Sitting right at the tip of the Asian mainland, just across the causeway from Singapore, Johor is arguably the best value-for-money golf destination in the region. It offers a “best of both worlds” scenario: the world-class standards and accessibility of Singapore combined with the rich culture, expansive layouts, and friendly prices of Malaysia. Johor has quietly transformed into a powerhouse destination, home to courses designed by legends like Ernie Els, Jack Nicklaus, and Vijay Singh. Whether you are looking for a quick weekend escape from the Lion City or a dedicated week-long tour of the coast, Johor delivers championship fairways without the championship price tag.
Johor offers massive variety, from lush inland hills to windswept coastal links.
Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club The Risk-Reward Masterpiece Designed by Ross Watson, this course is the crown jewel of the Iskandar region. It became famous for hosting the Iskandar Johor Open, where stars like Padraig Harrington and Sergio Garcia have walked the fairways. The layout is a thrill ride of dramatic elevation changes and fast, undulating greens.
The 18th Hole. An island fairway (yes, fairway) par-5 that demands nerves of steel from tee to green. It is one of the most exciting finishing holes in Asia.
Forest City Golf Resort The Nicklaus Legacy Part of the massive Forest City eco-development, this resort features two distinct courses, but the Legacy Course (designed by Jack Nicklaus & Jack Nicklaus II) is the standout. Built on reclaimed land surrounded by mangroves, it feels like a desert-style oasis in the tropics. The waste bunkers are vast, the fairways are wide, and the conditioning is immaculate.
The “Waste Areas.” Instead of thick rough, many holes are framed by large sandy waste areas, giving it a unique visual aesthetic and allowing for recovery shots you wouldn’t get in deep grass.
Johor Golf & Country Club is a historic 18-hole championship course located close to Johor Bahru. Known for its mature trees and traditional parkland design, the course emphasizes precision, consistency, and course strategy, making it a favorite among local and visiting golfers.
The Tree-Lined Fairways. Narrow corridors framed by towering rainforest trees demand precision off the tee and careful shot placement throughout the round.
• Laksa Johor:
This is unique to the state spaghetti (yes, Italian pasta!) served in a thick, spicy fish gravy with fresh herbs and sambal belacan. It’s a delicious cultural fusion.
• Curry Fish Head:
Legendary in Johor Bahru. Visit Kam Long Curry Fish Head expect a queue, but the bubbling clay pot of spicy, savory red snapper is worth the wait.
• Wood-Fired Banana Cake:
Stop by the historic Hiap Joo Bakery (operating since 1919) for their famous fluffy banana cake, baked in a traditional wood-fired oven.
• Johor Premium Outlets (JPO):
If you had a bad round, retail therapy helps. This is a massive luxury outlet mall offering deep discounts on designer brands.
• Desaru Coast:
After playing The Els Club, relax on the pristine white sand beaches or visit the massive Adventure Waterpark.
• Legoland Malaysia:
If you are traveling with family, this world-class theme park is a stone’s throw from the golf courses in Iskandar.
Legoland Malaysia
Johor Premium Outlets
Desaru Coast
Curry Fish Head
Wood-Fired Banana Cake
Laksa Johor
The Vibe:
The ideal window. The seas at Desaru are calm, and the days are sunny with temperatures around 30°C-32°C.
Golf Conditions:
Perfect. Fast fairways and blue skies.
The Vibe:
The Northeast Monsoon hits the east coast (Desaru) harder than the city. Expect heavy afternoon rains.
Golf Conditions:
In the city (Horizon Hills/Forest City), play is still very possible as rain is usually short. On the coast, it can be windier and wetter.
Crossing the border can be tricky; we make it seamless.
We have strong relationships with the big clubs like Els Club and Horizon Hills, ensuring you get the tee times you want, even on weekends.
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From the bustle of the city to the breeze of the coast, let us plan your Johor adventure.
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