Golf in Bali: 5 Best Golf Courses On The Island Of The Gods

Teeing off in Bali combines world-class golf with breathtaking tropical backdrops that most players only dream about. You’ll find dramatic cliff-side fairways, misty mountain retreats, and championship layouts all within this compact paradise island. While green fees tend to run higher than other Southeast Asian destinations, the unique experience of playing against a backdrop of ancient temples or crashing ocean waves justifies the splurge. Discover how these five exceptional courses showcase the diverse landscapes that make Bali golf adventures truly unforgettable.

Key Points

• Scenic New Kuta Golf Club offers championship play along limestone cliffs with stunning Indian Ocean views just 20 minutes from Bali’s airport.
• Handara Golf Course provides cool highland golfing at 1,100 meters elevation with misty volcanic landscapes and Bali’s iconic traditional gate entrance.
• Award-winning Bali National Golf Club in Nusa Dua features views of Mount Agung alongside tropical forests and challenging water hazards.
• Bukit Pandawa stands out as Southeast Asia’s only 18-hole par-3 championship course, playable in 120 minutes with dramatic cliff-top ocean views.
• Best golfing experiences occur during Bali’s dry season (April-October), with green fees ranging from $100-$250 and sunrise tee times recommended.

Scenic New Kuta Golf Club: Where Cliff-Top Links Meet Ocean Views

Where can you experience world-class golf while gazing at the Indian Ocean from dramatic limestone cliffs? New Kuta Golf Club delivers this perfect blend on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. Just 20 minutes from the airport, this Ronald Fream-designed championship course carves through limestone formations, offering panoramic ocean views across its 7,515-yard layout. For those interested in exploring beyond Bali, neighboring Lombok offers its own stunning landscapes just a short flight away.

You’ll appreciate the extensive facilities: a 9,000 sq ft putting green, covered driving range, and the Golf Academy Bali with PGA instruction. The iconic hole 15 perched 70 meters above limestone cliffs presents breathtaking views of Dreamland and Balangan Beach. After your round, unwind at Links Restaurant or catch the sunset from the lookout tower.

The all-inclusive package provides golf carts, while equipment rentals remain affordable ($28 for clubs, $10 for shoes). With daily operation and varied practice areas, New Kuta caters to every skill level.

Handara Golf Course: Highland Serenity in Bedugul’s Mountain Retreat

Tucked away in Bali’s central highlands, Handara Golf Course offers an invigorating escape from the island’s tropical heat at an impressive 1,100 meters above sea level. This historic 18-hole championship course, opened in 1974 as Bali’s first golf course, maintains cool temperatures between 14–20°C year-round.

You’ll complete rounds in under three hours while enjoying dramatic views of mist-covered valleys and volcanic landscapes. The iconic entrance is marked by a traditional Balinese gate that has become a popular photography spot for visitors. Though fairways occasionally show neglect, the greens remain well-maintained. The course sits within Golf in Paradise, a fitting nickname for Bali’s exceptional golf offerings. Morning tee-times are recommended to avoid afternoon showers.

Each package includes personal caddies providing valuable local knowledge. After your round, consider exploring nearby attractions like Lake Buyan and Bali Botanical Garden.

This mid-priced course emphasizes tranquil seclusion over luxury amenities—perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

Bali National Golf Club: Award-Winning Redesign in Nusa Dua

While Handara offers highland tranquility, heading south to Nusa Dua presents Bali’s premier luxury golfing experience. Bali National Golf Club, recipient of the “Best Renovated Golf Course” award, showcases a Nelson, Haworth redesign that maximizes views of Gunung Agung and the Indian Ocean.

You’ll navigate through lush tropical forest and hilly parkland terrain, encountering standout features like the 9th hole’s babbling brook and the 17th hole’s challenging island green par 3. The design features three distinct environments with holes 1-9 featuring creeks and canyons filled with tropical birds.

The course concludes with a 400-yard dogleg par 4 that brings you back to the clubhouse.

Beyond the course, you’ll find excellent facilities including a fully-stocked pro shop, well-appointed locker rooms, and the Golfer’s Lounge & Terrace for post-round refreshments. After your game, consider visiting one of Bali’s famous beach bars for spectacular sunset views over the Indian Ocean.

For practice, arrive early to utilize the driving range, which opens daily at 6am.

Bukit Pandawa: The Par-3 Paradise on Limestone Cliffs

In a region filled with traditional courses, Bukit Pandawa rises above as Bali’s first and Southeast Asia’s only 18-hole par-3 championship course. Perched dramatically on limestone cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, this Bob Moore-designed gem delivers a complete golfing experience in just 120 minutes.

You’ll navigate through terraced rice paddies, rustic architectural relics, and strategic hazards while enjoying spectacular coastal views at every turn. After your round, you might consider exploring Uluwatu’s surf hotels which offer complementary beach experiences nearby. The course ranges from 2,060 meters (blue tees) to 2,767 meters (black tees), offering varied challenges for all skill levels. The signature 13th hole stands out with its 148 yard length and distinctive features including three bunkers with curved stone walls and an ornate tower backdrop.

Golf carts come included with your green fee, though you’ll need to hire a caddie per player. Since opening in 2016, the temple-inspired clubhouse has become nearly as famous as the unique playing experience itself.

Planning Your Bali Golf Adventure: Logistics, Services and Best Times to Play

Planning a memorable golf expedition in Bali requires more than just selecting the right courses—it demands strategic timing and savvy preparation. The dry season (April-October) offers ideal playing conditions, with shoulder seasons providing better value and fewer crowds than peak months (July-August).

For the best experience, book tee times 2-4 weeks in advance through Bali Golf Trip to secure discounted green fees ($100-$250 depending on course). Consider sunrise slots (6-10 AM) to avoid midday heat. Most courses offer spare golf clubs for travelers who prefer not to bring their own equipment.

Budget for caddy services ($15-$25 plus tips) and equipment rentals if needed. Most courses enforce dress codes requiring collared shirts and tailored shorts/pants. Between rounds, consider sampling Balinese cuisine to experience the island’s unique culinary traditions.

Stay hydrated and respect cultural norms by maintaining appropriate golf etiquette throughout your rounds.

Last Words

While Bali’s golf courses aren’t the cheapest in Southeast Asia, they deliver extraordinary value through unforgettable experiences you simply can’t find elsewhere. You’ll leave with more than just scorecards—you’ll carry memories of volcano backdrops and ocean panoramas. Balance your budget by booking weekday tee times and package deals, then complement your golf journey with Bali’s affordable cultural treasures and renowned hospitality.