For golf enthusiasts looking to expand their horizons, you may find yourself asking, “Can I play golf on the Sunshine Coast?” The answer is a resounding yes!
The Sunshine Coast, located in Queensland, Australia, is home to some of the finest golf courses in the country. With an abundance of championship courses, resort-style layouts, and hidden gems, the region caters to golfers of all levels, ages, and preferences.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the best golfing spots on the Sunshine Coast, providing insights into their features, facilities, and unique aspects.
We’ll also answer some commonly asked questions and offer key takeaways to help you plan your perfect golfing adventure.
Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort
Overview
Located in the heart of Noosa, the Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort offers a championship-quality course that ranks among the best in Australia.
The resort is a walk away from the famous Hastings Street, making it an excellent spot for golf lovers who also wish to explore the local area.
Features
The picturesque 18-hole course weaves through lush rainforest and alongside serene lakes, offering breathtaking views of Lake Weyba and Noosa National Park.
The course caters to all ages and skill levels, with a variety of options to choose from. But don’t underestimate it! The course is challenging, with 12 holes featuring water in some way.
After a day on the green, you can unwind with a massage at the on-site spa.
Pelican Waters Golf Club
Overview
Designed by golf legend Greg Norman, the Pelican Waters Golf Club is his first course on the Sunshine Coast, and it’s widely considered his best.
The 18-hole course sits at Golden Beach, near Caloundra, making it a possible day trip for golfers in Brisbane.
Features
The course occupies relatively flat terrain and lays out in two loops of nine. It’s peppered with creeks and almost 100 bunkers, making it a challenging course even for skilled golfers. If you’re inaccurate with your aim, it’s best to bring a few spare golf balls!
Twin Waters Golf Club
Overview
The Twin Waters Golf Club is the home course of 2013 Masters winner Adam Scott. Designed by five-time British Open champion Peter Thomson and partner Mike Wolveridge, it’s considered one of the top six resort courses in the world.
Features
Located next to Mudjimba Beach, the 18-hole championship course has an aquatic driving range, one of the few in Queensland. This unique feature allows golfers to practice hitting the ball when faced with a body of water. Plus, keep an eye out for kangaroos that often visit the green!
Peregian Golf Course and Driving Range
Overview
For those travelling with family, the Peregian Golf Course and Driving Range is the perfect destination. Located in Peregian Springs, the facility has relaxed dress regulations and is open seven days a week.
Features
Designed by Phil Scott, the father of champion Adam Scott, the parkland-style course offers 18 holes and a driving range. The course is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. If you want to improve your swing, you can participate in one of the personalised coaching sessions.
Palmer Coolum Resort
Overview
If you’re a serious golfer, you’ll appreciate the Palmer Coolum Resort. Since 2002, it has been the host of the Australian PGA Championships. The course occupies one-third of the entire resort property, making it a haven for golf enthusiasts.
Features
Designed exclusively by Robert Trent Jones Jnr, the 18-hole green offers various landscapes. Some holes scatter along the beach, while others nestle in bushland, mingling with groves of native melaleuca and eucalyptus trees.
Twin Waters Golf Club
Overview
Twin Waters Golf Club is a paradise for golfers. Recognised as one of Australia’s top six resort courses, Peter Thomson, a five-time British Open champion, and his partner Mike Wolveridge designed this 18-hole, par 72 championship course. The beautiful setting and challenging layout combine to make a fun game of golf for all players.
Features
The club offers an aquatic driving range, practice greens and bunkers, a fully stocked pro shop, equipment hire facilities, electric carts, and a refreshments cart on the course. The Aquatic Driving Range is an exceptional practice facility, allowing golfers to get used to hitting the ball when confronted with a body of water.
Headland Golf Club
Overview
The Headland Golf Club is the oldest 18-hole course on the Sunshine Coast and offers the best ocean views of any golf course in the region. Combined with the charm of a traditional golf course and a classic clubhouse, the Headland Golf Course provides an unforgettable golfing experience.
Features
The 18-hole, 6,105-metre championship course winds through age-old flora and fauna, hosting koalas, kangaroos, and countless birds. The Clubhouse offers a bar, a restaurant, a private function room, a corporate function room, golf programs, a Pro Shop, and custom club fittings.
Noosa Golf Club, Tewantin
Overview
Situated near Tewantin, the Noosa Golf Club offers excellent views and stimulating play for golfers of all skill levels. Renowned golf professionals Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw designed the 18-hole championship course.
Features
The club offers excellent facilities, including practice areas, driving ranges, putting greens, and a pro shop. With professional instruction available, it is the perfect choice for golfers looking to improve their game.
Noosa Hills Par 3 Golf Course
Overview
The Noosa Hills Par 3 Golf Course is one of the world’s best par three golf courses. Featuring 36 holes of varying lengths set among 74 acres of beautiful bushland, the course is just 7 minutes from the Noosa River and 12 minutes from Hastings St in Noosa Heads.
Features
The course features a North and South Course, a Social Club, a Clubhouse, functions, and a Pro Shop. It welcomes players of all ages and genders, offering a relaxed and friendly golfing experience.
Maleny Golf Club
Overview
Enjoy a round of golf amidst the peace and beauty of the award-winning Maleny Golf Club. Open to the public seven days a week, the 18-hole golf course is set in a picturesque links-style environment defined by the Obi Obi Creek.
