These are the clubs getting it right when it comes to all facets of the golf experience, not just the course.
What makes a golf club great? What is it about some places in the game that keep drawing golfers back again and again?
The core elements are obvious, such as a great course. Yet as an experience, often it’s the non-course factors that influence many golfers’ decisions on where to play. What’s the clubhouse like? How good are the practice facilities? What’s the quality of the food on offer and how often is the kitchen open? What’s the level of service like, in the pro shop and elsewhere? Is camaraderie clearly evident inside or does the clubhouse have more of a shopping centre ambience?
Often, it’s the less tangible factors that fortify our golf experiences, regardless of the four or five hours spent away from them. And, of course, what one golfer craves while undertaking their pastime might mean nothing to their playing companion. Golf represents different things to different golfers.
Which is a roundabout way of saying: determining the 50 golf clubs in Australia ‘doing it best’ is no easy task. Which is why we leaned on our Top 100 Golf Courses panel for help, and why we leaned on the term ‘favourite’ in coming up with this inaugural list. Our panellists’ eyes cover the nation, helping us compile a complete snapshot of what’s happening in clubland.
What you’ll read here is the combined take of our editors and Top 100 panel, yet there’s a professional body here that also sees what it is that makes some golf clubs operate more favourable than others. Paul Vardy, chief executive of Golf Management Australia – the national body representing the golf club management industry, says there are several clear indicators.
“A great culture means it’s a great place to be as a member or a board member, visitor or employee. Great culture is really important,” Vardy says. “The other one is: assets are maintained and updated. Sure, that’s the golf course, No.1. But there are things that are less noticeable – and they can be things on the golf course like irrigation systems and equipment, buildings, the clubhouse and carparks, tree maintenance. So maintaining assets is really important from the club manager’s point of view. Another is being a sustainable business and having a healthy balance sheet for the business. So again, that’s probably less important for the golfer, but certainly important for a member and certainly important for boards and management… Good governance is really important part of that as well.”
Vardy says the golf clubs that are succeeding in 2025 are the ones “doing well in the market they’re in”, which acknowledges the different challenges golf clubs face despite offering what is, superficially at least, the same ‘product’.
“You would have heard people say, ‘Oh, the membership model is dead,’ and it’s like saying, ‘Luxury cars are dead.’ No! There are so many different working models,” Vardy says. “I think sometimes the best clubs are the ones who are just consistently doing year after year things that gradually improve their club. They are probably the ones that should be held up a bit more.”
What of the future for Australian golf clubs? Vardy sees opportunities in technology and AI, which we’re already starting to witness.
“We’ve seen things in the early days like the way we score – scoring apps – and there’s more things like that. Most clubs have gone to electronic timesheets, but now there’s really integrated things, which allow service levels to be even better by having alignment between point-of-sale systems with club’s CRM systems and tracking member behaviour in terms of consumer behaviour and their personalisation come back as well,” he says.
“Even with AI now, we couldn’t have imagined [the scope of] it a year ago. We probably can’t imagine what’s coming in the next 12 months.”
BOX OF FAVOURITES
How did we determine which clubs made our list? Our editors in concert with our national Top 100 Golf Courses ranking panel assessed clubs based on intangible factors but also more robust parameters, including:
- Member culture/friendliness/ease of meeting new people/communication/competition-variety/extra functions/community hub (especially for regional clubs)/volunteers;
- Staff and service culture among the professionals and in the pro shop;
- Practice facilities;
- Tee-time availability (which has been problematic post-COVID);
- Value across the board;
- Clubhouse, club storage, arrival and car parking (including integration with arrival experience), other sports (stretching, gym, spa/sauna), food-and-beverage menu and a kitchen that is open longer than just 10am-3pm;
- Finally, the calibre of the golf course(s) (with any clubs also having a short course getting a bonus).
Having on-site accommodation wasn’t factored in directly, even if a few panel members noted its presence. It’s fantastic if that’s available, but is not integral to being a great club.
