Cover These golf courses are loved for their diverse terrain and picturesque views (Photo: William Watt)
These golf courses are loved for their diverse terrain and picturesque views (Photo: William Watt)
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These golf courses down under are loved for their diverse terrain and picturesque views
Australia’s reputation as a golfer’s paradise is well-deserved. Beyond the iconic image of the Sydney Opera House and the Great Barrier Reef lies a treasure trove of world-class golf courses, each offering a unique blend of challenge, natural beauty and luxurious amenities. From the historic courses to dramatic cliffside links, Australia caters to all golf enthusiasts regardless of whether you’re a seasoned professional or leisure player seeking a picturesque escape.
With over 1,500 golf courses in Australia, it can be hard to pick which ones to tee off at. To help with your search, we reached out to Great Golf Courses of Australia to share some courses in Australia you don’t want to miss. Here are five to get you started.
In case you missed it: Beyond the birdie: 5 best golf courses in Asia
1. The Royal Melbourne Golf Club
Above One of the most prestigious golf clubs in Australia, The Royal Melbourne Golf Club is known for its two exceptional courses (Photo: William Watt)
One of the most prestigious golf clubs in Australia, The Royal Melbourne Golf Club is known for its two exceptional courses (Photo: William Watt)
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One of the most prestigious golf clubs in Australia, The Royal Melbourne Golf Club is known for its two exceptional courses: West Course and East Course. Designed by legendary golf architect Alister MacKenzie, the 1926 course has a par 72 layout measuring 6,077 metres. The lavish course has hosted various major events such as the Australian Open and features significant elevation changes, firm playing conditions and wide fairways.
Completed in 1932, the East Course is a par 71 layout and was designed by Australian golfer Alex Russell. While the course is typically overshadowed by the iconic West Course, it’s still highly regarded among the best courses in Australia.
2. Kingston Heath Golf Club
Above Kingston Heath Golf Club is a challenging 18-hole course measuring over 6,000 yards (Photo: William Watt)
Kingston Heath Golf Club is a challenging 18-hole course measuring over 6,000 yards (Photo: William Watt)
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Located in the renowned Melbourne Sandbelt region is Kingston Heath Golf Club, a challenging 18-hole course measuring over 6,000 yards. The course features wide fairways, strategic bunkering and unforgiving grass that’s sure to challenge every golfer. Its 15th hole is a signature comprising a short but challenging uphill hole. Since it was established in 1909, the course has been host to numerous major events including the 2016 World Cup of Golf, 2008 Women’s Australian Open and seven Australian Opens. It’s also set to host the prestigious Presidents Cup in 2028.
3. New South Wales Golf Club
Above New South Wales Golf Club is Australia's oldest golf course (Photo: New South Wales Golf Club)
New South Wales Golf Club is Australia's oldest golf course (Photo: New South Wales Golf Club)
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The New South Wales Golf Club was established in 1882, making it Australia’s oldest golf course. Located on the cliffs at La Perouse, the masterpiece offers a blend of parkland and links style golf. On top of overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the breathtaking course is also known for its mature greens, strategically placed bunkers and undulating fairways. Beyond the course, the golf club also boasts a historic clubhouse that exudes a sense of tradition and refinement. After a game, relax on the expansive verandah while soaking in the club’s rich history.
4. Royal Adelaide Golf Club
Above Established in 1893, this course is a haven for golfers seeking a challenge (Photo: Gary Lisbon)
Established in 1893, this course is a haven for golfers seeking a challenge (Photo: Gary Lisbon)
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Established in 1893, this course is a haven for golfers seeking a challenge. Its layout winds its way through mature parkland with towering trees lining the fairways and strategically placed bunkers guarding the greens. While this cause may not offer dramatic elevation changes like some of its counterparts, its subtle challenges demand precision and course management. The signature 17th hole is affectionally known as The Graveyard and requires a perfectly struck midiron to find the well-protected green nestled amongst towering pines.
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Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
