Pattaya Golf Courses

Bangpra Golf Club Description:

(fast greens & lots of variety; watch out for the monkeys!)

Bangpra initially built in 1958, was one of the first golf courses in the Pattaya area. Then in 1988, the layout and facilities were updated entirely as a joint venture between the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Japan Golf Professional. Bangpra was the first project as a purposely built golf facility to promote golf tourism in Thailand and today remains one of the more mature Pattaya golf courses.

Awaiting the visitor to this challenging golf course is an attractive parkland environment, full of tall, mature trees of many varieties. Bangpra is laid out over undulating land in a gently sloping valley surrounded by densely wooded forests. There are lots of tropical flora and bougainvillea bushes of all colors on every hole, making Bangpra one of the prettiest Pattaya golf courses.

The best holes at Bangpra are to found on the front nine, which is laid out in a very natural domain at the foot of small tree-clad hills. The par-3 2nd across the water and long par-4 3rd are attractive highlights on the outward nine, where excellent bunkering and dangerous water hazards combine to good effect. The relatively tight and well-bunkered short par-4 6th makes a gentle move up the wooded hillside, only for the monstrously long par-5 7th (622 yards from the tips) to bring you gently back down the slope.

The flatter back-nine doesn't quite live up to the expectations created by the excellent front nine. The inward holes are not however without their challenges, even if several good-width fairways bordered by light semi-rough appear generous on occasions. The par-3 12th and long par-3 17th both require tee-to-green shots over water, while the testing 12th, 13th and 15th holes, also need approach shots over water to reach the safety of the uniformly circular, slightly elevated and often dome-shaped greens. The par-4 18th is a reminder that not all the fairways look 'comfortably wide' from the tee, it also allows you to reflect on what a pleasantly enjoyable and varied parkland course this is.

A luxurious modern clubhouse comes lavishly furnished with locker rooms featuring Japanese style baths. The clubhouse restaurant specializes in Japanese cuisine which makes after golf dining particularly well suited to those who prefer this type of food.

The mature course at Bangpra is a nice change from the newer and more heavily promoted Pattaya golf courses and is an excellent choice for Pattaya golfers who like well-established golf courses.

Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi Description:

(mountainous course with excellent conditioning, views, and layout)

Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi (former Soi Dao Highland) is a country golf course off the beaten track from the main tourist areas of Thailand. The 18-hole Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi is located in Khao Soi Dao Mountains and near to the border with Cambodia. It takes around 2 hours to reach the golf course from Pattaya or Bangkok.

The course surrounded by forests, native hardwood trees, creeks, and lakes. Being far away from developed areas the weather is clear with most days having bright blue skies and comfortable temperatures.

Although the surrounding terrain is mountainous, the course is for the most part flattish. Soi Dao caters to those looking for a relaxing round in a natural setting as opposed to the artificial championship course founds more often than not these days.

Hole 3 is a 206 yard par-3 that plays over a large lake and is the Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi signature hole. Take an extra club to be sure to carry the lake, and an easy par is in store. Other good holes include the 9th and 13th. Both are long 400+ yard par-4’s that play into a prevailing wind. Pars here require long drives and second shots. Otherwise, hit on in 3 and try to one putt. The score will be the same either way.

Practice facilities include a driving range and two greens for chipping and putting. There are halfway kiosks on the golf course after the 4th and 12th holes. For those looking to get away from it all, the on-site resort is a good choice for an overnight stay, albeit there is nothing in the immediate area. Golf followed by an early night to bed and second round the next morning is probably the best option.

Chee Chan Golf Resort Description:

(premium links-style course)

Chee Chan Golf Resort, designed by Golfplan - Dale & Ramsey Golf Course Architects, offers golfers the chance to play on one of the most beautiful modern courses in Asia. Located in the shadows of the famed Khao Chee Chan Buddha and providing views of the nearby resort city of Pattaya, Jomtien, and the Gulf of Thailand, Chee Chan is as visually stunning as it is a golfing challenge.

The land and the surrounding environment are gently rolling hills and in contrast to other Pattaya golf courses, provide more of "Scottish Highlands" playing experience. The surrounding environment gives golfers a sense of space and openness. Over time the Pattaya golf course will gain an iconic perspective and sweeping views of Khao Chee Chan, temples, lakes and mountains.

The 18 hole par 72 course is a challenging 7,345 yards from the championship tees and a more leisurely 6,527 yards from the front tees. Fairways and tee boxes planted with Zoysia grass are a welcome change from other area courses. Greens constructed from Tifeagle Bermuda grass putt well. The course has been designed to suit better golfers as layout provides sweeping movement on the fairways and greens and features intricate bunker facing native landscapes and wetlands. These latter areas are a highlight of the course.

Long uphill par-4's provide challenge often not seen at public golf facilities. Some holes seem misdesigned; they are so long.

The clubhouse is modern and functional without being overbearing. Full practice facilities include driving range, putting area, and chipping green. Golf carts drive on the path at all times are mandatory. Chee Chan has an international feel to it with 5-star service levels rivaling the best in Asia.

