Sea Pines Golf Course, also known as the Army Golf Club II, is a scenic municipal course set along the Gulf of Thailand within the Suan Son Pradiphat (Sea Pine Tree Garden). Originally owned by the Royal Forestry Department, the land was transferred to the Royal Thai Army under the leadership of Field Marshall Sarit Thanarat, who served as Thailand's prime minister from 1957 to 1963. The army initially developed the area—characterized by its signature bracken pine trees, mountains, and ocean backdrops—as a dedicated retreat for serving soldiers, veterans, and their families.

Course Layout and Design

Divided by a railroad track, the course layout positions six holes on the beachside and the remaining twelve toward the mountains, offering a versatile challenge that varies from relatively easy to highly demanding depending on the coastal winds. Strategy is tested early on the par-5 12th hole, where fairway bunkers and a right-side water hazard defend the green, and a central bunker forces players to choose between an aggressive driver or a safe lay-up. The closing stretch raises the stakes as the sea breeze intensifies. The downhill, par-5 16th features a narrow fairway flanked by water hazards, daring golfers to either take a risky approach over hazards onto a sloping green or play safely to the left.

Signature Holes and Visitor Tips

The course's signature 17th is a stunning par-3 that demands a complete carry over water against a dramatic ocean backdrop, targeting a wide, undulating peninsula green heavily guarded by front and back beach bunkers. The grueling par-4 finishing hole keeps the pressure on, requiring a powerful 220-yard carry over a canal hazard to reach the fairway, though a conservative lay-up remains a smart path to a solid par. Off the course, a modern clubhouse offers excellent Thai cuisine alongside panoramic views of the Gulf. While the course provides exceptional value, visitors must note that Royal Thai Army officers and their guests hold tee-time priority. Because civilian golfers may be asked to yield during overlapping times, it is highly recommended to check course crowdedness in advance or book elsewhere if you are on a strict schedule.