Caddies in Thailand – What to Expect on a Golf Holiday

Caddies in Thailand – What to Expect on a Golf Holiday

23 January 2026

Caddies are an essential and unique part of the golf experience in Thailand. Unlike many other golf destinations, caddies are always included at Thai golf courses and are a mandatory part of every round. For golfers visiting Thailand for the first time, this can raise questions — but in practice, it is one of the reasons why golf in Thailand is so enjoyable, efficient, and well organised.

Understanding how caddies work helps golfers feel comfortable from the first tee and allows them to get the most out of their golf holiday.

Why Caddies Are Mandatory in Thailand

The caddie system in Thailand is deeply rooted in the country’s golf culture. Each golfer is assigned a dedicated caddie who accompanies them throughout the round. This system ensures smooth pace of play, clear communication on the course, and a consistently high service standard across all levels of golf courses.

Caddies support not only individual players but also overall course flow. They help manage distances, positioning, and timing, making rounds more relaxed and enjoyable — especially on unfamiliar courses.

What a Thai Golf Caddie Does During a Round

A caddie’s role in Thailand goes far beyond carrying clubs. They assist golfers with course knowledge, distances, green reading, and general guidance throughout the round. Many caddies know their home course extremely well, including slopes, break patterns on greens, and strategic landing areas.

Caddies also help maintain pace, assist with ball spotting, prepare clubs for shots, and keep the round moving smoothly. For golfers unfamiliar with tropical conditions or local course layouts, this support adds a significant level of comfort and confidence.

While caddies do not act as coaches, their experience and familiarity with the course often provide valuable insights that enhance the overall playing experience.

Caddies and Skill Levels

The caddie system benefits golfers of all skill levels. Beginners appreciate the guidance and reassurance, while experienced players value accurate information and efficient course management. For mixed-ability groups, caddies help keep everyone moving at a comfortable pace, reducing pressure and frustration.

First-time visitors to Thailand often find that playing with a caddie removes much of the uncertainty that can come with playing new courses in a new environment.

Caddie Fees and Tipping Etiquette

Caddie fees are included as part of the golf experience in Thailand, but tipping is customary and appreciated. Tips are given directly to the caddie at the end of the round and reflect service quality, round length, and personal preference. (Usually between 300-600 Thai Baht)

Tipping is an established part of golf culture in Thailand and is generally viewed as a gesture of appreciation. Fairways of Eden provides guidance on local tipping expectations so golfers feel comfortable and informed.

Booking Golf with Fairways of Eden

When booking golf through Fairways of Eden — whether as part of a full golf holiday package or via a tee time–only booking — caddies are always included automatically. There is no need to request or arrange this separately.

For full golf holidays, caddies are seamlessly integrated into the overall planning alongside tee times, golf carts (where available), transfers, and accommodation. For tee time–only bookings arranged via direct contact, caddie inclusion remains standard and consistent across all courses.

This ensures clarity and reliability, regardless of how golfers choose to book their golf in Thailand.

A Defining Part of the Thailand Golf Experience

For many visitors, playing with a caddie becomes one of the most memorable aspects of golf in Thailand. The combination of attentive service, local knowledge, and smooth course management creates a playing environment that feels welcoming and well organised.

Rather than viewing caddies as an unfamiliar requirement, most golfers quickly recognise them as a valuable part of the experience — one that sets Thailand apart as a premium yet accessible golf destination.

For a Thailand golf holiday, understanding the role of caddies helps golfers relax, enjoy their rounds, and fully appreciate the country’s distinctive approach to the game.