ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
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Course Report
The Dunes was named among China’s best courses by Golf Digest and is one of the region’s few true links-style coastal layouts, drawing inspiration from Scottish links golf.
About
The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula, designed by Tom Weiskopf, lies on Hainan Island’s eastern shore, offering a true links-style experience along the South China Sea. The course is renowned for its undulating fairways, dune landscapes, ocean views, and strategic bunkering, making it one of China’s most acclaimed and visually stunning layouts.
Caddie Tip
Wind is always a factor, especially near the ocean holes. Trust your caddie for club selection under swirling conditions, and play for the firm fairways with a links-style ground game. On approach shots, favor below-the-hole positions, as the greens often tilt back to front and can be deceivingly quick.
The Main Challenge
The greatest challenge is the wind that sweeps off the South China Sea, especially on back-nine holes directly exposed to the elements. Gently undulating fairways, deep natural bunkers, and strategic green contours require precise ball striking and thoughtful club choices throughout, demanding both strategy and skill.
The Good
Golfers rave about the spectacular ocean views and links-style design, particularly the dramatic closing stretch of holes along the coastline. Many praise the firm and fast fairways, as well as the strategic test that challenges golfers of all skill levels and rewards thoughtful shotmaking.
The Not So Good
Frequent player feedback requests improvements in on-course refreshments; there are limited food or drink stops aside from the clubhouse, which can make the mid-round experience tough, especially in the tropical heat. Non-Mandarin speakers may occasionally struggle with communication, though staff are helpful.
Signature Hole:
#
16
The par-3 16th hole is regarded as The Dunes' signature, playing directly along the coastline with a backdrop of the South China Sea. The tee shot must carry coastal dunes and swirling winds to a green set mere yards from the waves, surrounded by bunkers and natural grasses, making club selection and precision critical.
Clubhouse
The modern clubhouse features ocean-view dining, full bar, locker rooms, showers, and a pro shop stocked with international brands. While amenities are high standard, the club would benefit from improved mid-round refreshment stops and more language accommodations for international guests.
Practice Facilities
Players can expect a quality driving range with multiple short-game areas, putting greens, and chipping facilities. The club offers professional instruction, modern locker rooms, and rental equipment. The clubhouse provides scenic dining with sea views, a pro shop, and comfortable lounging areas for golfers and guests.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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