Austin Heights Golf and Hotel Resort proves it’s more than a golf course—it’s a full-service family resort. Anchored by a challenging 18-hole layout by Nigel B. Douglas, modern hotel and leisure facilities, and a strategic location close to Singapore, it stands out as one of the premier golf destinations in Southern Malaysia.
The blend of on-course technical challenge, comfortable accommodations, and comprehensive amenities makes Austin Heights highly recommended for touring players, recreational golfers, and families looking to combine a holiday with great golf in Malaysia.
While a few areas still need polish—such as pool cleanliness and broader restaurant variety—overall value remains high. With competitive green fees, the resort outperforms many Johor peers on experience per ringgit.
If you’re after a golf getaway that also works for the whole family, add Austin Heights Golf and Hotel Resort to your shortlist. Here’s GoGolf complete review.
Austin Heights Golf and Hotel Resort A One-Stop Golf & Holiday Destination: Golf, Relaxation, and Entertainment in One
For many, golf is both sport and sanctuary—a way to decompress while spending quality time with family or colleagues. In Johor Bahru, Malaysia, one venue that truly combines golf, lodging, and family entertainment is Austin Heights Golf and Hotel Resort.
Long favored by expatriates, Singapore travelers, and local golfers seeking an international-standard experience without long travel, the resort sits just 15 minutes from downtown Johor Bahru and around 30 minutes from Singapore via the EDL. Austin Heights brings a different flavor than most Malaysian clubs.
Since opening in 1995, the resort has fused a strategic, characterful golf course with an upscale hotel and a spectrum of modern diversions. It’s fun for serious golfers and kid-friendly for easygoing family breaks—hence its reputation as one of Southern Malaysia’s best family golf resorts.
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Austin Heights Golf Course: Challenges Around Every Corner
Designed by Nigel B. Douglas
The Austin Heights course was crafted by Nigel B. Douglas, the architect behind standouts such as Willow Golf Club (Australia), Seri Selangor, Kota Permai, Lake Kenyir, and Valencia (Sarawak). His signature is evident throughout: rolling topography, tilted greens, and well-placed water create a course where execution and course management matter on every hole.
From day one, the routing drew attention for its elevation changes, sloped putting surfaces, and risk-reward water carries. You’re tested not just on ball-striking but on strategy and shot selection as conditions shift hole to hole.
Signature Tests & Iconic Holes
- Hole 14 is often cited among the world’s memorable short par 4s. A pronounced dogleg with a large tree guarding the front of the green, it demands exacting placement. Miss your spot and the ball can finish behind the tree or kick toward a drop-off. At only 305 meters, its subtlety is the defense—short but devious.
- Hole 10 ups the stakes with a lake encircling the fairway ~200 meters from the tee. Commit to your line and distance or pay the water penalty; a canted green and lush surrounds add short-game difficulty.
- Hole 18 (Par 4, 385 meters) is a crowd-pleaser: a classic finishing frame with the clubhouse as backdrop, delivering a dramatic close.
Calibrated Difficulty
Beginners will find Austin Heights demanding but fair; the undulating ground and longer transitions between some holes do require energy and focus. That same variety makes the course a hit with better players—no two shots feel the same, and the round never drifts into repetition.
Put simply, Austin Heights earns its reputation as a world-class, character-rich layout—a style that’s increasingly rare in Malaysia.
Resort-Level Amenities at Austin Heights Golf and Hotel Resort
Beyond the course, Austin Heights layers on comfort and convenience to round out a full resort experience.
Premium Clubhouse
The clubhouse serves as a social hub for golfers and non-golfers alike, featuring free Wi-Fi, modern locker rooms, a restaurant, and a comfortable lounge. Enjoy course-view seating and unwind post-round.
Sports & Recreation
A broad slate of facilities keeps families and non-golfers engaged:
- Fitness center with modern equipment
- Swimming pool with waterslides, ideal for kids and adults
- Bowling and table tennis for casual fun
- Tennis courts for an alternative hit
- Games room with billiards—a popular evening meetup
18-Bay Driving Range
Warm up properly or dial in your swing at the 18-bay range with natural target greens—a realistic build that mirrors on-course conditions.
Together, these features deliver a true family-resort concept—golf, play, and downtime in one address.
Austin Heights Guest Feedback: What Golfers and Families Say
Reviews trend positive from both golf travelers and family vacationers.
What Stands Out
- Spacious, comfortable rooms: Families appreciate the generous footprints and good value.
- All-in entertainment: Beyond the 18-hole course, there’s pool time, bowling, even a mini cinema feel—convenient for one-stop holidays.
- Prime location: Only 15 minutes to central JB and close to Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park—great for mixed itineraries.
- Friendly staff: While some service points can be slow at times, overall demeanor is warm and helpful.
Where It Can Improve
- Pool cleanliness: The area occasionally needs more frequent upkeep, although the jacuzzi and lounges earn praise.
- Restaurant variety: Menus are solid but limited; more international options would elevate the dining program.
- Service consistency: Room and restaurant service speed can lag—tightening operations would align with five-star expectations.
Net-net, Austin Heights is widely considered well worth a visit, especially for families blending golf with a relaxed resort stay.
Austin Heights Golf and Hotel Resort Green Fees
For 2025, Austin Heights offers competitive pricing versus other international-standard Johor clubs:
| Day | Time | 9 Holes (MYR) | 18 Holes (MYR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | Morning | 80 | 130 |
| Weekdays | Afternoon | 90 | 150 |
| Saturday | Morning & Afternoon | 160 | 290 |
| Sunday | Morning | 160 | 210 |
| Sunday | Afternoon | 150 | 190 |
Rates include access to clubhouse facilities and the driving range. The AM/PM split and weekend differentials give players flexibility to match budget and schedule.
Compared with other Johor Bahru venues, Austin Heights represents strong value—pairing affordable fees with upscale amenities and memorable, strategic golf.
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