How to Prepare for Golf Holidays in Thailand’s Rainy Season (Tips, Gear & Courses)
Golfing during Thailand’s rainy season might sound like a challenge at first. But like in golf itself, your mindset is everything. Just as a great round requires patience, focus, and a sense of humor, so does planning a golf holiday during the wetter months. Rain doesn’t mean your trip is ruined, it just means it might look a little different. And often, those differences bring the most memorable moments. Learn everything about Rainy Season Golf in Thailand.
In Thailand, we say “sabai sabai”, take it easy, go with the flow. Don’t rush your round. If a shower rolls in, take a break under the clubhouse roof, enjoy a drink with your friends, and let the rain pass. The country’s famous hospitality doesn’t disappear when the skies open. It simply shifts location. Maybe you’ll spend less time sunbathing and more time laughing in a cozy beach bar or bonding at a scenic clubhouse with panoramic views.
And let’s not forget the perks: cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and fairways that glow green under misty skies. The courses are stunning this time of year, and for those who stay flexible and positive, Thailand’s rainy season can be one of the most rewarding times to play. At Fairways of Eden, we’re here to help you embrace the season and not avoid it. With smart planning, the right gear, and a bit of sabai sabai spirit, your golf holiday can be just as amazing, rain or shine.
When to Plan Your Thailand Golf Trip: Understanding the Rainy Season Months
Thailand’s rainy season typically runs from May to October, driven by the southwest monsoon. While this period is associated with increased rainfall, it doesn’t mean it rains all day every day. In most regions like Bangkok or Hua Hin, the rain often comes in short, powerful bursts, particularly in the afternoon or evening. Mornings tend to remain dry, offering an excellent window for early tee times.
However, regional variations are important to understand. Phuket, for instance, has recently experienced longer and more persistent rain stretches, especially between July and September. Unlike central Thailand, where rain passes quickly, Phuket can see full-day downpours or prolonged showers that return several times a day. This makes planning and flexibility even more essential when golfing in southern regions.
Meanwhile, Pattaya and Hua Hin experience relatively lighter and more predictable rainfall. Courses in these areas generally dry out quickly and are ideal for golfers who prefer more stable weather during their stay. Bangkok tends to mirror Hua Hin’s pattern but can be more humid due to the urban environment.
No matter the destination, knowing these local patterns will help you choose the best tee times and locations and ensure you get the most from your golf holiday during the rainy season.
Rainy Season Golf Gear for Thailand Holidays: What to Pack for Every Round
Success in rainy weather starts with having the right equipment. Here’s what we recommend packing — with some handy product suggestions if you’re shopping before your trip.
☔ Lightweight, breathable rain gear: Choose golf-specific rain jackets and pants like the FootJoy DryJoys Tour LTS or Adidas Rain.RDY. These keep you dry without restricting your swing. Avoid bulky options — breathability and stretch matter.
👣 Waterproof golf shoes with grip: Look for shoes like the ECCO Biom H4 or Adidas Tour360. These offer traction and comfort even on soaked fairways. Keeping your feet dry helps your game and your focus.
🛌 A large, wind-resistant umbrella: Don’t settle for a travel-sized umbrella. A double-canopy golf umbrella such as the GustBuster Pro Series or Titleist Tour Umbrella protects both you and your gear.
🛋 Extra gloves and towels: Bring at least 2–3 pairs of all-weather gloves, like the FootJoy RainGrip or TaylorMade Rain Control. Multiple microfiber towels will help you keep grips dry and clubfaces clean.
👣 Spare socks and a small dry bag: Invest in quick-drying socks made for performance. Brands like Darn Tough or Swiftwick are great options. A compact dry bag keeps wet clothes separate from your gear and is ideal for quick changes.
These items don’t take up much space in your bag but make a world of difference in comfort and performance. With the right rainy season golf gear, you’ll be ready to play through whatever Thailand’s weather brings. Success in rainy weather starts with having the right equipment.
How to Play Golf in Thailand’s Rainy Season: Swing & Course Strategy Tips
Rain changes how the course plays and how your body feels.
🌫️ Take smoother swings: A slower swing keeps you balanced and in control. Overswinging leads to slips and mishits.
