Koh Samui Golf

Samui is an untapped golfers paradise. The island boasts three scenic, challenging golf courses, the flagship being the Santiburi Country Club, which hosts Asian Tour events and is known for its top quality services, well-kept holes and dramatic fairways, not to mention unparalleled tropical views from almost every tee. The course is built into the side of a coastal mountain range, surrounded by coconut groves and tropical forest. Water features, sand traps and rocky outcroppings test your accuracy, but this is balanced by some exquisite Par 3 holes that combine breathtaking topography with the chance to make a spectacular and very satisfying birdie. Despite being known for its difficulty, professionals have repeatedly managed scores in the 60s. It's all about keeping your head, ignoring the stunning seascapes during your swing and hitting the ball straight.

Perhaps inspired by the Santiburi course, the Royal Samui Golf and Country Club is laid out on another Samui mountainside that stretches from Lamai and Chaweng. This course also offers spectacular coastal views an a number of holes feature breathtaking drops in elevation, demanding nerves of steel and careful club selection. The front nine holes were completed recently and offer both rookies and more experienced golfers an attractive challenge with giant boulders, cliffside fairways and silky greens adding up to a unique golfing experience.

Less dramatic, but more accessible and convenient. Bophut Hills Golf Club features 9 beautifully designed, par 3 holes laid out on a lush hillside with views down to the ocean from some of the tees and thick tropical forest all around. For more experienced golfers the course is interesting departure from classic courses, but still boasts plenty of bunkers, water hazards and some thick rough if you stray from the fairways. This is Koh Samui's most accessible golfing opportunity, located just ten minutes from the main island ring road in Bophut, with a pick up service also available from your hotel. It's easy to reach and fun to play.