Exploring the Championship Greens of Siam Country Club
All Square 4min read •
25 Apr
Nestled in the vibrant coastal region of Pattaya, Thailand, Siam Country Club stands as a beacon for golf enthusiasts seeking a blend of world-class design, natural beauty, and championship pedigree. With its storied Old Course and the dynamic Plantation Course, this prestigious golf complex offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Thailand’s rich golfing culture. Just a short drive from Pattaya’s bustling beaches and nightlife, Siam Country Club combines meticulous course craftsmanship with the allure of a tropical paradise, making it a must-visit destination for golfers worldwide.
The Old Course: A Legacy of Excellence
Opened in 1971 by Dr. Thaworn Phornprapha and designed by Ichisuke Izumi, the Old Course is one of Thailand’s first private golf clubs. Renovated in 2006 by Schmidt and Curley, it blends classic English parkland charm with modern design across a par-72, 7,162-yard layout. Lush with mature trees and over 100 bunkers, the course is both scenic and strategic. Highlights include the signature ninth hole — a 422-yard par-4 teed off beside a golden Buddha—and the dramatic closing stretch, often compared to Augusta’s Amen Corner. The 18th, a risk-reward uphill par-5, offers a thrilling finish.
A regular host of the Honda LPGA Thailand since 2007, the course has welcomed stars like Amy Yang and Nelly Korda. It ranked 73rd in Golf Digest’s Top 100 Courses in 2018. Fast greens and tricky bunkers add to the challenge, especially for amateurs.
The recently renovated clubhouse offers panoramic views and top-tier service, including knowledgeable caddies and a restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine. Just 20 minutes from Pattaya, the Old Course remains a must-play, though weekend access is limited due to its private status.
The Plantation Course: A Modern Marvel
Just a few kilometers from the Old Course, the Plantation Course is a 27-hole layout that debuted in 2008 and quickly became one of Thailand’s top golfing destinations. Designed by Schmidt and Curley on a former tapioca and pineapple plantation, the course offers dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views of Pattaya Beach and the Gulf of Thailand. Its three nines — Tapioca, Pineapple, and Sugar Cane — each have a unique character. The par-72 combination of Tapioca and Pineapple stretches a massive 7,495 yards from the tips, featuring a standout triple green that spans over 20,000 square feet and serves three holes. The Sugar Cane nine is known for its scenic beauty and signature fifth hole — a bunker-filled par-5 with a split fairway that tests strategy and precision.
With Paspalum fairways and ultra-dwarf Bermuda greens in top shape, the course challenges even seasoned golfers with blind shots, steep bunkers, and slick fringes. It’s also hosted major tournaments, including the 2009 LPGA Thailand (won by Lorena Ochoa) and the 2015 Thailand Open.
The modern clubhouse offers upscale amenities, and while golf carts are mandatory due to the terrain, they’re kept on cart paths to preserve course conditions.
Pattaya: A Vibrant Backdrop
Siam Country Club’s allure is enhanced by its location in Pattaya, a city that balances urban energy with coastal charm. Once a quiet fishing village, Pattaya transformed into a global resort destination, offering golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural treasures like the Sanctuary of Truth, a towering teak temple adorned with intricate carvings. Golfers can unwind at beachfront resorts or explore nearby attractions like Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, home to exotic flora and Thai cultural shows. The region’s culinary scene is equally enticing, from street-side stalls serving fiery papaya salad to upscale restaurants offering fresh seafood with gulf views.
Pattaya’s golfing credentials extend beyond Siam Country Club. Nearby courses like Laem Chabang and Chee Chan, with its iconic Buddha-carved mountain, provide additional world-class options. The city’s proximity to Bangkok, just a 90-minute drive, makes it an ideal stop on a broader Thai golf itinerary. However, visitors should plan around the rainy season (June to October), when heavy showers can interrupt play, as noted by a golfer who sought refuge in the Old Course’s clubhouse during a downpour.
A Golfer’s Paradise
Siam Country Club’s Old and Plantation Courses offer contrasting yet complementary experiences. The Old Course, with its mature elegance and championship pedigree, appeals to those who relish tradition and precision. The Plantation Course, with its bold design and breathtaking vistas, challenges golfers to embrace risk and reward. Both are maintained to exacting standards, reflecting Siam’s commitment to excellence, though occasional critiques about bunker conditions or slow play highlight areas for refinement.
For golfers visiting Pattaya, Siam Country Club is more than a destination — it’s a pilgrimage. Whether you’re navigating the Old Course’s tree-lined fairways under the gaze of a golden Buddha or tackling the Plantation’s triple green, the experience is steeped in beauty, challenge, and Thai hospitality. As you plan your golf holiday, consider pairing a round with Pattaya’s cultural and culinary delights for a journey that transcends the scorecard. Just be sure to book your tee times early, as these courses are as popular as they are prestigious.
