Pattaya

Pattaya

[Published on 2010-01-13 in Pattaya by Chris Thompson]

Golf courses around Pattaya

Listed below are some of the courses available, with a brief description and approximate fees. Please remember that these costs are liable to change without notice, so it is advisable to check before setting out.

 

Amata Spring Country Club (2005)

  • Amata Nakorn Industrial Estate
    700/4 Moo 6, T.Nongmaidaeng A.Muang Chonburi 20000
    Tel: 038 468888
    Fax : 038 468808
  • Email : info@amataspring.co.th
  • Designer: Schmidt-Curley Design
  • Course: 18 holes, par 72, 7,300 yards.
  • Green fee: for 18-holes for guests accompanied by a member, 1,200 Baht (weekdays) 2,000 Baht (weekends).

Thailand's most exclusive golf club, Amata Spring Country Club is located approximately 30 minutes drive north of Pattaya City. Laid out on naturally undulating land that slopes gently away from two large lakes, the course contains many notable and exceptional features. There are large forbidding bunkers at every hole and more strategically placed to intimidate players on every  approach shot. The greens are fast and rolling, with smooth sloping run off areas surrounding them. The two lakes feature on several of the holes, especially the signature 17th hole, which is the only true island green in Asia. The green is approximately 7,500 square feet in size, set in an existing 60 acre lake, making it smaller than the famous 17th at TPC Sawgrass and is accessed by a small boat that takes players from tee to green.

The Club house at Amata Spring Country Club has various 5 star facilities, including the El Nino International Restaurant and the Diciottp Italian Restaurant. also available are: a function Room,  banqueting services, a driving range, a fully stocked pro shop, luxurious gentlemen and ladies locker rooms, a swimming pool and massage rooms. Golf carts are compulsory.

 

Asia Pattaya Hotel

Considered a good course to improve your short game and rescue shots due to the fairly rough surface. Very conveniently located next to the sea at the end of Pratumnak Soi 4.

 

Bangpra Golf Club and Resort Hotel (1958)

  • 45 Moo 6 Bangpra,
    Sriracha,
    Chonburi 20210.
    Tel: (038) 341149-50. 
  • www.bangpragolf.co.th
  • Designer: Japan Golf Promotion
  • Course: 18 holes, par 72, 7,209 yards.
  • Green fee: 900 Baht (weekdays), 1800 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 250 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht.

This is the second oldest golf course in Thailand, covered with tall mature trees and laid out on an undulating, verdant terrain, that offers an exciting challenge on all the fairways and super fast greens. The troop of monkeys that live around holes 6 and 7 are entertaining, but be careful as they will try to steal your ball.

Facilities at Bangpra Golf Club 7 Resort, include a large old colonial style clubhouse with pro shop, a restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine and a Resort Hotel with a beautiful swimming pool, 17 studio apartments, 73 twin bedded rooms and 4 family apartments available. The club also offers a full range of health, fitness and sports activities.

 

Burapha Golf Club (1995)

  • 281 Moo 4, Tambol Bung,
    Sriracha,
    Chonburi 20230.
    Tel: 089 8880648, 085 2888226, 085 2888227.
    Fax: 038 372613, 038 372612
  • Designers: David Graham and Gary Panks
  • Course: 36 holes, Par 72, 6,713 & 6,491 yards
  • Green fee: 200 Baht (weekdays), 2,500 Baht (weekends) Caddy fee: 250 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 500 Baht.

Situated in the heart of the countryside near the new Chonburi - Pattaya Highway, just 30 minutes drive from Pattaya City, Burapha Golf Club provides a classic 36 holes that have been designed to take full advantage of the beauty of the location and its natural features of lakes, hills, mature mango trees, coconut palms and landscaped tropical flora. Apart from the two 18 hole, links style, championship courses it has among its many world class facilities, a luxurious clubhouse, which offers the Verandah Lounge, the Green Terrace and the Garden Room Restaurant, a fully equipped golf shop, concierge services, luxurious locker areas, swimming pools, tennis courts and all short game practice areas that include a bunker. The Clubhouse is also available for functions, conferences and other parties. This is a great and challenging course to play. Golf carts are compulsory.

 

Eastern Star Country Club & Resort (1991)

  • 241/5 Moo 3, Pala Ban Chang District,
    Rayong 21130.
    Tel: 038 630 410-4, 086 377 6722, 086 377 6744.
  • www.easternstargolfcourse.com
  • Designer: Robert Trent Jones Jr.
  • Course: 18 holes, par 72, 7134 yards.
  • Green fee: 1500 Baht (weekdays), 2100 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee 250 Baht.

The 18 hole Eastern Star country Club course was created on 530 acres of a coconut palm plantation and features gently undulating fairways and greens, with 65 bunkers, 11 lakes and more than 2,200 coconut palms. It is conveniently situated just two kilometres from the coast and therefore a cooling breeze always blows across the course. It has unique on course bird houses that represent yardage distances and are also home to the numerous species of exotic birds that live on the golf course. The course is in excellent condition and offers plenty of challenges for experienced golfers, in addition to solid enjoyment for beginners.

