Vietnam’s golf tourism sector is aiming high, setting its sights on achieving a staggering $1 billion in revenue by 2025. This ambitious goal positions golf tourism as a flagship product, promising not only substantial economic benefits but also a significant boost to Vietnam’s international tourism profile. The country’s diverse landscapes, favorable climate, and growing number of world-class golf courses are key factors driving this ambitious plan.
A Strategic Move with High Expectations
Boasting over 80 internationally-standard golf courses, Vietnam has earned the reputation as an Asian “golf paradise,” thanks to its diverse terrain and near-year-round pleasant climate. From the romantic oceanfront courses like Hoiana Shores Golf Club and Laguna Lăng Cô to the picturesque mountainside designs such as Ba Na Hills Golf Club, each course offers a unique experience that caters to a wide range of golfers. The accolades for these courses are impressive; The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram Strip has even cracked the top 100 best golf courses globally.
These achievements are not merely self-congratulatory; they represent a tangible demonstration of Vietnam’s golfing excellence. For eight consecutive years (2017-2024), Vietnam has been recognized by the World Golf Awards (WGA) as the “Leading Golf Destination in Asia.” Moreover, Vietnam has twice earned the prestigious title of “World’s Best Golf Destination,” in 2019 and 2021. Hanoi itself has also consistently impressed, being named the “World’s Best Golf City” in both 2023 and 2024. These awards signify an international recognition of Vietnam’s capability in catering to higher-end travelers seeking premium golf experiences.
The Untapped Potential of Vietnam’s Golf Tourism
The potential of Vietnam’s golf tourism extends beyond its scenic beauty and high-quality courses. According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), golf tourists spend six times more than average tourists, solidifying golf tourism as a highly lucrative sector for the national economy. This significant economic impact has spurred local governments to actively invest in diversifying their offerings.
Hanoi has emerged as a leading example, with over 10 international golf courses located within a 60km radius of the city center. Furthermore, Hanoi is pioneering innovative tourism packages that combine golf with other compelling experiences, such as exploring the historic Old Quarter and indulging in the vibrant street food scene. This integrated approach offers tourists a richer and more immersive cultural experience, attracting a broader range of visitors.
Other localities are also actively participating in this growth. In Gia Lai province, a South Korean business has proposed a $60 million investment to develop two international golf resorts, envisioning a unique tourism experience that seamlessly blends coastal and mountainous landscapes. This demonstrates the broader interest from international investors in developing Vietnam’s golf tourism infrastructure.
A Global Ambassador for Vietnam’s Golfing Scene
To effectively realize these ambitious goals, Vietnam has implemented a strategic international initiative: appointing golfing legend Gregory John Norman (Greg Norman) as Vietnam’s Tourism Ambassador for the 2025-2030 term. With his global influence, Mr. Norman will act as the face of Vietnamese golf tourism, connecting with high-end markets in South Korea, Japan, the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. His experience and global recognition are expected to drive brand awareness and attract more international golfers to the country.
Challenges and the Path Forward
Despite numerous advantages, Vietnam’s golf tourism sector still faces significant challenges. According to Deputy Director of VNAT, Ha Van Sieu, the industry lacks integrated products that combine cultural and natural experiences. Furthermore, collaboration between travel agencies and golf courses remains weak and fragmented. As a consequence, many tourists primarily focus on golf, missing out on exploring the unique local offerings.
To overcome these obstacles, tourism experts propose a groundbreaking solution: establishing an alliance of golf businesses to collaboratively build a strong brand identity and develop cohesive, professional, and unique services. This collaborative strategy fosters shared growth and brand cohesion, leading to a stronger image in global markets. Additionally, organizing more international tournaments and creating specialized tours like “Golf – Spa – Fine Dining” or “Golf – Culture – Village Crafts” can enrich the visitor experience and attract a more diversified client base. This broader appeal extends beyond the seasoned golfer and incorporates other lifestyle attractions, increasing sustainability.
Vietnam’s National Tourism Strategy and the Future of Golf Tourism
In line with the national tourism development strategy extending to 2030, golf tourism has been identified as a crucial product for enhancing Vietnam’s competitiveness within the global tourism market. The country’s inherent advantages, coupled with the concerted efforts of the entire industry, position Vietnam’s golf tourism sector for immense growth in the coming years. The combination of infrastructural improvements, strategic partnerships, and experienced promotion through global ambassadors positions Vietnam for long-term success and a greater portion of the globally competitive golf market.
Vietnam’s golf tourism sector is poised for substantial growth, driven by its ambition to reach a $1 billion revenue target by 2025 and build a sustainable position in the international market.
