Thailand is a top golf destination in Asia, offering world-class courses, stunning landscapes, and a rich golfing culture. With renowned courses in cities like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Hua Hin, plus prestigious tournaments like the Thailand Golf Championship and LPGA events, it’s a prime spot for golfers worldwide.
Thailand is an Asian gem that offers much more than just beaches, temples, and vibrant cities. It’s a haven for golf lovers, boasting world-class courses, a rich golfing culture, and a reputation as one of the premier golf destinations in Asia. Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned pro, Thailand offers an experience that combines challenging courses, breathtaking landscapes, and unbeatable value. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about golf in Thailand—from its history and top courses to its role in golf tourism.
1. Introduction to Golf in Thailand
A Brief History of Golf in Thailand
Golf was introduced to Thailand in the early 20th century, but it didn’t become a mainstream sport until the 1960s and 1970s. It all began with the establishment of the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course in 1924, which remains one of Thailand’s oldest and most iconic golf courses. Since then, golf in Thailand has grown steadily, attracting both local and international players. Today, the country is home to over 300 golf courses, with several ranking among the best in the world.
Golf’s Popularity in Thailand
In recent years, golf has seen a rise in popularity in Thailand, both among locals and international visitors. The growing number of tourists has contributed to the development of more courses, with many tailored to international standards. Golf is not only a recreational activity for locals, but also an important part of the country’s tourism industry. For golfers looking for a unique blend of nature, culture, and sport, Thailand offers the perfect package.
Thailand as a Golf Destination
Thailand is widely recognized as one of Asia’s top golf destinations, frequently ranked alongside countries like Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia. Its tropical climate, diverse landscapes, and strong infrastructure make it an ideal location for golfing. Whether you prefer playing in the mountains of Chiang Mai or by the seaside in Hua Hin, there’s a golf course for every type of player.
2. Top Golf Courses in Thailand
Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the world. The country’s top golf courses are spread across different regions, from the bustling capital of Bangkok to the serene mountains in Chiang Mai. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Bangkok Area
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is home to a number of prestigious golf courses. Being the business hub of the country, it offers top-notch courses with easy accessibility for both locals and visitors.
- Suwan Golf & Country Club Located just outside Bangkok, Suwan Golf & Country Club is one of the oldest and most respected courses in Thailand. It features two 18-hole courses, both designed to challenge golfers with various skill levels. The club is famous for its meticulously maintained greens, impressive water hazards, and vast fairways.
- Thai Country Club Situated in the outskirts of Bangkok, Thai Country Club is a private club that consistently ranks as one of Thailand’s best. The course is known for its immaculate conditions and beautiful scenery. Thai Country Club has hosted numerous international tournaments, including events on the Asian Tour. The layout is both demanding and enjoyable, making it a must-play for any avid golfer.
- Alpine Golf Resort Located around 40 minutes from central Bangkok, Alpine Golf Resort is a popular destination for golfers looking for a more secluded course. The course is beautifully landscaped, with a mix of open fairways and tree-lined holes. The resort also boasts excellent practice facilities, including a driving range and putting green, making it a great choice for golfers of all levels.
Pattaya
Pattaya, a coastal city known for its vibrant nightlife, is also home to some stunning golf courses, making it a popular destination for golf tourists.
- Siam Country Club Siam Country Club is one of the most prestigious golf courses in Thailand, featuring multiple layouts, including the Old Course and the Waterside Course. The Old Course, in particular, is renowned for its challenging layout, while the Waterside Course is known for its beautiful water features. Siam Country Club regularly hosts major events, including the LPGA Thailand tournament.
- Laem Chabang International Country Club Laem Chabang is another top-tier course located just outside Pattaya. Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, it offers a challenging experience with three 9-hole courses that can be combined in various ways. The course is nestled in a picturesque valley with stunning views, making it a memorable experience for golfers.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, known for its natural beauty and mountainous terrain, is home to several top-notch golf courses.
- Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort This resort offers one of the most picturesque golf courses in Thailand, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The course is designed to be both challenging and enjoyable, with lush greenery, natural streams, and well-maintained fairways. The resort also offers luxurious accommodations and spa services, making it an ideal destination for golfers looking for relaxation and adventure.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin, a beach resort town located along the Gulf of Thailand, is another hotspot for golf enthusiasts. It’s home to some of Thailand’s best golf courses, attracting golfers from around the world.
