Discover Shanqin Bay Golf Club: Asia’s Hidden Gem

Shanqin Bay Golf Club: Asia’s Hidden Gem in Wanning

If you haven’t heard about Shanqin Bay Golf Club yet, then you’re in for a treat. Nestled in the lively city of Wanning, on the picturesque Hainan Island, this golf club is turning heads and winning hearts as one of the most spectacular courses in the world. With its breathtaking views of the East China Sea and lush surroundings, it’s no wonder Shanqin Bay has become a crown jewel in Asia’s golfing landscape.

A Visionary Dream

Let’s take a step back to where it all began! The mastermind behind this incredible course was none other than Jun Wang, former chairman of CITIC. Picture this: he first spotted the property from a helicopter and was blown away by its beauty. Can you imagine? He immediately landed, surveyed the stunning topography, lush jungle, and even an old military site, and he knew he had to make it his own. Unfortunately, Wang passed away in 2019, but the legacy he built lives on under the thoughtful leadership of chairman Yu Jiang.

The Arrival

As visitors approach Shanqin Bay, they’re greeted by two guarded gates and a two-mile snaking road that sets the stage for something extraordinary. You can almost feel the excitement in the air! The lush greenery and the first glimpses of the golf course make you forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life. To warm up a bit, golfers can stop at a private driving range that feels like an oasis. Imagine being pampered with refreshments, personalized welcome signs, and pristine practice surfaces. Who wouldn’t want to prepare for their round in such luxury?

A Warm Welcome

Stepping into the clubhouse, guests are met with a symphony of smiles and cheers from both staff and caddies. The open-air design of the clubhouse leads to an outdoor patio offering jaw-dropping views of the ocean below. Enjoying a cup of ginger tea while taking in that view? Talk about paradise!

The Golf Experience

Now, let’s talk about the **real deal** – the course itself. Shanqin Bay starts with a challenging par four that requires you to put your abilities to the test right off the bat. But if you’re worried, hole two is a shorter, friendlier par five that offers stunning panoramas in both directions. And don’t miss the third hole, a spectacular oceanfront par three framed by a rock formation known as “The Black Stone Beast.” You’ll be captivated, to say the least!

Dining Delights

Golfing at Shanqin Bay is not just about playing; it’s about enjoying the overall experience. Nestled between holes four and five is a quaint little farmhouse that serves up delicious meals, a far cry from the usual “snack and go” halfway house. Treat yourself to freshly prepared local cuisine, including Hainan noodles and mouth-watering Chairman’s Eggs. And save some room for dessert! The chilled mango sago cream is to die for.

Nature’s Call

As you continue your round, you might want to keep your eyes peeled. The foliage around the course is home to some exotic local wildlife, including Chinese cobras. Don’t worry, though; they’re not keen on human interaction. More often than not, they’ll give you a wide berth while you enjoy the breathtaking views.

An Unmatched Experience

Play through the remaining holes, each offering unique challenges and stunning landscapes, all while accompanied by your non-stop caddie team. Yes, you heard me right! At Shanqin Bay, a typical foursome gets caddies plus a “shadow caddie” to ensure everything runs smoothly and everybody is taken care of. They’re even trained in golf and multiple languages!

A Sense of Family

But it’s not just about golf here; it’s about community. According to Joey Garon, the executive secretary, “Shanqin Bay is more like a family than a golf club.” The kind of atmosphere that keeps members coming back, year after year, because it feels more like home than just a clubhouse. Employees are treated well, receiving three meals a day, so you know they are happy to serve!

In Conclusion

With its stunning aesthetics and unmatched service, it’s easy to see why Shanqin Bay Golf Club has earned accolades as one of the best courses internationally. So pack your bags, grab your clubs, and be prepared for not just a round of golf, but an experience that will change how you think about golfing forever. Don’t miss the chance to discover this hidden gem in Asia.