Eastern Star Country Club and Resorts many facilities include a luxurious clubhouse, lounge bar and restaurant,with a Thai and international menu, pro shop, 25 metre swimming pool with jacuzzi, flood-lighting, tennis courts, fitness centre, conference hall, driving range and a beautifully landscaped family swimming pool.

 

St. Andrews Hill (2000)

  • 5-9/36 Moo 7, Banchang,
    Rayong,
    Thailand 21130
    Tel: 038 893838. 
    Fax: 038 893845
  • www.standrews200golf.com
  • Designer: Desmond Muirhead
  • Course: 18 holes, par 74, 7,777 yards
  • Green fee: 2000 Baht (weekdays) 3000 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 250 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht.

Located near Ban Chang on the way to Rayong, about 40 minutes from Pattaya, St. Andrews is a recreation of a Scottish links course. This is an uncompromising and very tough course, which is aimed at players with handicaps of 18 or less. It is a visually extraordinary and expansive layout, that is rated amongst the best courses in Thailand. St. Andrews features an abundance of rocky outcrops and large boulders, with split elevation fairways, that extend along the side of a hill, elevated tees and greens and two unique par 6 holes. that are 855 and 857 yards respectively.

The splendid facilities include a new 80 room hotel, a great clubhouse with five restaurants, a swimming pool, tennis court, snooker table, fishing and much more. Golf carts are compulsory.

 

Chonburi Century Country Club (1993)

  • Highway 331 Km 72,
    Ban Bung,
    Chonburi.
    Tel. 081-304-1545.
  • Designer: Robert Macfarland.
  • 18 holes, par 72, 6991 yards
  • Green fee: 150 Baht (weekdays), 400 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee 200 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 500 Baht

Chonburi Century Country Club is located about 35 minutes drive from Pattaya at the end of the Bangkok to Chonburi Motorway on the outskirts of Chonburi. The golf course is laid out on slightly sloping, hilly terrain in the middle of vast pineapple fields with undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, several doglegs and very small greens requiring pinpoint accuracy. Unbelievably, even with the amazingly low fees, the course is not very crowded, even at the weekend.

Chonburi Century Country Club has a pleasant clubhouse with a Thai restaurant, a driving range and a sports complex.

 

Green Valley Country Club (1992)

  • Banchang-aira Street,
    Amphoe Ban Chang,
    Rayong.
    Tel: 038 603000-5
  • www.greenvalleybangkok.com
  • Designers: Peter Thomson & Michael Wolveridge
  • Course: 18 Holes, Par 72, 7141 yards
  • Green fee: 900 Baht (weekdays), 2000 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 200 Baht
  • Golf cart: 500 Baht.

Set among rural countryside and partially jungle covered hills, this links style course is expertly laid out in the natural terrain of rocky outcrops, boulders, hard water courses and colourful plants. Green Valley Country Club is in Rayong, about 50 minutes drive from Pattaya City centre and is one of the most picturesque and popular courses in the area.

The beautifully landscaped course is a pleasure to play at any time of the year, with gentle rather than dramatic elevation changes, high-faced bunkers, wide tree-lined fairways and undulating elevated greens. This course is sure to entertain both high and low handicappers and is an enjoyable testing ground for players at every level.

There is an excellent clubhouse,with massage room and pro shop, several fine restaurants, serving international, Thai, Korean and Japanese food, a new 80 room hotel, a driving range, a polo club and equestrian track. Houses and a condominium overlook the course.

 

Khao Kheow Country Club (1992)

  • 220/15 Moo12, Bangphra,
    Sriracha,
    Chonburi 20210.
    Tel: 080-4492266
  • www.khaokheowgolf.com
  • Designer: Pete Dye
  • Course: 27 holes Par 72, 7077 yards
  • Green fee: 2000 Baht (weekdays), 2500 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 250 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht

Khao Kheow Country Club is situated close to the coastal town of Sriracha, about 45 minutes from central Pattaya. The course is laid out in a valley between two hills, with numerous trees, strong sea breezes, many bunkers, hills and ponds, which makes it suitable for all levels of play. The first 18 holes are designed as a championship course, and the last nine are easier. The extensive bunkering in and along the fairways, with one bunker stretching the entire length of one of the par 4s, make Khao Kheow a challenging course, careful shot making is required and with the heavily undulating greens, precise putting is also needed. The signature hole is a 135 yards par 3  seventeenth, which plays to an island green.

Their is a natural stone and glass club house, with a restaurant serving Thai and international dishes, a swimming pool, tennis court and a sports club.  Khao Kheow Country Club really is a unique and naturally elegant course, serenely landscaped and beautifully manicured, offering something for everyone, no matter their level of skill. This is a good value, world class, course and is ranked as one of the top in the Pattaya area. Golf carts are optional.

