Bali’s Premier Fairways: A Journey Through Iconic Golf Courses
All Square 4min read •
24 Feb 2025
Bali, the tropical jewel of Indonesia, is renowned for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and verdant landscapes. Yet, beyond its well-trodden tourist paths lies a lesser-known delight: a trio of exceptional golf courses that elevate the island into a haven for golf enthusiasts. Bali National Golf Club, Bali Handara Golf and Country Club, and New Kuta Golf Resort stand out as must-play destinations, each weaving the island’s natural beauty into their challenging layouts. Let’s explore what makes these courses unforgettable stops for any golfer visiting Bali.
Bali National Golf Club: A Luxurious Escape in Nusa Dua
Tucked within the upscale Nusa Dua tourism enclave, just 20 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali National Golf Club offers a polished yet invigorating 18-hole experience. Following a transformative redesign, this course unfolds across three distinct zones that keep players on their toes. The opening nine holes meander through rugged creeks and canyons, where the chatter of native birds accompanies every swing, setting a wild and scenic tone. The middle stretch, holes 10 to 16, shifts to meticulously groomed fairways lined with mature groves, exuding a calm, resort-like charm. The climax arrives at the closing duo: the par-3 17th flaunts an island green that demands pinpoint accuracy, while the par-5 18th skirts a shimmering lake, daring you to finish strong.
Acclaimed as one of Asia’s top-renovated courses, Bali National doesn’t stop at the fairways—its facilities, from a well-equipped pro shop to the Golfer’s Lounge & Terrace with its gourmet dining and sweeping views, make it a complete golfing retreat.
Bali Handara Golf and Country Club: A Highland Gem in Bedugul
For a change of pace, Bali Handara Golf and Country Club beckons golfers to the misty highlands of Bedugul, perched at nearly 1,400 meters above sea level within the crater of an extinct volcano. As Bali’s oldest course, opened in 1974 and designed by Peter Thompson, it carries a storied legacy, once landing on Golf Magazine’s “Top 50 Greatest Golf Courses in the World” list. The 18-hole layout unfurls across rolling terrain draped in tropical gardens, with mountain vistas framing every shot. The elevation adds a layer of intrigue—blind drives and cleverly placed hazards test strategy over brute force, while the cool, crisp air offers a refreshing break from Bali’s coastal humidity.
Off the course, the resort enhances the experience with snug cottages and the newly opened Soyokaze restaurant, where Japanese dishes pair perfectly with panoramic views. It’s a peaceful sanctuary that feels like a hidden secret, well worth the scenic drive from Nusa Dua or Ubud.
New Kuta Golf Resort: Coastal Thrills in Pecatu
Perched dramatically atop cliffs in Pecatu on Bali’s southern peninsula, New Kuta Golf Resort delivers a bold contrast with its oceanfront splendour. Designed by Ronald Fream, this 18-hole championship course debuted in 2007 as Indonesia’s first links-style layout, earning a nod as “Best New International Course” from Links Magazine. The rugged landscape—rolling fairways, sparse trees, and sandy patches—echoes the spirit of seaside links, though the tropical climate softens the experience. The standout moment comes at the par-3 15th, nicknamed “The Cliff Hanger,” where players tee off with the Indian Ocean sprawling below, waves crashing against the rocks in a mesmerising display. The course’s open design invites the breeze to play its part, adding an extra dimension to each shot.
Afterwards, the clubhouse offers a restaurant, spa, and a lookout tower, perfect for unwinding with a drink as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s a place where the scenery competes with the scorecard for your attention.
These three courses showcase Bali’s remarkable ability to fuse golf with its diverse landscapes. Bali National brings resort sophistication and variety, Handara offers highland tranquillity steeped in history, and New Kuta delivers raw, coastal excitement. Together, they form a trifecta that caters to different tastes—whether you crave a luxurious getaway, a cool mountain challenge, or a cliffside adventure. For golfers, Bali isn’t just a destination; it’s a canvas where nature and sport intertwine seamlessly. So, next time you’re on the island, grab your clubs and tee off—these fairways promise a round you won’t soon forget.
