Thailand Golf Guide: The Complete Country Overview
From seaside greens to mountain fairways, Thailand offers one of the most diverse and rewarding golf experiences in the world. With over 250 courses spread across tropical coastlines, misty hills, and historic cities — every swing in the Kingdom tells a story of beauty, culture, and legendary hospitality.
Why Golf in Thailand?
Thailand has quietly become Asia’s premier golf destination, attracting everyone from professionals to leisure travelers seeking world-class play paired with unforgettable travel experiences. What sets Thailand apart isn’t just the quality of its courses — it’s the warmth of its people, the precision of its service, and the country’s natural and cultural diversity.
A Golfer’s Paradise
- Year-Round Play: Thanks to Thailand’s tropical climate and well-drained fairways, golf is possible 12 months a year.
- World-Class Design: Over 250 courses designed by icons like Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones Jr., and Greg Norman.
- Affordable Luxury: Green fees and caddie services are among the best-value in Asia, even at championship courses.
- Exceptional Service: Every golfer is assigned a personal caddie — a hallmark of Thailand’s hospitality and tradition.
- Rich Diversity: From mountain golf in Chiang Rai to seaside rounds in Phuket, each region offers a unique style and story.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned golf traveler, Thailand’s charm lies in the perfect balance between play, relaxation, and adventure.
The Geography of Golf in Thailand
Golf in Thailand mirrors the country’s landscape: diverse, dramatic, and deeply local. The Kingdom’s five major golfing regions each offer distinct scenery, climate, and experience.
1. Bangkok and Central Thailand — Urban Excellence
Home to more than 60 golf courses, Bangkok and its surrounding provinces combine convenience with luxury. Many top-tier clubs are within 45–60 minutes of downtown, ideal for business travelers or short-stay visitors.
Highlights:
- Thai Country Club – a prestigious course known for immaculate conditioning and five-star service.
- Royal Gems Golf City – a hybrid course recreating famous international holes.
- Alpine Golf & Sports Club – host of major tournaments and a top pick for serious golfers.
Stay in central Bangkok for nightlife, dining, and world-class hotels — then escape to green fairways by morning.
2. Northern Thailand — Mountains and Culture
Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai define northern golf — cool mornings, forested hills, and an atmosphere of calm. The region’s terrain makes for creative layouts, while ancient temples and Lanna heritage add spiritual depth to every trip.
Highlights:
- Santiburi Chiang Rai Country Club — northern Thailand’s signature layout.
- Chiang Mai Highlands and Alpine Chiang Mai — set against misty mountain backdrops.
- Affordable green fees, clean mountain air, and a slower pace of life.
Perfect for travelers who prefer serenity and scenic beauty over crowds and nightlife.
3. Eastern Seaboard (Pattaya & Rayong) — Coastal Variety
Just two hours from Bangkok, Pattaya has emerged as Thailand’s “Golf Capital by the Sea.” With more than 25 courses, modern infrastructure, and luxury resorts, it offers both convenience and variety.
Highlights:
- Siam Country Club (Old Course, Plantation, Rolling Hills) – LPGA host and global benchmark.
- Laem Chabang International Country Club – Jack Nicklaus design excellence.
- Chee Chan Golf Resort – cutting-edge design with views of the golden Buddha Mountain.
Golfers here enjoy the best of both worlds — morning rounds by the sea, evenings of entertainment and fine dining.
4. Southern Thailand (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui) — Island Luxury
In the south, golf meets tropical paradise. The courses here blend palm-lined fairways with ocean panoramas and world-class resort amenities.
Highlights:
- Red Mountain Golf Club (Phuket) – carved through a former tin mine, offering thrilling elevation changes.
- Laguna Golf Phuket – resort golf at its finest.
- Santiburi Samui Country Club – dramatic ocean views from every tee.
Southern Thailand is made for golfers seeking luxury, leisure, and lifestyle — where each round can end with a swim in the sea or a sunset cocktail.
5. Northeast Thailand (Isan) — Authentic and Undiscovered
The Isan region remains Thailand’s best-kept secret for golfers who crave authenticity. Expect friendly locals, excellent value, and beautiful inland scenery stretching across rice fields and gentle hills.
Highlights:
- Singha Park Khon Kaen Golf Club – world-class course owned by Singha Brewery.
- Buriram United Country Club – modern design tied to a sports complex.
- Victory Park Golf Club (Nong Khai) – tranquil fairways near the Mekong River.
Isan represents the heart of Thailand — unhurried, humble, and rich with genuine hospitality.
The Seasons of Thai Golf
Thailand’s golf season varies by region but remains playable all year.
| Season | Months | Conditions | Ideal Regions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool Season | Nov – Feb | Clear skies, dry air, comfortable temps (20–28°C) | Everywhere — peak season |
| Hot Season | Mar – May | Sunny, warm (30–36°C); morning rounds recommended | North, East, Isan |
| Green Season | Jun – Oct | Afternoon showers, lush landscapes, off-peak discounts | Southern and central Thailand |
💡 Pro Tip: The “green season” offers incredible value — lower rates, fewer tourists, and fairways at their lushest. Just schedule morning tee times to beat the rain.
Beyond the Fairways
Golf may bring travelers to Thailand, but it’s the country’s culture, cuisine, and character that keep them coming back.
Cultural Heritage
Every region tells a story: from Ayutthaya’s crumbling temples to Chiang Rai’s shimmering White Temple, or the royal palaces of Bangkok. Even golf courses often reflect local artistry in their clubhouses and landscaping.
