🧍♂️ Traveller: Hey, where’s the best place to play golf in Thailand?
🧍♀️ Local Friend: If you ask me — it’s definitely Pattaya!
🧍♂️ Traveller:Wait, isn’t Pattaya known just for its beaches and nightlife?
🧍♀️ Local Friend: Haha, I used to think that too! But actually, it’s one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly places to enjoy a round of golf while traveling.
🏌️ Why I Recommend Pattaya for Golf in Thailand (Even for Beginners)
⛳️ Reason 1: Great Access & Tons of Course Options!
Golfing in Pattaya is a perfect mix of convenience and choice, especially for beginners.
🏌️♀️ Less Travel Stress
Most golf courses around Pattaya are a convenient 30 minutes to 1 hour by car from the city center.
That’s a huge plus, especially for those experiencing golf in Thailand for the first time!
Let’s be honest — long travel times can be stressful. In an unfamiliar place, you’re never sure about traffic or road conditions. Even with Google Maps, it’s natural to feel a bit anxious like, “Will I get there on time?”
And if your tee time runs late, you’ll be worried about dinner reservations or evening plans, right?
But in Pattaya, with most courses just a short drive away, you can plan your day with ease and truly focus on enjoying your round. Plus, you’ll have enough time to warm up and get ready at the course without rushing.
🤩 Fun Course Selection
Pattaya boasts a wide variety of golf courses, ranging from beginner-friendly layouts to more challenging options perfect for testing your skills.
Depending on your mood and how you’re feeling that day, you can pick the perfect course.
Trying out different courses is part of the fun, and you’ll probably find your personal favorite along the way too!
If you’re a beginner, here are some great picks to start with:
📊 Recommended Golf Courses in Pattaya
| Course Name | Access | Difficulty | Facilities | Price | Official Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenwood Golf Club | About 1 hr | Balanced | Great for all levels | Average | Website |
| Pattaya Country Club | About 50 min | Simple & beginner-friendly | New club house & facilities | Average | Website |
| Treasure Hill Golf Club | About 1 hr | Some tricky holes | Unique layout, older club house | Affordable | Website |
| The Emerald Golf Club | About 45 min (less traffic on return) | Hilly, slower greens | Natural setting, older facilities | Affordable | None |
| Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club | About 40 min (less traffic on return) | Deep rough, well-maintained | Resort-like atmosphere, excellent facilities | Slightly high | Website |
📌 Course Highlights
- Greenwood Golf Club A balanced course with easy access from the city. Great for all levels.
- Pattaya Country Club Simple layout and new facilities. Perfect for beginners.
- Treasure Hill Golf Club Challenging holes and a unique layout. Good for intermediate players.
- The Emerald Golf Club Hilly course with slower greens. Great for players who enjoy a natural setting.
- Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club A well-maintained, resort-like course with excellent facilities. It’s slightly more expensive but definitely worth the investment.
✳️ Note
Phoenix Gold is a particularly popular choice, with well-maintained fairways and a relaxing resort atmosphere.
If you want both good facilities and beautiful surroundings, this one’s highly recommended.
💸 Reason 2: Affordable Green Fees
Compared to other cities like Bangkok or Phuket, Pattaya offers a wide range of pricing options. You can enjoy a full round of golf at reasonable prices — especially on weekdays or through promotions via sports bars and local booking services.
📊 Average Green Fee Price Range in Pattaya
| Category | Typical Price Range (THB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday (Regular) | 1,200 – 2,500 | Most courses fall within this range. |
| Weekend / Public Holiday | 2,000 – 3,500 | Prices go up on weekends and holidays. |
| High Season (Nov–Feb) | 2,500 – 4,000+ | Peak tourist season; popular courses may charge higher. |
| Low Season (May–Oct) | 800 – 2,000 | Rainy season brings more discounts and promotions. |
| Special Promotions | 800 – 1,500 | Twilight golf, sports bar deals, travel agent packages, or credit card discounts. |
📌 Why Is It Cheaper Than Bangkok or Phuket?
- Diverse Course Selection: Plenty of golf courses in Pattaya leads to healthy competition and stable pricing.
