[INSPECT THE NORTHERN GOLF] Day 8: GOLDEN SANDS GOLF RESORT - Nicklaus' Links Signature in the Ancient Capital of Hue  01:58, 21/07/2026

While Hue is celebrated for preserving centuries of cultural heritage, Golden Sands Golf Resort presents a fresh perspective on the destination. Stretching across pristine coastal sand dunes, the course is framed by shimmering white sands, lush fairways and the endless horizon of the East Sea. More than simply a golf course, it enriches Hue's luxury tourism offering, allowing golfers to combine championship golf with the unique cultural experiences of Central Vietnam.

From the opening holes, the judging panel was struck by how Nicklaus Design embraced the site's natural landscape. Rather than reshaping the terrain, the designers preserved the existing dunes to create an authentic 36-hole links-style destination. There are no artificial lakes or heavily engineered landscapes; instead, rolling sand ridges, expansive fairways and open coastal vistas define the layout, capturing the timeless character of traditional links golf.

Measuring 7,519 yards, the championship course presents a formidable challenge. Expansive bunkers, multi-tiered greens covering up to 1,300 square metres and constantly shifting coastal winds demand thoughtful course management as much as precise execution. Golden Sands is planted with Bermuda grass, selected for its excellent tolerance to heat, wind and coastal conditions. The turf choice reflects Nicklaus Design's commitment to delivering consistently high playing quality throughout the year despite Central Vietnam's demanding climate.

Throughout the inspection round, the panel singled out the par-3 13th as one of the course's standout holes. Protected by four strategically positioned bunkers, the green rewards careful shot planning rather than aggressive flag-hunting. A steep slope beyond the back-right section of the green means even a slightly missed tee shot can quickly find sand. Although it is the shortest par 3 on the course, the ever-present sea breeze ensures that no shot is ever straightforward.

Beyond the golf course itself, the clubhouse delivers a refined resort experience. The judging panel also praised the professionalism and hospitality of the staff, whose attentive service contributes significantly to the overall guest experience, from arrival through to the completion of each round.

According to the judging panel, Golden Sands Golf Resort possesses all the ingredients to become one of Vietnam's leading golf destinations. Its proximity to the Imperial City of Hue, distinctive links-style design and seamless connection to Central Vietnam's rich cultural tourism assets give the resort tremendous appeal for both domestic and international golfers. To fully realise this potential, the panel believes continued improvements in air connectivity, accommodation and supporting hospitality services will further strengthen its competitiveness.

Oh Sang Jun, a member of the Vietnam Golf & Leisure Awards 2026 judging panel, commented: "Golden Sands has been built on one of the finest natural foundations for golf, a true sand base. Turf density remains one of the agronomic challenges, which is understandable for a course that has been open for less than two years. Continued investment in turf conditioning, together with further enhancement of the accommodation facilities, will help complete the overall experience and strengthen Golden Sands' appeal to golfers."

As the judging panel departed Golden Sands Golf Resort, what lingered was more than memories of rolling fairways across natural dunes and strategically designed greens. It was the impression of a golf course that tells the story of Hue through the language of links golf, where heritage, nature and championship design come together to create a destination unlike any other.

Take a look back at highlights from the judging panel's visit to Golden Sands Golf Resort on July 17, 2026.