Crystal Bay Golf Club Description:

(lush fairways, palms and chance at a good score!)

The 27-hole Crystal Bay Golf Resort course designed by Thai Takenaka and opened for play in 1988 under the original name of Natural Park Resort. From 2010 to 2016 it was owned by and operated under the Legacy golf group of properties. The Pattaya golf course is now a stand-alone golf resort 45 minutes from Pattaya and 1.5 hours from Bangkok. Described as ‘Hawaiian’ style with palm tree-lined holes, Crystal Bay is one of the mid-tier Pattaya golf courses.

The Pattaya golf course is a straightforward 27-hole layout comprised of three nine-hole loops which vary in elevation and hazards. The course is a mixture of styled fairways with an occasional links-type hole. Water is omnipresent, mostly bordering fairways though some waterways do require a carry onto the green. Bunkers play an integral role in determining play, making precision shots imperative.

The 3rd a par-4 dogleg and par-3 8th island hole are particularly exciting and enjoyable. Water is also used for the beauty of the course, not always just as a hazard. This course will offer more birdie opportunities than others and is an excellent chance to play to your handicap or better.

The clubhouse needs some work, locker rooms are ancient, and the golf course conditions vary through the year, so it is good to check before playing. A meal of local Thai fare with a cold beer or soft drink in the clubhouse will complete a decent Pattaya golf day.

Eastern Star Country Club & Resort Description:

(strategic Robert Trent Jones Jr. course)

The links-style course at Eastern Star, located near the Gulf of Thailand, is one of only five courses in Thailand designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The Pattaya golf course is set on 530 acres of land and meanders through lovely residential areas of Eastern Star Country Club & Resort.

The course’s wide fairways and hundreds of palm trees make it a popular local favorite. The gently undulating fairways and greens feature 65 bunkers, 11 lakes, and more than 2,200 coconut palms. The golf resort is conveniently situated just 2 kilometers from the sea ensuring a constant cooling breeze. Like a real links course, it is only slightly above sea level in altitude.

Eastern Star has been the venue for local and regional golf tournaments. It offers plenty of challenge for the experienced golfer, but also provides enjoyment for beginners. This Pattaya golf course is a 'thinking man's course' and with a little strategy and well-positioned shots can be played well. Tall mature coconut trees and some mango trees define the holes, enhanced by areas rich in flowers. There are numerous doglegs and a lot of water along the 18 fairways of Eastern Star.

The golf course can play quite long, mainly from the championship blue tees. The signature hole is the picturesque par-3 thirteenth, which lulls players into admiring the scenery. An accurate tee shot over water is required to stay out of the deep bunker or the lake on the right of the green. The preferred play is to the center of the green or slightly left. Too far, however, is sand and thick rough. Over the green gives entails negotiating a tricky downhill putt. If the hole appeared intimidating from the tee, look back from the green for an entirely different perspective

With open fairways, this is surely a course to suit beginner and experienced golfers alike. Practice areas, driving range, and a basic clubhouse provide adequate facilities. The restaurant, like most Thai golf courses, services a wide range of dishes at reasonable prices. Try a fruit smoothie for a great after the round beverage.

Emerald Golf Club Description:

(challenging Faldo/Muirhead course with rolling fairways)

The Emerald is a real country golf course. Named Ban Chang initially and then Rayong Century Golf Club the course is set into the mountains just outside Rayong. The Emerald Golf Club is one of the lesser-known Pattaya golf courses.

The Emerald is a veritable work of art by two well-known golf architects. Nick Faldo and the Desmond Muirhead. The 18-hole design weaves through a pristine rainforest of mature trees that still provide sanctuary to a variety of native birds. The gentle, yet beautiful contours of the fairways, the volcanic-like greens, difficult par-3’s, and the subtle water placements all combine to make the Emerald one the most challenging golf courses in Thailand. Unlike many of the other Pattaya golf courses, driving accuracy is favored over length as there is a considerable premium when hitting the fairways.

The small container type clubhouse and other facilities are not excessively luxurious but full of friendliness in the tradition of the Thai rural lifestyle. The open-air restaurant provides a nice ambiance after the game. While not as famous as other Pattaya golf courses, the excellent scenery makes the Emerald Golf Club a nice play for any Pattaya golfer.

Greenwood Golf & Resort Description:

(enjoyable Peter Thomson parkland layout)

The Greenwood Golf & Resort makes heavy use of flowing fauna and extensive landscaping. Located among the tree-lined hills the course and backdrop are very scenic.

Designed by Peter Thomson, five times British Open champion, and Michael Wolverine, Greenwood is a thinking man’s, British style course with many unique features. Peter Thomson's excellent 27-hole layout, roams its way over a wide area, where mild elevation changes and lightly tree-lined holes alternate with others that feel a tad flatter and more open.