- Easy Access: Proximity to Bangkok and a large number of local golfers ensures a wide range of price options.
- Local Services: Many sports bars and booking agencies offer discounted packages better than direct booking.
📌 Typical Cost Breakdown for One Round of Golf in Pattaya
When you play golf in Pattaya, you typically need to pay for these four main items:
- Green Fee
- Caddie Fee
- Cart Fee (if required)
- Caddie Tip
Other optional costs like rental equipment or drinks are extra.
📊 Example Total Cost (Weekday Afternoon)
| Item | Price (THB) |
|---|---|
| Green Fee | 1,000 |
| Caddie Fee | 400 |
| Cart Fee | 800 |
| Caddie Tip | 400 |
| Total | 2,600 |
💡The following prices in the table are examples only. A casual weekday round of golf in Pattaya might cost you around 2,600 THB — pretty reasonable when you compare it to Bangkok or Phuket!
📌 Other Possible Costs to Consider
| Item | Typical Price (THB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rental Clubs / Shoes | 500 – 1,500 | Varies by course. |
| Food & Drinks | Based on consumption | At clubhouse restaurants and kiosks. |
Note:
Prices vary depending on the season (high/low), day (weekday/weekend), tee time (morning/afternoon), booking method (direct/agent/bar), promotions, and exchange rate. Use this guide as a general reference.
🏌️♂️ Reason 3: Great Practice Facilities in Pattaya
Pattaya isn’t just famous for its golf courses — it’s also packed with excellent driving ranges and short courses perfect for practicing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, you’ll find a facility to suit your needs. Here’s a list of 5 recommended practice spots in Pattaya you should check out!
📍 1️⃣ Pattaya Golf Driving Range
A long-established driving range located right in central Pattaya. Easy access for tourists, and the shaded bays make it comfortable even during the daytime.
- Ball Price: 60 THB per tray (40 balls), but it’s 55 THB for PSC members.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM–10 PM
📍 2️⃣ Diana Golf Driving Range & J Golf Tour
Another convenient range near the city center. It’s a bit more compact but perfect for a quick session or a warm-up before your golf round.
- Ball Price: 50 THB per tray (40 balls)
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM–10 PM
📍 3️⃣ Green Way Golf Driving Range
Located a bit south of the city. Known for its wide fairway and peaceful, green surroundings — ideal if you want to practice quietly and focus.
- Ball Price: 50 THB per tray (40 balls)
- Opening Hours: 7 AM–8:30 PM
📍 4️⃣ Asia Pattaya Hotel Golf Course
A 9-hole short course where you can practice your short game on real turf. Great for working on your approach shots and putting.
- Ball Price: (Included in green fee)
- Opening Hours: (To be confirmed)
📊 Summary Table: Practice Facilities in Pattaya
| Facility | Highlights | Ball Price | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣Pattaya Golf Driving Range | Easy access, shaded bays | 60 THB (40 balls) | 7 AM–10 PM |
| 2️⃣Diana Golf Driving Range | Compact, convenient for quick practice | 50THB (40 balls) | 6:30 AM–10 PM |
| 3️⃣Green Way Golf Driving Range | Wide fairway, peaceful surroundings | (TBC) | 7 AM–8:30 PM |
| 4️⃣Asia Pattaya Hotel Golf Course | 9-hole short course on real turf | (Included in green fee) | 6:30 AM–6 PM |
✅ Quick Recommendations
- If you want easy, casual practice in town → 1️⃣ Pattaya Golf Driving Range or 2️⃣ Diana
- If you prefer a quiet, natural setting → 3️⃣ Green Way
- For real-turf short game practice → 4️⃣ Asia Pattaya Hotel Golf Course
🍻Reason 4: Easy Tee Times for Solo & Group Golfers in Pattaya!
One of the coolest things about golfing in Pattaya is how easy it is to book tee times — whether you’re traveling solo or with your buddies. And the secret? Local sports bars!
These aren’t just places to grab a drink. Many sports bars in Pattaya also act as unofficial golf booking hubs.
