Just an hour’s drive north of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast presents an ideal blend of accessibility and charm, making it perfect for a golfing getaway whatever the time of year.
Pristine beaches meet subtropical rainforests and dramatic mountains, with historic villages dotting the landscape. A great way to start your day is with a round of golf by the ocean, before unwinding in the lush hinterland, just 45 minutes away, then finishing with a paddock-to-plate or trawler-to-table fancy feed dining experience.
Sure, explore the region’s treasure trove of attractions and activities, from unique wildlife encounters and captivating hedge mazes to exclusive tours, but always remember, the Sunshine Coast is a golfer’s paradise amid a destination brimming with all kinds of different experiences.
PACIFIC HARBOUR G&CC
Close to Brisbane on Bribie Island, Pacific Harbour G&CC is a standout among Queensland’s top golf courses. With its enchanting “island links” style, this award-winning 18-hole championship course is a must-play for any avid golfer. Whether you’re seeking a challenging round or simply wish to soak in mesmerising coastal vistas, Pacific Harbour promises an unforgettable golfing experience.
In 2006, after two years’ meticulous construction, Pacific Harbour G&CC opened to rave reviews. Designed by the renowned Ross Watson, the course quickly earned its reputation as the “must play” venue in southeast Queensland. Located in the scenic Moreton Bay region between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, this public-friendly club is surrounded by pristine national parks and rich wildlife.
The course features lush fairways, fast-paced greens and a mix of challenging par-3s, lengthy par-4s and rewarding par-5s, catering to golfers of all skill levels. An aquatic driving range, a chipping area and practice green complement the course, offering players ample opportunities to refine their game against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.
Pacific Harbour G&CC’s environmentally conscious design incorporates water elements and picturesque lakes, seamlessly blending with the unique coastal forest environment. The clubhouse, appearing to float over a lake, offers scenic views from The Deck Bistro, which serves lunch daily and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays.
The clubhouse is open from 7am to 5pm each day, while the driving range operates from 7am to 4:30pm, with a bucket of balls priced at just $10, including free club hire.
With its thoughtful layout, challenging design and breathtaking surroundings, Pacific Harbour is a must-visit destination which will leave a lasting impression on every golfer.
BRIBIE ISLAND GC
Also situated on the pristine sand dunes of Bribie, Bribie Island Golf Club invites you to experience its 18-hole championship course, a true gem of Australian golf.
Originally established in 1969, Bribie Island GC offers a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience. The course features undulating fairways, 328 grass greens and a classic sand-belt design which demands precision and skill. With a Blue Course stretching 6,202 metres (Par 72), a White Course at 5,959 metres (Par 72) and a Red Course for women measuring 5,541 metres (Par 74), there’s a layout suited to every golfer. Each course presents its own unique challenges, from natural sand bunkers to sandy lies off the fairways.
The Club has played host to the Queensland Men’s Stroke Play and Men’s and Women’s Amateur events for the past two years and will again host these tournaments in 2025. This showcases the calibre of this course, as does its consistent rating in Golf Australia magazine’s Top-100 lists.
Beyond the greens, Bribie Island GC features a well-stocked golf shop under the guidance of Head Professional Brayden Campbell, and a culinary haven at Vernazza Ristorante. Head Chef Brian Stott and his team offer a menu of fresh, high-quality dishes which reflect the island’s vibrant culinary scene. The venue also provides excellent options for events, from Christmas functions to wedding receptions, ensuring memorable experiences with impeccable service.
Located just 50 minutes north of Brisbane or 50 minutes south of the Sunshine Coast, Bribie Island GC is not only a must-play for golf enthusiasts, but also a perfect destination for events and celebrations. Whether you’re teeing off or toasting to a special occasion, Bribie Island offers a charming blend of sport and leisure in a stunning tropical setting.
