Australia is one of the world's great golfing nations. Melbourne's Sandbelt region is famous for strategic courses on sandy soil, Tasmania has links among coastal dunes, and the warm east coast has resort golf near beaches and rainforest. Add kangaroos on the fairways, a sunny climate and a strong public golf culture, and Australia makes a superb golf destination.
The main golf regions
Melbourne and the Sandbelt
The Sandbelt, a band of sandy land in Melbourne's south-eastern suburbs, is home to many celebrated courses known for bold bunkering, firm turf and strategic design. Many are private, but some accept international visitors by arrangement, often on certain weekdays. Read how golf clubs are run and playing as a guest at a private club.
The Mornington Peninsula
South of Melbourne, the peninsula has links-style and clifftop courses, wineries and beaches.
Tasmania
Tasmania's north-east coast has links among towering dunes, regarded as some of the best modern links golf anywhere. The island also has wild landscapes, food and wine.
Sydney and New South Wales
Sydney has many courses, some with harbour and ocean views, and the New South Wales coast has seaside courses north and south of the city.
Queensland
The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast have resort courses in a warm, subtropical climate, near beaches and theme parks. Further north, tropical courses near Cairns and Port Douglas sit near the rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.
Perth and Western Australia
Perth has sunny courses on sandy soil, and the southwest has wine-region golf.
Adelaide and South Australia
Adelaide has well-regarded courses, with wine regions such as the Barossa nearby.
When to go
| Season | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | September to November | Ideal in most regions |
| Summer | December to February | Hot, especially inland; pleasant in Tasmania |
| Autumn | March to May | Ideal in most regions |
| Winter | June to August | Mild in Queensland; cool and wet in the south |
Practical tips
- Sun protection: UV is strong in Australia. Read sun protection for golfers.
- Handicap: private clubs often require a handicap certificate and a letter of introduction from your home club.
- Distances are huge: fly between regions.
- Wildlife: kangaroos often graze on courses; keep your distance. Read golf courses and wildlife.
- Jet lag: read jet lag and golf trips.
Playing tips
- Firm, fast Sandbelt golf: use the ground and play to the right side of fairways for the best angles. Read golf course management.
- Wind on coastal and links courses. Read how to play golf in the wind.
- Heat in summer. Read hot weather golf.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Sandbelt?
A region of sandy soil in Melbourne's south-eastern suburbs, home to many highly regarded courses.
Can visitors play private clubs in Australia?
Many accept visitors by arrangement, often with a handicap certificate and introduction letter.
When is the best time for golf in Australia?
Spring and autumn in most regions.
Is Tasmania good for golf?
Yes. Its north-east coast has outstanding links golf.
The bottom line
Australia offers world-class golf, from the Sandbelt to Tasmania's dunes and Queensland's resorts. Plan around the reversed seasons, arrange private-club visits in advance, protect yourself from the sun and enjoy the wildlife. For a nearby destination, read golf in New Zealand.