 

Laem Chabang International Country Club (1995)

  • 106/8 Moo 4, Beung,
    Sriracha,
    Chonburi 20230.
    Tel: 083 111 9591-3
  • www.laemchabanggolf.com
  • Designer: Jack Nicklaus
  • Course: 27 holes Par 72, 10,484 yards
  • Green fee: 2,500 Baht (weekdays), 3000 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 250 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht.

Laem Chabang International Country Club covers over 700 acres and is located in Chonburi, just 30 minutes along the coast road from Pattaya City centre. This picturesque and beautifully maintained course is as fun as it is challenging and makes use of the three types of features that characterize each of the nine holes. It was uniquely designed to utilize the rolling hills, lakes and river valleys of the land's terrain, with each of the nine holes named   Mountain, Lake and Valley to correspond with the surrounding vista and each offering their own particular challenge. There are plenty of bunkers and natural hazards, such as exposed rock formations, lakes, ponds and creeks and the holes border water hazards and tall coconut trees. The elevated and undulating, large greens are protected by wide bunkers.

The Mountain 9 is 3,446 yards in length and plays around many hills. The Lake 9 is 3,419 yards in length with a stream wandering through it and around most of the holes. The Valley 9 plays the longest at 3,619 yards, and is laid out beneath the surrounding mountains.

Laem Chabang International Country Club is considered by many to be Pattaya's finest golf course and truly one of Thailand’s finest. Among the excellent facilities are a clubhouse with a Thai and international menu, a swimming pool, sauna, golf lodge, jacuzzi, foot massage, full banquet and convention facilities, luxurious accommodation and a golf school. Golf carts are compulsory.

 

Greenwood Golf & Resort (formerly Noble Place Golf Club) (1993)

  • 88/8 Moo 6, Tambon Klongkaew,
    Ban Bung,
    Chonburi
    Tel:(01) 484-9066 or (01) 484-9069
  • Designers: Dennis Wolveridge & PeterThomson
  • Course: 27 Hole Par 108, 10,380 yards
  • Green fee: 750 Baht (weekdays), 1,500 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 200 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht

Only 54 kilometres (about 40 minutes) from Pattaya City, the scenic Greenwood Golf and Resort is situated in among the tree lined hills of Chonburi. The 3 nine holes offer a enjoyable and demanding test of golfing skills, with undulating fairways, plenty of pot bunkers and strategically placed sand traps. There is not much in the way of water hazards, but this is made up for with the intelligent use of the sand, native lemon grass and heavy rough.

With the extensive landscaping, lush turf and the hilly parkland setting, Greenwood Golf & Resort has a British style, links feel to it and is one of the most popular in the Pattaya area.

Among the first class facilities available are a driving range, a large clubhouse, with a restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine, a pro shop and full locker a shower rooms.

 

Mountain Shadow Golf Club (1993)

  • 159/1 Moo 2, Saensuk-Bangpra Road,
    Muang,
    Chonburi 20130
    Tel: 038 389 211 - 3
  • Designer : Ronald Fream
  • Course: 18 Hole Par 72, 6,722 yards
  • Green fee: 1,500 Baht (weekdays), 2000 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 220 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht

Located in Chonburi, 50 minutes from Pattaya City, roughly half way between Bangkok and Pattaya, Mountain Shadow Golf Club was reopened in 2004 after being completely renovated. It is a very attractive course, consisting of beautifully maintained mixed parkland set in a former mango plantation and the relatively short course is no effort to walk, making it suitable for golfers of all abilities. The course makes use of numerous water hazards, dog-legs and has four island greens. The greens are small, very fast with large undulations, making it difficult to select the correct line. The fairways are narrow, lined with palm trees and mean that each shot must be accurate. Also,having a relatively long distance between the tees and the fairways, shorter tee shots, more often than not, end up in the semi rough, which makes it difficult to hit out of.

Facilities at Mountain Shadow Golf Club include a spacious clubhouse with a restaurant serving Thai and Western food, a filly stacked pro shop, a driving range, full showers and locker rooms.

 

Crystal Bay Country Club (1988)

  • 502 Moo 10, Bangpra,
    Sriracha,
    Chonburi 20210
  • Designer: Thai Takenaka
  • Course: 27 Hole Par 72,  A.3526 yards, B.3483 yards, C.3480 yards.
  • Green fee: 1000 Baht (weekdays), 1,400 Baht (weekends and holidays).
  • Caddy fee: 250 Baht. Golf cart: 600 Baht

The Japanese designed Crystal Bay Golf Club is situated at Sriracha, along the coast from Pattaya City and 12 kilometres before Chonburi, on route 3 at km 109, just 45 minutes from Pattaya. This long time Pattaya favourite is laid out on over 2,00 rai of manicured, lush parkland, with beautiful, tropical flowers and picturesque lakes. The course is often described as a Hawaiian links style course with its wide fairways and swaying palms, but is more like a cross between traditional American styled fairways with the occasional link type British fairways. Water borders the course on all sides and is used not just for hazards, but to enhance the spectacular location. Crystal Bay Golf Club has fast greens, gently undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, making accuracy essential. The course offers more birdie opportunities than most and therefore presents a good chance for players to improve their handicaps.