They publish monthly schedules for various golf courses, either in the bar itself or online. All you have to do is pick the course and date you like — it’s that easy!
Of course, arranging transportation to and from the course is also part of their service.
Whether you’re joining an existing group or booking your own tee time, these bars make it super convenient to enjoy a round of golf without the hassle.
It’s a great way to meet other golfers, make new friends, and experience golf in Pattaya in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
🌴 Reason 5: Fun Activities After Golf
Why stop at golf when you’re in Pattaya? One of the best things about golfing here is how easy it is to turn your trip into a proper holiday. After your round, the fun has only just begun! From beaches and massages to fresh seafood and lively nightlife — Pattaya is the perfect spot for combining golf and vacation vibes.
Here are 3 after-golf activities you shouldn’t miss while you’re here:
💆♀️ Relax with a Traditional Thai Massage
After walking 18 holes under the Thai sun, your body deserves a treat! Luckily, Pattaya is full of massage shops — from high-end spas to casual street-side spots.
You can choose from classic Thai massage, relaxing foot massage, or soothing oil massage depending on how you feel.
A good massage will ease the tension in your shoulders, legs, and back, leaving you refreshed for the next day’s round.
It’s pure bliss — and super affordable too!
🦀 Feast on Fresh Seafood
When in Thailand, eating fresh seafood is a must — and Pattaya is famous for it!
Head to one of the lively seafood restaurants and order crab, prawns, or fish cooked any way you like.
You’ll also find classic Thai dishes like spicy curries, pad Thai, and tom yum soup.
Whether you choose a local street stall or a fancy beachside restaurant, you’re in for an unforgettable dining experience.
Good food is the perfect reward after a day on the course!
🌃 Dive Into Pattaya’s Nightlife
Pattaya is legendary for its nightlife — and there’s no better way to celebrate a day of golf than hitting the town.
Walking Street is the heart of the action, filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues that stay open late.
You can enjoy everything from cozy rooftop bars to lively go-go bars and beachside lounges.
Whether you’re looking to relax with a cold beer, catch some live music, or make new friends, Pattaya’s nightlife won’t disappoint.
✅In a Nutshell
Pattaya isn’t just a golf destination — it’s a full holiday package.
You can play golf in the morning, get a massage in the afternoon, and party at night.
If you love combining golf with adventure and good vibes, Pattaya should be at the top of your list.
⛳️ Pattaya Golf Basics & What to Prepare
If you’re planning to play golf in Pattaya, welcome!
Here’s a quick guide to local golf customs and what to know before your round.
📌 Golf Play Style
- 18 holes with no long break — rounds are played straight through.
- Snack & drink kiosks available along the course. No long lunch stops.
- Bringing your own food and drinks is generally not allowed, but bringing a water bottle or small snack is usually okay.
- Caddie tips: My usual guideline is about the same as the caddie fee (around 300–500 THB).
- Golf carts are recommended at most courses. It helps with the heat and keeps your energy up.
👕 Dress Code
- Pattaya golf courses are pretty casual about dress codes.
- You’ll sometimes see people arriving in sandals!
- But during play, golf shoes are required.
- I recommend a neat golf outfit — a collared polo and golf pants (or shorts) are perfect.
👩⚖️ About Your Caddie
- In Thailand, each golfer gets one dedicated caddie.
- Most caddies are women from local areas and they’ll help with club selection, ball spotting, reading the greens, and more.
- Caddie nomination is possible — just note your caddie’s number and request her for your next visit.
- Nomination fees are usually free, but double-check with the course when booking to be sure.
🛍️ Preparing Golf Gear & Small Items
- You can buy golf balls, gloves, and tees locally at pro shops and shopping malls.
- Prices tend to be higher than in your home country.
- If you’re picky about your favorite brand or specific models, it’s best to bring them from home.
- Most golf courses also sell balls (including second-hand ones) if you run out mid-round.
✅ Final Tips
Make sure to check these four points before your first round in Pattaya:
- Local golf play style
- Dress code etiquette
- Caddie system & tipping
- Golf gear prep
If you’ve got these covered, you’re all set for a smooth, fun golf day in Pattaya!
