Hoiana Shores Golf Club Achieves Dual GEO Certification, A Global First

Da Nang, Vietnam – August 2026

Hoiana Shores Golf Club has been awarded both GEO Certified® Development and GEO Certified® Facility status by the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf, becoming the first golf course in the world to hold both certifications.  

The recognition reflects the club’s long-term commitment to responsible development, environmental stewardship and sustainable course operations.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, the 18-hole championship course was developed on a coastal site previously affected by abandoned shrimp farm lakes, invasive plant species and waste dumping. Sustainability was embedded from the outset, supporting the restoration of the landscape into native dune terrain while creating a distinctive golfing experience centered on playability and fun.

In 2020, Hoiana Shores became the first golf course development in Southeast Asia to achieve GEO Certified® Development status. The club later adopted the OnCourse® sustainable golf platform to strengthen resource management, environmental performance and course maintenance practices.  

In 2025, Hoiana Shores achieved GEO Certified® Facility status for its ongoing operations, making it the first golf course globally to hold both certifications.

“Achieving both certif ications, for our development and now our approach to club and course management, has been a huge milestone for everyone at the club,” said Wee Peng Siong, General Manager of Hoiana Shores Golf Club. “We want to be at the forefront of the industry, and we hope others can see how sustainability has helped our course, our people and our business.”

Sam Thomas, Director of Developments at the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf, added: “Since I was last here during construction, it's clear the team has worked hard to keep the course as resource-efficient and nature-positive as possible. Hoiana Shores is really leading the field here in Vietnam, and I'm glad they came back to us to help with their continued improvement and push forward over the years ahead.”

Hoiana Shores has also developed a long-term Sustainable Golf Roadmap with the GEO Foundation, outlining future priorities across nature conservation, resource efficiency, community engagement and climate action.

The dual certification marks an important milestone in Hoiana Shores’ sustainability journey and supports Hoiana Resort & Golf’s broader commitment to responsible destination development in Central Vietnam.

About Hoiana Shores Golf Club

Located along the stunning coastline of Central Vietnam near Hoi An, Hoiana Shores Golf Club is a world-class championship links designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.. Ranked among the world’s top courses, it features a rare links-style layout shaped by natural dunes, firm sandy terrain and sweeping ocean views.

Stretching over 7,000 yards with multiple tee options, the course offers an engaging experience for golfers of all levels, with coastal winds ensuring every round is unique. Part of the integrated Hoiana Resort & Golf, the club also offers premium facilities, dining and five-star hospitality.

For more information, please visit www.hoiana.com.

About the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf

The GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf supports sustainability through its programmes and certifications across 60 countries, from its base in North Berwick, Scotland. Founded over 20 years ago, GEO has pioneered the sport's sustainability movement ever since, offering strategies, solutions, and certification to help golf reduce its environmental footprint.

Discover more: https://sustainable.golf/leaderboard/hoiana-shores-golf-club