MAROOCHY RIVER GC
Maroochy River Golf Club has proudly earned its place among Australia’s Top-100 Golf Courses, as recognised by leading golf reviewers, including Golf Australia magazine. This accolade is complemented by the prestigious title of Queensland Golf Club of the Year, awarded at the Queensland Golf Industry Awards in 2021.
The course offers breathtaking views, with the iconic Mt Coolum serving as a stunning backdrop. Maroochy River Golf Complex is not just a haven for golfers, but also boasts a range of amenities including Maroochy River Mini Golf, a million-dollar attraction unique to the Sunshine Coast. The modern driving range, equipped with practice bunkers and greens, is complemented by the Queensland Golf Performance Teaching Academy, ensuring golfers of all skill levels can refine their game.
The Cane Cutters Bar and Bistro is the perfect spot to relax with friends and family. Open daily, it offers a delightful menu featuring local and seasonal produce, from light snacks to hearty meals. Enjoy a cold drink, pizza, or your favourite dish while taking in the uninterrupted views of the golf course and Mt Coolum from The Terrace. The bar serves an extensive selection of beers, wines and cocktails, making it an ideal place to unwind after a round.
Maroochy River GC offers great value for golfers with various specials. Their “Mates Rates” package provides 18 holes for four players, including two carts for just $440. Other options include a 9-hole special
and a twilight special, both of which are designed to accommodate different schedules and budgets. Equipment hire is readily available from the pro shop, ensuring a hassle-free golfing experience.
With strategic bunkers and almost constant water hazards, golfers are often tempted to take risks for potential rewards. The course layout, featuring rolling fairways and striking feature walls, offers a visually stunning experience, all under the watchful gaze of Mt Coolum. Maroochy River GC is not just a place to play, it’s a destination where golf meets spectacular scenery and superb hospitality.
NOOSA SPRINGS GOLF & SPA RESORT
Within the picturesque Noosa National Park, Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort stands as a testament to 25 years of golfing excellence. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and challenging layout, this championship course is consistently rated among Australia’s finest. It offers a captivating experience for players of all levels, from casual visitors to dedicated members.
The 6,180 metre, par-72 course features four tees per hole, accommodating golfers of varying skill levels and ensuring a fresh challenge with each round. With 69 well-placed bunkers and 10 freshwater lakes, including the neighbouring Lake Weyba, the course blends natural beauty with strategic play. Players are often greeted by abundant wildlife, such as kangaroos, koalas and diverse bird species, adding a touch of nature to each round.
Noosa Springs GC takes pride in its meticulous maintenance, thanks to a dedicated team of greens staff who have been with the club since its inception. The lush, tropical vegetation creates a stunning backdrop, while the fleet of 70 modern electric carts and a robust concrete cart path system ensure golf can be enjoyed in any weather.
The on-course refreshment cart provides convenient snacks and drinks, while the golf shop is stocked with top brands of apparel and equipment. After a round, the clubhouse offers an inviting alfresco café and restaurant, where players can relax and savour the panoramic views of the course and surrounding lakes.
For those looking to refine their game, Noosa Springs features an extensive practice area. The driving range, open seven days a week, includes grass tees, quality practice balls and comprehensive short game facilities. Lessons with expert instructors from Heiniger Golf are available to help you perfect your swing. And if you’d like to stay a little longer, Noosa Springs also has one- and two-bedroom apartments which overlook the first fairway and are just a short stroll to the resort’s clubhouse, golf shop, day spa, pool and fitness facilities.
So, with ample parking for cars and coaches and a practice range offering membership options for avid golfers, Noosa Springs is the ideal destination to play, stay and relax in a setting of unparalleled beauty.
HEADLAND GC
Beautifully positioned on Buderim’s eastern slopes overlooking the spectacular Mooloolaba coastline, the picturesque Headland Golf Club awaits, with the charms and charisma which only a classic course can provide.
With its rolling, tree-lined fairways and pure greens, the historic 18-hole, par-72 course offers a layout to challenge the best of players, while providing a fair and invigorating test for golfers of all abilities. It is this combination of challenge and enjoyment which makes Headland a jewel in the crown of the coast’s golf courses, and one you won’t forget.
