Miles Bennett
Bangkok is a golfer's paradise, with over 60 courses to choose from in the city and its surrounding areas. The Thai capital boasts a huge range of courses, from public to exclusive, top-end clubs. The city's vibrant culture, history, luxury hotels, temples, markets, nightlife, and Thai massages make it a popular destination for golfers and tourists alike. The rules of the game are similar to those followed internationally, and there are plenty of indoor spots to practice specific skills like driving, iron play, and putting. The best time to visit Bangkok for golfing is during the cool season, which is also the high season for tourism.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of golf courses in Bangkok and surrounding areas | Over 60 |
| Golf courses | Alpine Golf & Sports Club, Ayutthaya Golf Club, Bangkok Golf Club, Bangpakong Riverside Country Club, Bangpoo Golf & Sports Club, Bangna Navy, Best Ocean Golf Club, Cascata Golf Club, Thai Country Club, Royal Gems Golf Club, Royal Lakeside, The Vintage Club, Windsor Park Golf Club, 42 Tee-Off, The Royal Golf and Country Club, Summit Windmill Golf Club, Thana City Golf Club, Par 3 course at Bangkok Golf Club, Bangpakong Riverside Country Club, Golf Swing Bangkok, Wilding Golf Centers |
| Course designers | Ronald Garl, Gil Hanse |
| Course characteristics | 18 holes, 72 pars, natural grass with markers, rolling terrain, mature trees, natural flowers, water hazards, bunkering, flat layout, wide-open fairways, local flora and fauna, challenging, links-style, indoor |
| Golfing season | November to February (high season) |
| Caddie fee | 500 baht |
| Cart fee | 800 baht |
| Rental clubs | 2000-2500 baht |
| Rules | Same as those outlined by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland; maximum of 14 clubs, no practice strokes during a hole, ball must be played as it lies, ball marks can only be repaired in the line of the putt, water hazards rules vary |
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What You'll Learn
Bangkok golf courses
Bangkok has over 60 golf courses to choose from in the city and its surrounding areas, so golfers are spoilt for choice. The majority of these courses offer superb facilities and fantastic value for money. Many of the best Bangkok golf courses are within easy reach of the city centre, so it's possible to play a different course every day.
One of the most famous courses is Alpine Golf & Sports Club, located about 60 minutes from the city centre. It is one of Thailand's top-rated courses and one of the best in Asia. The 18-hole course was designed by renowned American golf course architect Ronald Garl and was the venue for the 2000 Johnnie Walker Classic PGA tournament, won by Tiger Woods.
Another challenging course is the Bangpakong Riverside Country Club, located between Bangkok and Pattaya. It is well-suited to golfers travelling from the airport or between the two destinations. The course has been voted one of Asia's most famous and Thailand's best golf courses. It should not be confused with its similarly named neighbour, Royal Lakeside, which is also popular with local golfers.
The Bangkok Golf Club is located 35 minutes from the city centre and is one of a handful of courses in the area. The Ayutthaya Golf Club is another option, located 90 minutes from the centre of Bangkok. The course is well-maintained and relatively easy to play, with generous fairways and large greens.
Other notable courses in Bangkok include the Royal Gems Golf Club, Thai Country Club, and the Vintage Club, which has played host to PGA events in the past.
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Golfing holidays
Bangkok is a vibrant city with luxury hotels, temples, markets, nightlife, and, of course, plenty of golf courses. With over 60 golf courses in the city and its surrounding areas, Bangkok is a great destination for a golfing holiday.
The Thai golf season runs from November to February, which is also the high season for non-golf tourists. So, if you want to avoid the crowds, you might want to consider visiting outside of these months. However, the weather in Thailand is golf-friendly all year round, so you can still enjoy a comfortable game even if you don't visit during the cool season.
There are a variety of courses to choose from, ranging from public to exclusive, top-end clubs. Some of the most notable courses include Alpine Golf & Sports Club, one of Thailand's top-rated courses, which hosted the Johnnie Walker Classic PGA tournament in 2000 and 2004. The Bangpakong Riverside Country Club is another well-known course, located between Bangkok and Pattaya, which is suitable for golfers travelling to and from the airport or between the two destinations. The Vintage Club is a little further out from the city but has hosted PGA events in the past, and the Thai Country Club hosted the 1997 Asian Honda Classic.