🧼 Mind your footing: Widen your stance slightly and prioritize a steady base over distance. Stability beats power on wet turf.
🔳 Club up: Expect shorter carry distance and almost no roll. Take one extra club and swing easy, trust the loft.
🪜 Dry your grip often: Even the best grip is useless if your glove or club is wet. Use towels often and switch gloves mid-round if needed.
🎯 Focus on precision: Target smaller landing zones and accept shorter shots that keep you in play. Rainy rounds reward strategy.
Best Time to Book Tee Times in Thailand During the Rainy Season
Despite the name, it doesn’t rain all day in Thailand. There’s a rhythm to the rain and knowing it helps.
⏰ Aim for early morning tee times: Most rain falls later in the afternoon or evening. A 7:00–8:00 AM tee time often means dry skies for the front nine and sometimes the full round.
📊 Check forecasts – and don’t panic: Local apps like the Thai Meteorological Department, Windy, or even Google’s radar can be surprisingly accurate hour by hour.
🛍 Flexible bookings are your friend: We always help clients rebook or shift tee times where possible. Our partner courses are golfer-friendly and understand that tropical storms are part of the deal.
And when it does rain during your round? Don’t rush yourself. Sit back, take cover, have a drink, and wait. As the Thais say: “sabai sabai.” You’re here to relax and the rain will pass.
Best Golf Courses in Thailand for Rainy Season Play: Drainage, Layout & Location
Some golf courses drain better than others. Knowing which ones recover quickly makes all the difference.
🏜 Look for hilly or elevated courses: These naturally drain faster, especially in destinations like Hua Hin and Pattaya.
🚑 Avoid low-lying flood-prone layouts: Certain inland courses in flat areas can become unplayable after heavy rain.
Fairways of Eden recommends the best rainy-season courses in each location. Whether you’re staying in Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, or Bangkok, we’ll match you with the most weather-resilient layouts.
Rainy Day Ideas for Your Thailand Golf Holiday: Indoor Golf, Spa & Local Culture
Sometimes, the weather really doesn’t cooperate and that’s okay. Your golf time won’t go to waste.
🎮 Indoor golf simulators: We partner with premium indoor golf venues in every destination. If your round is rained out, we’ll arrange a private 2-hour simulator session for you with transport included.
🛏 Spa and wellness days: Reboot your body with Thai massage, hydrotherapy, or an afternoon in a luxury onsen.
🍷 Distillery or wine tastings: Sample locally crafted rum, gin, or wines with tours that keep you dry and entertained.
🏫 Cultural activities: Visit temples, try a cooking class, or explore museums – all great ways to enjoy your trip, even without golf.
You’re never stuck. Our concierge team is ready to pivot your day with alternative experiences that keep the spirit of your trip alive.
Enjoying Your Thailand Golf Holiday in the Rain: Stay Flexible and Have Fun
Thailand’s rainy season is part of the rhythm of life here and with the right mindset, it adds character to your journey.
We’ve had guests tell us that their most memorable rounds happened during a light shower on a jungle-lined fairway, the mist hanging over the hills of Hua Hin or Pattaya. One group even celebrated a surprise hole-in-one in the rain, with cheers echoing through the wet greenery of Blue Canyon in Phuket. It’s these moments — spontaneous, unscripted, and deeply local — that become the highlight of your trip.
Embrace it. Play through it. Pause when you need to. Laugh, dry off, and tee it up again. This is what golf in Thailand is all about: flexibility, beauty, and a good story after the round. If the skies don’t open up for golf, don’t worry. We’ve already planned for that too. From simulator golf lounges with drinks and snacks to wellness escapes and cultural experiences, we’ve got rainy days covered.
At Fairways of Eden, we’re always one step ahead of the weather helping you plan, adapt, and still get the most out of every swing. Because a little rain should never ruin a great golf holiday. Rainy Season Golf in Thailand.
→ Explore golf in Thailand with us and let’s plan a trip that flows with the season.
FAQs: Rainy Season Golf in Thailand
Can you really play golf in Thailand during the rainy season?
Yes! Thailand’s rainy season (May–October) does not mean constant downpours. In most regions like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Hua Hin, showers are short and often in the afternoon or evening, leaving mornings perfect for golf. With cooler temperatures, greener fairways, and fewer crowds, many golfers actually prefer this season. Phuket tends to see heavier, longer rains, but even there early tee times are often dry. With the right planning and flexibility, rainy season golf in Thailand can be one of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences of your trip.
