Golf in Singapore: 2025 Guide After Marina Bay Closure

Quick Overview

Marina Bay Closure: As of June 2024, the public 18-hole course is no longer available.

Green Fee Status: Prices range from approx. $50 for 9 holes to $740 for premium courses.

Booking Essentials: Joining My Golf Kaki (MGK) and managing your handicap is a must.

When you first move to Singapore, golf is often one of the first hobbies people look into. You likely arrived with high hopes, hearing that it's more affordable and accessible than in Korea, only to find that the landscape has changed significantly.

In particular, the permanent closure of the Marina Bay Golf Course (MBGC) in June 2024—previously the best value-for-money option—has left many wondering, "Where do I play now?" Here is a summary of the latest information and realistic costs for enjoying a round of golf in Singapore in 2025.

Currently Available Public and Visitor-Friendly Courses

The first thing to note is that there are no longer any "18-hole public courses" within Singapore. However, there are still several locations where you can book a tee time as a visitor.

Mandai Executive Golf Course: This is currently Singapore's only public course, but it is a 9-hole (Par 29) layout. It's great for beginners or short-game practice, but keep in mind it is also scheduled to close on December 31, 2026, so visit while you can.

Keppel Club (Sime Course): Keppel Club currently operates the Sime Course, which was formerly used by SICC. Since visitor bookings are allowed even for non-members, it has become one of the most popular alternatives for the Korean community lately.

Orchid Country Club (OCC): Located in Yishun, this is a 27-hole club with clean facilities that is relatively welcoming to visitors. It is especially popular with working professionals as night golf is available from Wednesday to Friday.

2025 Green Fee Comparison for Major Courses

Golfing costs in Singapore vary greatly between weekdays and weekends, and prices differ significantly depending on membership status. The table below shows approximate 18-hole round costs for visitors.

Course Name	Weekday Green Fee (SGD)	Weekend Green Fee (SGD)	Approx. KRW Equivalent
Mandai (9-hole)	SGD 41 ~ 42	SGD 60	Approx. 50k ~ 70k KRW
Keppel (Sime)	SGD 210 ~ 230	Hard to book	Approx. 240k ~ 260k KRW
Orchid (OCC)	SGD 250	SGD 360	Approx. 290k ~ 410k KRW
Sentosa (SGC)	SGD 501	SGD 643	Approx. 580k ~ 740k KRW

While these rates usually include buggy fees and insurance, Singapore's 9% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is often added separately, so be sure to check during payment. As a world-class venue, Sentosa’s prices are understandably high.

Booking Know-How and Essentials

Playing golf in Singapore requires more than just a budget. You need to understand the local system to win the "booking war."

Handicap Certificate Required: Almost all courses require a USGA Handicap Index or a Proficiency Certificate (PC). If you don't have one, you may be required to take a simple on-site test for about SGD 11.

Join My Golf Kaki (MGK): For Singapore residents, joining MGK (operated by NTUC) is highly recommended. Even without a private club membership, they manage your handicap and offer benefits like booking Orchid CC at member-affiliated rates.

Lightning-Fast Timing: Tee times typically open 7 to 14 days in advance. For Mandai, the online portal opens at 8 PM, 11 days prior. Slots often sell out within a minute, so it’s best to be logged in and ready.

Pro-Tips to Remember!

Finally, here are some practical tips for those preparing for a round in Singapore.

Johor Bahru (JB) Trips: If Singapore's green fees are too steep, look across the border to Johor Bahru, Malaysia (Horizon Hills, Forest City, etc.). Even considering travel time, costs are 50-70% cheaper, making it a top choice for weekend golfers.

Beware of Lightning Warnings (Cat 1): Lightning is frequent in Singapore. If the 'Cat 1' siren sounds, play must stop immediately. Most courses do not offer refunds or rain checks once you have teed off, so always check a weather app.

Dress Code: The dress code is often stricter than in Korea. Collared shirts must be tucked in, and entry may be refused for cargo pants or denim materials.