With its year-round sun, exquisite natural beauty and cultural allure it’s no wonder Thailand is one of the best golf destinations in the world. Golf in Thailand became popular with nobles during the reign of King Rama V one hundred years ago – today the game is enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.
Thailand boasts more than 200 courses, designed by some of the best players in the world, so whether you’re in search of a pro game or a beginners round, Thailand is the perfect golf vacation destination. Take a look at the best golf courses in Koh Samui below – we have everything you need to help you plan your golf trip…
What are your options when it comes to playing golf in Koh Samui?
Koh Samui’s Santiburi Golf and Country Club is the only golf course on the island – but what a course it is!
This exquisite 18 hole championship golf course takes players up, down and around, with beautiful views that challenge you to keep your mind on the game.
Rated as one of the most beautiful courses in Asia and an essential stop on the PGA Asian Tour for many years, this 6,930 yards, par 72 course is sat on the palm-fringed mountains near Maenam Beach where the sun always shines and a light wind always blows.
Santiburi golf club has won numerous accolades as the best golf course in Koh Samui and was the first on the island to meet international golf standards.
Designed by Pirapon Namatra, the facility offers spectacular elevation changes set to keep you guessing and test every level of skill. Expect to play uphill, downhill and sidehill on tough signature greens providing tricky moments of play with plenty of obstacles to contend with.
The course came to fame when it hosted the 2006 Bangkok Airways Open, as well as numerous Asian tours and the renowned Queen’s Cup. The resort is home to an outstanding clubhouse with a pro shop, restaurant, bar and outdoor terraces – making it the perfect place for a special event or corporate golf trip in Koh Samui.
The greens are constructed with the highest quality grass ensuring excellent playing conditions all year round.
The course offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, ocean, streams and waterfalls and is sure to impress even the most discerning golfer.
Set amidst 23 acres of lush coconut gardens this club is truly a journey for the senses, and a must-visit experience during a Koh Samui vacation.
What alternatives are there?
On the Andaman Sea side of Thailand, Phuket is another contender for the Asian golf crown with some excellent championship courses.
The Blue Canyon Lakes, Mission Hills, Loch Palm and Laguna courses are all worth a mention however the club that’s drawing all the crowds is Red Mountain. The carefully crafted 6,900 yard course was designed by Ron Morrow and Al Tikkenen; since opening in 2008 it has become a local legend thanks to its quality craftsmanship, spectacular scenery and diverse layout.
Another top golf course in Thailand is Muang Kaew Golf Club , just a short drive from Bangkok. The award-winning Lee Schmidt course offers long tricky par threes, an abundance of water shots, challenging greens and high-front bunkers set to seriously challenge players.
The course is professionally managed, great for all skill levels, with good caddies and excellent food. It is bisected by a highway however the road is quiet and doesn’t interfere with the game. Other favourites near Bangkok are the Legacy, Lam Lukka and Vintage courses.
Koh Samui villas are located at various stunning locations across the island, offering easy access to the golf club in Koh Samui as well as the island’s beaches, restaurants, bars and cultural attractions.
Travelling to Koh Samui via Bangkok is an ideal opportunity to sample the best golf courses in central Thailand and beyond.