Features
Graham Papworth designed each hole on the golf course, ensuring excellent conditions and delivering a demanding yet fair test for players of all skill levels. The club offers a beautiful and challenging 18-hole golf course, open seven days a week during daylight hours.
Noosa Valley Golf Club
Overview
The Noosa Valley Golf Club is a simple yet charming golf course known as a Sunshine Coast hidden gem. The 9-hole, par 72 championship course is meticulously maintained and is in excellent condition all year round.
Features
The course is home to abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and birds. The club offers a fleet of 70 modern electric carts, a refreshment cart, golf club shoes and equipment hire.
An on-site restaurant serves hot and cold beverages and light snacks. If you prefer not to walk the course, you can hire clubs and buggies from an on-site store and a golf cart.
Tanawha Valley Golf & Tennis
Overview
Tanawha Valley Golf & Tennis is a challenging but enjoyable par three course suitable for beginner and advanced golfers. The course has nine holes of varying lengths, some crossing creeks, up to sloping green protected by bunkers, set against a peaceful bushland backdrop.
Features
The course offers a full-size tennis court, groups and functions, a Pro Shop, a bar and cafe, and The Old Stable. The club also has a swimming pool and BBQ, making it a great spot for a family day out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best times to play golf on the Sunshine Coast?
To avoid the midday heat, the ideal times to play golf on the Sunshine Coast are typically early mornings or late afternoons, particularly in the warmer months. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. But we recommend checking with individual golf courses for their best tee times and availability.
Are there any golf clinics or lessons available for beginners on the Sunshine Coast?
Absolutely, many golf courses and clubs on the Sunshine Coast provide golf clinics and lessons specifically designed for beginners. Taking these lessons is an excellent way to grasp golf’s basics, hone your technique, and become more confident on the greens. As prices and schedules can differ, it’s wise to contact particular golf facilities for information on lessons and clinics.
Do I need to make tee-time reservations in advance?
While a few golf courses on the Sunshine Coast might allow for spontaneous walk-in play, it’s good practice to reserve your tee time beforehand. This is especially true during high-demand seasons or if you’re particular about your tee time. Pre-booking ensures you get the slot you want and can prevent potential disappointment during busy periods.
What is the dress code at Sunshine Coast golf courses?
While a neat dress code can differ from one golf course to another, the standard expectations include collared shirts, appropriate golf clothing, and non-metal spike golf shoes. To ensure compliance, verify the dress code of the golf course you’re aiming to play at.
Are golf carts available for rent at Sunshine Coast golf courses?
Most golf courses on the Sunshine Coast indeed provide golf cart rentals for players who might not want to walk the entire course. The rental charges can vary, so it’s a good idea to check for golf cart availability when booking your tee time or when you arrive at the course.
Is the Maroochy River golf course open?
For the latest status of the Maroochy River Golf Club, it would be best to refer to their official website or get in touch with them directly, as operational hours and days can change.
When did Maroochy River Golf Course open?
They inaugurated the Maroochy River Golf Course in 2015, marking it as one of the newer golfing options on the Sunshine Coast.
How much is a membership at Sunshine Coast Golf Centre?
The membership costs at the Sunshine Coast Golf Centre can differ based on the membership type (like individual, family, or junior) and any current offers or discounts. For the most recent and accurate pricing details, it’s best to check their official website or directly contact the centre.
How much does it cost to play golf at Pelican Waters?
The price to play golf at Pelican Waters Golf Club can fluctuate based on factors like the time of day, the day itself, and whether you’re playing as a guest or a member. The most recent pricing details are best obtained from their official website or by directly contacting the club.
How long is Headland Golf Club?
The Headland Golf Club, situated in Buderim on the Sunshine Coast, is an 18-hole course, each hole having its unique length. The total distance for a complete 18-hole round can differ depending on which tees you opt for, but it typically spans about 5,400 to 6,000 yards for men and 4,800 to 5,300 yards for women. As the precise distance might alter due to changes or upkeep in the course, it’s wise to ask the club directly for the most recent details.
Can I Play Golf on the Sunshine Coast? Key Takeaways
- The Sunshine Coast is a haven for golf lovers, boasting some of the best courses in Australia.
- Golf clubs on the Sunshine Coast offer a variety of features, including outstanding golf packages, from aquatic driving ranges to on-site spas and restaurants.
- Courses cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
- Many clubs offer extra facilities like swimming pools, BBQ areas, tennis courts, and function rooms.
- It’s always a good idea to check the official websites of each club for the most up-to-date information on opening times, costs, and available facilities.
Holey Moley on the Sunshine Coast
For those looking for a golfing experience with a twist, don’t miss out on Holey Moley. This mini-golf course turned cocktail bar is a fun-filled attraction perfect for the whole family. With uniquely themed holes and a fantastic selection of food and drinks, Holey Moley offers a different golfing experience on the Sunshine Coast. To find out more, check out our previous article on Holey Moley.
The Best Sunshine Coast Accommodation for Golfers
Now that you have an idea of where you can play golf on the Sunshine Coast, it’s time to think about where you’ll stay during your visit. The region boasts a range of the best accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.
From luxury resorts and beachfront apartments to cosy bed and breakfasts and budget-friendly hostels, you’ll find the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day on the green. So, whether you’re planning a golf getaway with friends, a family holiday, or a romantic escape, the Sunshine Coast has got you covered.
With its diverse range of courses, stunning natural beauty, and friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for your next golfing adventure!
