Opened for play in the mid-1990s, the course at McCracken Golf Club is a Tony Cashmore design located in Victor Harbor, on the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula, around an hour’s drive south of Adelaide.
Opened for play in the mid-1990s, the course at McCracken Golf Club is a Tony Cashmore design located in Victor Harbor, on the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula, around an hour’s drive south of Adelaide.
Opened for play in the mid-1990s, the course at McCracken Golf Club is a Tony Cashmore design located in Victor Harbor, on the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula, around an hour’s drive south of Adelaide.
Laid out as two returning loops on a hilly site, the course is characterised by big, wide fairways and large, heavily-bunkered greens. Water hazards come into play on several holes at the start of the round then again at the start of back nine.
The outward half is configured with three par three, three par four and three par five holes and the same par is never played consecutively until reaching the 12th hole on the inward half. There are five three-shotters in total but none measure more than the 500-metre mark.
Highlight holes include the openers on each nine which run downhill from the clubhouse, finishing on either side of a pond. The uphill par five 4th is another terrific hole, played to a 3-tiered green, and the 18th is one to watch, with sand in front of and water behind the home green.
The latest ranking of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the World serves as the ultimate global golf bucket list. Most members of our World Top 100 Panel are seasoned golfers, each playing 20-30 of these courses annually while travelling extensively over decades to form their opinions on others. We recognise that opinions vary—even among our panel members. Rankings are subjective, and there are undoubtedly 50 or more courses in the UK and USA alone that could easily fit onto this list. Links Golf Pilgrimages The rankings
California, United States
New Jersey, United States
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
New York, United States
New York, United States
Spectacular golf development approved for Kangaroo Island The South Australian Government announced last month, that Development Authorisation had been granted to Kangaroo Island Links Pty Ltd for a revision to a previously approved golf development on pristine Kangaroo Island in Australia. Known as The Cliffs, Kangaroo Island and constructed on a premium 600-acre parcel of ocean front land in Pelican Lagoon, the 18 hole golf course takes full advantage of the areas rolling sand dunes and sweeping coastal views. Much of the course is set atop 25-metre high cliffs and played directly adjacent the Southern Ocean. Beyond golf, the project includes a luxury clubhouse/lodge and 180-bed hotel as well as scope for restaurants, conference facilities, and a luxury day spa and health club. There is also provision for a residential component with a select number of private dwellings. Each home site enjoys glorious elevated views across the golf course and along the island’s dramatic coastline. The senior team responsible for delivering the project has significant experience in Golf Course Design and Construction with a group resume including Cape Wickham Links on King Island. Darius Oliver, publisher of Planet Golf and co-designer of Cape Wickham, is responsible for the design of The Cliffs, while Andrew Purchase is again in charge of the golf course construction. Like Cape Wickham, it was Purchase who first found this golf land, and Oliver who worked with the State Government on approval for the revised golf course routing. Committed to delivering the golf course component at The Cliffs, Kangaroo Island Links will be exploring joint venture (JV) opportunities with interested parties for both the resort and residential elements of the development. Project Summary – The Cliffs, Kangaroo Island: Designated by the South Australian Government as a Major Project, The Cliffs, Kangaroo Island was initially planned by the Programmed Turnpoint Group in association with a celebrity golf design company, and approved in February 2016. It was purchased by Kangaroo Island Links last July, and audited by Darius Oliver soon after. Oliver’s task was to determine whether the site had world-class golfing potential to match its breathtaking, natural setting. By pushing the golf holes closer to the cliffs and moving the clubhouse onto the coastal crown reserve, the project team believes they now have the potential to build for South Australia, and Kangaroo Island, one of the world’s most spectacular destination golf courses. Beyond a more logical, walkable routing and what are undeniably more exciting golf holes, the moving of the clubhouse to a central location also enabled the residential allotments to be relocated out of a 40Ha section of mallee woodland and onto cleared grasslands. Protecting an intact woodland, the move also provides enhanced vistas from the residential zone. Additional conservation benefits are achieved through the restoration of important native vegetation and the clearing of noxious weeds along the clifftops. Whilst considering the various resort amendments sought by Kangaroo Island Links, the golfing and environmental upsides were deemed considerable by the South Australian Government and approval granted on the basis that a