Water hazards are less of a feature on the A Course, but play a bigger role on several holes on the B Course, starting with the testing short par-4 1st, which doglegs right to left around a pond. A mix of pot bunkers and clover-leaf sand traps around the greens are possibly more forgiving than the clinging Bermuda semi-rough, which awaits any stray approach shots not finding either the putting surface, the sand or water.

The B and C Courses characteristic pot bunkers and areas of native grass require particular skills to escape from first time. Lots of fairway undulations give a links-style feel to this hilly parkland setting. Shot planning is a must to avoid numerous pot bunkers that await any errant shots. The 3 nine holes present a challenging layout requiring ingenuity, careful club selection, and precision driving.

The clubhouse overlooks courses A and B. A cold beer on the large balcony over the course with the sunset behind the rolling hills is a picture postcard. If the weather is a little cloudy, it can feel like a links course in Scotland or England.

Greenwood Golf & Resort is constantly upgrading, and the course sports new sand bunkers and a revamped clubhouse with improved locker rooms. The Greenwood golf course is a bit rough around the edges, but continually improving quality means a good future for this well designed and favorite local Pattaya golf course.

Khao Kheow Country Club Description:

(Pattaya's only Pete Dye-designed course)

The Khao Kheow 27-hole golf course’s location is the heart of the Pattaya golf corridor on the way to Bangkok and the Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Like many of the Pattaya courses, Khao Kheow Country Club sits in a valley between hills. The course plays quite long, and the elevation changes between holes is a welcome differentiating point compared to the other flatter courses in the surrounding area.

In typical Pete Dye design fashion, precise shot making is required to overcome not only the windy conditions but also to take into account the numerous large ponds, bunkers, and mounds that surround the fairways. Greens are small and undulating which makes precise putting a key to scoring well.

With three nine-hole loops to choose between (A, B and C), there is no end of excitement and many great golf holes to be played. Each nine has its own potentially card-wrecking holes. On the A Course, the par-4 7th occupies a wonderfully rural setting, but standing on the tee you'll see a vast expanse of water running from tee-to-green, and a much thinner sliver of fairway also gently doglegging its way to the hole. The B Course contains one of the best island green par-3's in Thailand. Just the green sitting out there, surrounded by water, has an eerie similarity to the TPC Sawgrass 17th. With Dye's multiplicity of bunkering styles matched by a pleasant variety of trees lining the way, this is one Pattaya golf course that's purely experiential.

Playing all 27 holes is a good option for those who would like to enjoy all of the variety of holes, elevations, and settings. The clubhouse is old but still functional. The restaurant overlooks the B Course and serves all Thai golfers favorites like spring rolls, minced pork with basil, fried rice, and a wide selection of noodle soups.

Overall Khao Kheow has reasonable green fees, proper maintenance, and ranks as a solid tier-2 Pattaya golf course. Carts are optional, which also helps to keep costs low and affords all golfers a choice of walking or riding.

King Naga Golf Club Description:

(Nick Faldo course in rural settings)

King Naga Golf Club was formerly known as Century Golf & Country Club, and Great Lake Golf Club is about 30 minutes drive from Pattaya. The course is on a peninsula in the middle of the Dok Krai Reservoir. Most times of the year there are cooling breezes off the water and jungle. New owners brought improved conditions and services to this otherwise older Pattaya golf course.

The Nick Faldo designed course is flattish with almost no water hazards. Four sets of tees, with the championship tees playing 6,910 yards, allow golfers of all abilities to enjoy this Rayong golf club. Each hole offers enjoyment to professional and beginner golfers alike.

Instead of water hazards, the main challenges at King Naga are the 120 bunkers and the jungle-lined fairways. Many of the sand traps are in the fairway at the landing areas. On the other hand, most greens are flat and open, with the hazards being 30-40 yards away from the putting surfaces.

The 593 yard 18th hole is one of the best on the golf course. Most of the sixteen bunkers congregate at the driving and second shot landing areas., thus demanding long wood shots for big hitters or forcing more conservative layup play for higher handicap players.

Conditions at King Naga Golf club vary through the year. In the dry season, there are many scoring opportunities and the grass is kept tidy and well-cut. During the wetter months, the course can get soggy due to the proximity to water and jungle. Play is longer than what's indicated on the scorecard due to lack of roll out. Service and facilities are basic but adequate for general golfers needs. Overall King Naga is one of, if not the least expensive Pattaya golf course. Green fees can be as low as THB 100 (USD 3) on certain days in low season.

Laem Chabang International Country Club Description:

(Nicklaus design is among Thailand's best)

Laem Chabang Golf Club is a picturesque Jack Nicklaus designed championship course. It is considered the best layout in Pattaya and indeed one of Thailand’s most beautiful. Laem Chabang is made up of 27 holes on 700 acres and incorporates three types of features which characterize each of the nines. Critics widely hail this handiwork for the unique usage of the land's mixed terrain of mountains, lakes and river valleys which are lovely as well as functional. Each type of terrain corresponds to a 9-hole course uniquely, and as such, each one is named Mountain Course, Lake Course, and Valley Course.