Additionally, we’ve referred to each of the 50 as “clubs”, which is not strictly true at several of these facilities – some of which are resorts or simply courses without a membership base. In this era of “all golf is golf”, we are treating each of these golf venues as a club for the purpose of this list. – Steve Keipert
Favourites, one and all
Our 50 favourite golf clubs in Australia, as chosen by our editors and Top 100 Golf Courses panel members, and why.
New South Wales
Bonville
Why it’s a favourite: “It’s easy to feel ‘lost’ during a round at Bonville – in a good way.”
“A setting and course unlike anything else and an off-course setup that’s perfect for the travelling golfer.”
Calderwood Valley
Why it’s a favourite: “Being publicly accessible every day of the week is a cool attribute, especially in the post-COVID era of clogged timesheets.”
Elanora
Why it’s a favourite: “The staff – both food and beverage and the golf staff – are first-class and very welcoming. You can also play tennis, lawn bowls and croquet at Elanora. Bridge is also offered. Breakfast and lunch are served daily, and they have regular Friday night functions.”
Gerringong
Why it’s a favourite: “The atmosphere is so relaxed that you can simply walk into the pro shop, pay your green fee and be on the first tee looking at the ocean in a matter of seconds. Pro Shane Cochrane runs a great operation and the members are some of the most welcoming people you’ll meet in Australia. It’s also a favourite because after 18 holes of playing beside the waves, you simply sit down with a bottle of beer and gaze at the ocean views.”
Kiama
Why it’s a favourite: “The course at Kiama is very much a case of good things coming in small packages. There are several fantastic holes on the par-66 layout.”
Mollymook
Why it’s a favourite: “Two clubs in one, both with diverse settings and appeal. The reworked Beachside course is cool, but the back nine of the Hilltop is hard to beat.”
New South Wales
Why it’s a favourite: “Stunning views of the course, a great selection of amenities, a warm welcome in the pro shop and members who are always eager to show off the course.”
Oberon
Why it’s a favourite: “The slopes are serious with few flat lies. Considering the sidehill, uphill and downhill stances, it’s different to anything most golfers will have ever experienced.”
“The changes in elevation and the undulating fairways are incredible.”
Ocean Shores
Why it’s a favourite: “With sweeping ocean views from Cape Byron to the Gold Coast and west across the Byron Hinterland, Ocean Shores is a standout course best known for two things: its combination of six par 3s, 4s and 5s, and as an early pioneer of golf-course living.”
Pymble
Why it’s a favourite: “Spend even a small amount of time at Pymble and you realise it’s a club with cohesion and a brand of camaraderie that you don’t
find everywhere.”
Rich River
Why it’s a favourite: “Considered course renovations combined with investment in the off-course offerings mean what was already a must-play destination along the Murray has an even stronger lure.”
Royal Sydney
Why it’s a favourite: “Unquestionably the best overall club facility (of any type, not just golf) in Australia.”
“Has all the facilities and more. Probably the only golf club in the world that has hosted a Davis Cup.”
“Bonus points for the Centenary layout and newly re-designed main course. Everything about the stately clubhouse is brilliant.”
The Australian
Why it’s a favourite: “Great practice facilities, plus a clubhouse with spa, pool and tennis court.”
“Welcoming to visitors with an excellent pro shop and dining.”
The Links Shell Cove
Why it’s a favourite: “Awesome tavern area, great coffee shop for families/pets, plus the mini-golf.”
“What began as a links-style golf course on a windswept parcel of land has broadened to include a Shanx mini-golf course, a driving range with Toptracer technology and a buzzing restaurant and bar scene boasting one of the region’s most popular eateries, Il Lago, serving tantalising pub food.”
The Springs
Why it’s a favourite: “The course blends 18 holes from two architects. The first 11 holes were designed by the late Al Howard and the last seven by Graham Papworth, the pair utilising the undulating land and bushland setting to pen a pleasant layout, giving the course a unique history.”
“There’s plenty of welcoming off-course facilities, especially at the restaurant and bar.”
Wentworth Falls
Why it’s a favourite: “The Dan Soutar-designed course is one of the best in the Blue Mountains.”