world-class golf experience on Kangaroo Island was critical to the sustainability of the development. In approving the design variation Deputy Premier John Rau commented that, “This development will create an international tourist destination that brings visitors to Kangaroo Island to play golf on one of the world’s most spectacular courses and also experience the pristine natural environment. The golf resort will build the attractiveness of the Island as a holiday destination and complement existing drawcards, such as the Southern Ocean Lodge Resort and the new Wilderness Trail.” As with other projects on Kangaroo Island, the golf course will benefit from an $18M upgrade to the island airport, and recently announced direct Qantas flights from Melbourne and Adelaide starting in the summer. Director of the Kangaroo Island Links, Andrew Purchase was involved with Darius Oliver in the building of the Cape Wickham golf course on King Island and believes the Kangaroo Island project has similar potential. “We acquired the site for The Cliffs because we knew how much potential it had,” says Purchase. “Course Designer Darius Oliver has started from scratch to design what we believe will be a world-class destination golf course with a uniquely Australian character. We’ve taken full advantage of the dramatic coastal views, which are available across the site, and have seven holes wrapping directly around the clifftops as well as ensuring fantastic views from the hotel site and across the course. We would like to thank the SA Government agencies who have worked with us to get the project to this stage and we look forward to continuing to work together on the development." Designer Darius Oliver adds, “Like on King Island, the golf site at Pelican Lagoon has tremendous natural potential and is ready made for great golf. The vast majority of holes are just sitting there on the ground, and will require little more than clearing, grassing and some light shaping. While the golf along the cliffs is stunning, I believe the inland holes to be at least as good, and arguably the most interesting on the course. Being able to create such a fun layout on Kangaroo Island and along such a beautiful stretch of coastline is a real thrill. Golfers from all corners of the globe are going to fall in love with this place. There isn’t anything like Kangaroo Island anywhere in the world.” Kangaroo Island Links is currently working with the South Australian Government to satisfy conditions on the Development Authorisation. The team hopes to confirm a construction schedule, and make further golf course design announcements, in the near future. About Kangaroo Island, South Australia: Australia’s third largest island, Kangaroo Island is an iconic tourist destination situated 13 kilometres (8 miles) off the mainland of South Australia and teeming with natural attractions and native Australian wildlife, some of which aren't found anywhere else. More than one third of the island is protected by conservation areas and national parks, while lush farmland and small towns make up much of the rest. The Cliffs Golf Resort sits conveniently between the island’s relaxed ‘capital’ Kingscote and the town of Penneshaw, where daily ferries disembark. The Seal Bay Conservation Park on Kangaroo Island's south coast is the only place in the world where you can walk among endangered Australian sea lions. Visitors can use a 900-metre wooden boardwalk to see the animals surfing in the ocean or sunning themselves on the sand, or alternatively take a guided 45-minute Seal Bay Experience tour onto the beach itself, and see giant bulls fighting each other up close, or baby sea lions playing just a few metres away. Other attractions of Kangaroo Island include the Southern Ocean Lodge, ranked the world’s fourth best hotel, and the Flinders Chase National Park, with its many native Australian animals, epic Wilderness Trail and world-famous Remarkable Rocks, a seaside collection of enormous orange-lichen-covered granite boulders carved into strange shapes by millions of years of rain, wind and waves. Another highlight is Admirals Arch, a distinctive stalactite-covered eroded rock bridge smashed by waves. Beyond the ever-present Kangaroo Island kangaroos, Australian sea lions and New Zealand fur seals, visitors to the island are also likely to spot numerous coastal bird species, large goannas, echidnas, rare tammar wallabies, koalas and, if lucky, the elusive platypus. Ongoing government investment in infrastructure and tourism, including the $18 Million development of the new Kangaroo Island airport supported by direct flights from across Australia, ensures the future of Kangaroo Island as a key tourist destination. The development of The Cliffs Golf Resort will support the economic development of the island and add significant value to the region as a driver for further tourism. At present the island attracts 140,000 visitors per year, the number expected to grow significantly once the new airport is open. For more information visit www.planetgolf.com
