Delight in lush vegetation and picturesque views while practicing your golf swing along the fairways in Singapore. Situated 85 miles north of the equator, Singapore enjoys a tropical rainforest climate, but visitors should be aware of the two main monsoon seasons. Northeast Monsoon occurs November to March, with the heaviest rain between November and January, while Southwest Monsoon occurs June to September. Although several months can bring rain and wind, the rest of the year offers the chance for golfers to enjoy a game on one of three public golf courses.
Singapore’s only 18-hole course, Marina Bay Golf Course is in the heart of the city and offers golfers panoramic views of the skyline. One of Asia’s few links-styled courses, the par 72 championship course challenges all skill levels with water hazards and pot bunkers. A four-tier driving range features 150 bays, and lighting around the course allows you to enjoy a round at night. Practice your swing on the putting greens, chipping greens and practice bunker, or take in a lesson at the course’s golf academy. Marina Bay Golf Course also offers a pro shop, fitting center, café, locker room and spa.
Golf your way along undulating fairways lined with towering trees on the 9-hole course at Champions Public Golf Course. The course’s driving range features a 66-bay, two-tier golf range, complete with target flags and distance markers, and a golf academy offers instruction for all ages and skill levels. Little ones are not excluded at Champions Golf, as they can join in the game at one of two 18-hole mini golf courses. After enjoying a round, relax with a meal and drink at the tavern that overlooks the course, or stock up on gear at the pro shop.
History buffs will especially delight in a round at Changi Golf Club. The 9-hole course is built on a former British military base and winds past officers’ quarters, soldiers’ barracks, air-raid bunkers and gun emplacements. The fairways feature cow grass, while the greens are covered with Tifdwarf Bermuda grass. After a day of play, relax to the sounds of waves at the Golfers’ Terrace restaurant, or sip on libations in the lounge. For a little indoor fun, the club also features a karaoke bar, casino and card room.
Golf courses in Singapore require a handicap or proficiency certificate in order to play. The proficiency certificate test includes theory and practical components of the game and is conducted in order for golfers to gain sufficient experience on the course. Typically, golfers must play a certain number of rounds designated by the course before being allowed to take the handicap test. The handicap test ensures each golfer has the required skill set, as well as an adequate understanding of the course’s rules and expected etiquette. Tests are administered onsite by certified golf pros and should be arranged in advance by calling the course at which you plan to play.