“Although split into multiple ‘paddocks’, the layout is an undulating beast – especially the holes closest to
the clubhouse.”
Victoria
13th Beach
Why it’s a favourite: “There are only a handful of clubs that boast two courses inside the Top 100 ranking and 13th Beach is in that elite group. The club also has a short course, three practice putting greens, two chipping/short-game areas, two sets of hitting nets and a driving range that has very recently had Trackman Range installed. Through the golf academy (which is now formally part of the golf club), the club offers numerous programs for beginners, juniors and in particular women to bring new people to the game.”
Barwon Heads
Why it’s a favourite: “It’s like going back in time with an awesome clubhouse experience.”
“The main course is a classic, the short course very underrated and I can’t wait to see the completed clubhouse renovations this spring.”
Beaconhills
Why it’s a favourite: “Nestled at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges in a stunning bushland setting, Beaconhills prides itself on a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, featuring a thriving Women’s Pathway to Golf program and exceptional accessibility with 27 holes available year-round.”
“In a recent Golf Australia survey, Beaconhills members were ranked the happiest in the country.”
Black Bull
Why it’s a favourite: “The practice facilities and coaching program is excellent, with indoor and outdoor bays. Tee-times are easy to find and the value is strong for an always excellent conditioned course at $70 a round, midweek. Car parking is easy and a short, two-minute stroll to the Sebel hotel where dining options are plentiful.”
“I was amazed a couple years when, after taking some lessons at Black Bull, to be remembered by head pro James McCully on returning to the course. A super-friendly and genuine welcome like my first visit ensued – I’m certain this would be replicated to all.”
Commonwealth
Why it’s a favourite: “Beautiful, historic clubhouse restored so nicely, everything from practice range to the carpark is in fantastic condition.”
Eastern
Why it’s a favourite: “With 27 holes plus a nine-hole short course, Eastern is fortunate to have ample availability for members to utilise the club even when hosting an event. The 27 holes provides constant variety of course options.”
“Top practice facilities – two putting greens, a chipping green, unlimited range balls and access to technology in the golf academy. Plus, the rebuilt clubhouse is expected to be completed in September.”
Kingston Heath
Why it’s a favourite: “Excellent practice facilities, including a large putting green and an iron warm-up area with access to balls. A sit-down lunch menu with table service (a nice touch!). Welcoming locker rooms for all guests. Members are very friendly towards outside visitors, plus the pro shop and starter are great and approachable. Of course, we can’t forget the club’s signature cocktail, the Southerly Buster!”
“Now even better with the addition of The Furrows course.”
Latrobe
Why it’s a favourite: “‘The Island’ course – a cute, five-hole loop of par 3s sitting in its own private enclave – is unlike any complementary facility you’ll see at a suburban golf course.”
Lonsdale Links
Why it’s a favourite: “A modern links layout by Ogilvy Cocking Mead (OCM), inspired by the golden age of course design with half the 18 holes shaped as template holes, including the infamous Road and rare Punchbowl. Bold and unique square green complexes deliver a test of strategy while coastal winds ensure no two rounds are ever the same.”
“There’s a friendly, down-to-earth culture where new members are welcomed and community engagement is high. The on-site playground encourages families to the facility, while the school holiday junior program gets all kids (not just junior members) out of the house and learning a new sport.”
Metropolitan
Why it’s a favourite: “‘Metro’ was my first experience visiting a Sandbelt club, 30 years ago. It left an impression that hasn’t faded on subsequent trips. The added bonus today? The golf course keeps getting better.”
Moonah Links
Why it’s a favourite: “It’s easy to forget Moonah Links was designed to be the place in Australian golf. While becoming a regular base for the Australian Open didn’t eventuate, that hasn’t stopped the golf courses and facilities from remaining first-rate.”
Peninsula Kingswood
Why it’s a favourite: “Yes, it is on the pricey end, but the experience from start to finish is nothing short of amazing. It has everything: friendly staff, incredible courses. Hands down the best practice facilities in Australia.”
