Phuket golf, Thailand: country clubs & courses guide

Phuket Golf, Thailand, features four fine courses, all of which have been designed to take full advantage of the island's tropical trees and a bundant water. Many visitors come solely for golf, but accompanying family members rarely complain about being left to laze by the pool or on the beach.

Standards are high and there are enough challenges to stretch scratch players (the Blue Canyon Country Club hosted both the 1994 Johnnie Walker Classic Golf Tournament, the Honda Invitational tournament and the 1998 Johnnie Walker Classic).

The Banyan Tree Club is a resort style 18 hole golf course located within the Laguna Phuket development. Situated on the exclusive Bang Tao Bay on the western shore of Phuket Island, this par 71 layout stretches 6,850 yards from the championship tees.

Loch Palm Club spreads over a lush, rolling 400 rai (160 acres) hilly plateau. This 18-hole, par 72 course has been masterfully designed to blend beautifully with the natural terrain. Nestled below a panoramic range of peaks, the layout surrounds the largest lake on any golf course in Phuket, Crystal Lake. With more than 1,400 towering palms lining the fairways, you'll find yourself playing in the midst of serene surroundings that harbour many challenging hazards amid its lush greens.

Phuket Country Club established in 1989, is the first and one of the finest golf courses built in Phuket, and lies on a reclaimed tin mine site. The stunning beauty and elegance of the course, together with the typical Thai charm and hospitality will make your golfing joyful and memorable. A 9 hole course is also available here.

Early morning or late afternoon is often the most idealic time of day for golfers unused to a tropical climate. However it's common to hire multiple caddies (almost always young ladies), and one of them can be assigned parasol duties. Remember to use your sunblock, wear light-coloured clothing that breathes, and drink lots of fluids.

For those who prefer guided golf trips, Phuket Tour provides a service to 5 of the top Phuket golf courses.