Is Golf Cheaper in Vietnam or Thailand?
An honest breakdown for Australian golfers planning their next golf trip to Asia.
Thailand and Vietnam are two of Asia's most popular golf destinations for Australian travellers, and the question of cost comes up in almost every enquiry we receive. The honest answer is that it depends on the type of golf experience you are after.
Thailand is generally cheaper for entry-level golf. With over 250 courses spread across Phuket, Bangkok, Hua Hin, and Pattaya, competition keeps prices down and you can find quality rounds from $80 AUD. Vietnam operates as a more premium-first market where the baseline cost is higher, but the value proposition at the luxury end is outstanding.
Golf in Thailand: Volume Keeps Costs Down
Thailand has more golf courses than any other destination in Southeast Asia. That volume drives genuine price competition between courses, which works in your favour as a traveller. You will not find this level of entry-level value anywhere else in the region.
All green fees are approximate per round including caddie. Cart typically priced separately at $20–$35 AUD.
Phuket and Hua Hin offer the widest price spread, from budget resort tracks to world-class layouts. Bangkok courses are often in the middle tier but benefit from excellent conditioning year-round. Caddies are included or low-cost at almost every Thai course, which adds genuine value compared to playing at home.
Golf in Vietnam: Premium First, But Strong Value at the Top
Vietnam's golf market developed differently to Thailand. The majority of courses were built at resort and championship standard from the outset, particularly in Da Nang, which now rivals any golf destination in Asia. That means fewer budget options, but exceptional quality at the mid-to-premium tier.
All green fees are approximate per round including caddie. Vietnam courses almost universally include caddie in the green fee.
Where Vietnam delivers exceptional value is in the resort integration. Da Nang's top courses sit inside 5-star resorts where accommodation, dining, and transfers are bundled at a combined rate that is genuinely competitive with standalone bookings in Australia. If you are comparing a luxury golf trip rather than a budget round, Vietnam often wins on overall value.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Thailand | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level green fees | From $80 AUD | From $120 AUD |
| Championship green fees | $120 – $250 AUD | $180 – $320 AUD (newer courses) |
| Number of courses | 250+ | 80+ |
| Course quality at top tier | Excellent | World-class (Da Nang) |
| 5-star resort integration | Good | Outstanding |
| Caddie included | Usually | Almost always |
| Budget trip suitability | Strong | Moderate |
| Luxury trip value | Strong | Excellent |
The Bottom Line
If you want to keep costs down and play a high volume of rounds, Thailand wins. If you want newer courses, 5-star resort inclusion, and a premium experience at competitive overall rates, Vietnam is the stronger choice.
Both destinations offer better value than playing the equivalent quality of golf in Australia, Scotland, or the United States. The real question is which style of trip suits your group.
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Last Updated: 12 May 2026