Bali does something to you. The pace drops, the food is ridiculous value, and even a modest villa feels like you're living well. This week reminded me why it's one of the best short-break destinations in Asia, and it got me properly excited about what it would look like with clubs in the bag.
Here's what I've been working out poolside, a proper Bali golf weekend from Singapore costs less than you'd think. We're talking flights, two nights in a private villa with a pool, and a round of golf, all in for under SGD 600. That's not roughing it either. Budget villas with a private pool and modern comforts can be found for under SGD 120 per villa per night, and when you split that between two, the accommodation almost feels like a rounding error. Seminyak, Canggu, Legian and Uluwatu are the go-to areas, all within easy striking distance of the southern courses.
On the golf itself, the island punches above its weight. New Kuta Golf on the Bukit Peninsula is the standout for scenery, clifftop Indian Ocean views, off-peak green fees from around SGD 100–120, and it sits right in the south where most of the good villas are. For value, Handara Golf Resort in the highlands runs from SGD 60–80 off-peak, the most budget-friendly option on the island, set in a volcanic crater about 1,200 metres up. Dramatic setting, cooler temps, completely different vibe to the coast. Both are worth the trip in their own right.
Getting here from Singapore couldn't be easier. Return fares start from around SGD 130 on Scoot, the flight is under three hours, and mid-week departures and booking four to eight weeks ahead tend to land you the best prices. Do the rough maths, SGD 160 flights, SGD 90 villa per person for two nights, SGD 140 for a round at New Kuta with caddie, SGD 100 for food and transport, you're at around SGD 490 and you've still got room for a post-round Bintang and a massage.
QUICK FACTS
- Green fees: SGD 75–160 depending on course (Handara cheapest, New Kuta the scenery pick)
- Getting there: Scoot or Jetstar direct from Changi, ~2h 45m, return from SGD 130
- Best time to go: November–early December (cheapest flights, avoid Galungan crowds)
- Caddie: Optional at Handara (~SGD 20), included at most other courses
- Book via: GolfSavers.com for tee times; villa-bali.com or Airbnb for villas
TAKEAWAY
Bali is brilliant with or without golf, this week proved that. But it's also one of those places where adding a round feels completely natural. Private villa, tropical heat, a caddie who actually knows the course, cold beer at the 19th. Next trip, the clubs are coming. If you've been thinking the same thing, the numbers make it very easy to say yes.
