Explore Best of Philippines Golf: A Guide to Perfect Rounds

Planning your Philippines golf trip just got easier with this comprehensive guide. From insider tips to practical advice, this guide ensures you can enjoy every moment of your golfing adventure in the Philippines. Let this be your roadmap to an unforgettable journey filled with world-class golf, stunning scenery, and the warm hospitality the Philippines is known for.

Philippines weather for golf

The Philippines has a tropical monsoon climate, with many weather characteristics to consider. It has two main seasons with three main geographical regions. Knowing the weather pattern will help you find the ideal time and place to play golf.

By seasons

The dry season in the Philippines, which usually lasts from November to May, is the perfect time to play golf. However, it also has two distinct periods, the cooler period from November to February and the hotter period from March to May. During the cooler months, temperatures are stable between 24°C and 31°C (75°F to 88°F), with clear skies and little to no rain, making for uninterrupted golf. From March to May, the weather is hotter and the humidity is higher, which can be uncomfortable for golfers. However, you can still play golf in the early mornings or late afternoons when the temperatures are cooler.

The rainy season from June to November brings heavy rains, which can be accompanied by typhoons and hurricanes, especially from July to September. Although many areas may experience less intense, shorter rains, they tend to be more sudden. So if you are planning to golf in the Philippines during this season, keep up to date with the weather forecast and be prepared for possible adverse weather conditions.

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By regions

• Luzon (Manila, Tagaytay, Clark, Subic): This is considered the largest and most developed region in the Philippines, with many of the country’s top golf courses. The weather during the dry season is quite pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). However, during the rainy season, Luzon often experiences afternoon rains and the northern region is also heavily affected by typhoons. However, many golf courses such as Tagaytay Highlands Golf Club or Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club have modern drainage systems so you can still play on the course.
• Visayas (Cebu, Boracay, Iloilo): Famous for its many beautiful islands and coastal golf courses, Visayas has drier weather than Luzon. Golfers can enjoy the natural beauty and ideal weather at golf courses such as Cebu Country Club and Fairways & Bluewater Golf Course. The rainy season is also less severe with sporadic showers that don’t last all day.
• Mindanao (Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga): Mindanao is located in the southern Philippines and has ideal golfing weather all year round as it is not affected by typhoons. Even during the rainy season, Mindanao has less and shorter rainfall than other regions. The highlands like Del Monte Golf Course have cooler weather, providing a break from the tropical heat.

Best golf destinations in the Philippines

The Philippines is home to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in Southeast Asia. With a combination of world-class facilities, breathtaking natural landscapes and tropical weather, the country offers an unforgettable golfing experience. Here is a detailed guide to the top golf destinations in the Philippines: Manila, Boracay, Tagaytay, Clark and Cebu.

• Manila: the vibrant capital and golfing hub of the Philippines. The city is home to some of the best golf courses in the country designed by renowned architects such as Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club and Wack Wack Golf & Country Club. Golfing in Manila is also convenient as most of the golf courses are located within or just outside the city, along with well-developed infrastructure such as clubhouses, restaurants, shopping malls and more, providing a luxurious experience.
• Boracay: Boracay is famous for its beautiful beaches and is a hidden gem for golfers. The most famous golf course in the area is The Fairways & Bluewater Golf & Country Club, an 18-hole championship course designed by Graham Marsh. Combine golf with a beach vacation. Spend your free time relaxing at one of the many luxury resorts or unwinding on Boracay’s iconic white sand beaches.
• Tagaytay: located south of Manila, is a popular weekend getaway with a cool climate and breathtaking views of Taal Volcano and tranquil lakes. Try your hand at golf at the Tagaytay Highlands International Golf Club, a premier course with challenging fairways and unique scenery. Enjoy the fresh, cool air and peaceful natural beauty of the highlands.
• Clark: a former US military base that has become a thriving business and entertainment hub. Today, it is renowned for its world-class golf courses, such as the Clark Sun Valley Golf & Country Club and the Mimosa Plus Golf Course. These courses combine challenging terrain with picturesque mountain backdrops and lush greenery. The city also offers top-notch facilities, including luxury accommodations, casinos, and shopping malls. With its proximity to Manila and the international airport, Clark is easily accessible and offers a wide range of activities beyond golf.
• Cebu: Cebu is located in the Visayas region and has a vibrant culture that attracts many golfers to the Philippines. Cebu Country Club is a must-visit for anyone, located in the heart of the city with well-manicured greens, strategically placed hazards, and a serene atmosphere. For a more unique experience, play golf at Alta Vista Golf & Country Club, which offers breathtaking views of the Cebu coastline and surrounding islands. After a round of golf, you can explore the historical and cultural sites here or relax on the pristine beaches.

