Desaru Coast is fast building a reputation as a "must visit" golfing destination within easy reach of Singapore. With many of us looking forward to the days when travel can return, golfers will undoubtedly be spoilt for choice. Great for those looking to indulge both on and off the course, Desaru Coast boasts two world-class golf courses, four world-class hotels and an abundance of activities.  

Not convinced? Here are six more reasons to get The Els Club Desaru Coast on that destination wish list.

1.    Made by champions for champions 

The Els Club Desaru Coast is a 45-hole golfing paradise situated in the heart of Desaru Coast. Set against the South China Sea backdrop is the Ocean Course, a 27-hole course designed by a four-time major championship winner and former world number one, Ernie Els, and the Valley Course, an 18-hole golf course designed in collaboration with major champion Vijay Singh.  

The Ocean Course is suited to all skill levels, and golfers can experience three distinct nine-hole courses carved out of natural jungle terrain and untouched beach, namely the Ridge, Coast and Lakes. Golfers can choose to play various loops, including the Lakes & Coast, consisting of 7,335 yards, par 72, the Lakes & Ridge route with 7,337 yards, par 73 and the Ridge & Coast with 7,362 yards, par 73. The Valley Course is Els' first-ever collaboration, and the aptly named 18-hole course includes 187 bunkers and significantly elevated greens set amongst the breath-taking vistas, framed by luscious trees. Both courses bear the unique mark of Els with their beauty, elegance, and golf course flow. 

2.    World-class amenities right at your doorstep

The two golf courses are also home to clubhouses. The Ocean Course offers a state-of-the-art shop, two casual dining restaurants, premium locker room facilities and sweeping views of the course where golfers can relax and recharge. The Els Club Desaru Coast also features state of the art buggies made for the fairway, with a GPS-enabled screen that shows golfers the distance to the green and even allows them to order food.  

The Els Club Desaru Coast offers a golf and lifestyle experience inspired by Ernie Els' 20-plus years as a champion golfer, including dining options such as 261 Bar & Restaurant, named after Ernie's PGA Tour record-breaking 72-hole aggregate in the 2003 Mercedes Championship. Enjoy stunning views of the golf course at Lembah Restaurant with its wide selection of food, ranging from Malaysian to North Indian and Fijian cuisine. For golfers who prefer casual dining, choose between The Hornbill Café and Big Easy Bar & Grill to enjoy a hearty meal with your golf mates. 

For executives and professionals looking to organise meetings between a session or two in golf, one can do so with ease at the function rooms available at The Els Club Desaru Coast. The ballroom and meeting rooms at the Ocean and Valley Course Clubhouse are fully equipped to cater to a range of corporate functions from small business meetings to large scale MICE events; the possibilities are endless at Desaru Coast.  

3.    Practice Makes Perfect 

The Els Performance Golf Academy, known as EPGA, is Asia's first state-of-the-art centre of excellence. The academy is Ernie's latest venture in sharing his methods to success with juniors and adults alike. It is an excellent place with an opportunity for golfers and enthusiasts to learn the game and how it should be played and created for beginners and advanced golfers who wish to improve their performance. Some of the amenities include an all-grass driving range with over ten hitting stations, short game practice facilities to fine-tune anyone's short game and a nine-hole Par 3 Academy Course that will challenge those looking to sharpen their game skills. 

4.    World-Class Hotels

With over 800 rooms, Desaru Coast's portfolio of five-star hotels provides luxurious accommodation for those looking to relax and unwind after a day on the course. The Els Club Desaru Coast has introduced the Stay & Play Package 2021, which includes one round of golf at The Ocean Course, where one has the option to book the preferred rates now and pay later. 

The portfolio of luxury hotels includes the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, (pictured) which provides direct access to one of the world's largest waterparks and is an energetic, family-friendly option with an array of facilities to keep everyone entertained. The Westin Desaru Coast, on the other hand, offers majestic views of the South China Sea and is located alongside an adjoining conference centre, an excellent option for those who want to engage in business and relax after a day’s work.  

Boasting direct access to the beach, the Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villa, Thailand's Minor Hotels Group’s first Anantara branded hotel in Malaysia, is a luxury, family-oriented resort experience inspired by local culture and history. For a more intimate stay, the One&Only Desaru Coast offers a luxurious break with beachfront suites and villas. Each of Desaru Coast's hotels boasts an exceptional array of dining and beverage experiences with uniquely curated menus inspired by local flavours and ingredients.  

5.    There is something for everyone 

Visiting with family? It can be challenging to find the perfect holiday to fit everyone's diverse needs. The Els Club Desaru Coast is conveniently located to all the amenities and activities designed to keep everyone entertained, and kids can even enjoy Golf fun at the EPGA academy. 

With two sets of tees aptly named the "Big Easy" and "Little Easy", advanced players get to hone their approach while those new to the game boost their confidence from the shorter "Little Easy" tees. Its unique design allows the course to be played in many different directions and is also suitable for corporate events and team-building programs. Desaru Coast is also home to one of the world's largest waterpark – Adventure Waterpark. It features the Kids Ahoy, with three age-appropriate play areas filled with water play equipment and 13 water slides designed for various ages and water comfort levels, where toddlers, young children and teens can enjoy some splashing fun. 

Visitors can even soak in nature with Desaru Coast's nearby attractions that will bring guests back to basics. Be immersed in the natural wonders of nature with the exciting signature Call of the Gibbons tour at the Panti Forest Reserve or participate in the Tanjung Belungkor mangrove tour and Desaru Fruit Farm. Journey through the scenic and alluring Linting Wetlands river ecosystem dominated by tidal mangrove forests where the Belungkor Forest Reserve lies within. Throughout the journey, you can learn more about the variety of mangrove species and vegetation along with a quick induction to the history of the Johor Sultanate. 

6.    Close and Convenient 

With a brand-new ferry terminal scheduled to open at Desaru Coast in 2021, travellers will be able to enjoy direct access to the destination from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Singapore, in just over one hour. Reducing touchpoints and interaction will open up a safe option for those wanting to travel closer to home. Other options include a short drive to the resort via Woodlands, which provides the opportunity for leisurely stopovers en-route to sample the best of Johor's fresh seafood. With proximity to Singapore, Desaru Coast allows for stress-free travel for families or friends looking for a relaxing weekend green getaway.  

Whether a pro or a beginner, golfers alike will want to add these beautiful tropical greens to their travel wish lists. With an array of facilities and activities available for golfers and their families', Desaru Coast is a vacation destination for everyone. For more information, visit www.desarucoast.com or www.elsclubmalaysia.com/.

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