While Koh Samui may not be Thailand’s number one golf destination, there are still plenty of courses where beginners and seasoned golfers can exercise their swing. In fact, course designers have made the most of Samui’s natural charm to landscape three stunning golf courses with dramatic ocean and jungle views, making an afternoon out on the fairways that little bit more special.
Santiburi Country Club
The Santiburi Samui Country Club is the first destination marked on many golfers' cards when they arrive on Koh Samui. The championship course enjoys a truly unique and spectacular hillside setting and is beautifully landscaped to complement the idyllic scenery that frames every hole. The 6,930 yard, par-72 course boasts a challenging selection of steep uphill and downhill holes, with picturesque winding fairways that take visitors through coconut forests and past idyllic mountain and ocean view backdrops. Each of the 18 holes is positioned at varying altitudes through the locations natural slopes, creating a dynamic and entertaining round that has challenged PGA professionals on several world class tournaments.
Royal Samui Golf Club
Founded in 2006, the Royal Samui Golf and Country Club is designed to follow the textured mountainside above the coast of Lamai and Chaweng. Each and every one of the course’s nine holes features dramatic, panoramic views of the ocean, with fairways and greens framed in tropical jungle. The spectacular landscape and rolling hills create a meditative atmosphere that guarantees a relaxing game of golf, while the varied elevations also present a unique challenge. Interestingly and unlike any other course in Thailand, the tees, fairways and areas of rough were all landscaped with a mountain green grass that is resistant to both draught and heavy rains.
Bophut Hills
Bophut Hills Golf Club is situated just off Samui's main ring road between Bophut and Chaweng. Designed by renowned Thai golf course architect Piraporn Namatra who is also responsible for the Santiburi Golf Course, Bophut Hills is a charming nine-hole, par-27 course that attracts both seasoned and novice golfers. Each hole features two sets of tees, blue and red, to accommodate golfers of varying standards and although this course is somewhat smaller compared to the other two courses on Samui, it still offers a compelling challenge. The club is also home to its own restaurant and bar overlooking the fairways.
Driving Range Options
For golfers that simply want to get in a little practice whilst on holiday on Koh Samui, or like to warm up before hitting the tees on a full blown course, the island is home to two driving ranges. The first can be found at Samui Golf Club, which is nestled in the hills behind Bang Rak Beach. The range spans 250 yards, and golf tuition is available for beginners in a choice of English and German. Alternatively, Lamai Driving Range offers an ideal place for keen golfers to practice swinging an iron or two. The range is located on the Samui ring road just past the post office.
Posted by Max Vee