Best golf courses in the Philippines

Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club

Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club is one of the best golf courses in the Philippines. The course is extremely large, with 36 holes, divided into two different courses: the Masters Course and the Champion Course. It is considered the most difficult of the Jack Nicklaus courses, with dense bunkers and water features that require good technique and strategy. It is a private golf course, so players must be accompanied by a member or book tee times and golf tours through a third party.

>>> Ready for a challenge? Discover the Top 10 Toughest Golf Courses in the Philippines and test your skills on these demanding yet breathtaking fairways.

Orchard Golf & Country Club

Orchard Golf And Country Club is also considered one of the most popular golf courses in the Philippines. This golf course is located in the south of the capital Manila and was designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer. That is why many people still call this golf course Palmer golf course. With beautiful natural scenery and unique design, this place has been chosen to organize many large and small tournaments. The lakes are used a lot on the course, bringing both poetic and romantic beauty and interesting challenges for players.

Wack Wack Golf & Country Club

Wack Wack Golf & Country Club is one of the most beautiful golf courses in the Philippines, famous for its two famous golf courses, the East Course and the West Course. The East Course has hosted the Philippine Open, the World Cup and other famous events. The course has many dangerous water areas, small greens and long fairways that make it a challenge for even experienced golfers.

Fairways & Bluewater Golf & Country Club

Fairways & Bluewater Golf & Country Club is the only golf course in Boracay and has been voted as one of the most luxurious golf resorts in the world. This 18-hole par 72 golf course has hosted many local and international tournaments such as the Asia Golf Tour and the Johnnie Walker Tour. The golf course has flat playing and water hazards on the first nine holes, while the back nine has more hills with fewer hazards. The stunning views of the crystal clear waters and white sand beaches make this a memorable and enjoyable place to play golf.

Alabang Country Club

Alabang Golf and Country Club is one of the oldest golf courses in the Philippines, designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. Although the course is of medium length and suitable for players of all levels, it also has challenging elements such as sand traps, curving fairways, and water hazards, especially on the fourth hole. The course is surrounded by lakes and creeks, creating a picturesque backdrop for a round of golf. If you are looking for world-class golf hazards in the Philippines, Alabang Golf and Country Club is a must-visit destination.

Tagaytay Highlands International Golf Club

Tagaytay Highlands International Golf Club is a world-class golf course located in Tagaytay, Cavite, Philippines. Designed by renowned golf course architect Richard Bigler, the course features 18 challenging holes and is renowned for its stunning views of the Taal Volcano. The course features 419 Tifton grass and Tifdwarf grass on the fairways and greens, providing an enjoyable experience for all golfers.

Golf service, transportation and accommodations for golf in the Philippines

Golf service

In addition to the beautiful scenery that ranges from beaches to mountains, Philippines golf courses can accommodate players of all levels thanks to their unique designs and modern facilities. Golf courses include many pro shops equipped with high-quality equipment and professional caddies to assist golfers. In addition, many golf courses also offer driving ranges, putting greens and golf academies for those who want to improve their skills. For foreign visitors or those who want a worry-free golf vacation, you can use pre-sold packages that include tee times, golf equipment rental, and access to business lounges,….

Transportation in the Philippines

The Philippines is a large island nation with more than 7,000 islands and has no land borders with any other country. Therefore, flying is the fastest and most convenient way for tourists to travel. Another interesting way to travel is by tourist ferry. Although the journey may take up to a day, you can use this time to explore and admire the islands along the way.

