Level up your golf game on the Mornington Peninsula — here's how

We know what your weekend looks like. You've smashed your weekend round on the green, sunk a few putts (or at least gave it your best shot), and you head back to the club for the same pint and parmy you always go for. But, don’t you think it’s time for a true level up? Why not ditch the same old course and point your putter toward something bigger? Enter Victoria's Mornington Peninsula, just a short drive from Melbourne.

It’s not just a playground of epic food and drink. It's a world-class golf haven that will test your skills, reward your senses, and give you serious bragging rights. And what’s a golf trip all about if not about bragging?

But a true golf trip isn't just about the fairways. It's the full 19th hole experience. We’ve put together the ultimate power-up itinerary, mixing the region’s toughest links with the best recovery spots and adventure hits.

Three Must-Play Mornington Peninsula Golf Courses

Moonah Links Golf Course

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If you want a genuine test that feels like a full-blown tournament, you head to Moonah Links. It also has two courses ranked in the country’s top 50, so you know you’re getting a challenge. It even sports the Open Course, built specifically for the Australian Open, and is one of the longest layouts in the country.

Moonah Links is pure, rugged links golf. Think vast, undulating fairways, deep bunkers that swallow balls whole, and winds whipping off Bass Strait. This course is a strategic masterclass — it demands precision, a strong mental game, and maybe a few extra balls in your bag. Taming this beast will instantly level up your confidence (and conquering it will cement those aforementioned bragging rights). On top of all that, there’s accommodation onsite, so you can stay right by all the action.

St Andrew’s Beach Golf Course

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Next up is the celebrated St Andrew’s Beach Golf Course. This course is often cited as the highest-rated public access links course in Victoria. It’s routed across spectacular, rolling dunes and is an absolute stunner.

The design makes brilliant use of the natural terrain, with deep fairway valleys, large target areas, and a classic "in-out-in" links style. You’ll be treated to wide-open, panoramic views of the wild bush dune-scape. It’s challenging, yet immensely rewarding, and an absolute must for any serious golfer to tick off one of Australia’s best public courses. And with views like St. Andrew’s Beach Golf Course has, suddenly those bogeys don’t seem so bad.

Flinders Golf Course

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For a mix of history, tradition, and breathtaking views, you can't beat Flinders Golf Course. Perched high on the cliff tops, this historic gem has been challenging golfers for over 120 years.

The scenery is simply insane — you get ocean views on every single hole, looking across the rugged coastline towards Bass Strait and Phillip Island. While continuously upgraded, it retains a traditional links feel. It’s a true epic, and though you don’t have to go up against deep dunes, the wind still makes it feel like you’re pushing yourself.

The 19th Hole & Beyond

After tackling those tough courses, you've earned a break. Here’s where you swap your putter for a pint and your golf shoes for some action.

Red Gum BBQ

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Forget fancy dining; this is where you go for real flavour. Red Gum BBQ in Red Hill is Australia's smoked-meat paradise. Focusing on authentic Aussie-smoked, American-style barbecue, they slow-cook their ethically sourced meats for up to 12 hours using native Australian hardwoods in giant custom-built Texas offset steel ‘pits’. You can just taste and smell it now, we’re sure.

Think succulent pulled pork, juicy beef brisket, and smoked ribs, all served up with traditional sides like Mac 'n' Cheese and cornbread. The rustic Beer Hall vibe, combined with fine local wines and Victorian craft beers on tap, is the perfect atmosphere for unwinding and reliving those impossible chip-ins.

Jimmy Rum

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Need a proper spirit to celebrate (or commiserate)? Head to Jimmy Rum in Dromana. This is Victoria's first dedicated craft rum distillery, and they are changing the game.

You can book a Tasting Bench Experience and be guided through their core spirits and some never-to-be-released rums, learning how this operation brought craft rum to the Peninsula. Or just chill in the bar or Rum Garden with one of their unique cocktails, served just metres from their gorgeous copper still, 'Matilda'. It’s an awesome spot to soak up some of the region’s booming craft-spirit scene.

Wild Adventures Melbourne

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A golf trip isn't a holiday without an adventure outside the bunker. For an active recovery, link up with Wild Adventures Melbourne. They offer incredible adventure tours that will get you out on the water and into the wild.

Consider the SUP and Snorkel Safari, where you'll Stand Up Paddleboard along crystal clear waters, spotting marine life like dolphins and seals. You can get amongst nature and try a guided coastal bushwalk with panoramic views. It's the perfect way to stretch out those golf muscles, reconnect with nature, and get that hit of adrenaline you miss between holes. Even just floating in the water can help you forget about that frustrating episode you had in the bunker, eh?

So there you have it. The Mornington Peninsula isn't just a detour — it's your next great golf destination. Book those tee times, pack your appetite, and get ready to earn that celebratory rum.