The rolling hills of the surrounding countryside have been used to significant effect, and hazards are in abundance. Not only does the course have a lot of bunkers, sand traps, and water hazards, there are also a lot of natural hazards in the shape of exposed rock formations, lakes, ponds, and creeks. Cleverly shaped holes skirt water hazards and tall coconut trees. Every tee named for a distinctive tree or shrub planted nearby gives the course a unique floral emphasis. The large, undulating greens are mostly elevated and protected by deep bunkers.

The Mountain Course is 3,446 yards in length and plays around many hills. The opening drive requires a squeeze shot through a lush 'canyon' of vegetation. The second hole, a wonderfully water-fronted downhill par-3, is about as good as short holes get. From there on, challenges of the course’s natural undulations, occasional water hazards, and excellent sprawling bunkers protect the front and sides of many nicely elevated greens.

The Lake Course is 3,419 yards in length with a stream meandering through most all the holes. The Valley Course plays the longest at 3,619 yards in the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Although the presence of water is not overwhelming (apart perhaps from on the opening four holes of the more technical Valley Course), when it does occur, it does so with full force and knee-trembling impact.

These distinct playing conditions offer the golfer a challenging golf course in a variety of terrains. Beautifully maintained and presented, this is a golf course that effortlessly combines the human-made features and rich planting of flowers and shrubs, with the natural splendor of the surrounding hills, rocky outcrops, and jungle vegetation. With many scenic views from the course, it all fuses harmoniously into a tremendous golfing experience and one that is uniquely Asian. Excellent clubhouse facilities and accommodation superbly complement everything at Laem Chabang.

This top Pattaya golf course is a must play for anyone in the area. Also, located around 1:15 from Bangkok makes Laem Chabang a consideration for those coming from Bangkok or the airport.

Mountain Shadow Golf Club Description:

(challenging and scenic Ronald Fream design)

Mountain Shadow Golf Club, formerly the Natural Park Hill Golf Club, re-opened 2004 after a complete renovation by new owners. Located halfway between Bangkok and Pattaya, Golfplan’s Ronald Fream & David Dale designed Mountain Shadow is a beautiful course crafted out of a former mango plantation with beautiful flowers and trees providing a backdrop to each hole.

Fairways and greenskeeping are average to reasonably good. The relatively short 18-hole course is well suited for golfers of all levels and utilizes water hazards, doglegs and four island greens to good effect.

Greens are of average speed and generally have large undulations - reading the correct line is especially important. The narrow palm tree-lined fairways make it a challenge to recover from errant tee shots. Adding to the difficulty is also the relatively long distance between the tees and the fairways. Shorter tee shots often wind up in the difficult to hit out of semi-rough.

Both the 6th and 14th holes are challenging par-5’s. The two doglegs have greens tucked behind huge water hazards. Careful approach shots are required to avoid a watery penalty.

The clubhouse has a decent Thai restaurant serving a wide variety of dishes at reasonable prices, and there is a pro shop in the lobby and ample changing rooms for visitors.

Parichat International Golf Links Description:

(challenging links course)

Parichat International Golf Links is located 30 minutes from Pattaya and near to Pattaya Country Club. It takes around 1 hour from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport to reach the course for those coming from the other direction.

Opened in 2015, Parichat International Golf Links is an 18-hole course laid out on 200 acres of rolling natural terrain. The short 6,600 yard layout is in average condition and has several tricked out holes which make it best suited for skilled golfers. Large ravines and cliffs frame many of the holes and also come into play to swart good shots from being in play. Another common theme is water that creates unnecessarily narrow openings to the greens juts into the fairways several times through the course.

Parichat International Golf Links has several of these “exciting” holes. The par-4 seventeenth plays over 400 yards, is the longest par-4 on the course, and the signature hole. A good score requires a tee shot that negotiates the water which cuts in to the center from the right side of the fairway. The high cliff left frames the hole nicely, thus it’s signature appeal. However, the green is severely sloped from front to back which makes stopping the ball on the approach shot very difficult.

The temporary clubhouse is adequate for most needs as are the on-course kiosks. However, the permanent structure once completed will offer better service and more complete facilities. Parichat Links is a choice among many nearby courses for golfers who looking for a decent course at a reasonable price. Carts are mandatory, so this cost must be factored in.

Pattana Golf Club & Resort Description:

(tropical parkland course in natural surroundings)

Pattana Golf Club & Resort is one of only a few self-contained Thailand golf resorts integrating a 27-hole layout with large clubhouse, sports stadium, conference center, heliport, and on-site accommodations. Located north east of Pattaya in Chonburi Province, Pattana is accessible from both Pattaya and Bangkok. Bangsaen and Rayong beaches are located around 45 minutes from the golf resort.

