Golf in Hainan Island: Mission Hills Haikou & China’s Ultimate Golf Escape

Hainan Island is quickly emerging as one of Asia’s most exciting golf destinations—yet it still feels like a well-kept secret. Combining world-class golf courses, luxury beachfront resorts, and a tropical climate, this southern Chinese island offers a completely different experience from mainland China.

Escape to Hainan Island, China’s premier golf destination where tropical beaches meet world-class fairways. Home to the legendary Mission Hills Haikou, the island offers an experience unlike any other in Asia. With Haikou in the north and Sanya in the south—connected by a sleek, modern fast train—golfers can easily combine record-breaking championship courses with luxury coastal living. Explore volcanic mountain retreats, unwind in natural hot springs, and tee off on coastal dunes that make a Hainan golf tour a must for every Australian player’s bucket list.

Why Hainan Island Is Perfect for a Golf Holiday

Often referred to as “China’s Hawaii”, Hainan Island blends coastal beauty with mountainous interiors, creating a unique setting for golf. With championship-grade greens and eternal summer weather, Hainan offers a world-class golf sanctuary that feels just as rewarding for the single golfer as it does for the family seeking a tropical retreat.

The island’s two main hubs—Haikou in the north and Sanya in the south—are connected by a high-speed rail network, making it easy to explore multiple regions and courses in one itinerary.

What sets Hainan apart is its diversity:

     ▪️ Links-style coastal layouts

     ▪️ Volcanic rock courses unlike anywhere else in Asia

     ▪️ Integrated resorts with golf, spas, and entertainment

     ▪️ Family-friendly attractions alongside championship golf

👉 For a broader overview, explore our China Golf Tour - Complete Guide.

Mission Hills Haikou: The World’s Largest Golf Resort

At the heart of golf in Hainan is Mission Hills Haikou, a truly one-of-a-kind destination. Recognised as the world’s largest golf resort, it features 10 championship courses spread across dramatic volcanic terrain. 

Carved from ancient lava rock, the courses offer a striking visual and playing experience rarely found elsewhere.

Standout Courses at Mission Hills Haikou

     ▪️ Blackstone Course: The resort’s signature layout, host of the World Cup of Golf and the DP World tour Hainan Classic, one of Asia’s most iconic courses

     ▪️ Stone Quarry Course: A visually stunning design built around an old mining landscape 

     ▪️ A variety of additional courses offering a mix of strategic challenges and scenic variety

Despite its size, the resort is thoughtfully designed, with courses grouped across different precincts and connected by short transfers.

More than Golf: A Complete Resort Experience

Mission Hills Haikou is not just about golf—it’s a fully integrated luxury resort designed for both golfers and non-golfers

CGE Golf clients enjoy access to:

     ▪️ 168 mineral hot spring pools, set within a volcanic landscape

     ▪️ Lagoon-style swimming pools and wellness facilities

     ▪️ A nearby water park perfect for families

     ▪️ Dining, shopping, and entertainment at Centreville

This makes it an ideal destination for:

     ▪️ Golf groups

     ▪️ Couples

     ▪️ Family golf holidays

The Best Golf Courses Across Hainan Island

While Mission Hills is the centerpiece, Hainan offers a wide range of exceptional courses across the island.

East Coast & Central Hainan

     ▪️ Shaqin Bay: Widely regarded as China’s number one course (exclusive member access)

     ▪️ BFA International: A championship-level layout near Bo’Ao where world leaders meet every year for a summit

Shenzhou Peninsula

A highlight for many golf travellers, this area features:

     ▪️ The Dunes East & West Courses: Designed by Tom Weiskopf

     ▪️ Stunning oceanfront holes along the South China Sea

     ▪️ A luxury Sheraton resort setting with spa and dining options

Sanya & Haitang Bay 

As you move south, golf becomes more resort-focused:

     ▪️ Blue Bay Golf Club: home of the world televised LPGA tournament

     ▪️ Haitang Bay Peninsula Course: with stunning views over the coast and inland

     ▪️ Yalong Bay, Dragon Valley, Sun Valley, and other scenic coastal layouts

This region is perfect for combining golf with relaxation and beachside luxury.

Things to Do Beyond Golf

Hainan isn’t just a golfer’s paradise—it’s a playground for explorers and families alike. Switch your spikes for walking shoes and explore:

     ▪️ Living History: Love yourself in the colonial charm of Haikou’s Old Streets

     ▪️ Cultural Deep-Dives: Uncover ancient traditions at the Hainan Museum or within local Li ethnic communities.

     ▪️ Tropical Zen: Rejuvenate in the natural thermal water of Qixianling, tucked away in the island’s lush mountain interior.

Atlantis Sanya: The Ultimate Family Add-On

For those combining golf with a family holiday, there is no better place to stay than the newly opened and truly astonishing Atlantis beachside resort at Haitang Bay. 

This world-class resort features:

     ▪️ A massive water park

     ▪️ A spectacular aquarium with underwater viewing experiences

     ▪️ Family-friendly accommodation and dining

It’s the perfect complement to a golf itinerary—offering something memorable for non-golfing travellers.

Best Time of Year to Visit Hainan

Hainan’s tropical climate allows for year-round golf, but timing your trip can enhance the experience.

Best months: October to May

     ▪️ Warm, comfortable temperature

     ▪️ Lower humidity

     ▪️ Ideal playing condition

June to mid-October:

     ▪️ Hotter weather

     ▪️ Occasional monsoon condition

For most travellers, the October-May window offers the best balance of climate and course conditions

Why Golfers Are Choosing Hainan Island

Hainan may still be under the radar, but those who visit quickly realise its appeal

After hosting the PGA of Australia Pro-Am at Mission Hills Haikou, CGE Golf surveyed 127 participants—including 120 golfers and 30 club professionals—to better understand their experience. 

The results highlight just how undiscovered this destination still is:

      ▪️ 50% had never heard of Mission Hills Haikou before trip

      ▪️ Nearly 70% were unaware of golf in Hainan Island

      ▪️ Almost 90% had never visited Mission Hills previously

      ▪️ 94% said they would definitely return with family, friends or members of their golf club

For many, the combination of world-class golf, unique volcanic landscapes, and resort-style luxury exceeds expectations.

If you’re looking for something different from traditional golf destinations, Hainan offers a rare mix of discovery and quality.

Plan Your Hainan Golf Trip with CGE Golf

Hainan remains one of Asia’s most exciting—and underexplored—golf destinations. Whether you’re travelling with friends, your club, or family, it offers a unique mix of championship golf and resort luxury. 
At CGE Golf, we specialise in crafted tailored golf experiences across Asia, including fully customised Hainan itineraries.
Whether you’re looking to:

     ▪️ Play the legendary Blackstone Course

     ▪️ Experience multiple regions across the island

     ▪️ Combine golf with a luxury family holiday

We can design a seamless trip to match your needs. 

👉  Start planning your Hainan golf escape today

Enquire now to receive a personalised itinerary, recommended travel dates, and exclusive access to the island's top golf experiences. Contact CGE Golf today and discover the trip of a lifetime.