Thailand

The Kingdom of Siam is not only the land of smiles or a thousand temples, but also a golfing paradise with top-quality courses. Golf has been played in Thailand for nearly a century, but its development primarily occurred during the country's economic boom in the 1990s. The vast majority of golf courses were designed during this period by renowned architects such as Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Pete Dye, and many others. With over two hundred courses where one can play year-round thanks to the sunny and tropical climate, both professionals and amateurs find ample opportunities.

Wherever you are in Thailand, opportunities for golfing abound. For Europeans, the European winter is the best season to travel to Thailand (November to February), as the average temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius.
Thailand boasts over 120 high-quality golf courses, some of which are considered the finest in Asia, with luxurious amenities. Among the prestigious destinations, there are over thirty major clubs in Bangkok and its surroundings, about thirty to the west towards Pattaya, and about twenty more to the south in Hua Hin, six in Phuket in the extreme south, and finally eight in the north, in the Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai regions. This provides plenty of opportunities to "golf" during your vacation while exploring the country's cultural richness. Most clubs have a practice area, clubhouse, and pro shop where equipment can be rented. Some clubs even combine golf with luxury hotels, residences, or golf schools.

Wherever one is, Thais play golf. Their Asian neighbors—Japanese, Taiwanese, Koreans, Hong Kong Chinese, and Singaporeans—come in large numbers to enjoy the space and sunshine lacking in their countries because in Thailand, golf is played all year round. Professional and amateur players from the United States, Australia, and, of course, Europe are familiar with this destination, either on vacation or during major international tournaments. Once reserved for the elite, golf and major tournaments now have a significant presence in newspapers and on television, especially during appearances by Tiger Woods, whose mother is Thai.

A brief history of golf in Thailand

Golf was introduced to the country in 1924 by King Rama V, an avid golfer. He built the Royal Hua Hin Golf Club near his summer residence in the Hua Hin region.

Today, a popular golf vacation destination

Today, Thailand has emerged as a prime destination for golf enthusiasts. There are 260 courses spread across the country. The most spectacular courses are located near tourist attractions and attract golfers every year.

Golf vacations in Thailand cater to all expectations. You can choose between vast landscapes, challenging championship courses, unique parkland, or links courses. While playing, you'll have the opportunity to admire tropical biodiversity in pleasant weather.

Why choose a golf vacation in Thailand?

The landscape: What strikes in Thailand is the space and the idyllic setting: lush tropical vegetation, water everywhere, and often magnificent settings surrounded by mountains or bordered by the sea. Some golf courses are known for their unusual settings, such as the Thai Air Force Golf Club on the grounds of Bangkok International Airport between the runways of the international airport and those of the military. Similarly, in the North, the Mae Moh Golf Club, owned by EGAT (the local EDF), is located on the site of the former coal mines of the power plant.

The facilities: The vast majority of clubs offer luxurious facilities, including restaurants, gyms, golf shops, and very often a hotel, a golf school… The major golf courses, whether near the capital, on the coast in the south, or in the mountains in the north, offer exceptional hotel capacities.

Caddies: Caddies, always young girls or women, are mandatory. They know all the golfing tricks, including reading lines, which can prevent unnecessary points on a scorecard, and the advice that is recommended to reward with a tip.

Refreshments: Throughout your round, about every 2 or 3 holes, you'll find a rest area, a refreshment stand where you can quench your thirst, taste a slice of fresh pineapple or mango, nibble on a chicken skewer, or eat a green papaya salad.

Golf carts: All golf courses offer golf carts, as it is a well-established practice among Asian players. You can, of course, play in an electric cart, but on most courses, you must stay on the paths, which can sometimes make the cart less practical. Some courses, among the most prestigious, like the Santiburi Samui Country Club, require their use.

The top 5 most beautiful golf courses in Thailand

Phuket

Phuket is famous for hosting some of Thailand's most exceptional golf courses. Among them stands the Red Mountain Golf Club, known for its breathtaking panoramas and stunning views. Be sure to also visit the Blue Canyon Country Club, a renowned course that has seen golf legends such as Ernie Els and Tiger Woods.

Chiang Mai

Discover the natural beauty and fascinating culture of northern Thailand by playing golf in Chiang Mai and its surroundings. Test your skills on the 27-hole course at Chiang Mai Highlands Golf Club, one of the best in Asia. You can also choose from several other top-notch courses in the region, such as the 18-hole championship course at Mae Jo Golf Club & Resorts.

Hua Hin

In the west of the country, explore the Black Mountain Golf Club, located just outside Hua Hin. It offers a magnificent 27-hole championship course. For golfers looking to test their skills, the courses at Banyan Golf Club and Springfield Royal Country Club also offer challenging greens and spectacular views.

Pattaya

Even seasoned golfers will find challenges on the remarkable parkland course at St. Andrews 2000 Golf Club in Pattaya. With its spectacular design and demanding obstacles, this course promises a memorable experience. Similarly, the 18-hole course at Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi offers an exceptional golf retreat. From the first hole, the view of the surrounding mountains is captivating, while the course, designed by Denis Griffiths, will test your golfing skills.

Bangkok

Bangkok beckons with its many high-end golf courses. Among them, the Siam Country Club offers two courses. The Old Course is recognized as one of Thailand's best golf courses. The Plantation Course stands out as the first triple-green course in Asia. Not far away, Laem Chabang Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers a challenging course just outside Bangkok.

The best time to play

The best time to play golf in Thailand is during the intermediate season, from November to February. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with moderate temperatures and a cool breeze, ideal for playing without enduring high heat. The courses are green and well maintained. Avoid the rainy season, from May to October, as unpredictable precipitation can disrupt your golf outings.