The available facilities at Crystal Bay Country Club include: a clubhouse with panoramic views of the course, a Thai and international restaurant, a driving range, sports club, pro shop,  accommodation, massage, sauna, swimming pool and tennis court.

 

Phoenix Golf and Country Club (1993)

  • 111 Moo 9 Sucapiban Rd,
    Huai Yai,
    Chonburi 20260
    Tel: 03823 9391-5, 03823 9400
  • Designer: Dennis Griffith
  • Course: 27 hole par 72, A  3,229 yards, B 3,285 yards, C 3,144 yards
  • Green fee: 2000 Baht (weekdays), 2,500 Baht (weekends and holidays). Caddy fee: 250 Baht
  • Golf cart: 700 Baht

Situated just 20 minutes south of downtown Pattaya, Phoenix Golf and Country Club is set on landscaped, wooded, rolling terrain, with eucalyptus trees, bamboo, bushes and flowering shrubs. This is the closest golf course to Pattaya City and comprises 3 nines - Ocean, Lake and Mountain, all with spectacular views of the nearby mountains and the Gulf of Thailand.

Although the fairways are narrow, the greens are very generous. The Mountain 9 has stunning views of rolling hills and mountain ranges. The Lake 9 is laid out in the midst of  shady, natural woodlands, beautiful lakes and is one of the most playable in the kingdom due to the large number of water hazards. The Ocean 9 has panoramic distant views of Pattaya City and the blue seas. A huge clubhouse dominates the landscape, with a restaurant serving both Thai and western food, pro shop, luxurious locker room facilities, swimming pool, tennis courts, driving range and full seminar,convention and banqueting services.

Phoenix Golf and Country Club is always rated in the top five of Pattaya's courses and due to its easy access to Pattaya, plus above average maintenance and great playing conditions make it well worth including in any Pattaya golf itinerary. Golf carts are compulsory.

 

Plutaluang Royal Thai Navy Golf Course (1969)

  • Moo 6, Plu Ta Luang,
    Sattahip,
    Chonburi 20180.
    Tel: 038 701-843, 038 701-891
  • www.plutaluang1969.com
  • Designer: Royal Thai Navy
  • Course: 36 hole par 72, 10,169 yards
  • Green fee: 800 Baht ( weekdays), 1,200 (weekends and holidays). Caddy fee: 250 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 700 Baht.

The Plutaluang Royal Thai Navy course is located about a 35 minute drive from Pattaya City along the Sukhumvit Highway, just after Sattahip Town. It is an old school natural course, offering some of the best golf available in Asia. The course has 36 holes that are divided into the north, south, east and west loops. It is set on a sloping landscape, amidst stunning scenery, with a large lake being the central feature. Everyone of the narrow fairways is flanked by beautifully landscaped, natural gardens, leading to bunker protected greens. Plenty of difficult water hazards present a taxing challenge on the hilly terrain and the signature hole is a par 3 on the north nine that features a lighthouse. Th is golf course is considered to be one of the best in Thailand, demanding both physical stamina and concentration. There is also a rope lift to assist tired golfers making their way to the clubhouse after their game.

The Plutaluang Royal Thai Navy Golf Course offers wonderful, classic golf and should be on every list of courses to play for golfers visiting Pattaya. Facilities include a large recently refurbished clubhouse with an international restaurant serving Thai, Chinese and western menus, a pro shop, driving range, massage services, banquet and function room, new locker and shower rooms. Golf Carts are recommended.

 

Siam Country Club Pattaya Old Course (2007)

  • 50 Moo 9 T.Pong,
    A.Banglamung,
    Chonburi 20150,
    Thailand.
    Tel : 038 909700,
    Fax 038 909779.
  • Email : info@siamcountryclub.com
  • Designer: Schmidt Curley Design Inc.
  • Course: 18 hole par 72, 7,162 yards.
  • Green fee: 2,750 Baht (weekdays), 3,300 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 300 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 650 Baht.

Only 30 minutes from Pattaya City centre, Siam Country Club Old Course is conveniently  located on the east side of the Sukhumvit Highway and is set among low hills in an idyllic, rural, picturesque landscape of approximately 800 rai (about 32 acres). It was originally opened in 1970 and was designed by Izao Mazumi. The course was completely renovated, from tee to green and clubhouse and reopened in 2007, in time to host the Honda LPGA Tour event, establishing Siam CC as a truly international standard golfing venue. Some of the trees were removed allowing for a welcome breeze, with many of the holes playing past lakes and strategically placed creeks. The superb landscaping, making use of mature trees, shrubs, plants and fruit trees, is unique to Siam Country Club. In addition, there 101 bunkers and numerous water hazards. The course has a traditional out and back layout, narrow fairways, with large, fast, extremely well maintained greens. The course has several dramatic holes, in particular the last four, which are probably the best finishing holes of any golf course in Pattaya.

