Koh Samui is a Gulf of Thailand island better known for its beaches, coconut palms, and full-moon parties on neighbouring Koh Phangan. But for golfers, it holds a genuine surprise: Santiburi Samui Country Club, an 18-hole championship layout carved through jungle and coconut groves on the mountainous northern coast. Nicknamed “the Beast of Samui” after hosting Asian Tour Queen’s Cup events, the 6,932-yard course winds uphill and downhill with views across the Gulf to Koh Phangan from nearly every hole. Golf carts are mandatory here because of the terrain, and the large greens are more forgiving than the fairways, which slope in every direction.
Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, a 9-hole mountaintop course between Chaweng and Lamai, offers a more relaxed option with ocean views on every hole and three tee-box positions so you can play 18 without repeating the same shot twice. Bophut Hills adds an affordable 9-hole alternative closer to the Fisherman’s Village area.
Playing golf in Koh Samui pairs naturally with island downtime. The courses are never more than 45 minutes from any resort on the island. You can also day-trip to the mainland’s Rajjaprabha Dam Golf Course near Khao Sok for a jungle experience, or include Koh Samui as part of a longer Thailand golf tour. Browse course details below and book through GolfLux for confirmed tee times, transfers, and rental club coordination.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Koh Samui Island, Gulf of Thailand, Surat Thani Province |
| Distance from Koh Samui International Airport (USM) | 15–45 minutes depending on course and resort location |
| Course Types | Mountainside championship, hilltop 9-hole, and casual resort layouts |
| Caddie Service | Professional caddies at Santiburi; golf carts mandatory on both main courses |
| Facilities | Clubhouses, pro shops, on-course restaurants, driving ranges, club rentals |
| Best Playing Season | December to March (cool and dry) |
| Nearest Airport | Koh Samui International Airport (USM) |
| Best Suited For | Golfers wanting championship golf paired with a tropical island holiday |
Bo Phut, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani, 84310, Thailand
Holes: 18 Par: 66 Length: 4162 yards Slope: 94The Royal Samui Golf and Country Club in Surat Thani, Thailand, is a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts seeking a unique and challenging experience. Established in 2006, the club was…
12/12 Moo 1, Maenam Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84330 Thailand
Holes: 18 Par: 72 Length: 6930 yd Slope: N/ASantiburi Samui Country Club is one of Asia’s most spectacular course. For the golf nut, what could be more apt than a stunning highlands course set amidst a preserved coconut palm…
December through March brings the coolest and driest weather, with temperatures around 29–33°C. April to June is hotter and more humid, so early morning or late afternoon tee times are recommended. July through October has more cloud cover but is still playable. Late October to mid-December is the low season with occasional heavier rain, though both courses drain quickly thanks to sand-based greens.
Show more...
Most visitors fly into Koh Samui International Airport (USM), operated by Bangkok Airways, with direct flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and several international hubs. Santiburi Samui Country Club sits on the northern coast near Maenam, about 15–20 minutes from the airport. Royal Samui is between Chaweng and Lamai, roughly 25–35 minutes away. GolfLux can arrange airport transfers and course transport with your booking.
Show more...
Santiburi green fees typically range from THB 3,500 to 5,500 depending on the season and time of day, with caddie fees (around THB 500) and mandatory cart rental billed separately. Royal Samui is more affordable at around THB 1,500–2,500 for 9 holes including cart. Tipping caddies THB 300–500 is standard. Booking through GolfLux usually secures better rates than walk-in pricing.
Show more...
The island has plenty beyond golf. Relax on Chaweng or Lamai beaches, visit the Big Buddha temple at Wat Phra Yai, explore the Fisherman’s Village night market in Bophut, or take a boat trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park for snorkelling and kayaking. Thai boxing stadiums host regular fights, and the island’s restaurant scene ranges from beachside seafood grills to upscale dining.
Show more...
If you’re the type of golfer who actually enjoys a scorecard-ruining challenge, Thailand has plenty of courses designed to do exactly that. You’ll find everything from massive, tour-level layouts built…
Koh Samui, a tropical paradise in Thailand, is not only home to pristine beaches and luxury resorts but also a top golf destination. This guide will walk you through everything…