Golf in Phuket: Courses, Green Fees and Memberships

The main courses

• Blue Canyon Country Club in the north, with two championship courses, regarded as the most prestigious.
• Mission Hills Phuket, also in the north, a long course with views across Phang Nga Bay.
• Laguna Phuket Golf Club near Bang Tao, popular with residents in the north-west.
• Phuket Country Club, Loch Palm and Red Mountain in the Kathu valley, with Loch Palm and Red Mountain next to each other and often described as the hub of the expat golf community.
• Other smaller or budget courses, depending on the guide.

The courses are spread out across the island, so choose one near your home, and see the area guides for living near the courses.

Green fees

Guides give very different numbers, so ask the club. A common pattern is that budget and older courses such as Phuket Country Club sit at about 1,200 to 2,500 baht a round, mid-range courses such as Loch Palm at about 1,800 to 3,800 baht, and premium courses such as Laguna, Mission Hills, Red Mountain and Blue Canyon at about 3,500 to 6,500 baht in the high season. Prices drop in the low season, and twilight rates after midday or early afternoon are often 20 to 40 percent cheaper.

A caddie is compulsory at most courses and is often quoted at about 300 to 450 baht plus a tip of 100 to 200 baht. A cart or buggy may be extra, at about 400 to 500 baht, unless it is included. Some listed fees include both the caddie and the cart.

Membership

Foreigners can join most clubs. Reported annual memberships range from tens of thousands of baht at modest clubs to a few hundred thousand baht at premium ones, with some guides quoting an entry fee plus yearly dues. One guide says the maths favours membership if you play more than a couple of times a month. Ask what is included: green fees, caddie, cart, reciprocal discounts and guest rights.

Societies and informal groups, including expat golf societies, organise monthly rounds and sometimes negotiate discounts. See the social life guide for how to meet people.

Seasons and weather

The dry season from about November to April is the most comfortable and the most expensive. Courses stay open in the wet season, and morning rounds are usually fine, but afternoon storms are common. Check the best time to visit page and the heavy rain and floods guide, and bring sun protection and plenty of water. Lightning risk means you should leave the course when told.

Lessons and practical tips

• Private lessons with a pro are often quoted at about 1,500 to 3,000 baht an hour, and range baskets at about 50 to 120 baht.
• Book tee times early in the high season, and check dress codes and handicap requirements.
• Many clubs have a restaurant and pool, and some offer property for sale or rent. The renting guide explains contracts if you rent near a course.
• Insure your clubs when travelling, and check your policy for sports injuries. See the health and insurance guide.