Ernie’s Seaside Playground This 27-hole layout (comprising the Coast, Ridge, and Lakes nines) was designed by Ernie Els to be playable, scenic, and fun. It is routed right along the coastline, offering sweeping views of the South China Sea.
No Bunkers? That’s right. Ernie designed this course without a single sand bunker. Instead, he used clever grassy swales and tight runoff areas to defend the greens, giving it a unique “links-lite” feel.
The Els Club Desaru Coast (Valley Course) The Vijay Singh Challenge Located just a short drive from the Ocean Course, the Valley Course offers a completely different vibe. Designed by Vijay Singh in collaboration with Ernie Els, this 18-hole layout cuts through undulating terrain and dense forest. It is tougher, tighter, and features plenty of bunkers (187 of them!).
The elevation changes. Unlike the flat coast, the Valley course forces you to hit dramatic uphill approaches and downhill drives. It is a serious test of shot-making.
Sebana Cove Resort Golf in the Mangroves For a change of pace, Sebana Cove offers a classic, rustic Malaysian golf experience. Designed by Ted Parslow, the course is carved out of natural mangrove swampland and tropical rainforest. It is less manicured than the Els Club but oozes character and local charm.
The scenery. You are playing right in the heart of nature, often spotting monkeys, monitor lizards, and exotic birds as you navigate the creeks.
• Sungai Rengit:
Take a 20-minute drive to this nearby fishing village, known as the “Lobster Capital” of Johor.
• The Dish to Order:
Butter Lobster. Freshly caught lobster wok-fried in a rich, creamy butter sauce with curry leaves. It is legendary.
• Jade Garden Seafood Corner:
A local favorite for fresh crab, bamboo clams, and grouper at a fraction of city prices.
• Desaru Fruit Farm:
A fun excursion where you can tour a massive tropical orchard, eat unlimited fruit, and even enjoy a fruit-themed lunch.
• Adventure Waterpark:
Home to one of the biggest wave pools in the world. It’s a great way to cool off after a hot morning round.
• Firefly Cruise:
Take a night boat tour on the Bujang River to see the mangrove trees light up with thousands of fireflies a magical end to the day.
Sungai Rengit (Lobster Capital)
Firefly Cruise
Desaru Fruit Farm
Adventure Waterpark
Jade Garden Seafood Corner
The Vibe:
The prime window. The ocean is calm, the skies are blue, and the coastal winds are a gentle breeze.
Golf Conditions:
Perfect. This is when the courses and the beaches are at their absolute best.
The Vibe:
The “North-East Monsoon” brings strong winds and heavy surf.
Golf Conditions:
It can be wet and windy. While the courses drain well, this is the low season. However, if you enjoy “Scottish-style” wind challenges in warm weather, it can be a fun adventure (and hotel rates are lower).
Desaru requires a bit of travel; we make it smooth.
The Els Club courses run distinct maintenance schedules. We know exactly which loop (Coast, Ridge, or Lakes) is in peak condition during your visit.
Costs: Our packages include green fees, cart fees, caddie fees, and all local taxes.
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From the lobster feasts to the bunker-less fairways, let us plan your Desaru getaway.
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