We reckon the Illawarra boasts some of the most beautiful golf courses around.
Ocean, mountain and farmland views all in one. How good is that?!
Plus they’re full of interesting challenges to keep even the most experienced golfer on their toes.
Good To Know…
The Illawarra has nine 18 hole courses, which are all open to the public and all offer lessons by appointment.
Most clubs hold competitions on a weekday and a Saturday, so there may be times you won’t be able to get onto the course. But just give the pro shop a call and they will give you all the info on the days you can play.
‘Neat Golf Attire’ is the dress code required for most Illawarra clubs. This is collared shirts, tailored pants or shorts, no denim for the guys. And the same for the ladies, neat casual.
18 holes
Par 67 golf course.
Discounts for pensioners and students, as well as twilight rates. Open 7 days a week.
Right on the Illawarra escarpment, there are totally epic views of the ocean and the city. Ideal for both a newbie or a pro. The course is always in great shape with smooth greens and fairways. Plus, it’s a top place to hang with family or mates, with BBQs, a kiosk, and a solid course to play on.
18 holes
Par 59 golf course.
Visitors are welcome and bookings can be made online. Competitions are held weekly.
Both the staff and members are super friendly here and although the course might be on the shorter side, it’s got some memorable holes that’ll challenge golfers of all skill levels.
Choice for anyone short on time but still keen to get a round in.
18 holes
Par 70 golf course.
Visitors are welcome. Reasonable green fees. A range of different membership options are available.
Did you know that this is one of Australia’s oldest golf clubs? It’s actually been open for over 120 years! Woah.
The course has 5 holes right by the beach, with a mountain backdrop. Not only do you get awesome views of the natural landscape, but you also get all the challenges of playing a real links course.
18 holes
Par 72 championship golf course
Visitors need to register themselves as a public member before booking. Wests Illawarra Members receive a discount on bookings as well.
Considered one of the most challenging and rewarding courses in the Illawarra with its tree-lined fairways and strategic water carries. Many professional tournaments have been held here.
18 holes
Par 72 championship golf course
Visitors are welcome. Discounts for Dapto Leagues members as well as Troon Advantage Rates.
Mullet Creek runs through the course, splitting it into two parts. The front nine is flat and easy, while the back nine gets more challenging with the creek in play. The 13th and 18th holes stand out, especially the 18th, which requires a tricky shot over the creek.
18 holes
Par 70 golf course
Visitors need to register themselves as a public member before booking. There’s also mini golf here for a fun family activity.
The outward holes have fun undulations with views from the Tavern, while the inward holes are sheltered from winter winds and offer views of Killalea Lagoon.
18 holes
Par 66 golf course
Social golfers are welcome seven days a week and social clubs are encouraged to visit.
With panoramic views of the escarpment and tricky tree-lined fairways, this course is a local favourite.
18 holes
Par 67 for men and 71 for women
Competitively priced membership and social green fees. You can also play foot golf here, which is like a cross between golf and soccer and is super fun.
This one’s a real natural delight, with amazing rural, bush, and mountain views, native bird species, friendly Eastern Water Dragons, and plenty of other wildlife for spotting.
18 holes
Par 72 golf course
Open 7 days for social golfers. They also have a reciprocal club agreement with Jamberoo Golf Club with half green fees.
The course has stunning views from every tee and green. It is a bit of a challenging walk through those rolling hills, but you can hire a cart if you want to save your legs.
Where to quench the thirst after a round
Now, onto the reason we know the majority of golfers play golf… the 19th hole (aka the clubhouse)!
The 19th at Wollongong Golf Club is family friendly with a huge playground and plenty of space to enjoy a meal and a drink.
The Tavern at Shell Cove has a lively sports bar and bistro with cracker views. They also host live music regularly.
Mystics at Kiama Golf Club has a cafe, bar and bistro to make sure you’re fuelled both pre and post round.
For something a little different….
Smash Factor Indoor Golf & Bar is a handy way to get a few hits in regardless of the weather.
There are 6 golf bays and over 700 different courses to choose from, plus a bar, lessons and membership options. Open 7 days a week.
Okay, we’re calling it, the Illawarra is a golfer’s paradise.
So, get up on that tee and take a walk with a bit of golf on the side!