Back

Golfing in Australia: Land Down Under Par

Aug. 5 2025 golf courses By Joseph Powell

Share

Australia isn’t just home to kangaroos, coral reefs, and iconic beaches — it’s also a golfer’s paradise, with a landscape as diverse as its wildlife. Whether you’re swinging beneath eucalyptus trees or battling coastal winds off the Southern Ocean, golfing in Australia offers something truly unique for amateurs and professionals alike.

Here’s what makes the Australian golf scene worth the journey — plus a few tips and courses you shouldn't miss.

Why Golf in Australia?

Australia boasts over 1,500 golf courses, many of which rank among the best in the world. From world-class sandbelt layouts to lush, subtropical courses in Queensland and windswept links in Tasmania, you can play year-round in some of the most visually stunning and varied environments on Earth.

Unlike crowded tee times in other countries, golf in Australia is often laid-back and accessible — many courses are open to the public, even some that would be private elsewhere.

The Golfing Regions of Australia

1. Melbourne’s Sandbelt (Victoria)
This legendary stretch south of Melbourne is home to golf royalty. Courses like Royal Melbourne, Kingston Heath, and Metropolitan are etched into sandy soil, offering firm fairways, fast greens, and artistic bunkering. These are must-plays for serious golfers.



2. Sydney (New South Wales)
While Sydney’s coastline steals the headlines, its golf scene is no slouch. New South Wales Golf Club, perched atop seaside cliffs, offers dramatic ocean views that rival Pebble Beach. Don’t miss The Lakes or St. Michael’s for more coastal flavor.



3. Barnbougle (Tasmania)
If you like your golf wild, windy, and remote, Barnbougle Dunes and Lost Farm are bucket-list links courses carved into the dunes of northern Tasmania. Often ranked among the best in the world, these courses are worth the detour — and the windburn.

4. The Gold Coast (Queensland)
Looking for a more tropical setting? Queensland offers palm-lined fairways, resort-style courses, and sunshine year-round. Royal Pines, Sanctuary Cove, and Hope Island are popular spots — and you might spot a koala mid-round.

5. Perth and Western Australia
The west coast is often overlooked, but Lake Karrinyup and Joondalup Resort offer challenging layouts with sweeping landscapes. The vibe out west is relaxed and perfect for combining golf with a beach escape.

Tips for Golfing in Australia

  • Drive on the Left, Swing on the Right: If you’re renting a car, remember Australia drives on the left. Tee times might be more spread out than you're used to, so plan accordingly.

  • Watch for Wildlife: Kangaroos on fairways are a real thing. So are kookaburras, wombats, and even the occasional snake in warmer months. Just don’t tee off into a ‘roo.

  • Bring Sunscreen and Water: The sun down under can be intense, even in winter. Wear a hat and stay hydrated.

  • Check Visitor Rules: Many prestigious clubs require collared shirts, tailored shorts, and sometimes a letter of introduction. Public courses are generally more relaxed.

Final Thoughts

Australia’s golf courses blend natural beauty with world-class design, making every round an adventure. Whether you're tackling championship layouts or soaking up the serenity of a rural course, golfing in Australia delivers challenge, charm, and memories worth the long flight.

Just remember: down here, birdies come with feathers or under par. Sometimes both.