This Thai owned, designed and built complex sits on 1,000 acres. The course was named after the founder’s husband Dr. Pattana Juangroongruangkit, who was a passionate golfer. Each of the three 9-hole courses (Andreas-A, Brookei-B, and Calypso-C) presents a wide variety of challenges and unique features. Undulating fairways, panoramic views, varying wind conditions, fast Tifdwarf greens, and two par-6 holes are only some of the obstacles to be tacked.

The 5th hole on the A-Course is 663 yards. This long hole joins the B-Course 9th (626 yards) to form the 2 longest holes at Pattana. These twin par-6 holes can both be reached in 3 by big hitters. Next up are the fairway trees. While intimidating off the tee, they rarely come into play as they are easy to hit over and only around 150 yards away. Past the trees the fairways are mostly open and free of hazards.

Water is abundant at Pattana. For example, both tee and approach shots require careful placement on the Couse B first hole. A long Par-4, water awaits anything hit left or right from the tee and short on the approach. A significant amount of land was rearranged at Pattaya to create elevated greens, deep bunkering, and grass mounds. The Pattana greens themselves are for the most part rolling straight, however a few of the holes have extravagant undulations like the Course C final hole which has some pin positions on the crest of hills.

There is no doubt that Pattana is a challenging layout and particularly well-suited for low handicappers and scratch golfers. In windy conditions, especially when the afternoon trade winds off the Gulf of Thailand roll in, it is one of the most difficult Pattaya golf courses.

Pattana has adequate facilities including several restaurants, practice areas and sports complex. The Pattaya golf resort also has a variety of accommodations available including hotel rooms, serviced apartments, and villas. The caddies and other service staff are well-trained.

However, course conditions vary, so it is best to check with a local agent before playing. Also Pattana caters to large local Thai and Asian groups. This makes tee times, especially on weekends, at a premium and slow play often a concern.

Pattavia Century Golf Club Description:

(strong parkland layout, renovated in 2014)

Pattavia Century Golf Club is located 1.5 hours from Suvarnabhumi International Airport and 1 hour from Pattaya. The Pattaya golf course was originally designed by US golf architect Robert McFarland in 1996 under the Century name. More recently in 2014, Pattavia was renamed, renovated, lengthened, and brought up to modern standards. It now plays to over 7,100 yards from the tips.

Rolling hills in scenic countryside make for an excellent golf course site. The holes at Pattavia are cleverly routed through jungle and up-and-down ravines. There are many doglegs including the best hole on the golf course. Hole 18 is the signature hole and besides having to skirt water and mange to hit the green with an accurately struck fairway wood, the green is severely sloped left to right. A par here is a good as it gets. Otherwise, settle for a bogey and call it a day. It could have been a lot worse.

Golf carts are optional for those who like to walk and Pattavia is one of the best values for money around the Pattaya area. Cadies are well-trained but speak little English. The club house is small, but more than adequate for all golfers’ needs. Pattavia can be a fun course and great alternative to those who have played all of the other regular and more famous courses around Pattaya.

Pattaya Country Club Description:

(solid resort course)

Pattaya Country Club is spread out on over 2,000 rai of park-like land amidst gently rolling hills and is one of the closest courses to Pattaya. The golf course is relatively easy and good for golfers of all abilities.

Several the holes feature dual fairways making for more challenging as well as for safer routes to the greens. The greens are usually well guarded by bunkers, and many are quite undulating.

Unlike many other Pattaya area courses, water comes into play on only one hole, the 17th par 4, at Pattaya Country Club. On the other hand, with the vast land area, many of the holes are located far away from one another. The layout not only makes for long walks from greens to the next tees and but also gives rise to the OB areas found on many of the holes.

The finishing three holes, locally named 'amen corner' are the most difficult on the course and make for some dramatic finishes or surprise scores those counting too early on a good 18-holes.

The smaller than usual clubhouse makes up for the lack of facilities with friendly staff and an excellent Thai restaurant, both providing welcome refreshments after any game.

Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club Description:

(site of 2019 European Tour and 2017-8 Ladies European Tour events)

Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club was renovated in 2015 and has since hosted the Kings Cup (European Tour) and Thailand Open (Ladies European Tour) events in 2016 and 2017, respectively. Then in 2018, Pheonix Golf hosted both the Royal Cup (Asian Tour) and Ladies European Thailand Championship (LET). The European Tour returned in 2019.

A robust Dennis Griffiths design, Pheonix plays on wooded, rolling terrain. This 27-hole Pattaya golf course comprises three nines - Ocean, Lake and Mountain, and has magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the Gulf of Thailand. Large mango, eucalyptus trees, and flowering shrubs add color and give a natural feel to the layout.

Gently contoured fairways, shallow bunkers, and sloping greens characterize this palm tree-lined parkland course. Planted hedges define tee-boxes and offer a range of distances that accommodate golfers of all abilities.

Compared to most other Pattaya golf courses, Phoenix Gold does not have much water, except on the Lake Course, which is also the shortest of the three loops. Most of the water here comes into play via a series of small ponds. The 8th hole is a tough par-4 dogleg around a lake and requires two accurate shots to achieve par.