Thai Cuisine
Few golfing destinations pair fine dining and local flavor like Thailand. Enjoy spicy som tam salads in Isan, seafood feasts in Hua Hin, or elegant tasting menus in Bangkok. After a round, every meal feels like a reward.
Wellness & Relaxation
Post-round indulgence is practically an art form here. Most resorts include spa treatments, traditional Thai massage, and wellness programs. Golfers often plan “play and spa” itineraries to unwind after a long day in the sun.
Adventure & Nature
Whether it’s snorkeling off Koh Samui, hiking in Chiang Mai’s mountains, or kayaking down Kanchanaburi’s rivers, golf travelers can easily turn a vacation into an adventure.
Golf Culture & Hospitality
The Caddie Tradition
Every golfer in Thailand is paired with a trained caddie, most of whom are women — friendly, knowledgeable, and precise. They read greens, track shots, and often make the round more enjoyable through conversation and local insight.
“The caddies here make you smile, even when you’re two over par.” — A returning golf traveler
Service Standards
Clubhouses often rival luxury resorts, offering saunas, pools, and fine dining. Expect cool towels at check-in, complimentary drinks, and a level of attention unmatched in other destinations.
Events & Tournaments
Thailand hosts numerous international tournaments:
- Honda LPGA Thailand (Siam Country Club, Pattaya)
- Thailand Open (rotating venues)
- Asian Tour & Ladies European Tour events across major cities
Amateurs can also participate in local charity tournaments and golf weeks organized by travel companies.
Planning Your Thailand Golf Trip
Entry & Transportation
- Visas: Most nationalities receive a 30–45 day visa exemption.
- Airports: Bangkok (BKK/DMK) serves as the main gateway, with domestic hubs in Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Khon Kaen.
- Transfers: Private cars and hotel shuttles are the most comfortable for reaching suburban or rural clubs.
Budgeting
Thailand caters to every level of golfer:
- Green Fees: 1,000–4,000 THB (USD $30–$120) per round.
- Caddie & Cart Fees: 600–1,000 THB total.
- Luxury Packages: 4–6 rounds + 5-star hotels from $1,200/week per person.
Booking Tips
- Peak Season: November–March — reserve courses early.
- Off-Season: June–October — flexible scheduling and discounts up to 40%.
- Etiquette: Always book a tee time in advance and tip your caddie (300–500 THB).
Top 10 Must-Play Courses in Thailand
| Region | Course | Signature Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bangkok | Thai Country Club | Tournament-level service |
| Chiang Mai | Chiang Mai Highlands | Mountain panoramas |
| Chiang Rai | Santiburi Chiang Rai | Scenic calm and craftsmanship |
| Pattaya | Siam Country Club – Old Course | LPGA host, immaculate greens |
| Phuket | Red Mountain Golf Club | Dramatic elevation and sea views |
| Hua Hin | Black Mountain Golf Club | Asian Tour legend |
| Koh Samui | Santiburi Samui Country Club | Ocean-view hillside holes |
| Ayutthaya | Royal Bang Pa-In | Modern riverside design |
| Isan | Singha Park Khon Kaen | Championship inland course |
| Kanchanaburi | Nichigo Resort & Country Club | Jungle scenery along River Kwai |
Each course represents a distinct flavor of Thai golf — from cosmopolitan sophistication to rustic charm.
Multi-Destination Golf Itineraries
Many visitors combine regions to experience Thailand’s range:
- Classic Circuit (10–12 Days): Bangkok → Pattaya → Hua Hin
- Northern Serenity (8–10 Days): Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai → Golden Triangle
- Luxury Island Escape (7–9 Days): Phuket → Koh Samui
- Cultural Explorer (10–14 Days): Bangkok → Ayutthaya → Isan
- Adventure & Nature (10–12 Days): Kanchanaburi → Chiang Mai → Phuket
💡 Travel Tip: Domestic flights are quick and affordable — under 90 minutes between most major golf regions.
Sustainability and the Future of Golf in Thailand
Thailand’s golf industry is evolving toward eco-friendly practices — from water-efficient irrigation systems to wildlife-preserving course designs.
Many clubs now source local materials, reduce single-use plastics, and contribute to community projects such as youth golf programs and reforestation.
The future of Thai golf is not just about attracting travelers — it’s about preserving the beauty that makes playing here so unforgettable.
Plan Your Golf Adventure in Thailand
Whether you’re teeing off under temple spires, beside turquoise seas, or among misty mountains, golf in Thailand is an experience that transcends the game itself.
It’s a journey into a land where luxury feels personal, nature meets culture, and every round ends with a smile.
Start exploring Thailand’s premier golf destinations:
ThaiGolfGuide.com — Your trusted source for golf, travel, and luxury in the Land of Smiles.
🗣️ Local Voices
“Golf in Thailand isn’t about prestige — it’s about joy. You’ll find million-dollar views for a fraction of the price, and service that feels like friendship.” — International Golf Tour Operator
❓ FAQ
How many golf courses are in Thailand?
Over 250 courses across 70 provinces, ranging from elite championship venues to scenic local clubs.
What’s the best time of year to golf in Thailand?
November through February — cool, dry, and ideal for travel across all regions.
Which regions are best for beginners vs. experts?
Beginners enjoy the forgiving layouts near Bangkok and Hua Hin; experts will love the challenges of Red Mountain or Black Mountain.
Can I rent clubs or need my own?
Most courses offer premium rentals (Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade) for 1,000–1,500 THB per round.
Is it safe and easy to travel between regions?
Yes — Thailand has excellent domestic flight connections and professional tour operators catering to golfers.