The Southern Links Resort

Course Overview

The Southern Links Resort offers an 18-hole, par 72 layout, playing approximately 6,700 to 6,900 yards from the championship tees. Designed by Osamu Ueda and opened in 1989, the course is known for its dramatic seaside "links-style" holes perched atop ocean cliffs. Fairways and greens are typically maintained with Platinum Paspalum, a warm-season grass well-suited for the Okinawan climate.

The course's defining characteristic is its exposure to the Pacific Ocean, creating a challenging environment where strategic play is paramount. Holes 7 and 8, both par-3s requiring substantial carries over the ocean, are particularly renowned for their stunning visuals and difficulty, often into a prevailing headwind. This resort course combines resort-level conditioning with the raw elements of coastal golf.

Layout & Strategy

Hole 7, a par 3, presents an immediate visual challenge with the tee box situated on a cliff overlooking the ocean. The green is nestled on another clifftop peninsula; a strong, accurate tee shot is critical to clear the chasm. Most players will opt for a mid-to-long iron or even a hybrid, depending heavily on the wind direction and strength, aiming for the center of the green to avoid the steep drops on all sides.

Immediately following, Hole 8, another par 3, continues the ocean carry theme, often playing from a different angle with the sea to your left. While the distance may be similar to Hole 7, the change in perspective and wind dynamics demands a fresh assessment, making club selection crucial. The putting lines on these greens, while often subtle, are influenced by the slope towards the ocean, requiring careful reading.

The 18th hole, typically a par 4 or 5, provides a demanding finish, often playing into the prevailing wind towards the clubhouse. This hole frequently features strategic bunkering and a water hazard near the green, placing pressure on the approach shot. A precise drive is essential to set up a manageable second shot, making a par a truly earned score.

Practical Info

Green fees generally range from 18,000-28,000 JPY on weekdays and 25,000-35,000 JPY on weekends and holidays, inclusive of cart fees. The Southern Links Resort is publicly accessible, but advance reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend play or during peak seasons. All rounds typically include a riding cart, often equipped with GPS, and walking is generally not permitted.

The dress code requires standard golf attire: collared shirts, golf slacks or shorts, and soft-spike golf shoes. Denim and t-shirts are not permitted on the course. While caddies are an option for an additional fee, they are not universally mandatory, but can significantly assist with local course knowledge and wind reads.

Access

The Southern Links Resort is located in Yaese, Okinawa, and is most practically accessed by car. There are no direct train stations in Okinawa. The nearest major hub and airport is Naha, which is approximately a 45-60 minute drive from the resort, covering a distance of about 25-30 kilometers. Ample on-site parking is available for guests.

Clubhouse Notes

The clubhouse facilities at Southern Links are commensurate with a premium resort experience. Expect spacious and well-appointed locker rooms, offering comfort before and after your round. The large public bath facility (daiyokujo) provides a relaxing soak, with views of the surrounding landscape or gardens in a serene environment. The restaurant primarily serves a range of local Okinawan specialties and fresh seafood dishes, perfect for a post-round meal.

Tips

For optimal playing conditions, consider visiting between March-May or October-November to avoid the intense summer heat, humidity, and the peak typhoon season (typically August-September). A common mistake is underestimating the persistent winds off the Pacific, often requiring an extra club or two, or a more conservative shot shape. Always factor in the wind when selecting clubs for carries over the ocean. Peak season pricing applies during holidays and the shoulder seasons, so booking well in advance is advisable to secure preferred tee times.