Golf in Thailand vs. Scandinavia – How Thailand Compares to Golf in Sweden, Norway & Finland

9 May 2025

Scandinavian golfers are among the most passionate in the world. Whether you’re teeing off under the midnight sun in Sweden or planning your weekend fourball in Finland, golf is more than just a hobby across the Nordics — it’s a lifestyle. But when winter sets in, fairways freeze and golf bags go into hibernation.

That’s where Thailand steps in.

With year-round sunshine, affordable pricing, and some of Asia’s most beautiful golf courses, Thailand has become a second home for thousands of Nordic golfers, especially during the colder months. Let’s take a closer look at how golf in Thailand compares to golf in Sweden, Norway, and Finland, and why so many Scandinavians keep coming back – particularly to Hua Hin.

Golf in Sweden with Deep Culture but Short Season

Sweden is a true golfing nation, with more than 450 courses and a proud history of producing international talent. The quality of public courses is generally high, and the golf culture is well-developed across the country.

However, the major downside is the season. In most regions, you’ll only get around five months of playable weather, from May to September. Even then, early spring and late autumn can be chilly, with rain or frost occasionally closing courses. Green fees and memberships have also seen price increases, especially at more desirable clubs.

Swedish golfers often find themselves juggling limited tee times, short summers, and the growing cost of a full golf experience – all of which make the idea of playing in Thailand that much more appealing.

Golf in Norway – Stunning But Short-Lived

Norway offers breathtaking scenery and some memorable golf moments. Playing with a view over the fjords is something special, but the number of courses is far lower than in Sweden, and the season is even shorter. Most courses only operate from June to September, and playing conditions can still be unpredictable.

Many Norwegian golfers love the game but struggle to fit it into their schedules, especially when travel within the country can be time-consuming and pricey. For that reason, it’s not surprising that Thai destinations with particularly Phuket and Pattaya have seen an increase in Norwegian bookings, especially in winter and early spring.

Golf in Finland – Popular But Weather-Dependent

Finland has steadily built up its golf culture, with around 140 courses and a growing number of enthusiasts. Golf is accessible and well-organized, but once again, the weather imposes limits. The courses are usually open from May until late September, leaving a large part of the year unsuitable for play.

While Finnish golfers enjoy a strong local community, many still look abroad when they want to take a real golf holiday. Something that includes not just golf, but also warm weather, relaxation, and a bit of adventure.

That combination is what makes Thailand such an attractive option.

Why Thailand Has Become the Go-To Golf Destination for Scandinavians

Thailand isn’t just a great place to play golf. It’s a destination where the game becomes part of a broader holiday experience. For Scandinavian travelers, the appeal is crystal clear: sunny weather, great hospitality, excellent food, and golf courses that are open all year round.

One of the standout destinations for Scandinavian golfers is Hua Hin. Often described as Thailand’s golf capital, Hua Hin offers a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful mountain and ocean views, and some of the best-maintained courses in the country. Over the years, it has quietly become a favorite for Swedes, Norwegians, and Finns alike. With many choosing to stay for weeks at a time, returning season after season.

The Courses You’ll Fall in Love With

While Scandinavian golf offers a burst of summer beauty, Thai golf delivers something more enduring — year-round variety, warm hospitality, and outstanding course conditions. And for many Nordic golfers, Hua Hin has become the heart of it all.

This charming coastal town is home to some of Thailand’s finest golf. At Black Mountain Golf Club, you’ll find a championship layout surrounded by mountain views. Pineapple Valley Golf Club (formerly Banyan) blends scenic beauty with top-tier service. Courses like Springfield Royal Country Club challenge your course management, while Palm Hills Golf Club offers wide fairways and relaxed play – ideal for social rounds. Even Seapine Beach Golf, set right along the beach, gives you the kind of setting that’s impossible to recreate back home.

In Phuket, you’ll discover Red Mountain Golf Club, dramatic and bold with elevation changes and jungle surroundings, and Mission Hills, which offers ocean views from several holes. Pattaya serves up Siam Country Club Waterside Course, a regular tour stop with immaculate conditions, and Laem Chabang International Country Club, a 27-hole Nicklaus-designed gem.

If your journey begins or ends in Bangkok, Nikanti Golf Club is a must-play — stylish, efficient, and all-inclusive — while The RG City Golf Club is ideal for a final round before flying home.

And if you’re still deciding where to play, you can always browse all of our trusted partner golf courses across Thailand on our Course Overview page. With over 60 options available, there’s something to match every style, level, and travel plan.

From Frost to Fairways – The Scandinavian Shift

It’s not just the courses or the weather. It’s the full package. In Thailand, golfers from Sweden, Norway, and Finland find something they rarely experience at home: a golf trip that truly feels like a vacation.

You can start the day with a round of golf, have a beachfront lunch, enjoy a massage in the afternoon, and still be back in time for cocktails. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, Thailand offers full flexibility and all of it at a fraction of the cost compared to similar resorts in Europe.

And when you book through Fairways of Eden, you get full transparency, hand-picked courses and hotels, and the ability to customize every detail of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions?! Golf in Thailand vs. Scandinavia

Is golf cheaper in Thailand than in Sweden or Norway?
Yes. While green fees are rising everywhere, Thailand still offers excellent value. Even top-level courses in Thailand often cost less than mid-range clubs in Scandinavia and that includes caddy service.

Can I play golf in Thailand year-round?
Absolutely. All major golf destinations in Thailand are open 12 months a year. Even during the rainy season, showers are typically short and courses drain quickly.

Is Hua Hin really that popular with Scandinavians?
Yes, very much so. Hua Hin offers a relaxed, clean, and welcoming environment with great golf courses. Many Scandinavian golfers return every winter and some even own property there or stay for weeks at a time.

Are the golf courses in Thailand good for all skill levels?
They are. From championship layouts to forgiving resort-style courses, Thailand has something for everyone. If you want to improve your game, private lessons and golf simulators are also available.

How do I book a full golf trip to Thailand?
You can plan the entire trip. Hotel, golf, transfers, and activities and all flexible with Fairways of Eden. Everything is transparent, customizable, and designed to make your trip effortless.

Dreaming of fairways instead of freezing mornings?
It might be time to take your golf game south.
👉 Start planning your custom golf holiday in Thailand now