When is Thailand’s rainy season and which months are best for golf?
Thailand’s rainy season typically runs from May to October, caused by the southwest monsoon. Rain patterns vary by region. In central areas like Bangkok and Hua Hin, showers usually come in short bursts late in the day, making morning tee times ideal. Pattaya experiences lighter rainfall overall, while Phuket sees the heaviest rain between July and September, sometimes lasting all day. For golfers seeking balance, May–June and late September–October are great months, offering lush scenery with less intense rainfall compared to peak wet-season months.
Which golf destinations in Thailand are best during the rainy season?
For the most reliable rainy-season golf, Pattaya and Hua Hin are excellent choices. Their courses drain quickly and rainfall is lighter and more predictable. Bangkok also works well, with most showers arriving late in the day. Phuket is the trickiest, as July–September can bring full-day storms, but with planning, it’s still possible. Elevated or hillside courses, such as Black Mountain in Hua Hin or Chee Chan in Pattaya, are especially good because they dry faster and remain playable even after rain. Fairways of Eden helps recommend the best rainy-season options in every region.
What gear do I need for golfing in Thailand’s rainy season?
The right gear makes all the difference. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and pants (breathable, non-restrictive), waterproof golf shoes with good grip, and a large double-canopy umbrella for serious coverage. Always carry extra gloves, spare socks, and microfiber towels to keep grips and hands dry. A small dry bag is also useful for separating wet items from your gear. Many golfers underestimate how much comfort and focus these essentials add. With minimal but smart packing, you’ll stay dry and enjoy your round even when the skies open up.
What’s the best time of day to tee off during rainy season in Thailand?
The golden rule is: start early. In most of Thailand, rain is more common in the late afternoon or evening. A tee time between 7:00–8:00 AM usually gives you clear skies for at least 9–18 holes. Early starts also mean cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and smoother pace of play. Checking local apps like the Thai Meteorological Department or Windy helps track short-term showers. Even if a rain delay happens, most tropical storms pass quickly, so a relaxed coffee break in the clubhouse is often all that’s needed before you continue.
How does rain affect the way golf is played in Thailand?
Rainy conditions change how courses play. Expect shorter carry distance, less roll, and softer greens, which makes approach shots stop faster. Using one more club and taking smoother, controlled swings is smart. Widen your stance for stability and focus on balance over power. Keep grips dry by rotating gloves and using towels often. Strategy matters more than distance: play safe, target higher ground, and avoid risky shots near water or bunkers. With small adjustments, many golfers discover that rainy-season rounds improve their accuracy and mental focus.
Are there things to do if golf isn’t possible due to heavy rain?
Absolutely. Thailand offers many great rainy-day golf alternatives. You can book time at indoor golf simulators in Bangkok, Phuket, or Pattaya, where you can still practice and enjoy social play. Many travelers also use rain delays for Thai spa and wellness treatments, cooking classes, distillery tours, or cultural sightseeing. Fairways of Eden arranges last-minute activities or rebooks rounds so your holiday never feels wasted. Even if one day gets rained out, the country’s variety of experiences ensures you’ll still enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Is golfing in Thailand cheaper during the rainy season?
Yes, many golf courses in Thailand offer special green fee discounts during the rainy or “green season.” With fewer international visitors and lighter bookings, courses compete with attractive packages that include carts and caddies. Hotels and resorts also lower rates, meaning your entire golf holiday—accommodation, rounds, and extras—can cost significantly less than in peak season. Combine this with fewer crowds, cooler weather, and lush, green fairways, and the rainy season becomes one of the best-value times to enjoy golf in Thailand.
More Golf Holiday Guides from Fairways of Eden:
- Read more about how to book a golf holiday package with Fairways of Eden
- Read More About What Makes Thai Golf Caddies So Special
- Absolute Golf Beginner? Read more about how you still can enjoy a great golf Holiday in Thailand
- Get more information about the best tools to plan and enjoy your Golf Trip to Thailand
- Read everything about Golf Etiquette on the beautiful golf courses in Thailand
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