Discovering the Golfing Paradise at Thirteenth Beach Golf Links

Thirteenth Beach Golf Links, located just an hour’s drive west of Melbourne on the Bellarine Peninsula, is a golfing treasure waiting to be explored.

Our recent visit to this coastal gem, host to the Victorian Open, revealed a golfing paradise that is often overlooked.

Nestled near the charming town of Barwon Heads, Thirteenth Beach Golf Links offers much more than just pristine fairways. Our golfing adventure was enriched by the variety of dining options in Barwon Heads and the delightful accommodations, including a splendid house overlooking the golf course.

The Tony Cashmore designed Beach Course, recently ranked as Australia’s 6th best public access golf course by Golf Australia Magazine, is a testament to golfing excellence. Notably, the course boasts a collection of par-3 holes that are second to none, offering unique challenges and breathtaking views.

The signature par-3 165-meter 7th hole demands precision from an elevated tee to a meticulously shaped green. Meanwhile, the diminutive yet perilous 16th hole, measuring just under 100 meters, leaves little room for error, especially when the coastal winds come into play.

The Beach Course also features intriguing par-5s that will test your mettle. The 462-meter 4th hole and the 531-meter par-5 6th hole, known for polarizing opinions, require strategic play and a level head.

But the allure of Thirteenth Beach extends beyond the Beach Course. The Creek Course, set on flatter terrain, offers a unique golfing experience with its magnetic bunker designs and captivating holes. The long par-4 4th hole and the risk-reward par-4 9th stand out as highlights.

For those who appreciate tree-lined fairways, both courses’ 13th and 14th holes present intriguing challenges. Precise drives are a must to navigate these tree-lined par-4s.

Our four-day golf retreat was made even more enjoyable by the warm hospitality of the pro shop and clubhouse staff. We had the pleasure of staying at the 13th Beach Bunker, a spacious four-bedroom haven complete with a spa, pool, large kitchen, theatre room, and polished concrete hallways—a perfect place to unwind and relive the day’s golfing adventures.

The golf course has now constructed a new set of on-course accommodations within a short walk of the first tee on both courses. Check out the 13th Beach Golf website for more details.