Vietnam is a rising star for golf with dozens of new courses opening up, and many more to come. Hoiana Resort & Golf is one of the courses and hotel that offers a truly luxurious experience. Situated just south of Hoi An, this resort provides a seamless “stay and play” golf package that any golfer should try. Not only is the hotel room enjoyable, the golf is world class, making for a perfect combination.
Our experience began upon arrival at the lobby of the hotel in the very early morning and saw the strong connection between the resort and golf teams. They arranged everything for us in advance, from our tee time to transportation. On the morning of our round, staff members met us in the lobby. They took us to the clubhouse in a golf cart making the transport stress-free. We also had some breakfast boxes made for us so we wouldn’t go hungry. We arrived at the breathtaking Hoiana Shores clubhouse to see the 6,000-square-meter facility ready and waiting. We warmed up on the massive practice range, and being the first out on course means there was a lot of dew to manage in to our game.
Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed Hoiana Shores and it is Vietnam’s first true coastal links course. The layout uses the natural dunes and shoreline. It creates a challenging, rewarding experience. The course plays firm and fast. It feels like a classic British links course and the tropical climate adds to the beauty. The final holes are very memorable. Wind off the East Sea dictates your strategy. These holes play dramatically along the ocean’s edge. There are Par 3’s that stand out around nothing, long holes with undulating hills and dog legs throwing so many surprises. The final par five brings you back to the stunning clubhouse. It gives you one last scenic challenge.
Our favourite part of the course is the final four holes as they offer so much with some fantastic views as well
Hole 15: Par 4 This is the start of the “final four” stretch and is a seaside par 4. The green is located close to the shoreline, and the wind from the sea is a primary challenge. Tee Shot: You’ll face a wide, undulating fairway. The key is to land your drive in the right position to avoid the numerous bunkers and to set up a good angle for your second shot. Approach Shot: This is a crucial shot, as the green is well-protected and the crosswinds can significantly affect your ball’s flight. Aim carefully to hit the green in regulation.
Hole 16: Par 4 Known as the signature hole, this par 4 comes right up to the seashore and plays through the coastal dunes. It’s considered one of the course’s best holes.Tee Shot: This is a spectacular hole with an elevated tee box offering a panoramic view. The fairway is lined with dunes, and the prevailing winds will dictate your club selection and aim. Approach Shot: The green is right on the water’s edge, making it one of the most scenic and challenging approach shots on the course. You must carefully consider the wind and club up to ensure you clear the natural hazards and land on the green.
Hole 17: Par 3 This picturesque par 3 has breathtaking views of the Cham Islands. It presents two distinct tee box angles for variety. Tee Shot: A relatively short hole, but the crosswinds from the sea can make it play much longer or shorter than its yardage suggests. A common pro tip is to keep the shot low to counter the wind and use the back of the green to funnel the ball toward the flag. The green is large and undulating, providing a variety of pin placements.
Hole 18: Par 5 The final hole is a long par 5 that plays back toward the clubhouse and into the prevailing wind. It is an excellent finishing hole that requires both length and precision. Tee Shot: The hole is surrounded by dunes with a water hazard on the right side. You must hit an accurate drive to avoid these hazards and set up your second shot. The wind will be a significant factor on this long hole. Second and Third Shots: The hole is dotted with bunkers, making a well-thought-out lay-up strategy essential for players who can’t reach the green in two. The final approach to the clubhouse is a classic finish to a links-style round.
The global golf community noticed the course. They saw its impeccable design and pristine condition. Hoiana Shores is one of Asia’s finest courses. It won “World’s Best New Golf Course 2020.” The World Golf Awards gave them this title. The course is consistently ranked in Asia’s Top 100. Many prestigious groups recognize it as Vietnam’s Best Golf Course and they certainly provide a top-tier golf experience. Avid golfers must try the Hoiana Shores “stay and play” package. It is a first-class vacation that you have to pencil in while in Vietnam.
The Hoiana Shores Resort Stay
In terms of the hotel stay at Hoiana Shores in Vietnam, it was an experience of luxury, perfect coastal scenery with world-class amenities. Even getting there was a short drive from the international airport. The resort’s architecture blend seamlessly with the landscape, creating a retreat from the bustle of everyday life. Our room, a spacious oceanfront suite, was a haven of comfort. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered panoramic views of the sea, while the private balcony became our favorite spot for morning coffee. Inside, the design was sleek and modern, featuring a plush king-sized bed and a marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub.
Beyond the comfort of the accommodations, the facilities were exceptional. The highlight was undoubtedly the Hoiana Shores Golf Club, a championship course offering stunning ocean vistas at every hole. After a round, the resort’s swimming pools provided a refreshing escape, with attentive staff on hand to cater to every need. Dining options were diverse, from exquisite Vietnamese cuisine to international fare, each meal a testament to the resort’s commitment to culinary excellence. In the evening, NOX was the place to be for food options and nightlife. We loved breakfast mornings sitting outdoors and is also a highlight.
This exclusive “stay and play” golf package at the 5-star New World Hoiana Resort offers a luxurious 2-day, 1-night escape. The package includes one night’s stay at the resort with breakfast for two, and a single round of golf at the renowned Hoiana Shores Golf Club. Golfers will also receive 25 complimentary driving range balls to warm up before their round. All taxes and service charges are included, though the price does not cover other meals or caddy tips.
