It all started with a single trip, back when Finnish golf instructor Juha-Matti Vuorinen—known to most simply as “Jimmie”—visited Thailand on holiday. He came for the sun and the change of pace. What he found was a golf paradise.
Eight years later, Jimmie splits his time between Finland and Thailand, helping other Nordic golfers discover what he already knows: Thailand is one of the best golf destinations in the world.
“It’s not just about the courses,” Jimmie says. “It’s the whole experience—the weather, the food, the service, the scenery. You step onto the course and it’s like stepping into a dream.”
With over 250 golf courses scattered across the country, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why Jimmie is sharing his personal favourites—from island views and jungle fairways to championship greens. If you’re thinking of golfing in Thailand, these are the courses he says you must play.
Hua Hin – World-Class Golf by the Sea
Hua Hin is home to not just one but two of Jimmie’s favourite courses.
First up is Black Mountain Golf Club, designed by Swede Stig Notlöv.
“Black Mountain has hosted big international tournaments. It’s challenging, perfectly maintained, and every time I go, I’m impressed,” Jimmie says.
Then there’s Pineapple Valley Golf Club, formerly known as Banyan Golf Club. The club rebranded on March 1, 2024, to honor the region’s rich heritage and its history as a former pineapple plantation.
“It’s one of those courses where even if you’re not playing well, you still enjoy every minute.”
Hua Hin also has fantastic off-course experiences—vineyard tours, national parks, and even water parks for the family.
Bangkok – Tee Off Under the Lights
Most golfers fly into Bangkok—and if you do, Jimmie has one clear recommendation: Summit Windmill Golf Club, just 30 minutes from Suvarnabhumi Airport.
“What makes this place unique is the night golf,” he says. “Playing in the tropical evening, under the lights, is something every golfer should try once.”
Designed by Nick Faldo, the course is lush and strategic, with water hazards on nearly every hole. The European-style clubhouse adds a touch of luxury to the experience.
Chiang Mai – Golf in the Northern Mountains
“In northern Thailand, it’s hard to beat the golf in Chiang Mai,” says Juha-Matti “Jimmi” Vuorinen. “My two absolute favorites are Alpine Golf Resort and Chiang Mai Highlands.”
Alpine Golf Resort offers a peaceful setting surrounded by mountains with wide fairways and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for an enjoyable day on the course. Meanwhile, Chiang Mai Highlands delivers a more challenging layout with dramatic elevation changes, fast greens, and stunning views.
“If you can, play both,” Jimmi recommends. “They each have their own character and showcase the best of golf in northern Thailand.”
Phuket – Championship Golf on a Tropical Island
If you ask Jimmie about unforgettable moments in golf, he’ll tell you about Blue Canyon Country Club. This is where Tiger Woods pulled off one of the most dramatic comebacks of his career, defeating Ernie Els in 1998 at the Johnnie Walker Classic.
“The Canyon Course is special,” Jimmie says. “It’s got history, challenge, and beauty—it’s everything you want in a course.”
With two 18-hole layouts (Canyon and Lake), Blue Canyon offers lush tropical landscapes and a true test of skill. Off the course, Phuket has it all: beaches, rum distilleries, island adventures, and iconic landmarks like the towering Big Buddha.
Koh Samui – Ocean Views and Jungle Fairways
For a golf experience like no other, Jimmie points to Santiburi Samui Country Club, Koh Samui’s only 18-hole course.
“You’re in the jungle, on the hillside, looking out over the ocean. Every hole is different, every view is better than the last,” he says.
Built into the natural terrain, Santiburi’s layout is steep, winding, and dramatic. Waterfalls, streams, and sweeping views of the Gulf of Thailand make every round unforgettable.
And when you’re not golfing? Koh Samui offers picture-perfect beaches, boat trips to Ang Thong Marine Park, and laid-back island charm.
Pattaya – The Epicenter of Thai Golf
If you’re serious about golf, Pattaya is a must. Siam Country Club has four courses, and Jimmie says each one offers something different.
“The Old Course has history—it hosts the LPGA every year. But Rolling Hills is my personal favorite. It’s bold, modern, and Hole 15—the ‘Wall of Death’—is insane.”
With great weather and endless nightlife, Pattaya is a popular choice for golf travelers.
Khao Lak / Phang Nga – A Scenic Hidden Gem
Not far from Phuket, nestled in the rolling green hills of Phang Nga, lies one of Thailand’s best-kept golf secrets: Katathong Golf Resort & Spa.
“I think it might be the most beautiful course in Thailand,” Jimmie says with a smile. “Mountains, waterfalls, and this peaceful atmosphere—it’s like you’re golfing in a nature park.”
The course is newer, but what it lacks in age, it makes up for in scenery and creativity. Narrow fairways, elevated greens, and unique hole designs make every round here exciting.
Planning Your Thai Golf Adventure?
“You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy golf in Thailand,” he says. “You just need a love for the game—and maybe an appetite for spicy food!”
He offers private coaching, golf travel planning, and group trips for golfers who want to make the most of their Thailand experience.
Follow Juha-Matti “Jimmie” Vuorinen
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