Visitors can also take buses with regular schedules from Manila to the southern and northern cities. Tricycles and jeepneys – a combination of a jeep and a bus – are popular means of transport in the Philippines, with very cheap prices and can quickly get you to your destination. After hours of golf, you can rent a motorbike to freely explore the city. The motorbike rental price varies between cities in the Philippines but is not too different. You can use your driver’s license or passport and some money as a deposit when renting a motorbike. However, be sure to learn about traffic laws, especially signs.

Accommodations for golf

The Philippines offers golfers a wide range of accommodation options, from high-end golf resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Many top golf clubs, such as Riviera Golf Club and Fairways & Bluewater in Boracay, have on-site resorts that offer direct access to the golf course. These accommodations also include amenities such as spacious rooms, fine dining restaurants, swimming pools, and spa services, providing a complete relaxing experience.

Visitors can choose from mid-range hotels or guesthouses near golf courses at more affordable prices. Upscale hotels in urban centers, such as Makati or Cebu City, offer modern amenities and are close to top golf courses. Additionally, beachfront villas and mountain lodges offer a peaceful retreat after a day on the green. If you are traveling with family or a large group, opt for a serviced apartment or larger villa with communal living spaces to foster camaraderie throughout your trip.

Must-try activities beyond golf in the Philippines

With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a paradise for ocean-loving travelers. Popular destinations like Boracay, El Nido and Cebu offer pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and opportunities for island hopping, snorkeling and scuba diving among vibrant coral reefs and marine life. If you want to combine beach relaxation with golf in the Philippines, head to Fairways & Bluewater Golf Resort on Boracay Island. Imagine showing off your golf skills while soaking in the crystal clear waters of Boracay’s white sand beaches.

For a more adventurous and exploratory experience, climb Mount Pinatubo to see the stunning crater lake, explore the Banaue Rice Terraces or hike Kawasan Falls in Cebu. For a cultural experience, the Philippines boasts historic sites like Manila Cathedral, Intramuros in Manila and the Spanish-era town of Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Food lovers will enjoy sampling local delicacies like adobo, sinigang and lechon, as well as exploring bustling food markets and food tours.

Main cost to golf in the Philippines

Golf in the Philippines is known for its affordability compared to other international golf destinations in the region such as Thailand, Singapore, etc. From green fees to essentials such as golf cart rentals, caddie services, and club rentals, every aspect of Philippine golf is designed to accommodate different budgets. Aside from the golf course, factors such as transportation, accommodations, dining, and wellness services such as spa treatments can significantly shape the overall cost of your trip.

The cost of each can vary depending on whether it is a weekday or weekend and the type of service you choose. Here is a detailed breakdown to help you estimate your costs and make the most of your golf experience in the Philippines.

Tips for the best golf experience

With its stunning courses and tropical charm, the Philippines offers plenty of opportunities for an unforgettable golf experience – here are some tips to make the most of it:

• Choose your preferred golf course and book tee times: The Philippines offers a wide range of golf courses for all skill levels, so research the difficulty level to find a course that suits your level. Book your preferred tee times in advance, especially at high-demand courses like Manila Southwoods, Tagaytay Highlands, or Anvaya Cove.
• Check the course rules and etiquette: Familiarize yourself with the dress code and rules of each course. Most clubs require appropriate golf attire, and some have specific rules for guests.
• While many golf courses rent, bring your own golf equipment for comfort and best play. Keep it in your travel bag to avoid collisions while traveling.
  Pay attention to promotions: Some clubs and resorts offer weekday discounts, twilight rates, or group packages. Take advantage of these deals to save on green fees and other services.
• Pack smart for tropical weather: Pack sweat-wicking clothes to stay comfortable in humid conditions. Waterproof gear like gloves and raincoats are also essential, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season (June to October). Quick-dry towels and umbrellas are also helpful.

With this guide, planning your ultimate golf trip in the Philippines has never been easier. From expert tips on navigating the country’s world-class golf courses to tips on how to make the most of your time off the green, this resource is here to help you every step of the way. By following the tips in this guide, you’re sure to create an unforgettable golfing adventure that’s as smooth as your best swing. Let your journey to the perfect golf experience in the Philippines begin!

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