Discover Wanning’s Shanqin Bay Golf Club: Asia’s Crown Jewel

Wanning: The Crown Jewel of Golf Courses in Asia

So, picture this: you’re on Hainan Island, and as you make your way through Wanning, you stumble upon a hidden gem that could easily be one of the finest golf courses in the world – Shanqin Bay Golf Club. Known for its breathtaking views of the East China Sea, this stunning course is not just a place to play golf; it’s an experience that tingles all your senses.

The Vision Behind Shanqin Bay

The story behind this spectacular course starts with a bold vision from Jun Wang, a prominent figure linked to CITIC. Imagine him soaring over the property in a helicopter, then suddenly deciding to land because he was captivated by the stunning landscape below. The rugged cliffs, lush pineapple farms, and cadre of ocean views made it clear that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Wang quickly bought the land and enlisted the expertise of renowned golf course architects Kurt Huseman and Bill Coore to turn this dream into reality. Although Wang passed away in 2019, his ambition lives on through current chairman Yu Jiang, who is dedicated to maintaining the club’s prestigious reputation.

Getting to the Club

As you arrive at the club, you navigate through not one, but two guard gates, which only build excitement for what’s ahead. A beautiful 2-mile road meanders upward, giving you glimpses of the low-lying jungle and the mesmerizing coast. If you’re itching to swing before hitting the course, there’s even a chic driving range where the staff cater to your needs with food and drinks.

A Welcome Like No Other

Once at the clubhouse, you’re greeted with warm smiles from uniformed caddies and staff who make you feel right at home, whether you speak Mandarin or English. With a design that’s open and breezy, the clubhouse features an outdoor patio where you can sip ginger tea and soak in the jaw-dropping 180-degree views of ocean and coastline.

Course Layout: A Player’s Paradise

The course begins with a challenging par 4, a fitting introduction to what’s to come. Each hole presents its unique challenges and stunning views. For instance, hole number 2 is a friendlier par 5 with both ocean views and glimpses of the clubhouse. Then there’s a thrilling downhill par 3 at hole number 3, framed by the notoriously named “The Black Stone Beast,” which will certainly grab your attention, especially in winds that can surprise you.

Lunch in Paradise

Now, if you think you’re just grabbing a hot dog at the turn, think again! The halfway house between holes 4 and 5 is more like a mini culinary getaway. You can enjoy a sit-down meal prepared by a skilled chef with local Hainan delicacies that change daily. From Hainan noodles to Chairman’s Eggs infused with soy, every dish aims to delight and surprise your taste buds. And don’t forget about dessert, with options like chilled mango sago cream to round out your meal!

A Variety of Challenges

From the breathtaking scenery to the well-crafted holes, Shanqin Bay is all about variation. Each hole seamlessly flows into the next, with clever design choices that challenge your skills while maintaining incredible aesthetics. Whether you’re hitting uphill, downhill, or along beachfront cliffs, you’ll find something new at every turn.

The Best Caddies Around

If you’re thinking about a typical four-person caddy arrangement, think again! Here, a usual foursome comes with five caddies, making sure you’re well taken care of while you’re on the course. The caddies are not just helpers; they undergo extensive training and even put on dance performances for the members in the evenings. Imagine having a golf experience that feels less like a game and more like a homecoming!

In Conclusion

Shanqin Bay Golf Club is more than just a golf course; it’s an adventure in elegance and sportsmanship. With scenic views, heartwarming hospitality, and gourmet dining options, it is indeed the crown jewel of Asia’s golf scene. Anyone who loves the game would agree – there’s no place quite like it!