Banyan Golf Club

5 kilometers south of Hua Hin

Built among a pineapple plantation, Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin opened in October 2008. The course provides for spectacular mountain and ocean views from most all of the holes and is one of the best layouts in the area. Banyan Golf Club won the 2009 Best New Golf Course in Asia as voted for by the readers of Asian Golf Monthly.

Each hole has 6 tee boxes making the course more or less challenging depending on your ability and tee selection. Strategically placed water hazards, waste bunkers, and sand traps are spread out throughout the course. Significant use of native pineapple groves make local 'fruits' come into play if you stray too far off most fairways.

Lush Zoysia fairways, a local grass but a rarely seen on golf courses in Thailand, are a pleasure to hit as balls sit up nice throughout the fairways and roughs. Dark green Paspalum grassed tee boxes add to the stark color contrast on the course and are a nice decorative feature. Greens, constructed of premium Tiff-eagle Bermuda grass, make for fast and receptive putting surfaces.

The signature 15th hole is a 139 yard par-3 with panoramic ocean views all the way to Singtoh (Tiger) Island in the Gulf of Thailand. Hole 12, a par-5 monster is 610 yards, all uphill, making it a challenge to reach for even the most accomplished of golfers. Other holes feature elevated greens, sloping fairways, and well placed fairway and greenside bunker complexes.

Practice facilities include a grass driving range and 2 large putting and chipping greens. The Banyan Golf Club has a contemporary Thai styled club house including, reception area, full stocked pro shop, elegant locker rooms, and international restaurant all of which are first class. The Mulligan's Pub with western views over the golf course and Burmese mountains makes for an ideal way to have a few cold drinks, reflect on your round and take in a picture perfect Thai sunset.

Spa suites are available on top of the club house for those who have non-golfers in their groups or just want to spend a few days at the Banyan Golf Club. Pool villas are featured at the nearby Banyan Resort. Golf fees include complimentary individual carts with GPS and unlimited range balls, all nice touches at this premium Hua Hin golf course.