The Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course (香港赛马会滘西洲公众高尔夫球场) is the only public golf course in Hong Kong. Located on the scenic island of Kau Sai Chau (滘西洲), just 15–20 minutes by ferry from Sai Kung (西贡), it offers breathtaking views of the South China Sea and the surrounding countryside.
Since its opening in December 1995, the course has become one of the busiest public golf facilities in the world, welcoming both seasoned golfers and beginners. Built as a community project, the Hong Kong Government provided the land free of charge, while the Hong Kong Jockey Club (香港赛马会) invested HKD 500 million to develop the facilities, with the goal of making golf accessible to all.
Covering over 250 hectares, the club boasts three 18-hole championship courses, extensive practice facilities, and a full suite of services for players of all levels.
History & Concept
Kau Sai Chau’s development marked a turning point in Hong Kong’s golf history. Before 1995, golf was seen as an elite pastime. The establishment of a public golf course allowed the wider community to participate in the sport. The North and South Courses were designed by South African golf legend Gary Player (加里·普莱尔), while the East Course was designed by Nelson & Haworth. The vision was to balance championship-level golf with accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.
The Three Courses
East Course
- Designer: Nelson & Haworth
- Length: 6,640 yards
- Style: Challenging, scenic, cart-only
The East Course is renowned for its dramatic elevation changes and panoramic ocean views. With strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens, it tests both accuracy and creativity. Golf carts are mandatory due to the terrain, but this also allows players to fully enjoy the sweeping coastal scenery.
North Course
- Designer: Gary Player (加里·普莱尔)
- Length: 6,719 yards
- Style: Links-inspired, walking only
The North Course delivers a true links-style experience, evoking the rugged coastal courses of Scotland. While not the longest, it demands precision and strategy, rewarding accurate shot-making. Walking is compulsory here, making it especially popular among purists who enjoy the authentic rhythm of golf on foot.
South Course
- Designer: Gary Player (加里·普莱尔)
- Length: 5,906 yards
- Style: Shorter, flexible, inland-meets-coastal
The South Course is the most beginner-friendly. Shorter in length, it mixes inland fairways with coastal holes, offering a diverse yet less intimidating experience. Golfers can choose to walk or ride, and the course is known for its twilight rounds and 9-hole options, ideal for leisure players or those short on time.
Facilities & Services
- Driving Range: Over 60 floodlit practice bays, open late into the evening.
- Short Game Areas: Chipping greens, putting greens, and bunkers for focused training.
- Golf Academy: Professional coaches offer lessons for all levels, from beginners to advanced players.
- Dining Options: Clubhouse restaurants serve both Chinese and Western cuisine at reasonable prices, with seating overlooking the course and ocean.
- Pro Shop: Fully stocked with equipment, apparel, and accessories.
- Event Venues: Banquet halls and meeting rooms for corporate events, tournaments, and private gatherings.
- Locker Rooms: Spacious, with showers and relaxation areas.
Accessibility & Transport
By Ferry
- Boarding Point: Sai Kung Public Pier (西贡公众码头)
- Journey Time: 15–20 minutes
- Frequency: Every 20 minutes during the day, every 30 minutes after 8:00 pm
- Fares: Adults HKD 75, Seniors/Children HKD 40 (round trip)
By Car
- Drive to Sai Kung and use the dedicated parking facilities. From there, transfer via the course’s private ferry.
- Parking Fees: HKD 11–15/hour for guests; slightly higher for non-guests. Weekend and holiday rates apply.
By Public Transport
- Buses and minibuses connect Diamond Hill MTR Station to Sai Kung town center, from where ferries depart.
Fees & Packages
- Driving Range: HKD 50 (30 mins), HKD 95 (1 hour)
- All-Day Pass: HKD 360 (weekdays) / HKD 400 (weekends & public holidays) — includes ferry, practice facilities, and meal vouchers.
- Twilight Rounds: Discounted evening sessions, especially popular in summer.
- 9-Hole Rounds: Available on the South Course for a shorter playtime.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Reservations: Book tee times in advance — weekends and holidays fill up quickly.
- What to Bring: Passport/ID and driver’s license if renting a cart.
- Equipment Rentals: Clubs, carts, and trolleys available on-site.
- For Beginners: The South Course or practice range with academy lessons is ideal.
- For Experienced Players: The North Course provides the ultimate walking challenge.
- Best Views: The East Course offers unparalleled scenery for photographers.
Beyond Golf: Leisure & Nature
Kau Sai Chau (滘西洲) is more than just golf. The island’s natural environment is perfect for:
- Scenic Walks: Stroll along coastal paths to catch ocean breezes.
- Sunset Viewing: The courses overlook the South China Sea, offering spectacular twilight views.
- Day Trips: Combine a round of golf with seafood dining in Sai Kung (西贡), famous for its waterfront restaurants.
Why Visit Kau Sai Chau Golf Course?
The Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course (香港赛马会滘西洲公众高尔夫球场) is a fusion of sport, accessibility, and natural beauty. Whether you’re an experienced golfer chasing a championship feel, a beginner eager to try the sport, or simply someone seeking a relaxing day surrounded by sea and mountains, Kau Sai Chau delivers an unforgettable experience.
Here, golf is not just a game — it’s part of the landscape, culture, and lifestyle of Hong Kong.
Chinese Name:香港滘西洲公众高尔夫俱乐部 (54洞)
Chinese Address:香港西贡滘西洲
Tel:852-2791 3388