From the amazing people to the unmatched culture, spirituality and jaw-dropping natural beauty, there’s so much to love about the magical island of Bali. But did you know you can love golf in this island paradise as well?

Bali’s stunning beaches and bustling markets aside, the island also boasts some amazing, challenging and beautiful golf courses, all with great service and top-notch facilities.

Let’s explore our top four:

1. Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club – Singaraja

There’s almost no better location for an unforgettable golf course than inside a volcano crater in the incredible Bedugul highlands. GOLF Magazine even ranked it among the 50 greatest golf courses in the world, and for good reason. Players flock to Handara Golf Bali, undoubtedly one of the pre-eminent world-class golf courses in Asia and just an hour from Ubud, from all over the world. You’ll pass the stunning Lake Bedugal as you reach the entrance of the golf course that was opened in 1974 by iconic player Peter Thompson and world-famous golf course designer Michael Wolveridge.

(Photo credit : https://www.handaragolfresort.com/)

2. New Kuta Golf – Pecatu

Another international standard, 18-hole championship course is New Kuta, once voted the best golf course in Indonesia at the World Golf Awards. It was the very first Indonesian golf course with a links layout, and the scene for this coastal course complete with actual dunes and trees is visually breathtaking. One hole, known by New Kuta regulars as the ‘Cliff Hanger’, will never be forgotten, with its 240-degree views of famous Balinese beaches Balangan and Dreamland. New Kuta, opened in 2013 and designed by Ronald Fream, cannot be beaten for panoramic views, but you’ll also find a world-class restaurant, pro-shop and spa.

(Photo credit: https://newkutagolf.co.id/)

3. Bukit Pandawa Golf Club – Kuta Selatan

Having opened in late 2016, Bukit Pandawa is a newcomer to the exciting world of Balinese golf courses – and it doesn’t disappoint. It’s a first-of-its-kind-in-Indonesia par-3 holes of absolute championship calibre, perched on a dramatic limestone ridge. The Indian Ocean views are nothing short of stunning, including the famous Bukit Peninsula surf breaks, while the clubhouse resembles one of Bali’s renowned grand temples. Zip through a full 18 holes in about two hours, whilst taking in the dramatic views of rice paddies and sandy beaches.

(Photo credit : http://www.bukitpandawagolf.com/)

4. Bali Beach Golf Course – Sanur

It may be Bali’s smallest golf course, but that just means its intimacy and incredible natural features are all the more ready to fully indulge. We’re talking big trees, water ponds, garden bridges and flowering hibiscus, all contributing to the private country club feel but still with top-class facilities on site and just 5 kilometres from Denpasar. There is a handy driving range, a full bar and a great restaurant where you can sit back after a quick game and talk about the unique challenge of regulation greens with subtle breaks, ample bunkers and no less than seven challenging par-4 holes and a really difficult par 5. (Photo credit: http://www.balibeachgolfcourse.com/)

You might not associate Bali with golf, but the pick of the range of courses on offer are as diverse and spectacular as they are world-class. We’re talking beautiful greens, perfect fairways and amazing integration with Bali’s natural landscapes – meaning any golfing aficionado will love to pack the clubs in the luggage. Happy swinging!