- Black Mountain Golf Club Black Mountain Golf Club is widely regarded as one of Thailand’s top golf courses. Situated amidst the mountains, this championship course is both challenging and scenic, with dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking views. Black Mountain has hosted numerous international tournaments and is known for its top-tier facilities.
- Banyan Golf Club Another standout course in Hua Hin, Banyan Golf Club is known for its lush landscape and exceptional design. The course offers a variety of challenges, including water hazards, sand traps, and dogleg holes. Banyan Golf Club provides a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all abilities, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
3. Golf Tournaments in Thailand
Thailand plays host to several prestigious golf tournaments, attracting top professional golfers from around the world. These tournaments not only showcase the country’s best golf courses but also serve as a platform for promoting Thailand as a premier golf destination.
Thailand Golf Championship
The Thailand Golf Championship is one of the most well-known tournaments held in the country. It is part of the European Tour and features some of the best golfers in the world. Held at the Amata Spring Country Club in Chonburi, the tournament is a major event for golf fans in Thailand and abroad.
Honda LPGA Thailand
The Honda LPGA Thailand is another standout tournament, part of the LPGA Tour. Held annually at the Siam Country Club in Pattaya, the tournament attracts top female golfers from around the world. The event provides an exciting atmosphere for fans and a great opportunity to see some of the best female golfers in action.
Asian Tour Events
Thailand is also a regular host for various Asian Tour events, which include both professional and amateur competitions. These events provide golfers with the opportunity to experience Thailand’s premier courses and compete against top players from across the continent.
4. Golf Resorts and Packages
Thailand is home to a number of luxurious golf resorts that combine the best of golf and leisure. These resorts offer all-inclusive packages that provide access to some of the country’s top golf courses, along with accommodations, meals, and other services.
Popular Golf Resorts
- The Banyan Tree Phuket: A luxury resort with access to the Laguna Phuket Golf Club.
- Anantara Hua Hin Resort: Located near the Banyan Golf Club, offering easy access to the course.
- Pattaya’s Royal Cliff Beach Hotel: A luxury hotel with easy access to top Pattaya golf courses.
Golf Packages
Many golf resorts offer golf packages that include rounds of golf, accommodation, and sometimes even transportation. These packages are ideal for international golfers looking to make the most of their trip to Thailand, offering great value and convenience.
5. Golf Tourism in Thailand
Golf tourism is an important aspect of Thailand’s economy. With the country’s affordable pricing, world-class facilities, and picturesque locations, it’s no wonder that golfers from all over the world flock to Thailand. The growth of golf tourism has also led to the development of infrastructure such as hotels, transport services, and golf tour companies that cater specifically to international golfers.
Benefits of Golf Tourism
Golf tourism brings significant economic benefits to Thailand. It boosts revenue from both the golf industry and the wider tourism sector, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation. Golf tourism also promotes Thailand’s image as a luxury destination for relaxation and recreation.
Best Time to Visit for Golf
The best time to visit Thailand for golf is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. This period offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like golfing. The green season, from May to October, is also an option for golfers, though there may be occasional rainfall.
6. Golf Lessons and Training
Thailand is home to several internationally recognized golf academies, making it a great place for golfers looking to improve their game. Many of the country’s top golf courses have dedicated golf schools offering lessons for golfers of all skill levels.
Popular Golf Academies in Thailand
- Jim McLean Golf School at Laguna Phuket: Known for its professional teaching methods.
- Gareth Johnson Golf Academy: Based at the Thai Country Club, it offers lessons for players of all levels.
7. Accessibility and Infrastructure
Thailand’s golf courses are easily accessible, thanks to the country’s well-developed transport infrastructure. International airports in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya make it simple for golfers to fly in and reach their desired courses quickly.
Golf courses typically provide excellent facilities, including equipment rentals, caddies, and golf carts, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for international visitors. Many courses also have practice facilities such as driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas.
8. Conclusion
Thailand is undoubtedly one of the best golf destinations in Asia, offering a combination of exceptional golf courses, world-class resorts, and a welcoming atmosphere for golfers from around the world. With its rich history, vibrant golf tourism industry, and beautiful landscapes, Thailand continues to be a place where golfers can enjoy both the sport and the culture. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive golfer, Thailand is the perfect place to experience the best that golf has to offer.