While Phuket exceeds Koh Samui as a golf destination, the island’s course certainly affords a golfing element to your holiday. Koh Samui Santiburi Golf & Country Club is an 18-hole championship course and is the only full-length course on Samui. Hoping to visit? Here’s what you should know.
Koh Samui Santiburi Golf & Country Club
Excluding mini-golf, Koh Samui Santiburi Golf & Country Club is Koh Samui’s one and only proper golf course. Look forward to lush fairways and an abundance of palm trees. The course was pure jungle and coconut groves not too long ago (Koh Samui is famous for its coconuts) – and as such is very green. Golf carts (and caddies) are required – and appreciated in Samui’s heat.
Santiburi Samui’s golf clubhouse and facilities
Arrive at the Santiburi Samui clubhouse and its large open-air restaurant and you’re well-rewarded with ocean views looking straight across Maenam, towards Koh Phangan. The restaurant has views to spare and makes a nice spot for a Singha after your round. The restaurant is a big space and suits groups or families very well. If you’re staying on the beach and want to try a ‘view’ sunset, this is a good place for drinks.
A warm Thai welcome from staff makes a great first impression, whether you need help renting clubs or just want lunch. The facility is nicely run and has hosted high-level Koh Samui golf tournaments in recent years (including the annual Queen’s Cup, sponsored by Bangkok Airways). A tidy gift shop sells branded golf wear in bright colours (but in smaller, Thai sizes). Many such items would make easy and lightweight souvenirs for yourself or golfer friends at home.
What’s the dress code at Santiburi Samui? No tank tops, bathing suits or denim. Collared shirts with sleeves (golf polos). For women, knee-length shorts or skirts are appropriate.
Caddies? The caddy staff is mostly older women; they’re fast and dedicated so bring your A-game. The course is closed to play during heavy rain, making November/early December golfing on Samui a little dicey (but you never know!).
Rentals? Club, shoe and umbrella rental available and, also on site, is a driving range and locker room facilities
Green fees? Know your travel dates? Santiburi offers seasonal specials, and mid-week discounts are sometimes available.
What should golfers bring to Koh Samui?
Mosquito repellent: Good mosquito repellent is crucial as you head into Koh Samui’s interior – our favourite repellent is Incognito Anti-Mosquito, reviewed here.
Sun protection: Your caddy will have cleverly covered every bit of skin. A sun hat and liberal sunscreen coverage are a must.
Spare clothes: Planning to stop for lunch or dinner afterwards? Cleverly save a change of clothes in the players’ locker room, as you’ll return from the greens a bit sweatier than when you left.
Golf clubs are optional: Club rental is available at Santiburi Samui, though you might prefer to bring your own.
How to get to Santiburi Samui?
The course sits in hills above Maenam, and it’s a bit of an adventure to find it (especially after rain when dirt roads en route can flood and potholes fill with water. No problem in a Jeep but an interesting idea on a scooter). Sporadic sign-posting leads the way, directing you up (way up) a hill – an effort soon to pay off. If you’d rather enjoy the ride without navigating, contact Santiburi Country Club directly to make shuttle arrangements.
Koh Samui Santiburi Golf & Country Club is the sister facility to nearby Santiburi Beach Resort & Spa – a member of The Leading Hotels of The World group and located on a beautiful, wide stretch of Maenam Beach. To enjoy a golf and beach vacation ‘in one’ … this is a great way to combine your itinerary.
Whether you’ve booked your hotel, chosen your beach or haven’t got a clue, The Koh Samui Guide helps you choose exactly what you want to do – at every stage of your plans. Enjoy!