If you're a beginner, there are also plenty of options for you to get started, including the Par 3 course at Bangkok Golf Club, which offers an 18-hole course for more advanced players. Bangpakong Riverside Country Club is also great for beginners, with its flat layout and wide-open fairways. For those who want to focus on specific skills like driving, iron play, and putting, there are indoor options like Bangkok Golf Center and Golf Swing Bangkok, which offer coaching and the latest training technology.
When playing on courses in Thailand, it's important to note that the rules are generally the same as those observed worldwide, as outlined by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland. However, there are some differences to keep in mind, such as the maximum of 14 clubs allowed, and the rule about identifying your ball since many golfers play with the same brand.
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Golf rules in Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand, is a golfer's paradise, with over 60 golf courses in the city and its surrounding areas. The Alpine Golf & Sports Club is one of Thailand's top-rated courses and one of the best in Asia.
The rules of golf in Thailand are generally the same as those followed internationally, as outlined by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland. However, there are some local rules and customs unique to Thailand that golfers should be aware of:
- It is compulsory to take a caddie, and the price is usually included in the green fee, which is around $10. Caddies are always local Thai women, and they drive the carts. While they may not play golf themselves, they use their experience to help with distances and reading greens.
- Golf is considered a sport for the elite in Thailand. The clubhouses and locker rooms are often grand and luxurious, with various complimentary amenities provided.
- Golf courses in Thailand often have water features, so bring extra golf balls.
- There is no golf etiquette regarding playing through, so be prepared for slower gameplay.
- Mark your golf ball with an identification symbol, as many golfers in Thailand play with the same brand of ball. If you cannot identify your ball, it is considered lost.
- You are allowed a maximum of 14 clubs.
- During a hole, you may not play a practice stroke.
- You may move a loose impediment unless it and your ball are in a hazard. For other obstructions, check the local rules.
- For immovable obstructions, you can generally drop the ball within one club-length of the obstruction.
- For water hazards, refer to the local rules for the proper procedure.
- If you lose your ball, play another ball from where the last shot was played, incurring a one-stroke penalty.
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Golf clubs in Bangkok
Bangkok has over 60 golf courses to choose from in the city and its surrounding areas. The Alpine Golf & Sports Club is one of Thailand's top-rated courses and one of the best in Asia. It was designed by one of America's leading golf course architects, Ronald Garl, and hosted the Johnnie Walker Classic PGA tournament in 2000 and 2004, with Tiger Woods emerging as the winner in 2000. The 18 holes at Alpine Golf make up the best layout and most challenging golf course in Bangkok.
The Ayutthaya Golf Club is another option, located in Ayutthaya Province, about 1 hour and 30 minutes from central Bangkok. The course is locally designed and well-maintained, with generous fairways and large greens. Bangkok Golf Club is another choice, located just 35 minutes from the center of Bangkok.
The Bangpakong Riverside Country Club is situated along the Bangpakong River, halfway between Bangkok and Pattaya, making it a convenient choice for golfers travelling from the airport or between the two destinations. It was once voted one of Asia's most famous and Thailand's best golf courses, and it continues to be well-maintained. Nearby is the similarly named Royal Lakeside, which is also popular with local golfers.
The Bangna Navy is a nine-hole course with alternating hole routing and pairs of men's tees and pins on each hole. It is one of the most accessible courses on the east side of Bangkok, located near the Bangna station on the Sukhumvit green line.
For those seeking a luxurious golfing experience, the Riverdale Golf Club offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Its layout incorporates the existing terrain, creating a visually captivating course. Other notable mentions include the Suwan Golf & Country Club, known for its serene atmosphere, and the Navatanee Golf Course, an iconic establishment designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
The Thai Country Club is widely regarded as one of the best courses in Thailand due to its variety of holes and manicured fairways. It has hosted several major international events, including the 1997 Asian Honda Classic, the 2007 Volvo Masters, and the 2008 Volvo Masters. The Siam Country Club Bangkok is another excellent 18-hole championship golf course designed by Toby Cobb, featuring undulating fairways and elevated greens.
