From Laptop to Links: Discovering Koh Samui’s Top Golf Courses for Digital Nomads

Joy Ann Intisuk

koh samui's top golf courses
4.5/5 - (2 votes)

Imagine teeing off with a panoramic view of azure waters, swaying palm trees, and lush mountains as your backdrop—all while your laptop sits nearby, ready for your next remote work session. 

Could there be a more perfect blend of business and leisure for the globe-trotting digital professional? 

Welcome to the world of golfing in Koh Samui, where work-life balance takes on a whole new meaning.

Key Highlights

  • Koh Samui offers world-class golfing experiences that perfectly complement the digital nomad lifestyle.
  • The golf courses offer stunning vistas of verdant hills, white sand beaches, and coconut plantations while blending perfectly with Koh Samui’s natural environment.
  • Digital nomads can enjoy a unique work-play balance, with the ability to tee off between work sessions or after a productive day.
  • Several golf courses are notable for their outstanding features. These include the well-known Santiburi Samui Country Club, which has established an international reputation, the challenging terrains of Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, and the extensive training programs provided by Koh Samui Golf Academy.
  • Samui Golf Holidays simplifies the golfing experience for busy digital nomads with their all-inclusive golf packages. These packages include club rental and convenient transportation, ensuring a hassle-free round of golf amidst your hectic schedule.
  • Koh Samui’s golf scene offers a perfect blend of work and leisure for remote professionals. It combines stunning natural beauty with world-class golfing facilities.

Where to Play Golf in Koh Samui

For digital nomads seeking to add a touch of sophistication and outdoor adventure to their island lifestyle, Koh Samui’s golf courses offer an irresistible allure. 

Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to challenge yourself on world-class golf courses or a novice eager to take your first swing, this Thai paradise has you covered.

Curious about where to play golf in Koh Samui? 

From the internationally recognized Santiburi Samui Country Club to the more laid-back Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, our guide unveils the top five golfing destinations that promise to elevate your remote working experience. 

Get ready to swap your ergonomic chair for a golf cart and discover how Koh Samui’s fairways can become your new favorite mobile office.

1. Santiburi Samui Country Club

A man is swinging his golf club as he plays at the Santiburi Samui Country Club in Koh Samui

The Santiburi Samui Country Club was rightly deemed Koh Samui’s pride and was established in 2003. The 19-hole golf club is situated on the northern coast of the island. It is widely spread in an area of about 6,930 and offers numerous services to golf players. 

The golf course is built to seamlessly integrate the natural terrain of Koh Samui island with the golf course. It offers a breathtaking view of the green hills, white sandy beaches, and coconut plantations.

The Santiburi Samui Country Club is not just a local favorite but also an internationally recognized Thai Golf Course of high standard. It has hosted several prestigious Asian tour events, including the 2006 Bangkok Airways Open, further cementing its reputation. 

The club’s facilities include a pro golf shop, dining and drinking establishments, laundry facilities, and changing rooms for players.

I love this golf course primarily because of its stunning views overlooking Koh Phangan Island. These views make the game extra special and relaxing. 

If you are new to golfing, don’t worry. The country club has in-house swing doctors ready to provide private lessons. 

12/12 Moo 1, Maenam Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84330 Thailand

+66 (0) 77 425 031

https://santiburisamui.com/things-to-do/santiburi-golf/

2. Royal Samui Golf & Country Club

A golf cart is parked on hole 2 par 4 of Royal Samui Golf & Country Club in Koh Samui

Royal Samui Golf and Country Club, or RSGCC, is a par-36, 9-hole course founded by a small group of golf enthusiasts in 2006. It is one of the most affordable golf courses on Koh Samui island. 

The course is tucked within the mountains of Lamai and Cheweng. It has several pathways leading back to the resort. 

Each hole offers picturesque views of neighboring holes with prominent elevation changes. While no caddies are available, you can rent e-carts to navigate the course. 

It’s important to note that the Royal Samui Golf and Country Club may not be the best for beginners. The course is tough and ragged, with narrow fairways, large boulders, and significant inclines and declines. 

Challenging? Yes, but still very much playable, especially for my fellow female digital nomads. You need to exert more focus, strategic planning, and elbow grease.

Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand

+66 64 032 5737

https://www.rsgcc.co.th/

3. Foothill Driving Range

Three people lined up playing golf at Foothill Driving Range in Koh Samui

The Foothill Driving Range is part of the Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, a nine-hole mountain golf course located on the southeast coast of Koh Samui. 

