Why Victoria is the key to levelling up your next golf trip

A golf holiday is never really just about golf, is it? OK, chasing birdies and sinking putts is a big part of it, but there’s so much more at the 19th hole and beyond. The perfect golf holiday is about the total package — the banter, the brews, the bragging rights, and the experiences that make a trip with your mates truly legendary.

And if you want to find that perfect blend of world-class golf and unforgettable fun, there's only one destination that hits all the marks — Victoria.

Think of it this way: a golf trip is a mission to create memories. You need courses that challenge you, but you also need the 19th hole, the post-round pilgrimage where the stories get wilder and the laughs get louder.

Victoria delivers on both fronts, and more, like no other. And we’ve got the proof.

In case you weren’t already aware, Victoria is home to Australia's most highly-ranked golf courses, and for good reason. It’s the home of the world-renowned Melbourne Sandbelt, a complete haven for golfers with iconic courses like Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath. These aren't just beautiful layouts — they are strategic masterpieces that demand your best. In fact, the 10th hole at Kingston Heath is one of legendary Aussie golfer Geoff Ogilvy’s favourites in the entire state.

“A beautiful short par 3 with an incredible green and stunning bunkering,” Geoff says.

“While it may seem simple, as it’s only a wedge, you’d better hit the green—there’s trouble waiting for anyone who misses.” Challenge accepted, Ogilvy.

Part of the beauty of Victoria’s golf offering is that you’re spoiled for choice with options, but they’re all within proximity of each other. So, whether you’re taking on the stunning links of the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas, you'll be treated to a golfing experience that is unlike any other you’ll find in Australia. It’s an absolute gem to have so many world-class golf courses so close to a big city — when it comes to golfing in Victoria, you’re really spoiled for choice.

Supplied: Visit Victoria

But if you want to see real pros go at it, you’ll wanna mark your calendars. The 2025 Men’s Australian Open is returning from December 4-7 at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club, and it’s set to be a spectacle.

The field will be headlined by none other than five-time major champion and career grand slam winner Rory McIlroy, facing off against our very own US Masters hero, Adam Scott, along with other legends like Cam Smith and Min Woo Lee.The chance to witness the game’s biggest stars battle it out for the Stonehaven Cup on one of the world's most revered courses is a can’t-be-missed opportunity. How’s that for a golf trip?

Now, we all know the best golf trips are defined as much by what happens off the course as on it. And this is just another reason as to why a golf trip in Victoria is a par above the rest. The state's 19th hole experiences are designed to elevate your trip from just another golf holiday to a full-blown adventure.

After a tough round, what could be better than unwinding with a cold one and a gourmet meal? If you’re on the Melbourne Sandbelt, look no further than Bad Shepherd Brewing for some incredible BBQ food and ice-cold craft beers. In the Mornington Peninsula? Stop by St. Andrews Beach Brewery for unreal food, beers and cider on a colossal acreage making for the ultimate 19th hole. And if you want to sink your last few with unbeatable views, Jack Rabbit Winery on The Bellarine has you covered.

Supplied: Visit Victoria

Need to recover from a gruelling day on the course? Victoria has you sorted there, too. From the luxury accommodation at resorts like Peppers Moonah Links on the Mornington Peninsula, which features two championship courses on site, to the geothermal hot springs at Peninsula Hot Springs, you can recharge and prepare for the next round properly. Picture it: a post-round soak at a natural thermal springs followed by bloody good food and a glass of local wine if you’re feeling a little bit fancy.

When it comes down to it, world-class golf doesn’t mean across-the-world travel. In fact, it’s all in Victoria’s own backyard. Not only does that save you and the lads a ton of money on travel that can put towards the 19th and beyond, but you’ve got so much more time to explore what makes the state Australia’s ultimate golf trip destination.

From the first tee to last drinks, a golf trip to Victoria is a non-stop barrage of incredible moments. It’s a guaranteed way to level up your next golf trip and turn it into the adventure you and your mates will be talking about for years to come.

To find out key info about all Victoria’s golf courses, including tee times for interstate visitors for clubs on the Melbourne Sandbelt, head to Visit Victoria’s website.