The first class facilities at Siam Country Club Pattaya Old Course. include the well designed, renovated clubhouse, a restaurant, serving Thai and international cuisine, three function rooms, pro shop, driving range, putting green, modern locker and shower rooms, plus the car park can accommodate up to 200 cars. Siam CC is definitely a must play course for any golfers visiting Pattaya. Single golf carts are compulsory.

 

Siam Country Club Plantation Course (March 2008)

  • 50/6 Moo 9 T.Pong,
    A.Banglamung,
    Chonburi 20150,
    Thailand.
    Tel : 038 909600,
    Fax 038 909699.
  • Email : plantation@siamcountryclub.com
  • Designer: Schmidt Curley Design Inc.
  • Course: 27 hole, par 72, 11,140 yards.
  • Green fee: 2,750 Baht (weekdays), 3,300 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 300 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 650 Baht.

Siam Country Club Plantation Course is located about 30 minutes from Pattaya City on the east side of the Sukhumvit Highway, about one mile past Siam CC Old Course. The 27 hole course is laid out on undulating terrain, with marked elevation changes giving several sensational distant views of the Gulf of Thailand approximately seven miles away. Formerly a tapioca and pineapple plantation, the course's natural characteristics include rough, irregular valleys dividing its fairways, with cool ocean breezes, mature trees and superlative landscaping making it a memorable course to play. Two of the three nines, the par-36, 3,759-yard Tapioca and par-36, 3,645-yard Pineapple, feature Asia’s first triple green. The Tapioca’s seventh hole and the Pineapple’s fourth and ninth holes play to a single green measuring more than 20,000 square feet (1,916 square meters) and is a unique focal point on this Pattaya golf course. The Sugarcane, is the plantation’s third nine and a par-36, 3,736-yard layout. This is a testing course to play and with its elevated greens, huge bunkers, rolling fairways and greens, it is a challenge to even the professional golfer. The Siam Country Club Plantation Course is Pattaya's longest golf course and one of the longest golf courses in Thailand.

Practice facilities at Siam Country Club Plantation Course include a grass driving range complete with pitching area, a sand bunker and large practice putting greens. The stylish and contemporary clubhouse has a first rate restaurant, serving Thai and western cuisine, luxurious locker and shower facilities and a fully stocked pro shop. Golf carts are compulsory.

 

Pattana Golf and Sports Resort (2004)

  • 99/89 Moo 9 Khaokhunsong
    Sriracha
    Chonburi 20110.
    Tel: 038 318-999,
    Fax: 038 318-900.
  • www.pattana.co.th
  • Designer: Gussan
  • Course: 27 Holes Par 72 and 73, 7,300 yards.
  • Green fee: 1,750 Baht (weekdays), 2,200 (weekends). Caddy fee: 250 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 400 Baht

Pattana Golf & Sports Resort is located about 30 minutes drive from Pattaya City on 360 acres of natural rolling terrain in the middle of Thailand's Eastern Seaboard. The 27 hole layout consists of three 9 hole courses, named after different types of cactus (Andreae, Brookei, and Calypso). This championship golf course provides a very enjoyable challenge to golfers of all abilities. It has undulating, wide fairways, with palm trees and large water hazards and big, fast, contoured greens. The signature holes are island greens and a par 6. The relatively windy conditions, especially in the afternoons when the trade winds from the Gulf of Thailand blow in, add to the demands placed on players and guarantee an unfogettable round of golf.

The highly modern and luxurious Pattana Golf & Sports Resort offers an extensive range of first class facilities. Included in these are a 9000 sq.m. clubhouse, incorporating several international restaurants, a spa, offering massage and body treatments, jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, a 117 room hotel, a 70 room serviced apartment building, and 35 private villas. In addition, the club also provides extensive seminar, conference & banqueting rooms and a large swimming pool, excellent practice areas and a huge sports complex. Golf carts are compulsory.

 

Pattaya Country Club & Resort (1993)

  • Km.30 Highway 331 Tambol Khoamaikaew,
    Banglamung,
    Chonburi.
    Tel: 038 423-718, 01 654-5654, 02 541-4994-7.
    Fax: 02 541-4682 
  • www.pattayacountryclub.net
  • Designer: PGA (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
  • Course: 18 holes, par 72
  • Green fee: 1100 Baht (weekdays), 1800 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 200 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht.

Only 15 kilometres (about 25 minutes) from Pattaya City, in the direction of Rayong, Pattaya Country Club & Resort is laid out on over 2,000 rai of landscaped parkland, amidst gentle, rolling hills and is the largest golf club in the area. The course is relatively easy and good for golfers of all abilities. A lot of the greens are well shielded by bunkers and many are sloping, making accurate putting a challenge. Several the holes feature dual fairways making for more taxing as well as safer routes to the greens. Unlike many other courses in the area, there is only one water hazard, the par four 17th hole, which is also the most interesting. Because of the extensive land area, a good many of the holes are placed far away from one another, making for long walks from  the greens to the next tees and also giving rise to the out of bounds areas found on many of the holes. The last three holes are the most difficult and, unless given proper attention, can dramatically alter the final scores.

