the “Hawaii of China,” Hainan offers more than just white sand beaches and tropical weather — it’s home to some of the best golf courses in Asia.

Whether you’re planning a luxury golf vacation in China, a relaxing break in a tropical setting, or a golf tour in Hainan with friends, this island delivers unforgettable golfing experiences across its north and south regions. This guide will help you explore the top Hainan golf courses, plan your stay, and make the most of your time on China’s southernmost island.

Why Golf in Hainan?

Golf in Hainan combines natural beauty, world-class course design, and hospitality that rivals any international golf destination. With over 30 golf courses across the island — many designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf — Hainan is quickly becoming the go-to spot for golfers visiting China.

Here’s what makes it special:

• Tropical climate: Play all year round in warm, sunny weather.
• Stunning scenery: Volcanic rock, ocean views, and palm-lined fairways.
• World-class courses: Championship layouts and luxury resort amenities.
• Fewer crowds: Compared to Thailand or Vietnam, Hainan’s fairways are peaceful.
• Easy access: Direct flights and high-speed rail make travel simple.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s a golf course in Hainan to match your level and style.

Golfing in Northern Hainan – Haikou

The northern part of Hainan Island, centered around the provincial capital Haikou, is home to one of the largest golf resorts in the world: Mission Hills Haikou.

Mission Hills Haikou: A Golfer’s Paradise

This enormous resort features 10 championship golf courses, five-star accommodations, and a volcanic hot springs spa. It’s one of the top destinations for golfers in China, and an ideal place to start your golf holiday.

Courses to try at Mission Hills Haikou:

• Blackstone Course: Host to the World Cup of Golf and several PGA events, known for its black lava rock features and challenging layout.
• Lava Fields: Visually striking and technically demanding, surrounded by ancient lava rock.
• Sandbelt Trails: Inspired by Melbourne’s famed sandbelt courses — perfect for those who love traditional bunkering and strategic design.

Just 20 minutes from Haikou Airport, Mission Hills is easy to reach and ideal for golfers arriving in northern Hainan.

Golfing in Southern Hainan – Sanya

If you’re after ocean breezes and a laid-back beach atmosphere, head south to Sanya. Known for its luxury resorts and scenic coastline, golf in Sanya offers tropical fairways, mountain backdrops, and easy access to the sea.

Top Golf Courses in Sanya:

• Yalong Bay Golf Club: Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this beautiful 18-hole course lies just steps from Sanya’s most popular beach.
• Luhuitou Golf Club: Overlooking the ocean and surrounded by forested hills, it’s great for a quiet round with panoramic views.
• Sun Valley Golf Resort: A 27-hole course near the Red Gorge, featuring dramatic elevation changes and coastal scenery.

Many Sanya resorts offer golf holiday packages that include transportation, tee times, and luxury accommodation. This makes it a perfect destination for those searching for all-inclusive golf vacations in China.

Shenzhou Peninsula – Hidden Gem Between Haikou and Sanya

Roughly halfway between Haikou and Sanya lies Shenzhou Peninsula, home to The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula, considered one of the top courses in Asia. Designed by Tom Weiskopf, The Dunes features two 18-hole links-style courses right on the South China Sea.

If you’re planning a longer golf tour of Hainan, this is a must-play destination that adds variety and international prestige to your itinerary.

Hainan Golf Courses and Geography

Understanding the geography of Hainan can help with planning:

• Haikou (North): Great for large resorts like Mission Hills, convenient transport, city nightlife, and volcanic landscapes.
• Sanya (South): Perfect for beach lovers, luxury hotels, spa and golf packages, and tropical surroundings.
• Shenzhou Peninsula (East Coast): Quiet, exclusive, and ideal for golfers looking for top-tier links courses with ocean views.

The Hainan high-speed rail circles the island, connecting Haikou and Sanya in under 2 hours. Many golf resorts in Hainan are located within short drives from rail stations, making travel easy even without a car.

Tips for Golfing in Hainan

Here are some helpful tips for golfers visiting China and Hainan specifically:

• Best time to golf: October to April offers the most comfortable weather. Summer is hotter and more humid but courses are less crowded.
• Golf club rentals: Most major courses provide quality rental clubs, shoes, and caddies.
• Tee time booking: Book in advance during holidays. Weekdays are quieter and cheaper.
• Language: Staff at major resorts usually speak English, but having a translation app can be helpful.
• Travel documents: Some visitors may be eligible for visa-free entry to Hainan for up to 30 days — check local travel regulations.

Golf in Hainan for Foreigners

Can foreigners golf in Hainan? Absolutely. Hainan is one of China’s most open and tourist-friendly provinces. Many courses cater to international golfers, and the facilities meet international standards. Whether you’re flying in from Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, or anywhere else, you’ll find Hainan’s hospitality and quality up to par.

Why Book a Golf Holiday in Hainan?

There are few places in Asia where you can:

• Play over 30 stunning courses within one island,
• Stay in 5-star resorts with on-site courses,
• Soak in hot springs or swim in turquoise waters after a round,
• Travel easily between north and south with modern rail and air connections.

Whether you’re looking for golf packages in China, golf travel deals to Hainan, or planning a custom golf tour in Asia, Hainan offers it all.

Start Planning Your Golf Holiday to Hainan

At GolfInHainan.com, we offer course guides, reviews, booking help, and everything you need to plan your perfect golf vacation in Hainan. Browse detailed course descriptions, get expert travel tips, and discover Hainan golf resorts tailored to every kind of golfer.