Best Time to Visit and Golf in Thailand
Thailand is said to be a year-round golfing destination with golf courses in good condition throughout the year. However, if you visit and golf in Thailand for the first time, choosing a suitable time with a pleasant climate is advisable, especially if you cannot bear the hard weather.
Thailand Golfing Weather
Thailand’s weather can be divided into three distinct seasons. The first season, known as the “cool” season, spans from November to February. During this time, the skies are clear, and the temperatures drop after the preceding rainy months. The temperature typically ranges between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, with gentle breezes creating ideal conditions for golfing. This period attracts a high number of tourists, resulting in higher hotel prices. It is advisable to make your reservations well in advance to secure your preferred accommodation if deciding to visit and golf in Thailand during this time.
The hot season commences in March, although this month can still be quite pleasant as the temperature gradually rises, offering some benefits of the preceding “cool” season. April and May can be particularly hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius. Despite the heat, this period remains popular among tourists due to the availability of more affordable hotel accommodations. In April, important dates to note are the 13th, 14th, and 15th, which mark the Thai New Year and are celebrated through the Songkran festival. Thailand experiences a virtual standstill, and local customs involve various water festivals to welcome the rainy season. This is a remarkable spectacle for visiting tourists, but it’s worth noting that hotel prices increase during this busy time.
The rainy season extends from June to September when the southwest winds from the Indian Ocean bring rain-laden clouds. Most days experience downpours, although their timing is somewhat unpredictable, usually lasting no more than an hour. Sunshine is scarce during this period, and temperatures are moderate. However, for avid golfers, the rain rarely results in game cancellations as the courses quickly dry out after seeking shelter. Visiting and golf in Thailand during this time offers the advantage of inexpensive accommodations and bargain deals, along with quieter golf courses, providing more flexibility in choosing when to play. October can also be an ideal month for golfing, with prices still at their lowest levels and often accompanied by clearer skies and the onset of cooler temperatures resembling the “cool” season.
Best Time to Visit and Golf in Thailand According to Region
From the above-mentioned information, it is easily concluded that November to March is the best time to visit and golf in Thailand, when the temperature is moderate and it has less rainfall. However, each region of the country has a different golfing weather as demonstrated in the following:
Bangkok, Hua Hin & Pattaya
For the optimal experience, it is recommended to plan your visit to Bangkok, Hua Hin, and Pattaya between November and March. During this period, the temperatures are milder, the humidity is lower, and rainfall is less frequent. However, it’s important to note that temperatures in the region remain relatively stable throughout the year, averaging around 32 degrees Celsius. From March to May, the weather becomes hot, while June to October marks the wet season. Despite the rain, many visitors still choose to explore the region during this time due to the advantages of low-season rates and fewer crowds at Bangkok & South Thailand golf courses. The monsoon months typically bring night rains or short downpours lasting around 30 minutes, generally not highly disruptive to travel plans.
Phuket
For the ultimate experience at Phuket golf courses, the ideal time to visit is from November to February. During this period, the temperatures are cooler, the weather is dry, and you can enjoy the refreshing breeze. From March to May, the climate becomes hotter. However, from June to August, despite occasional brief rain showers, you can still have a wonderful holiday on this beautiful island. It’s during September and October when heavy rains dampen outdoor activities, marking the onset of the low season.
Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai offer a cooler climate in comparison to Bangkok and the southern regions. The optimal time to visit is from October to February when rainfall is minimal, and temperatures hover around 28 degrees Celsius. The nearby hills and mountains provide even cooler temperatures, creating an ideal setting for trekking and engaging in nature activities. From March to June, the hot season brings temperatures reaching around 35 degrees Celsius. It is also the low golf season in the region, causing low green fees at Chiang Mai golf courses. If you prefer the budget and can bear the hot weather, visit and golf in Thailand during this time.
Whatever time of the year you choose to visit and golf in Thailand, the country promises an unforgettable golfing experience. Going on a Thailand golf holiday, remember to combine golf with other tourism activities such as beach relaxation, nightlife experience, cultural and natural adventures, etc. Don’t know how to make the most out of your time in Thailand, contact us right now for advice or a tailor-made tour itinerary.