Pattaya Country Club & Resort has a mini golf course for beginners, a deluxe and modern clubhouse, with a restaurant providing excellent Thai food. A wide range of country style chalets, a conference centre, karaoke room, pro shop, beauty salon and massage services are also available.

 

Sriracha International Golf Club (1992)

  • 284-285 Moo 6,
    Tambol Bung Amphur,
    Sriracha.
    Tel. 038-338 375/8
  • Designer: Gary Player.
  • Course: 18 holes, par 72, 7,019 yards
  • Green fee: 1500 Baht (weekdays), 1800 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 200 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht

Located about 40 kilometres north of Pattaya, on the way to Chonburi, Sriracha International Golf Club is set on 1,400 rai of landscaped grounds amidst the gently undulating and picturesque hills of the Sriricha countryside. The beautifully maintained course is fairly short, with many par four holes, ascending and descending fairways, fast and sloping greens, deep bunkers and a few tricky water hazards. It is not a too difficult course, but calls for concentration and precision driving. As the fairways are wide, on the downward slopes players can take advantage of the humps to make their balls continue on for an extra 30 yards or so.

Among the excellent facilities at Sriracha International Golf Club are a clubhouse, an enormous swimming pool, driving range, first class locker rooms and a well stocked pro shop. Also available are tennis, badminton and squash courts, a games room, sauna, massage services, luxury accommodation and a restaurant serving Thai, Japanese, Chinese and European food.

 

Treasure Hill Golf & Country Club (1993)

  • 222 Moo 7 Tambol Klongkyu,
    Sriracha,
    Chonburi 20170.
    Tel. 038420 766, 013448 002, 022950 856-7
  • Designer: Yoshikazu Kato.
  • 18 holes, par 72, 7,241 yards.
  • Green fee: 900 Baht (weekdays), 1200 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 200 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 500 Baht.

40 kilometres from Pattaya City and 5 kilometres outside Sriracha, Treasure Hill Golf & Country Club is set on a verdant hillside amidst lush tropical scenery. This is a fast, difficult course, with dramatic, rolling fairways and sloping greens and is rated as probably the the most demanding course in the region. The many ponds are filled with water during the rainy season, but in the dry season they become deep areas of long grass, where the golfer has to try and play the ball if it can be found amongst the lush vegetation. Treasure Hill's course is always in excellent condition, providing an enjoyable and taxing round of golf which is also great value for money.

Among the facilities available at Treasure Hill Golf and Country Club are, a clubhouse, with a720 sq.m. restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine, locker rooms with showers and a Japanese style bath, a pro shop, driving range, swimming pool and refreshment centres after the 3rd, 7th and 15th holes.

 

Great Lake Golf & Country Club (1995)

  • Dok Krai Reservoir, Rayong province (Highway 36). Tel. 038-622 630
  • 18 holes, par 72, 6,901 yards.
  • Designer: Nick Faldo.
  • Green fee: 600 Baht (weekdays), 1,200 Baht (weekends, with afternoon discounts)
  • Caddy fee 200 Baht. Golf cart: 500 Baht.

Only 35 kilometres from Pattaya City centre (about 30 minutes drive), Great Lake Golf & Country Club, is situated on a peninsula on the 20,000 rai Dok Krai Resevoir in Rayong province. The course is a classic mix of tough, medium and easy holes, that will truly suit golfers of all abilities. It is laid out on slightly hilly terrain, with plenty of water hazards and an amazing 120 bunkers, eleven of which can be found along the signature, par 4 eighteenth hole. The course features lakes, ponds and streams, with an abundance of shade to be found among the native trees and a cooling breeze that blows in from the reservoir all day long.

Great Lake Golf and Country Club facilities include: a clubhouse, with restaurant offering Thai and European food, a driving range, a tennis court, swimming pool and sauna.

 

Emerald Golf Club (1992)

  • Sukhumvit Road,
    Ban Chang,
    Rayong
    Tel. 038 941 111.
  • www.theemeraldgolf.com
  • 18 holes, par 72, 6,628 yards.
  • Designers: Nick Faldo & Desmond Muirhead.
  • Green fee: 900 Baht (weekdays), 1300 Baht (weekends, holidays). Caddy fee 250 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht

The Emerald Golf Club is located within 45 minutes driving distance from Pattaya in Bang Chang, Rayong. Since it reopened under new management in 2006, the course has had its playing conditions greatly improved and is now well up to international standards. Originally named Ban Chang and then Rayong Century Golf Club the course is laid out among meandering hillsides and set in a forest of mature tropical trees. The Emerald Golf Club is rated as one of the area's most challenging and spectacular courses, with some of the most beautifully designed holes in and around the region. There are only a few water hazards, but the undulating, narrow fairways, well positioned bunkers and some demanding par 3's make driving accuracy, rather than distance, the key to scoring well. Emerald Golf Club is an entertaining and stimulating round of golf for players of all abilities.