Rosebud
Why it’s a favourite: “Across four separate visits, I’ve played both courses, stayed at Fairways Resort next door and dropped in to do nothing more than have coffee with a friend. Each time, the whole place was buzzing. Beyond what are exceptional courses, the clubhouse offers an inviting atmosphere with a variety of dining and social options.”
“Hosting now five Webex Players Series Victoria tournaments has cemented Rosebud’s reputation as one of the Mornington’s premier golf venues.”
Royal Melbourne
Why it’s a favourite: “Last year I became a member of RMGC (after a nine-year, not the now 22-year wait) and have been surprised how it isn’t a ‘snooty’ club but a friendly and personal club.”
“The practice fairway after the upgrade is incredible. I’ve never seen a Trackman set on top of a roof for everyone to use, and free range balls always helps. The locker rooms and showers were great for after the round and I’ve found the staff friendly both times I’ve played there.”
The National
Why it’s a favourite: “It’s my favourite golf facility in the country. The main clubhouse might lack some charm, but that’s the only fault I can find – four courses, three at one site, and phenomenal facilities across the board: practice, food, staff, parking. Each time I go, I never want to leave.”
“Outstanding staff, pros and golf shop. Practice facilities are second to none – they’re extensive and located in several areas around the clubhouse. The F&B menu and service are outstanding. It’s like a 5-star restaurant.”
Victoria
Why it’s a favourite: “‘Vic’ has what Peninsula Kingswood has but is more traditional. Great F&B, a golf-loving membership and excellent facilities.”
“A classic golf club, great offering and service in the clubhouse.”
“Such a shame the upstairs accommodation is now closed. It was the perfect add-on.”
Queensland
Hamilton Island
Why it’s a favourite: “Even if the golf course was rubbish (which it most definitely isn’t) the views of the Whitsundays would be worth it alone. Fortunately, it’s also a fantastic layout – making for multiple reasons to go.”
Indooroopilly
Why it’s a favourite: “The club has made all the right moves since beginning its course renovation and clubhouse improvement works. Non-members can also play there on more days than many Brisbane golfers realise.”
Kingaroy
Why it’s a favourite: “The 2024 Queensland Small Club of the Year offers a welcoming community, excellent practice facilities and diverse competitions. The friendly atmosphere makes meeting new people easy, while dedicated staff and volunteers enhance the experience. Kingaroy isn’t just a club, it’s a hub for golf and community engagement.”
Links Hope Island
Why it’s a favourite: “Now officially known by the name Links Golf & Wellbeing, the course offers an exceptional golf experience paired with premium dining, making it a standout destination on the Gold Coast. Beyond golf, the clubhouse café and bar deliver a dining experience that balances sophistication and comfort. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the menu offers delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.”
Maroochy River
Why it’s a favourite: “Now 10 years old, the Graham Marsh-designed layout has matured into a local standout. With a chipping and short-game practice area, full-size driving range and indoor coaching/performance studio – plus one of the best mini-golf courses on the Sunshine Coast – it’s a complete setup. There’s a proposal currently before the members to build a nine-hole par-3 course under lights! As well as a nine-hole executive (short) course.”
Nudgee
Why it’s a favourite: “We know the course changes a few years ago were forced by the expansion of the adjoining freeway, but kudos to the club for the manner in which they’ve managed Nudgee since. Every visit leaves me wanting to return sooner.”
Pacific Harbour
Why it’s a favourite: “Ross Watson doesn’t get enough credit for the layout at Pacific Harbour. It’s my favourite ‘tough but fair’ golf course in Queensland.”
Sanctuary Cove
Why it’s a favourite: “With the two courses, practice facilities, clubhouses and every off-course feature, Sanctuary Cove deserves to be part of the conversation when it comes to the best golf clubs in the land.”
Western Australia
Dunsborough Lakes
Why it’s a favourite: “In a stretch of good, honest country golf tracks as the WA coastline flanks the ocean on its journey south, Dunsborough Lakes stands out as a pleasant and unexpected resort-style option. A spacious, windswept layout, water is a regular companion – especially on the closing stretch of holes.”