Other golf clubs in Bangkok include the Best Ocean Golf Club, Cascata Golf Club, Dynasty Golf & Country Club, Royal Gems Golf Club, and Royal Gems Golf City.
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Golfing in Bangkok for beginners
Bangkok is a golfer's paradise, with over 60 golf courses to choose from in the city and its surrounding areas. The city boasts luxury hotels, colourful markets, hospitable people, great shopping, and exotic nightlife, making it a popular destination for golf enthusiasts. Here is a beginner's guide to golfing in Bangkok:
Choosing a Golf Course
When selecting a golf course in Bangkok, consider your skill level and preferences. Some courses cater specifically to beginners, offering lessons and coaching. The Bangpakong Riverside Country Club, for instance, is a great option for newcomers. It is located a short distance from Suvarnabhumi Airport and features a flat layout with wide-open fairways. The course is also known for its extensive local flora and fauna, making for a pleasant natural setting.
Other beginner-friendly options include the Bangkok Golf Club, which is just 35 minutes from the city centre, and the Bangna Navy, a nine-hole course with alternating hole routing. The Bangna Navy course is very accessible, situated near the Bangna station on the Sukhumvit green line.
If you're up for a challenge, the Best Ocean Golf Club, designed by Schmidt and Curley, markets itself as the most challenging course in Bangkok. However, it may not be the best choice for beginners due to its intimidating links-style layout.
Golfing Season
When planning your golfing trip to Bangkok, consider the time of year. Although the weather in Thailand is generally golf-friendly, the wet and hot seasons can be uncomfortable for some golfers. The cool season presents perfect golfing conditions but coincides with the high season for tourism, leading to higher costs for golf and accommodation.
The rainy season, despite its downpours, can be a good time to visit as the golf courses drain quickly, allowing for uninterrupted rounds of golf. You can also take advantage of reduced accommodation rates during this period.
Golfing Facilities and Extras
Bangkok's golf courses offer a range of facilities and extras to enhance your golfing experience. Many courses provide indoor practice facilities, driving ranges, and golf simulators for honing your skills.
Some courses, like the Thai Country Club, are known for their luxurious locker rooms and classy restaurants. The Thai Country Club's clubhouse is often regarded as the best in Asia, offering the perfect setting for a memorable day of golf.
Transportation and Costs
When visiting golf courses in Bangkok, consider your transportation options. Some courses, like the Royal Lakeside, boast their own marinas, allowing you to arrive by boat. If you plan to rent golf clubs, compare prices between the course and downtown Bangkok, as you may find more affordable options in the city.
Additionally, be prepared for caddie fees and tips, which can add to the overall cost of your golfing experience.
Bangkok offers a plethora of golfing opportunities for beginners, with a variety of courses, facilities, and experiences to suit different preferences and budgets. So, whether you're a novice or a seasoned golfer, Bangkok has something for everyone.
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Frequently asked questions
Bangkok Golf Club, Bangpakong Riverside Country Club, and The Vintage Club are some good golf courses for beginners.
Royal Gems Golf City, Thai Country Club, and Amata Spring Country Club are some exclusive golf clubs in Bangkok.
Bangkok Golf Center and Golf Swing Bangkok are some indoor golf courses in Bangkok.
Bangkok has over 60 golf courses to choose from. The high season for golf tourism is from November to February. The rules of play on a Thailand golf course are generally the same as those observed worldwide. However, there are some differences to note, such as the maximum of 14 clubs allowed and the requirement to always put an identification mark on your ball. Additionally, when your ball lies in a bunker or water hazard, don't touch the ground before your downswing, and only repair ball marks in the line of your putt. If you encounter a loose impediment, you may move it unless it's in a hazard. Caddies are typically 500 baht and it's customary to tip them an additional 500 baht.