With recent completions of the $1 million-plus Bunker Renovation Project, which the Club commenced in late April 2023, the feedback has been exceptionally positive on the refreshed 18-hole course.
Headland GC is a must-visit destination for discerning golfers, providing a high-quality golf and hospitality experience for its loyal members as well as for its many visitors.
The club readily welcomes visitors and social groups to play at Headland. Mondays, Fridays and Sundays are the best days for social bookings. Book online or by calling the pro shop. Alternatively, visitors with a GA handicap are welcome to play in most competitions.
The golf course aside, Headland’s traditional clubhouse offers excellent food, cold drinks and stunning views in a relaxed dining environment. The structure’s idyllic location provides the perfect setting for a wedding, celebration or corporate function.
Open for lunch seven days a week and dinner, with local artists playing live on Friday nights, you will be guaranteed a great day out at Headland GC.
NOOSA GC
Just a 10-minute drive from the iconic Hastings Street, Noosa Golf Club stands out as one of the Sunshine Coast’s premier golfing destinations. Renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant resorts, Noosa offers more than just scenic beauty; it boasts a golf course which merges high-quality play with a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
The course is a par-72 championship layout catering to golfers of all ages and skill levels. With its challenging yet enjoyable design, it provides a memorable experience for every player. The club is well into its impressive Master Plan works, with five new holes completed in partnership with Atlas Golf.
The clubhouse at Noosa Golf Club enhances the overall experience with its well-stocked bar and popular bistro. Visitors can enjoy a range of amenities, including gaming machines, KENO and TAB Digital, all while taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse deck. The facility is designed to be a vibrant social hub, where everyone is encouraged to unwind and savour the ambiance.
For those looking to maximise their time on the course, Noosa GC offers green fees for visitors which are highly competitive and provide excellent value.
Golf enthusiasts of all levels can also benefit from top-notch instruction, with several highly qualified instructors on hand. For personalised lessons, reach out to Noosa Golf Club’s Teaching Professional, James Douris.
The pro shop, operated by ZRG Golf, is renowned for its extensive range of golf equipment and accessories. ZRG Golf, run by PGA-qualified professionals, offers everything from expert fittings with launch monitor technology, to club repairs and advice. A wide selection of demo clubs from leading brands like Titleist, Taylormade, Callaway and more is available. Additionally, hire equipment, including clubs, pull buggies and motorised carts, ensures all your golfing needs are met.
Noosa GC is more than just a place to play – it’s a destination which encapsulates the best of the Sunshine Coast’s golfing and lifestyle experience.
NOOSA HILLS PAR 3
Set amongst 74 lush acres of serene bushland, Noosa Hills Par 3 Golf Course is a haven for golf enthusiasts and casual players alike. Just seven minutes from Noosa River and 12 minutes from Hastings St, this course provides a tranquil escape which feels miles away from the hustle and bustle.
Open daily from 6am to 6pm, Noosa Hills welcomes players of all ages and skill levels without the need for prior bookings. Here, golf is about enjoyment and community, rather than strict dress codes. Whether you’re coming straight from work, footy training or the beach, you’ll find a relaxed atmosphere awaiting you.
Noosa Hills offers a unique 36-hole experience across two distinct courses. The North Course, slightly longer and rich in challenges, features dramatic holes like the “double green” shared by the 1st and 3rd, the picturesque 5th, and the formidable 6th known as “Misery”. Highlights include the 179m 10th and the expansive 45m green on the 14th.
In contrast, the South Course introduces golfers to two engaging 9-hole loops. The Front 9, the shortest on the property, is ideal for beginners and families and features the Sunshine Coast’s only Big Hole Golf, with no water hazards and minimal bunkers. Meanwhile, the Back 9 ups the ante, with challenging water carries and the impressive tiered green on the 17th hole.