“The club deserves a nod for its strong junior development program – the largest in WA’s south-west.”
Lake Karrinyup
Why it’s a favourite: “Great clubhouse, great atmosphere, beautiful outdoor bar facility and a good vibe. The club puts on amazing social offerings on the lawn area, including barbecues, with your drinks. The clubhouse is amazing from a facility point of view and the members and staff always friendly and welcoming. The practice facilities are also first-rate.”
The Vines
Why it’s a favourite: “Anyone with a long memory will recall the old Vines Classics (later Heineken Classic). So many fantastic tournaments were held at The Vines – and golfers get to re-live the best moments each time they play there.”
“A great one-stop-shop – multiple courses, a neighbouring resort, full facilities and an easy-going atmosphere. I try to play there at least a handful of times a year.”
Wembley
Why it’s a favourite: “Perth’s true golf hub: 36 holes, a fantastic driving range, mini-golf, café – yet nothing feels cramped.”
“I know non-golfers who just love hanging out there. At a lot of golf facilities that would feel odd, but not
at Wembley.”
South Australia
Glenelg
Why it’s a favourite: “Glenelg is known for its friendly and welcoming environment, starting at the pro shop, ensuring all members and guests feel at home. The club’s practice facilities are top-notch, featuring a driving range, three practice nets, two putting greens and a chipping area. The clubhouse caters to members and guests with a formal dining room and a golfers’ bar, along with a great selection of wines. Extended dining and bar hours along with live music on Wednesdays during twilight golf in the warmer months is a highlight.”
Kooyonga
Why it’s a favourite: “There are golf clubs and then there are golf clubs. Kooyonga just ‘gets it’. From the moment you arrive to the time you drive back out through the gates, no aspect of a day there hasn’t been thought through in full.”
Royal Adelaide
Why it’s a favourite: “The thing that stands out is the friendliness of the staff and members. They have a very welcoming and open culture – almost like a country club. Members say hello, they chat to you in the clubhouse and really do make you feel welcome. It’s not what you expect when you drive through the gates for the first time. The course itself is brilliant and quirky, the clubhouse is comfortable and not an oversized monstrosity, and it’s not a feeding frenzy to get a tee-time. It’s a wonderful experience to spend time there.”
Tanunda Pines
Why it’s a favourite: “I love Tanunda for what it delivers today, but as the ongoing course enhancements take shape, I relish going there even more. It’s SA golf’s little hideaway among the vines.”
Tasmania
Barnbougle
Why it’s a favourite: “What more needs to be said that hasn’t been uttered about Barnbougle already? Three courses, two sets of clubhouses/accommodation and complementary vibes at each. Maybe the best compliments a golfer can pay are,
1) once you arrive there’s no need to step off-site for anything until you depart,
2) everyone keeps coming back.”
Royal Hobart
Why it’s a favourite: “Class and history ooze from Royal Hobart, which is a comfortable place for visitors to feel at home. It also helps that I really like the golf course, which is one of the best flat tracks you’ll find.”
Honourable mentions
About 50 more clubs also received votes:
New South Wales and ACT: Avondale, Bondi, Bonnie Doon, Concord, Coolangatta Tweed, Duntryleague, Federal, Forster Tuncurry, Hawks Nest, Killara, Long Reef, Magenta Shores, Manly Monash, Newcastle, Northbridge, Pennant Hills, Royal Canberra, St Michael’s, Terrey Hills, The Coast, The Lakes
Victoria: Cathedral, Port Fairy, Portarlington, Queenscliff, Sorrento, Southern, Warrnambool, Woodlands, Yarra Yarra
Queensland: Brisbane, Brookwater, Maleny, Maryborough, Palmer Gold Coast, Royal Queensland, The Grand, Windaroo Lakes
Western Australia: Bunbury, Cottesloe, Joondalup, Mandurah, Meadow Springs, Royal Fremantle, Secret Harbour, The Western Australian
South Australia: Grange
Tasmania: Tasmania