The Ocean Course is a bit of a misnomer as there is no water on any of the holes. However, wait until the finishing hole on the Ocean Course. The tee box for this par-5 sits at the highest point on the course and affords a commanding view of the Gulf of Thailand and Pattaya skyline. The tee shot is straight down a sloping fairway followed by a 2nd shot aimed toward the Gulf of Thailand. Large sand bunkers lining along both sides of the fairway come into play on the 3rd shot into the green. The hazard on the front left of the green makes it difficult to get up and down for par. The center of the green is preferred for an easy par, or even birdie!

Scenically, top honors go to arguably the best nine, the Mountain Course. A very picturesque range of folding, jungle-clad hills is continuously in view. The rocky frontage of one mountain shines with a large, laser-carved image of Buddha, the golden lines of the image stand out against the gray of the rock face - quite a sight, especially when illuminated by the sun's rays.

A massive clubhouse dominates the landscape with a large center reception and pro shop. It is indeed not as elegant as some other Pattaya golf courses. However locker rooms and other facilities are adequate, and the restaurant serving both Thai and European food is quite excellent and well-priced.

Phoenix Gold Golf Club's easy access from Pattaya plus decent playing conditions and reasonable green fees make this course worthy of consideration for Pattaya golf packages.

Pleasant Valley Golf & Country Club Description:

(interesting layout with narrow fairways and undulated greens)

Pleasant Valley Golf & Country Club located amongst the mountains north of the city of Pattaya and often gets the breezes blowing across the golf course. The Khao Kheow National Park with lakes and waterfall are located only a few minutes drive from the course. It's an excellent place for relaxation not just for golfers, but also for families.

Well manicured tee-boxes, fairways, and greens make for 'pleasant' golfing conditions at Pleasant Valley Golf & Country Club. The Golf East designed course is more challenging than most other Pattaya golf courses. Several holes play alongside and through natural reed-filled swamps and ponds that cross the fairways. Poorly hit golf balls often end up in these waste areas.

The par-5 12th hole is particularly memorable as a long 200-yard carry is required to put the ball in play off the drive. The finishing hole, a short 360-yard par-4 dogleg is also one of the better Pleasant Valley holes. Long hitters can go for the green as the fairway close to the green feeds balls down to the front fringe. Those going for the fairway should take care and use 3-wood off the tee to be sure not to hit into the water directly in front.

The course is easy to walk as most elevation changes are internally built-up areas rather than more massive natural hills like at nearby Khao Kheow Country Club.

Modern facilities round out Pleasant Valley making the Pattaya golf course a good choice among Pattaya golf packages.

Plutaluang Royal Thai Navy Golf Course Description:

(pride of the Royal Thai Navy makes for enjoyable golf)

The municipal Plutaluang Royal Thai Navy Golf Course opened in 1969 and is a 30 minute drive South of Pattaya towards Sattahip. The 36 holes pride of the Royal Thai Navy were constructed to take advantage of the natural beauty of the area. Set in a wooded valley with mature trees of all types, Plutaluang is a must play for nature lovers. Built around a huge natural reservoir shortly after the Vietnam War it abounds with amazing flowers, birds and small forest creatures. Moreover, troops of local monkeys abound working their way through the fruits and seeds that come and go with the seasons.

Unlike modern Thai golf courses, which follow the trend of having a professional golfer design the course, and then a construction firm create the terrain, Plutaluang Royal Thai Navy Golf Course is an old school natural golf course, offering some of the best Asian golf available anywhere. The fairways and greens are of Zoysia grass, which while helps conserve water is more typical for courses in Phuket and Malaysia.

The four nines are named after the cardinal points, North, South, East and West. The first two are the core of the old course with East and West having only been constructed in the 1990’s. Each nine plays to a standard par-36 and golfers can usually select whichever two courses they wish to play at the time of check-in. Each has a wide variety of obstacles, narrow fairways, well-protected greens, and hazards with very thick rough.

The two most notable holes are the third hole on the North Course and ninth hole on the South Course. The former is a par-3 with its own lighthouse and island green. The latter is situated at the highest point on the course and this par-4 requires an accurate long downhill drive and a good second shot over water to a small green.

The refurbished clubhouse is well laid-out with well-maintained lockers & showers, although towels are chargeable. The pro-shop is simple and has a small stock of basic golf items while the restaurant has excellent views across the golf course and surrounding hills. Drinks and Thai food are very reasonably priced as the course is essentially a public Navy facility. This is a great place to “finish” a round.

Though Plutaluang is one of the older Pattaya golf courses and definitely not first-class, it is nevertheless one of the most popular. The friendly attitude of the staff, natural layout, and low costs really make for an enjoyable day golfing in Pattaya.