The range within the Royal Samui Golf & Country Club offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountainous terrain and coconut plantations. The driving range allows golfers to practice their swings with multiple hitting bays. 

On days when I’m out playing golf solo or when the sun is just too hot to bear, this driving range is my go-to option. I can still practice my swings without getting scorched in the sun. 

The range is open to all golfers, including those staying at the club or visiting for a day.

124/25 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand

+66 90 008 0494

https://samuigolf.com/driving-range/

4. Koh Samui Golf Academy

A group of junior golfers having their golf training at Koh Samui Golf Academy in Koh Samui

Koh Samui Golf Academy offers golf programs for beginners and experienced golfers tailored to individual goals, time limitations, and physical constraints. It emphasizes understanding and practicing golf fundamentals to see significant improvements in a short period.

Led by the “Swing Doctor,” a professional golf instructor who provides comprehensive lessons. It ranges from quick-fix lessons (1-2 hours) to in-depth analysis packages (up to 10 hours).

Lessons are conducted in the tranquil setting of Koh Samui, surrounded by coconut trees and clear blue skies. This serene environment, free from the distractions of daily life, allows for optimal learning and a chance to relax and focus on your game.

I highly recommend Koh Samui Golf Academy for digital nomads who want to kickstart their golfing journey the right and proper way. The trainors here are friendly and thorough with their instructions.

12/15 Moo 4, Baan Donsai, Maenam, Koh Samui, Suratthani, 84330, Thailand

https://kohsamuigolfacademy.com/

5. Samui Golf Holidays

A group of men holding their golf clubs at Samui Golf Holidays in Koh Samui

Samui Golf Holidays is more than just playing golf; it offers premier golf tour services on the island of Koh Samui. Established in 2003, they provide unique golf holiday packages for two championship courses: Santiburi Golf & Country Club and Royal Samui Golf & Country Club. 

Here, clients can enjoy discounted green fees and fully inclusive golf packages, including luxury transportation and club hire.

The service is managed by English-speaking staff, including personal assistance at golf courses, airport pickup/drop-off, and collection from any pier in Koh Samui.

Golfers of all skill levels, including single golfers, ladies, and juniors, are welcome.

If you want a hassle-free golfing experience, booking a golf tour package at Samui Golf Holidays is your best choice! From transfer to golf sets, everything is already set up and ready for you to play on. 

45/21 Moo 3, Maenam, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84330, Thailand

+66 (0) 89 874 2735

https://samuigolf.net/golf-packages/

Final Thoughts: Golf Courses in Koh Samui

The golf scene on Koh Samui offers digital nomads a remarkable opportunity to combine work and leisure in a tropical haven. 

These top 5 golf courses provide breathtaking vistas, challenging terrain, and top-notch amenities, catering to both experienced players and beginners seeking a new hobby. 

Hitting the links between Zoom calls or after a productive day of coding is an ideal option for remote professionals to be active and unwind while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 

Where to Play Golf in Koh Samui

Koh Samui offers something for every golfer, from the demanding slopes of Royal Samui Golf & Country Club to the stunning views at Santiburi Samui Country Club. 

The Koh Samui Golf Academy and Foothill Driving Range provide top-notch practice facilities for players wanting to establish or improve their golfing skills.  

And if you’re short on time or equipment, Samui Golf Holidays provides convenient packages tailored to busy digital nomads. 

No matter which course you choose, golfing in Koh Samui is a memorable experience that perfectly complements the digital nomad lifestyle.

FAQ

The ideal period is during the dry season, which usually lasts from December to April and offers the most conducive weather for golfing.

Classes are offered for students of all skill levels, including novices. Certain courses provide driving range facilities for practice in addition to private lessons.

Clubs and golf cart rentals are available at most golf facilities and from some tour companies.

Depending on the season and course of play, it will cost you anywhere from $50 to $150 for a round.

Yes, many resorts and tour companies provide golf packages that include accommodation and golf plays on several golf courses on the island.

Joy Intisuk is not only a seasoned travel writer and a native of Chiang Mai, Thailand, but also a Director and Chief Editor of Thailand Nomads. Specializing in the digital nomad lifestyle, Joy leverages over a decade of experience exploring Southeast Asia to bring a deep and personal insight into the vibrant culture and hidden gems of Thailand. Her expertise is particularly focused on the logistical nuances of living and working remotely in the region.

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