Manila is a city of adrenaline. It is a sprawling metropolis where Spanish colonial history clashes with gleaming skyscrapers and vibrant street life. For the golfer, Manila offers access to some of the finest private clubs in Southeast Asia, many of which are located just south of the city in the cooler, greener provinces of Cavite and Laguna. This is “Member for a Day” territory where you can walk the fairways designed by Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Gary Player on courses that have hosted the World Cup and Asian Tour, all while enjoying the legendary Filipino hospitality (and caddies!).
Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club The House that Jack Built This is widely considered the premier 36-hole facility in the Philippines. Both courses are Jack Nicklaus Signatures, but they offer very different tests.
The Masters Course: The tougher of the two. It features plenty of water hazards and was voted “Venue of the Year” by the Asian Tour. It requires precision and nerve.
The Legends Course: A friendlier, resort-style layout with wide fairways and massive bunkers. It’s fun, scenic, and perfect for a relaxed round.
The Orchard Golf & Country Club Palmer vs. Player Located in a historic mango orchard, this club features two distinct championship courses designed by two legends: Arnold Palmer and Gary Player.
The Palmer Course (Legacy): The venue for the 1995 Johnnie Walker Classic. It is big and bold, with lakes and creeks winding through the fairways.
The Player Course (Tradition): A more strategic, links-style test that requires you to think your way around the course rather than just overpowering it.
Sherwood Hills Golf Club The Golden Bear’s Favorite Sherwood Hills is unique. Another Jack Nicklaus design, it feels completely different from the manicured parkland courses nearby. It is rugged and natural, designed to play like an “inland links” course. The fairways are lined with cogon grass and there are no water hazards just wind, bunkers, and firm turf.
The wind. When the breeze picks up, this course reveals its teeth. It is widely ranked as one of the toughest tests in the country.
• Intramuros:
Step back in time inside the “Walled City.” Explore Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church to see the Spanish colonial roots of the Philippines.
• BGC & Makati:
Experience modern Manila. These districts are safe, walkable, and filled with high-end shopping, rooftop bars, and world-class restaurants.
• Food Trip:
You must try Lechon (roast pig) and Adobo (pork/chicken stewed in vinegar and soy). For dessert, order a Halo-Halo a colorful mix of shaved ice, beans, and fruits.
• Manila Bay Sunset:
Catch the famous sunset view from the baywalk or a hotel lounge.
• Casino Entertainment:
Manila’s “Entertainment City” is home to massive integrated resorts like Okada Manila and Solaire, offering 24/7 gaming and shows.
Lechon (roast pig)
Halo Halo
Intramuros
Manila Bay Sunset
BGC & Makati
Casino Entertainment
The Vibe:
The best time to visit. December to February is the “Cool Season” (24°C-29°C) with lower humidity.
Golf Conditions:
Fast, firm, and fantastic. This is peak golf season.
The Vibe:
Hotter and humid. Typhoons can occur during this period (especially Aug-Sep).
Golf Conditions:
Hotter and humid. Typhoons can occur during this period (especially Aug-Sep).
Manila traffic is legendary—don’t fight it alone.
Most top courses in Manila are members-only. We have the contracts to get you on the tee sheet at Southwoods, Orchard, and Sherwood.
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