Rayong Green Valley Country Club Description:

(picturesque and popular Peter Thomson course)

Set among rolling hills near the Gulf of Thailand, Rayong Green Valley is one of the most picturesque and famous golf courses in Pattaya. Located some 45 minutes from central Pattaya, the Peter Thomson designed parkland course is mature, well-kept, and reasonably priced.

The layout at Green Valley features an inspired design that makes full use of the original plan to create an enjoyable and testing round of golf for players at every level.

Rayong Green Valley plays on the side of a hill and thus takes its many features from the large rocky outcrops, boulders, cactus, and other native fauna that feature in the local terrain. Bunkers have been used very intelligently, inviting an excellent golfer to drive over them while shorter hitters have plenty of room to a layup. Green Valley is one of Pattaya’s best walking courses as the undulating fairways in this peaceful setting allows those who prefer the exercise to enjoy golf at its best. The greens slightly elevated and vary from large to small – all with subtle undulations.

The Rayong Green Valley complex also incorporates a large clubhouse with three different restaurants. The German restaurant is especially good, especially for those who like a cold beer after their round. A housing estate, condominium, and small golf resort overlook the course.

Siam Country Club, Old Course Description:

(Thai home of the US LPGA)

Siam Country Club Old Course is one of the more famous Thailand golf courses. Originally designed by Japanese architect Ichisuke Izumi, Siam Country Club was just the country's second course when it opened in 1970. In those days, heavily contoured greens, large overhanging trees, and gentle bunkering characterized the course.

The Old Course was closed in 2006-2007 for a complete renovation by Americans Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley. The original routing was, for the most part, kept intact, while all aspects of the course were modernized and brought up to international championship levels. Upgrades to the original out-and-back parallel holes included curved fairways, new water hazards, high lipped bunkers, and relocated greens. New greenside bunker complexes added the legendary Siam undulating putting surfaces.

Since reopening in 2007, the golf course has hosted several international golf tournaments including the being the home of the US LPGA, Honda Classic from 2010 onwards. In 2018, Siam CC Old Course was recognized for its excellent when it was voted 73rd best golf course in the world by USA Golf Digest magazine.

The 7,162 yard, par-72 Old Course at Siam Country Club is set in the low hills just a few kilometers from Pattaya and contains more than its fair share of mature trees, shrubs and plants. Various flowering and fruit trees on the course give one the impression of being in an arboretum or orchard, especially when in season. The abundant 'wildlife' in the form of sculptured bushes and hedges are a feature unique to Siam Country Club.

The course has an out and back layout with many of the golf holes playing past a series of lakes and strategically placed creeks. Long, straight driving is required to negotiate the larger fairway bunker complexes. Left or right shots are punished by large trees at Siam Country Club flanking every fairway. The large greens at Siam Country Club Old Course roll fast, are excellently maintained, and extremely undulated. The many breaks favor the assistance of an experienced caddie to read properly. As expected, the entire course maintenance is at championship levels year round.

A large golden Buddha is watching over the course which can be seen clearest from the all uphill 9th hole. The Siam Old Course boasts many dramatic challenges, particularly the last four holes which are Siam’s answer to Amen Corner. The 15th through 18th holes taken together could arguably be the best finishing holes of any Pattaya golf course. If you're having a good day and scoring well, take care as these four holes could easily bring you back to earth and ruin a good score. The final hole, a par-5, in particular, is tempting to try to reach in 2. However, many a golfer has walked off with a bogey or worse as the closer you get to the green the more difficult the hole becomes.

The clubhouse is still the original structure dated from the 1970’s with major facelifts on the insides to brighten up the facilities. It sits up high and overlooks the Old Course and valley beyond. Permanently mounted binoculars help bring the distant farms and other golf courses in the area into close view.

The Siam Country Club, Old Course itself is one of the best in Asia and should be on every golfer's bucket list of courses to play.

Siam Country Club, Plantation Course Description:

(spectacular Pattaya course is a must-play, 2015 Thailand Open venue)

The Siam Country Club Plantation Course is simply an amazing golf course. Home to the 2009 US LGPA and the 2015 Thailand Open, the Pattaya course plays as difficult as any golf course in Thailand. Nothing was spared by designers Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley.

This 27-hole layout is routed through rolling terrain, with distant panoramic views of Pattaya Beach and Laem Chabang Port. Formerly a tapioca and pineapple plantation, the property’s geological and natural characteristics include rugged ravines bisecting its Paspalum fairways and mature trees augmented by landscape ground cover and plantings. The Plantation Course also features significant elevation changes that result in breathtaking sea views of Gulf of Thailand 11 kilometers away.

The course has one difficult hole after another. Long carries, blind shots, elevated greens, undulating fairways and greens, giant high-lipped bunkers, and shaved fringes on every hole are in play to challenge all golfers. The distance from the tips, depending on which of the 3 nines are played, is a long 7,404 or 7,495 yards, which makes the Siam Country Club Plantation Course one of the longest golf courses in Thailand.

