🕵🏽 The Secret to Finding Last-Minute Tee Times at Asia’s Best Resorts

Good Morning,  

What an incredible major we’ve just witnessed! There’s nothing quite like draining a 64-foot putt to seal the U.S. Open title, and J.J. Spaun’s life has been changed forever. It took pure grit to secure that win, and he was the only player to finish under par. Last week, I predicted the winning score would be +2, but Spaun had other ideas and proved me wrong. A quick shoutout to Robert (aka Bob) MacIntyre for using his Scottish expertise in wet conditions to battle through the field, and to Viktor Hovland for an impressive comeback after dedicating four months to refining his swing. Both players showed resilience and determination.

Now, shifting gears: let’s talk about finding last-minute tee times. Sometimes, you get the itch for a round of golf, whether you’re on a work trip or have an unexpected free day and just aren’t in the mood for the usual tourist activities. I’lldiscuss top tips for sneaking in a round when time is tight.

In Today’s Email

• 🔍 Finding Last Minute Tee Times

  • 👨🏻‍💻 What platforms/apps to leverage?

  • ☎️ Who to call directly?

  • 🛎️ Hotel concierge services

  • 🏃🏼‍♂️💨 How to be prepared

This Week in Golf 

I said last week that Oakmont Country Club is probably the toughest test and it sure was. It is back to back majors as this week the women take centre stage with the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship taking place at Fields Ranch East in Frisco, Texas.

• Anger Issues: Wyndham Clark accused of destroying lockers at Oakmont Country Club after missing the cut

• Rory McIlroy: “I've earned the right to do whatever I want to do”

• Jay Monahan: PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monhan to step down after nine years in the role when his contract ends in 2026

 Our Fairway Feature: Randolph Greens

Randolph Greens is a golf apparel brand designed for people who make time for golf despite busy lives. Their focus is on outfitting golfers for every moment—whether on the course, at the range, or practicing1. The brand emphasizes versatility and lifestyle integration, catering to golf enthusiasts who balance the game with other commitments.

Check them out here: 👉 Randolph Greens

⌛️ Finding Last Minute Tee Times

Where there is a will, there is a way and finding last-minute tee times at Asia’s premier golf resorts is no different. It can be a game-changer for spontaneous golf enthusiasts looking for a great deal or an unexpected round. While securing a prime slot at a top-tier course often requires advance planning, there are several strategies you can employ to obtain those coveted last-minute bookings. These steps should help you hit the greens on short notice

1. Leverage Online Booking Platforms and Apps

Many golf courses and resorts in Asia utilise online booking platforms and dedicated golf apps to manage their tee times. These platforms are often the first place where last-minute cancellations or unbooked slots appear, sometimes at discounted rates.

• Dedicated Golf Booking Websites: Websites like GolfSG.net and Golfasian.com specialize in golf holidays and tee time bookings across Asia. They often have direct relationships with courses and can offer exclusive deals or last-minute availability. Regularly check their "Hot Deals" or "Last Minute" sections.

• Golf Apps: Many resorts and golf courses have their own mobile applications, or are integrated with larger golf booking apps. These apps can send notifications for last-minute openings or special promotions. Ensure you have notifications enabled for your preferred courses or regions. For example check out BaiGolf Book Tee Times (has over 3000 Asian golf clubs)

• Dynamic Pricing: Be aware that many online platforms use dynamic pricing, meaning prices can fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and how close the booking is to the tee time. This can work in your favour for last-minute bookings, as courses may drop prices to fill empty slots.

2. Call Directly to the Golf Course or Resort

While online platforms are convenient, sometimes the best deals or unlisted tee times can be found by contacting the golf course or resort directly.

• Enquire About Cancellations: Call the pro shop or reservations desk and specifically ask about last-minute cancellations or openings for the same day or next day. Courses often hold back a few slots for members or hotel guests, which might become available at the last minute.

• Build a Relationship: If you plan to visit a region frequently, building a relationship with the pro shop staff can be beneficial. They might be more inclined to inform you of last-minute opportunities.

• Be Flexible: The more flexible you are with your desired tee time, the higher your chances of securing a last-minute slot. Early mornings or late afternoons often have more availability.

3. Check with Local Tour Operators and Concierge Services

Golf tour operators and hotel concierge services often have allocations of tee times that they manage. These can be a valuable resource for last-minute bookings, especially at popular resorts.

• Golf Tour Operators: Companies specialising in golf tours often have pre-booked blocks of tee times. If their clients cancel or modify their plans, these slots might become available at short notice. It's worth reaching out to them even if you're not booking a full package. e.g. Luxury Golf Tour Asia

• Hotel Concierge: If you are staying at a resort with a golf course, or a nearby hotel, their concierge service can be an excellent resource. They often have direct lines to the course and may be able to secure tee times that are not publicly available.

4. Be Prepared for Spontaneity

Last-minute tee times require a degree of spontaneity. Have your golf gear ready, be flexible with your schedule, and be prepared to make a quick decision when an opportunity arises.

• Monitor Weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast. A sudden change in weather might lead to cancellations, opening up slots.

• Local Knowledge: If you are already in the area, visit the golf course in person. Sometimes, walking into the pro shop can yield unexpected results, especially during quieter periods.

A combination of all these tips and you significantly increase your chances of finding those elusive last-minute tee times at Asia’s best golf resorts, allowing you to enjoy world-class golf on short notice.

Until Next Week

I hope you enjoyed this edition of The Caddie’s Playbook Please share the newsletter with at least one of your golfing buddies.

The Caddie