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Ocean Fairways of Lombok: A Day at Sire Beach’s Kosaido Golf Club

Ocean Fairways of Lombok: A Day at Sire Beach’s Kosaido Golf Club

Play 18 on a tropical peninsula with ocean winds, mountain views, and a course that rewards smart shotmaking.

Senggigi, West Nusa Tenggara
By Eric Crews
land adventuresJuneDry season (May–September)

The fairway rises like a green tide, rolling toward the glinting channel that separates Lombok from the Gili Islands. A sea breeze nudges your cap, then tests your grip, the wind insisting you pay attention. Out beyond the palms, Mount Rinjani watches from the northeast—its broad shoulders catching morning light—while the water to the west flickers with the coming traffic of island-hopping boats. Sire Beach’s Kosaido Golf Club doesn’t just host a round of golf; it stages it against a tropical backdrop that refuses to sit still.

Trail Wisdom

Chase the Early Tee Time

Book a morning slot for cooler temps, calmer winds, and faster greens before the afternoon breeze builds.

Club Up in the Trade Winds

Coastal gusts can knock shots down—plan one to two extra clubs when the onshore wind stiffens.

Hydrate Like It Matters

Carry two large bottles plus electrolytes; tropical heat can sneak up by the back nine.

Respect Dress Code and Caddie Culture

Collared shirts and soft spikes are standard; bring rupiah for caddie tipping and follow their reads on grain.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Walk Pantai Sire at low tide after your round for Gili Island sunset views and quiet shoreline
  • Browse Tanjung’s morning market for fresh fruit and sambal to sample a slice of Sasak daily life

Wildlife

Collared kingfisher, Monitor lizard

Conservation Note

Stay on cart paths and avoid trampling coastal vegetation; refill water to reduce plastic and keep the peninsula’s dune-edge habitats intact.

The 18-hole course was shaped by Peter Thomson, Michael Wolveridge, and Ross Perrett, a team known for designs that follow natural landforms rather than fight them.

Seasonal Guide

spring

Best for: Quieter fairways, Lush scenery

Challenges: Humid afternoons, Pop-up showers

March–May brings warm, humid rounds with occasional quick showers—book earlier tee times to beat the heat.

summer

Best for: Dry fairways, Crisp mountain views

Challenges: Stronger afternoon winds, High UV index

June–August is the driest window with steady trade winds and superb visibility toward Rinjani.

fall

Best for: Still mornings, Golden light

Challenges: Late-day thunderstorms, Slick turf during squalls

September–November starts hot and still before storm cycles; mornings are prime for fast, calm conditions.

winter

Best for: Lush greens, Dramatic skies

Challenges: Heavy rain, Lightning delays

December–February is monsoon season—expect vivid greens and moody clouds, with weather holds possible.

Photographer's Notes

Pack a polarizer to tame glare off the bay, and shoot the ocean-side holes during golden hour when the Gilis silhouette cleanly. Use a wide-angle for sweeping fairway-to-sea frames, and carry a light telephoto (200mm) for kingfishers near water features. Keep a microfiber cloth handy for salt spray and sudden showers; a compact rain cover saves the day.

What to Bring

Breathable collared shirt and quick-dry shortsEssential

Lightweight fabrics keep you cool and within dress code under equatorial sun.

Soft-spike golf shoesEssential

Provide traction on dewy mornings and during post-shower turf conditions.

High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen and lip balmEssential

Intense UV and reflective water demand strong, frequent protection.

Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)

Useful near water features and at dawn/dusk when mosquitoes are more active.

Common Questions

Are rental clubs and carts available?

Yes—both are typically available at the clubhouse, but reserve in advance if you have specific preferences.

Is there a dress code?

Collared shirts and tailored shorts or trousers are standard; soft spikes only and no denim or swimwear.

Do I need a handicap certificate?

Usually not required, though pace-of-play and basic etiquette are expected on this championship layout.

Are caddies mandatory and how do I tip?

Caddies are customary and highly recommended; tip in Indonesian rupiah at the end of the round.

What happens if it rains or there’s lightning?

Tropical squalls are common; play may be paused for lightning. Check with the clubhouse for delay or rescheduling policies.

Can non-golfers ride along?

Riders are often allowed for an additional fee, subject to availability—confirm with the club when booking.

What to Pack

Collared, breathable golf apparel for heat and dress code; SPF 50+ sunscreen and a brimmed hat for equatorial sun; Electrolyte tabs to stay sharp in humidity; Cash in rupiah for caddie tips and small on-course purchases.

Did You Know

Mount Rinjani, visible from the course on clear days, is Indonesia’s second-highest volcano at 3,726 meters and anchors a national park established in 1997.

Quick Travel Tips

Book morning tee times to beat wind and heat; Carry backup sunscreen and a lightweight rain shell for pop-up squalls; Bring rupiah cash for caddie tips—ATMs are limited near Sire; Combine your round with an afternoon snorkel on the nearby Gili Islands.

Local Flavor

Refuel at simple warungs near Tanjung with ayam Taliwang, plecing kangkung, and freshly grilled fish. Pair it with a cold coconut or a local coffee, then wander the shoreline stalls for woven textiles and spices. The pace is easy, the flavors big, and the welcome genuine.

Logistics Snapshot

Closest airport: Lombok International (LOP) in Praya. Drive time: ~1.5–2 hours to Sire Beach; ~40 minutes from Senggigi. Cell service: Generally good with occasional weak spots. Permits: None; book tee times in advance. Dress code enforced; bring rupiah for tips and small expenses.

Sustainability Note

This coastal course borders sensitive dune and shoreline habitats—stick to cart paths, avoid retrieving balls from fragile vegetation, and choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect nearby marine life.

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