the golf course is set up daily to offer all levels of golfers the challenge that suits their game.
The Heritage Nine reopened in May 2013, and with its reopening, the 18-hole course renovation project at Shangri-La was complete. What started out as a much-needed facelift turned into a total reconstruction of the entire facility. Following a three-year renovation project, the former Old Blue Course at Shangri-La now includes dramatic changes to the new Heritage Nine. Architect Tom Clark has transformed it into a modern classic.
The Championship Nine, a par 36, combines the challenge of water, bunkers, and fairway movement with a series of equally challenging undulating greens. With dramatic water features, spectacular views of Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees, and vast white sand bunkers, the Champions Nine always provides a fun day on a spectacular course.
Champions Nine, hole 1, par 5, approach shot view.
To provide a glimpse of what is to come, the first hole on the Champions Nine golf course, a par 5, begins your round at Shangri- La with a relaxing hole, providing a smooth transition from the driving range to the first tee. However, be cautious— one errant shot can cost you several strokes on your scorecard. Although # 1 is not unusually long, it plays into the prevailing wind. The large fairway bunker in the driver landing area protects the go-zone on the right side of this reachable par 5. With tall trees lining the left side of the approach shot, hitting your tee shot in that direction will force you to lay up every time. Don’ t be tempted to carry the pond protecting the left side of the green unless your confidence is high. Coming up short and left of the green will funnel your shot back into the pond. A properly executed layup shot will leave a final approach from 50 to 100 yards. Make sure your ball lands on the right side of the hole, or you might end up with a three-putt.
The Battlefield course, an 18-hole full-length par 3 course, is the newest addition at Shangri-La Resort. It officially opened in August 2023 and offers one of the nation’ s most unique full-length par 3 golf course experiences. It continues to garner rave reviews.
The Battlefield, an 18-hole full-length par 3 course.
The course is not your typical par 3 course— bring all your clubs. You can use them all! Play different tees and experience different games. Mix it up. And have a great time! The terrain is rugged— like a World War II battlefield set in a wooded area with dramatic elevation changes. The facility has its own clubhouse, turn-house concessions, and golf carts. It also has a short warm-up facility and an expansive practice putting green. The full practice facility and driving range remain adjacent to the main Shangri-La clubhouse.
The Battlefield’ s unique 18-hole full-length par 3 course allows players of all levels to use every iron in their bag if they desire. Located away from the Championship Golf facility, the par 3 holes are built on 80 acres of rugged terrain, with more than 100 feet of elevation change throughout the property. As you wind through the natural feel of creeks and falls, exposed rock outcroppings and railroad ties hold the land together. Although the course is designed for all players, the challenge you choose is up to you. With five sets of tees, players can choose the more manageable, shorter teeing options with more direct access from tee to green. Players may choose to push play to the back tees, which brings the beautiful, well-placed bunkers, creeks, and the complex features of the dramatic greens into play. From the back tees, the Battlefield presents holes ranging from 110 to 245 yards.
Although some players may prefer to walk the Battlefield’ s rolling course, golf carts are available for daily play. After play, a patio overlooks the beautiful landscape where you can relax and see several green complexes throughout the course. Inside the clubhouse, the Canteen offers fresh tacos, wraps, and salads, along with a full signature cocktail menu. The golf shop offers a historic feel with great souvenirs and clothing options for all your golfing needs.
The Battlefield is open six days a week( closed Wednesdays). The Championship Course at Shangri-La is open for play seven days a week( as the seasons allow).
There is truly something for everyone at Shangri-La, 31000 South Hwy 123, Monkey Island, OK 74331. To learn more about Shangri- La Resort’ s“ Stay & Play” golf getaway opportunities, visit www. ShangriLaOK. com. You may also follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
TeeTimesMagazine. com TEE TIMES GOLF GUIDE March 2026 17