Among the facilities available are: a small but charming clubhouse, with an open-air restaurant, a driving range, a putting green, a pro shop, a fitness centre, swimming pool, sauna and. a tennis court. Although not as well known as some of the other golf courses in the Pattaya area, the first class conditions and stunning scenery make visiting the Emerald  Club very worthwhile for any golfer.

 

Royal Lakeside Golf Club & Resort (1993)

  • 150 Moo 3 Bangna-Trad Km 51
    Tambol Takham Amphur
    Bangpakong
    Chachoengsao 24130
    Tel. 038-573 275/9.
  • www.royallakeside.com
  • 18 holes, par 72, 6,815 yards.
  • Designer: Sumitomo Construction Co., Ltd.
  • Green fee: 800 Baht (weekdays), 2000 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 220 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 600 Baht

30 kilometres from Pattaya City (about 35 minutes drive), the Royal Lakeside Golf Club & Resort is situated at the mouth of the Bang Pakong River and is set in a beautifully landscaped environment, with an abundance of tropical vegetation and flowers. The riverside setting of this well maintained course ensures cooling breezes throughout the day and is forgiving enough to play to allow an enjoyable round for the less experienced golfers as well. Some of the holes run alongside the Bang Pakong River bank, where there is a private marina, making it possible to reach the golf course by boat from Pattaya or Bangkok and enter the course via the Yacht Club. The large, fast greens, wide fairways and strategically placed bunkers, that are always kept in immaculate condition, with the often strong winds from the ocean provides a very enjoyable day out.

The centre piece of the Royal Lakeside Golf Club & Resort is a striking white clubhouse, with two excellent restaurants, serving Japanese and Thai food respectively. Among the other facilities available are a swimming pool and a tennis court.

 

Soi Dao Highland Golf Club & Resort (1995)

  • 224 Moo 2 Tambol Tabsai,
    Amphoe Pong Nam Ron,
    Chanthaburi 22140.
    Tel: 039326400-2
    Fax: 039326888.
  • www.soidaohighland.com
  • 18 holes, par 72, 7,162 yards.
  • Designed by Denis Griffiths.
  • Green fee: 800 Baht (weekdays), 1200 Baht (weekends). Caddy fee: 200 Baht.
  • Golf cart: 650 Baht.

The world class Soi Dao Highland Golf Club & Resort is situated approximately 50 kilometres  east of Chantaburi, beneath the scenic mountains that mark Thailand's border with Cambodia. Although about 2 1/2 hours drive from Pattaya City and somewhat off the regular golf tourism route, the course is one of Thailand's hidden gems. Surrounded by the towering Soi Dao mountain range, the course meanders up and down slopes and through dales, with tall, mature trees and a wonderful variety of flora lining the holes. It offers a range of terrains and lengths, with water hazards and bunkers providing different challenges and pleasant surprises to all handicaps. The signature hole is the 192 yard third, which requires an accurate tee shot that has to travel over170 yards to avoid the large pond in front, with three bunkers around the green.

The Soi Dao Highland Golf Club has a first class clubhouse, with a restaurant serving a wide variety of fine food, a driving range, a putting green, a pro shop, a sauna, jacuzzi and steam room.

The Soi Dao Highland Resort is a reasonably priced luxury hotel with a full range of modern facilities and amenities This delightful course and resort are a must for golfers seeking a real Thai golf experience.

 

Wangjuntr Golf & Nature Park (2002)

  • 129 Moo 6, Tumbon Payupnai,
    Wangjuntr District,
    Rayong 20210.
    Tel: 02 276 9072-4
    Fax: 02276 9010.
  • www.wangjuntrgolf.com
  • 36 holes, par 72, 7173/ 7641 yards ("Valley Course" and "Highland Course")
  • Designer: Prasobchai Kasemsant
  • Green fee: 2800-4200 Baht (weekdays), 4400-5250 Baht (weekends, holidays).
  • Caddy fee 300 Baht. Golf cart: inclusive with green fee.

Located approximately one hours drive from Pattaya City, Wangjuntr ( pronounced Wang-joon) Golf Park is reputed to be the most challenging and stunning golf course in Thailand. Both courses are unique and posses an astonishing diversity of design features, including an open wildlife zoo! Set in an unspoiled landscape, with wide and narrow, left-right doglegs,
rising and descending fairways, numerous water hazards located on all sides of the tees, fairways and greens, many deep or shallow, short and long bunkers in addition to spacious, fast and sloping greens. The Highland Course is rated as the toughest course in Thailand,  with its unparalleled layout and hazards, it is a challenging test of the best golfers. The Valley Course is very similar and will stretch even the low handicapped golfers on its totally distinct  layout. Always kept in perfect condition, Wangjuntr Golf Park was designed to the championship course standards of the European and U.S. PGA tours and therefore really only for medium to low handicap golfers.

