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

Wherever you are in Thailand, opportunities to play golf are abundant. For Europeans, winter in Europe is the best season to travel to Thailand (November to February) since the average temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius.

Thailand boasts more than 120 high-quality golf courses, some considered among Asia's finest and equipped with luxurious amenities. Among the main prestigious destinations, there are more than thirty major clubs in Bangkok and its surroundings, about thirty to the west towards Pattaya, and around twenty further south in Hua Hin, 6 in Phuket at the far south, and finally 8 in the North, in the region of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Plenty to keep you "golfing" throughout your vacation while discovering the cultural wealth of this country. Most clubs feature a practice range, clubhouse and pro-shop where you can rent equipment. Some even combine golf with luxury hotels, residences or golf schools.

Wherever you are, Thais practice golf; their Asian neighbors—Japanese, Taiwanese, Korean, Hong Kong and Singapore Chinese—come in large numbers to enjoy the space and sunshine lacking in their own countries, as in Thailand you can play golf year-round. American, Australian and of course European professional and amateur golfers know this destination well, whether on vacation or during major international tournaments. Once reserved for an elite, golf and major tournaments now hold a prominent place in newspapers and television, particularly with 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, a passionate golf enthusiast. He had the Royal Hua Hin Golf Club built near his summer residence in the Hua Hin region.

Today, a Popular Golf Vacation Destination

Today, Thailand has established itself as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. The country boasts 260 courses spread throughout. The most spectacular courses are located near tourist attractions and draw large numbers of golfers each year.

Golf vacations in Thailand cater to all preferences. You can choose from vast expanses, demanding championship courses, or unique parkland and links-style layouts. While playing, you'll have the chance to admire tropical biodiversity under a pleasant climate.

Why Take a Golf Vacation in Thailand?

The Landscape: What strikes visitors about Thailand is the space and idyllic setting; lush tropical vegetation, water everywhere, and often magnificent settings surrounded by mountains or bordered by the sea.

Some courses are known for their unique settings, such as the Thai Air Force golf course located on the International Airport grounds in Bangkok between the runways of the international airport and military installations. Similarly, in the North, the Mae Moh Golf Club, which belongs to EGAT (Thailand's national power company), is situated on the grounds of former coal mines of the power plant.

The Facilities: The vast majority of clubs offer luxurious facilities, complete with restaurants, fitness centers, golf shops and often a hotel, golf school, and more. The major courses, whether near the capital, in the south by the sea, or in the northern mountains, offer exceptional accommodation capacities.

The Caddies: Caddies, always young women or women, are mandatory. They know all the golfing tricks, including line reading, which can help keep unnecessary strokes off your scorecard—advice best rewarded with a tip.

The Refreshment Stands: Throughout your round, approximately every 2 or 3 holes, you'll find a rest area or beverage station where you can quench your thirst, enjoy a slice of fresh pineapple or mango, snack on chicken skewers or green papaya salad.

Golf Carts: All golf courses offer golf cars as this is a well-established habit among Asian golfers. You can of course play in an electric cart, but on most courses you must stay on the paths, which sometimes makes the cart less convenient. Some courses, among the most prestigious like Santiburi Samui Country Club, mandate their use.

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 out the Red Mountain Golf Club, renowned for its breathtaking panoramas and commanding views. Be sure to also visit the Blue Canyon Country Club, a prestigious course that has welcomed golf legends such as Ernie Els and Tiger Woods.

Chiang Mai

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

Hua Hin

In the western part of the country, discover the Black Mountain Golf Club, located just outside Hua Hin. It offers a magnificent 27-hole championship course. For golfers seeking 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 of St. Andrews 2000 Golf Club in Pattaya. With its spectacular design and demanding hazards, 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 captivates, while the course, designed by Denis Griffiths, will test your golfing skills.

Bangkok

Bangkok attracts with its numerous upscale golf courses. Among them, Siam Country Club offers two courses. The Old Course is recognized as one of Thailand's finest golf courses. The Plantation Course distinguishes itself as Asia's first triple-green course. Not far away, Laem Chabang Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers a challenging course just at Bangkok's gates.

The Best Time to Play

The best period to golf in Thailand is during the transition season, from November to February. During this time, the climate is pleasant with moderate temperatures and a gentle breeze, ideal for playing without extreme heat. The courses are green and well-maintained. Avoid the rainy season from May to October, as unpredictable rainfall can disrupt your rounds.