For those seeking a lighter adventure, Noosa Mini Golf provides a fun-filled day in the sun. This scaled-down version of a full-size course includes two hole locations per green, offering challenges for all skill levels. Enjoy a beverage from the fully licensed venue or relax in the revamped outdoor beer garden, perfect for gatherings and events, with stunning views of the course and surrounding bushland.
Noosa Hills is not just a golf course; it’s a vibrant social hub where friends and families come together to enjoy a round of golf or to simply savor the beautiful outdoors.
CALOUNDRA GC
Established in 1951 as a 9-hole course and evolving to an 18-hole championship layout in 1966, this course has earned its reputation as a challenging yet enjoyable par-71, measuring 5,987 metres. With its lush fairways and strategic design, Caloundra caters to players of all skill levels, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned golfers and newcomers.
Visitors are always warmly welcomed, with the club taking pride in ensuring every guest leaves with unforgettable memories. Tee times can easily be reserved through the club’s user-friendly online booking portal, providing convenience for those eager to experience this exceptional course.
One of the unique features of Caloundra GC is its rich biodiversity. Golfers can enjoy the sight of abundant wildlife, including the vibrant Rainbow Lorikeets, which are fed daily at 4pm, adding a special touch to your round. Located just five minutes from Caloundra’s city centre and picturesque beaches, the course offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
The club is fortunate to be guided by the expertise of head professional Tom Arnott, a passionate PGA Pro with over 20 years’ experience. Trained under the renowned Charlie Earp, Tom excels in developing talent across all levels, particularly in junior and ladies’ golf. His philosophy revolves around mastering the fundamentals while accommodating each golfer’s unique skills.
Joining him is Assistant Professional Bailey Arnott, a rising star on the Australasian Tour. Recently qualified as a PGA Pro, Bailey brings a fresh perspective and exceptional talent to the club, offering a standard of lesson which is hard to come by.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE …
VISIT AUSTRALIA ZOO
Witness the ancient beauty of saltwater crocodiles and plenty of other animals on full display at Australia Zoo, where you’ll be immersed in the legacy of the original wildlife warrior Steve Irwin.
GET A SEA LIFE
Get up close to an underwater kingdom at Sea Life Sunshine Coast – the home of impressive rays, seahorses, seals and little blue penguins.
GRAM IT UP
Looking for some iconic moments with which to steal the show on your social media feed? Snap a selfie in front of the newly refurbished Big Pineapple, soak up the peachy twilight on a sunset cruise with the Noosa Queen, or let the picturesque landscape take your breath away aboard Sunshine Coast Ballooning.
CRAFT (BEER) LESSONS
Dine your way through the Sunshine Coast’s award-winning food scene on one of the fabulous offerings by Tasty Tours and Creative Tours, before washing it all down with a craft beer tour. Afterall, the Sunny Coast is Australia’s craft beer capital ...
GO WHALE WATCHING
Sunreef Mooloolaba offers Australia’s first swim with humpback whales experience, from July to October each year. Enjoy premiere whale watching aboard the iconic Whale One from June to November, as well as local reef dives and snorkelling trips.
WHERE TO PLAY
Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club
Phone: (07) 3410 4001; Website: pacificharbourgolf.com.au
Bribie Island Golf Club
Phone: (07) 3408 1457; Website: www.bribiegolf.com.au
Maroochy River Golf Club
Phone: (07) 5373 1000; Website: www.maroochyrivergolfclub.com.au
Noosa Springs Golf Club
Phone: (07) 5440 3333; Website: www.noosasprings.com.au/golf/
Headland Golf Club
Phone: (07) 5444 5800; Website: headlandgolfclub.com.au
Noosa Golf Club
Phone: (07) 5447 1407; Website: www.noosagolf.com.au
Noosa Hills Par 3 Golf Course
Phone: (07) 5449 1666; Website: www.noosahills.com
Caloundra Golf Club
Phone: (07) 5491 1811; Website: www.caloundragolfclub.com
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