Thailand's Top Golf Courses Around Bangkok

South-East of Bangkok

Bangpakong Riverside

On Highway 314, left off Bangna-Trat Highway 34 at 47 km mark
Tel: (038) 513-523; Fax (038) 513-526

Close to the river, the gently rolling 18-hole par 72 course has wide fairways, large greens, and not too many hazards. The five tee system common to most new courses gives golfers of all standards the chance to make a good score. The big open clubhouse is kept cool by constant breezes. It is exceptional value, and as result is usually crowded at weekends, when there is sometimes a shortage of caddies. Although within reach of Bangkok, there is a good choice of hotels in neighbouring Chon Buri and the coastal resort of Bang Saen, and the family can take a river trip while you play golf.

Booking: open to all, but booking essential at weekends.

Green fees: weekday $; weekend $$.

Bangpoo

Left at 36 km marker on Highway 3 (Old Sukhumvit Road) 11 km past Samut Prakarn.
Tel: 324-0320; Fax: 324-0314

Arnold Palmer designed this open 18-hole par 72 course, which is often made more difficult by fresh coastal winds. Wide fairways and big greens make it enjoyable for the average golfer. It has a pleasant, partially-open clubhouse, slightly less ostentatious than most in the area.

Booking: members priority; reservations are hard to get at weekends.

Green fees: weekday $$: weekend $$$$.

Green Valley

Bangna Right at 15 km marker on Bangna-Trat Highway (U-turn at 16.5 km).
Tel: 316-8350; Fax: 316-8950

Also known as Green Valley Bangphlee, this 18-hole par 72 course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., who is said not to have been too please with the result. Surrounded by potential housing development, it has some difficult holes. Fairways give many sloping lies, and the greens have never truly settled. There is a good, but expensive, restaurant.

Booking: members' priority, visitors are not made to feel especially welcome.

Green fees: weekday $$$; weekend $$$$.