Two nines, the 3,759-yard par-36 Tapioca and the 3,645-yard par-36 Pineapple, feature Asia’s first triple green. The Tapioca’s seventh and the Pineapple’s fourth and ninth holes play to a single green measuring more than 20,000 square feet (1,916 square meters) which serves as a unique focal point at this Pattaya golf course. The green’s undulating putting surface is contiguous and is divided into three distinct sections by large swales. Number seven on the Tapioca is a par-3 of 178 yards, while numbers four and nine on the Pineapple are lengthy par-4s of 490 and 469 yards, respectively.

The Sugar Cane Course is the Siam Country Club's third nine which plays out to the left of the driving range and staging area. The par-36, 3,736-yard layout is arguably the best of the 3 nines and includes the spectacular fifth. A par-5 with over 28 bunkers the Plantation Course’s signature hole plays long uphill with a split fairway. While inviting, the right side fairway is in play, but makes for a very difficult and long carry to have any chance to reaching the green in regulation. Hit to the left fairway and to take advantage of the much simpler approach shot and have a good chance for par.

Practice facilities include a grass driving range complete with pitching area, sand bunker, and large practice putting greens for golfers wishing to 'try-out' the course prior to play. Riding carts are compulsory on this up-and-down hilly tract. However, it is important to note that carts are restricted to cart path only, except on the aforementioned two-fairway Sugar Cane fifth hole. This applies to everyone, including handicapped golfers.

The magnificent contemporary designed clubhouse with excellent restaurant and lounge area overlooks both the triple green and Pattaya City makes a great place to reflect on your day and think about how you can conquer this course on your next round!

Siam Country Club, Rolling Hills Description:

(premium course with 'Wall of Death' is world-class)

The Siam Country Club's Rolling Hills Course is located 2.5 kilometers past the Waterside Course on the way to Chee Chan Mountain. Designed by Schmidt-Curley Design, lnc, the world-famous design company makes use of traditional elements more commonly found on mature parkland courses, which have stood the test of time.

The front nine moves away from the clubhouse on relatively flattish land. It has more of an open feel to it with hardly any foliage or large trees on the property. Hole 5 is unique in it has two greens switched in and out to change the length and difficulty. Several others on this nine offer different approaches to the green depending on how aggressive you want to be in attacking the pins. There are severe run-offs on most greens, so a sensible pin attack angle is critical. The risk and reward here create unique scoring opportunities.

The back nine plays up and down with more elevation change. Two large lakes come into play here, one of which sits between holes 10 and 18. The landscape varies from marshlands to small stands of trees. Many planted pine trees ensure that straw is used to good effect, another design element from the past. The most dramatic hole is the par-5 15th.

Here the green is protected by a ‘wall of death,’ and coming up short or right will leave golfers in a series of 12-meter tall bunkers each, which is deeper and steeper than the next. A bailout left is a much-preferred way to play the hole. The final three holes climb up to the highest point on the course giving golfers excellent views of the surrounding countryside and scenery back towards Pattaya and the other Siam golf courses. Making a good score here requires attention to detail and focus until dropping back down to the clubhouse level on the 18th.

The modern Thai-inspired clubhouse is functional and classy. Marble surfaces used throughout the clubhouse is ultra-luxurious. Catering for all golfers needs and in a first-class setting, the quality of lockers, restaurant, and pro shop are more characteristic of a private club than a daily use facility. Enjoying the 19th hole is a sure way to enjoy some extra time at the Siam Country Club, Rolling Hills. The views from the clubhouse looking over the course are excellent and a meal with cold beverages caps off a perfect day at one of the best golf courses in Pattaya.

Siam Country Club, Waterside Course Description:

(top layout, first-class service, and excellent finishing holes)

The Siam Country Club Waterside Course is the third layout from Siam Country Club in Pattaya. The Waterside Course, designed by IMG, features gently sloping terrain, making it very different from the hillier Siam Country Club Old and Plantation Courses. Spread out over 200 acres the golfer friendly course is of the same championship quality and 5-star experience as its other two big brothers next door.

Environmental waste areas and straightforward holes are the emphases of most holes at the Waterside Course. Course design is strategic with several lakes and creeks in play. At over 7,400 yards the back tees will challenge the best golfers. At the same time, other tees down to 5,000 yards are available and offer enjoyment for players at any level.

Fairways are grassed with the latest variety of Paspalum grass while greens are an ultra-dwarf Bermuda grass. Water frames the last three holes of each nine. All of the greens are flush with the fairways making getting up and down a realistic strategy for most players.

Some of the most notable holes include the 17th which is a long 600 yard par-5 that gives big hitters the option to cut across a dogleg left over water to reach the green in two or shorter hitters a layup but still challenging shot over a deep ravine to make the green in regulation. The lone tree is well left of the green and a good target if playing a layup shot.

The final hole is a great finishing hole playing around the large lake in front of the clubhouse. The 420 yard par-4 is a monster for any golfer, especially playing into the prevailing winds. Many rounds will be settled here with the rare birdy possible, but many more bogies or worse more likely.