When planning a golf trip to the Philippines, the first decision is whether to fly into Manila or directly into Clark. I chose Manila because it offered a wider choice of international flights, although it did mean a 90-minute transfer to Clark. If you can find a direct flight into Clark International Airport, you’ll be on the golf course within minutes of landing. One of the first things I noticed after arriving was just how widely English is spoken. It made travelling incredibly easy and is something that really sets the Philippines apart from some other golf destinations in Southeast Asia such as Thailand or Vietnam. Communication was effortless wherever we went, from hotels and restaurants to golf clubs and local attractions.
Our first two nights were spent at the impressive Hann Reserve Golf Resort, where we stayed at the luxurious Swissôtel Clark. The hotel exceeded expectations with spacious rooms, excellent restaurants and a lively casino, making it an ideal base for any golf holiday in Clark. Hann Reserve is shaping up to become one of Asia’s premier golf destinations, with three championship courses planned. At the moment, Dragons Landing designed by Jack Nicklaus is the first course to open, and it certainly is a great golf course in a fantastic setting. The conditioning was very good and the layout is both stunning and challenging. K.J. Choi’s championship course is expected to open later this year, while Sir Nick Faldo’s highly anticipated design is scheduled to follow by the end of 2027. With the LPGA Tour already set to visit Hann Reserve next year, there’s no doubt this resort is about to gain worldwide recognition.
The following day we made the 45-minute drive to the Japanese-owned Subic International Golf Club, which I would rate as the next best course, and it was well worth the journey. Set amongst rolling hills and mature trees, the course offers a completely different golfing experience and is full of character. The friendly hospitality throughout the day was outstanding, and I can honestly say the caddies were some of the most beautiful and welcoming I’ve encountered anywhere in Asia.
After two days of golf, we took a break from the fairways to visit Mount Pinatubo. The volcano’s famous eruption in 1991 reshaped the surrounding landscape and ultimately contributed to the closure of the former Clark Air Base, which has since become Clark International Airport. The adventure involved travelling by 4WD jeep across volcanic riverbeds before hiking to the crater lake. It’s a fantastic day trip, although weather conditions can change quickly, so having an experienced local guide is essential.
The next day, we were back to play both of the centrally based courses at Mimosa Plus. Both the Mountain View and Acacia courses were really enjoyable with the mature trees a major part of the courses and certainly easier to score on than Dragons Landing and Subic International.
Away from the golf, Angeles City surprised me. The nightlife is lively, there’s no shortage of great places to eat and drink, and throughout my stay I always felt comfortable walking around despite warnings to keep my phone in the room and to be careful. As with anywhere in the world, a little common sense goes a long way, but I found the city to be friendly and welcoming.
I left Clark excited about its future. Once the K.J. Choi and Nick Faldo courses open at Hann Reserve, I believe it will change the face of golf in The Philippines. For anyone considering a Philippines golf holiday, Clark already offers a fantastic combination of championship golf, quality accommodation, great value and genuine Filipino hospitality—and it’s only going to get better.
If you’re thinking about a golf trip to the Philippines, I’d definitely recommend putting Clark on your shortlist. Having now experienced it myself, I’m more than happy to share what I learnt and help point you in the right direction.
Feel free to get in touch with me by clicking the below button if you’d like to chat about the courses, hotels or the best way to put your trip together. I’d be pleased to help you plan a golf holiday you’ll remember.