Golf in Thailand vs. USA – Why Americans Are Booking Tee Times Across the Pacific

14 May 2025

The United States is home to some of the world’s most iconic golf destinations from the windswept dunes of Pebble Beach to the manicured fairways of Augusta National. With thousands of courses spread across the country, most Americans are spoiled for choice. But more and more golf travelers are looking east, not just for new challenges, but for an entirely different experience.

Thailand has quietly become a top golf destination for Americans, offering a complete package: championship courses, year-round sunshine, warm hospitality, and prices that feel refreshingly affordable.

So why are Americans flying 8,000 miles for a golf holiday? Let’s take a closer look at what makes golf in Thailand so appealing. Even for players who live in the land of golf abundance.

The American Golf Scene – Great Courses, But Not Always a Vacation

There’s no doubt the US offers incredible golf. From public access favorites like Torrey Pines and Bethpage Black to high-end resort destinations like Bandon Dunes and Pinehurst, the variety is unmatched. But that variety often comes at a cost. Both in terms of price and overall experience.

Booking a round at a top-tier course in the US can be expensive and complicated, with waitlists, high green fees, and additional charges for carts, caddies, and club rentals. Even resort packages can become pricey quickly, especially when you factor in food, lodging, and transportation.

And while golf trips in the US are often focused around the game itself, the off-course experience can sometimes feel like an afterthought, particularly for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

What Makes Golf in Thailand Worth the Trip

Thailand flips the script. Here, golf is only one part of the holiday, and everything around it from service to scenery to cost enhances the entire experience.

Courses are open year-round, always include a personal caddy, and are often located near beaches, resorts, and vibrant cities. You can play a stunning round in the morning, enjoy a Thai massage in the afternoon, and watch the sunset from a beachfront restaurant, all without breaking the bank.

The value goes beyond just pricing. Hospitality is built into Thai culture, and golfers feel that from the moment they arrive. Tee times are easily booked. Staff are friendly and efficient. Everything runs smoothly so you can focus on playing your best and enjoying your time off the course.

And while the flight from the US is long, it’s often cheaper than you’d think. Especially from the West Coast. Many travelers combine a Thailand golf holiday with other destinations in Southeast Asia, making it part of a broader bucket list trip.

Where to Play – American Favorites in Thailand

With dozens of world-class courses spread across its most popular destinations, Thailand offers something special for every traveling golfer  and Americans are increasingly choosing to explore beyond the fairways of home.

In Phuket, the island’s tropical beauty is matched by bold golf course design. Blue Canyon Country Club – Canyon Course is a legend in Thai golf history — Tiger Woods famously played here, and its dramatic layout through deep canyons makes every hole memorable. To the north, near the Phang Nga border, Aquella Golf & Country Club offers a newer, upscale experience with ocean views and a serene, high-end vibe. Together, these two courses give visitors a mix of prestige and discovery.

In Pattaya, golf is big, bold, and beautifully maintained. Chee Chan Golf Resort, located beneath the towering Buddha Mountain, delivers wide fairways, fast greens, and five-star service. It’s a favorite for golfers who want modern design in a spectacular setting. Meanwhile, Siam Country Club with multiple 18-hole layouts including Old Course, Plantation, Waterside and Rolling Hills is the heartbeat of tournament golf in Thailand. Americans looking for a high-level experience will feel right at home here.

Bangkok offers a different kind of golf. Polished, elite, and surprisingly accessible. Ban Rakat Club (Ballyshear Golf Links) is an architectural masterpiece, inspired by early 20th-century links design and one of Asia’s most unique layouts. The RG City Golf Club, located conveniently near the airport, provides a modern and efficient final round for those flying in or out of Thailand’s capital.

Even if you’re heading a bit further south, Hua Hin offers incredible value and scenic golf. Black Mountain Golf Club is a championship-level favorite among international visitors, while Majestic Creek Golf Club is a more relaxed, rural experience, perfect for a day trip or a quiet stay.

All of these destinations and over 60 partner courses across Thailand are listed on our Course Overview page, with real-time pricing and full customization options available when planning your golf holiday.

Not Just a Round. A Whole New Golf Experience

American golf trips often involve early tee times, fast food lunches, and flights back home the next day. Thailand changes that pace completely.

You wake up in a beachfront resort. Your transfer is arranged in advance. You arrive at the course, where your caddy is already waiting with your clubs. After your round, you head for a massage, a cold drink, or a boat tour? No rush, no stress.

Golf becomes just one part of something bigger: a complete, relaxing, and unforgettable holiday.

Fairways of Eden makes this easy. You can choose your destination, select courses and hotels, and add as many or as few activities as you like. Whether you’re traveling with your partner, your golf buddies, or solo, everything is customizable  and transparent from start to finish.

FAQ – Golf in Thailand vs. USA

Is golf really cheaper in Thailand than in the US?
Yes – and the value is higher. Courses include caddies, and green fees for top-tier courses are often half the price of equivalent US rounds.

How hard is it to travel to Thailand from the US?
There are daily flights from major US cities to Bangkok and Phuket. From the West Coast, total travel time can be under 20 hours, and fares are often competitive.

Do I need to bring my own clubs?
You can, but you don’t have to. Most courses offer high-quality rentals, and Fairways of Eden can arrange them in advance.

What’s the best time of year to golf in Thailand?
November through March is ideal, with dry, sunny weather. But courses are open all year even during the green season, when prices are lower.

Is Thailand safe for travelers?
Yes. Thailand is one of the most traveler-friendly countries in Asia, with great infrastructure, English-speaking staff at most venues, and a strong focus on tourism.

Looking for your next great golf story?
Thailand might just be the best round of your life and everything around it makes it even better.

👉 Start building your Thailand golf holiday today