Among the top class facilities at Wangjuntr Golf & Nature Park are: a clubhouse, with a restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine, a pro shop, sports hall, spa and driving range. The club also offers on course accomodation, including cabins, a golf lodge and a private mansion.  Wangjuntr Golf Club is the ultimate challenge for all serious golfers.

 


[Published on 2009-10-06 in Pattaya by Chris Thompson]

Dining Out In Pattaya

It is often said that some nationalities eat to live, while others live to eat. The latter is certainly true of the Thai people. In Thailand, life often seems to be centred on food. When they get together, or someone visits, they invariably offer food. Consequently, superb Thai food is available all over Thailand, and Pattaya is no exception. It has a vast range of Thai restaurants, curbside vendors and roving hand-drawn or motorized carts, where you can enjoy dishes such as noodles, grilled meats, seafood, corn-on-the-cob, fresh fruit and other quirky fare from the staggering variety of local and regional specialities that are available all over the city.

Due to Pattayas popularity as a holiday and retirement destination and the nearby industrial parks, that house many international companies with their ex-patriot workforces, there is a vast array of restaurants featuring cuisine from all over of the globe. Undoubtedly, Pattaya rivals some of the world's big cities for the sheer number, quality and diversity of dining places available. Luckily, because of the fierce competition between all the types of venues, the prices are extremely reasonable. It is perfectly possible to get a filling Thai meal for as little as 20 Baht. Indeed, compared to the costs in the west, here they are phenomenally good value.

Pattaya is the only sea-side city, in a verdant tropical setting, that has European, Russian, American, Australian, Middle Eastern, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and, of course, Thai restaurants among the dining venues liberally distributed throughout. Everything from pasta and fresh seafood to sushi, fish 'n chips, tender steaks, kebabs, schnitzels and meat pies are available all over the town and surrounding region.

Fast food chains, such as McDonalds, KFC, Burger King, Pizza Hut, Dunkin Donuts and Subway are all present. There are also many superior, first class restaurants serving excellent cuisine and fine wines located in all areas. Most guest houses and all the hotels have their own restaurants that are open to the general public. In addition delicatessens and coffee shops that serve food are found everywhere.

The visitor can even laze on the beach in a deckchair beneath an umbrella and have tasty Thai snacks, ice creams and drinks brought to them by beach vendors.

All this adds up to something of a culinary treat and one of the many pleasures found when coming to Pattaya. Even the most discerning visitors will not have any problem finding a comfortable, relaxing place with a menu that suits both their taste and pocket.


[Published on 2009-10-06 in Pattaya by Chris Thompson]

Pattaya Motorsports

Racing in Pattaya

If you are interested in motor racing, motorcycle racing, or just want a thoroughly entertaining day out, then this is definitely the event to experience when you are in Pattaya.

Bira International Circuit is located just 20 kilometres, or about half an hour, from Pattaya City on State Highway 36 between Pattaya and Rayong. It covers an area of 65 acres and is the only internationally certified race track in Thailand. Bira International Circuit is named after H. H. Prince Birabongse Bhanutej Bhanubandh, who was the only Formula One driver from Thailand. Its comprehensive amenities include a complete service go karting track, an off-road test track and the recently up graded 2.41 kilometre race track, which is suitable for Formula Three racing.

Bira International Circuit regularly hosts national and international motor and motorcycle events, such as the Asian Festival of Speed (AFOS) Supercar Thailand races, the South East Asia Touring Car Zone Challenge (SEATCZC) and the Asian Formula 2000 (AF2000) Since its inception in 1985 it has become one of the pre-eminent tracks of Southeast Asia. Drivers from Australia, China, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Sri Lanka, Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, South Africa, Singapore, Taipei, United Kingdom, United States and, of course, Thailand have all competed in events here.

The track itself is quite technical, with a great deal of cambers and gradients, a fast, constant radius, first turn, which rises up and over a crest before descending into a tricky 180 degree bend. There is a fast twist, then two consecutive rapid chicanes followed by a curve into a double apex corner and then the main straight. The racing is speedy, with widely varying levels of ability exhibited. Bira International Circuit offers daily opportunities for speed fans to test their personal skills by driving their own vehicles round the track. National and international motor and motorcycle competitions are also arranged over the weekends.

Next to the motor racing circuit is the Bira Go Kart Facility with a 1.2 kilometre track. It was completely overhauled in 2006, bringing it up to the Commission Internationale de Karting's Standard. Karts can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour on the straight, depending on the weather conditions. There are two types of kart, complete with kit, available for hire - 390 cc. RX7 and 125 Rotax 2 stroke This is a great day out for individuals and groups of up to 1000 people. The go kart facility is open daily from 10.00 a.m. until 18.00 p.m.

Bira International Circuit is an essential destination for people who enjoy adventure and speed sports. The grandstand and viewing areas can accommodate up to 30,000 spectators and is open daily from 9.30 a.m. until 6.00 p.m.  Attending the events at this stadium makes for an unquestionably memorable experience.


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