5 Other Courses to Consider in the Adelaide Area Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, is renowned for its vibrant culture, exquisite wine regions, and stunning natural landscapes. It also boasts some of the country's most prestigious and beautifully designed golf courses, each offering unique challenges and picturesque settings that appeal to golfers of all skill levels. From the historic greens nestled near city centres to those offering breathtaking views along the coast, Adelaide's golf courses are as diverse as they are captivating. Royal Adelaide Golf Club: One of Australia's top golf clubs, Royal Adelaide is famous for its traditional links layout, challenging holes, and strategic placement of its iconic red sand bunkers. This course, which has hosted numerous national and international tournaments, including the Australian Open, is characterised by its firm fairways and fast, undulating greens that offer a challenging yet rewarding experience. Kooyonga Golf Club: Kooyonga is another gem within the Adelaide golfing community, known for its challenging layout and impeccable maintenance. The course features a series of holes that are both strategically demanding and aesthetically pleasing, making it a favourite among seasoned golfers. Its well-contoured greens and cleverly placed hazards test precision and strategic thinking. Victor Harbor Golf Club: Situated in the scenic area of Victor Harbor, this course offers panoramic views of Encounter Bay that are simply breathtaking. The layout starts with one of the most spectacular tee shots over a valley, making for an exhilarating start to the round. The course itself blends natural terrain with challenging golf, making it a must-visit for those in the region. McCracken Country Club: Located in the picturesque Victor Harbor, McCracken Country Club features a Gary Player designed course that integrates seamlessly with the rolling hills of the surrounding landscape. The course offers a challenge for golfers of all levels, with water hazards and bunkers that require careful navigation. Its peaceful setting and superb facilities make it a popular choice for golf outings. Links Lady Bay: Nestled on the spectacular Fleurieu Peninsula, Links Lady Bay offers a true links-style experience with stunning views of the coastline and surrounding countryside. The course is well-known for its tough, windy conditions and the strategic challenge it poses. Pristine fairways and expansive greens add to the allure, making it one of the most picturesque and challenging courses in South Australia. These courses, each with their unique characteristics and challenges, contribute to Adelaide's reputation as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. Whether looking for a championship test or a scenic round, Adelaide's golf courses deliver memorable experiences steeped in the beauty and tradition of the game. Find out more about travel toThe Grange Golf Club Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive Worldwide Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
This is the second of three Australian State revision articles giving a brief overview of recent updates that we’ve made to the regional listings in South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia, where we maintain Top 20, Top 10 and Top 40 charts for these three states. And don’t be fooled into thinking the island of Tasmania is in anyway inferior to the other two because the top six courses are all nationally listed and half of these are good enough to be ranked in our World Top 100 – it may be relatively small in terms of geography but Tasmania punches way above its weight when it comes to quality golf courses. South Australia We begin with South Australia, where the top five layouts remain in the same position, which means the course at Royal Adelaide Golf Club in the western suburb of Seaton (pictured above) is still the state #1. It dates back to 1905 but the original design inputs of Dan Soutar and Cargie Rymill were upgraded by Alister MacKenzie during his famous 1926 visit to Australia. A recent reviewer called the course “an enchanting masterpiece that combines strategic brilliance with quirky charm.” They went on to say: “this course stands out for its unique character and playability… its blend of strategy, playability, and natural beauty make it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts worldwide.” Loxton The only SA new entry arrives at #13 and it’s Loxton Golf Club in Riverland, which first opened for play in 1951. Vern Morcom made changes before the installation of a fairway irrigation system in the early 1960s then grass greens followed in 1974, with Brian Crafter upgrading putting surfaces on holes 1 to 14 and Kevin Harrington working on the closing four greens. The original Eddie Johnson layout remains largely intact, though the nines were swapped in 1966. The course dropping out to make way for Loxton is West Lakes, which was #19 in the previous SA chart. Tasmania It’s “as you were” regarding the top four places in the Tasmania standings – with these same courses also occupying national positions #3, #4 and #5 – so Barnbougle Dunes (pictured above) holds onto the top spot, just ahead of Cape Wickham and Barnbougle Lost Farm. Co-designed by Tom Doak and Mike Clayton, Barnbougle Dunes has been widely recognized as the #1 public access course in Australia since opening twenty years ago. Here’s what a reviewer wrote only a couple of weeks ago: “The Dunes course at Barnbougle gave me one of the most unique and enchanting experiences in my golfing life… it’s become difficult to separate the magical experience from the course itself… raw yet natural and rugged linksland set amongst crumpled fairways is what I’m naturally predisposed to, and this is the very essence of Barnbougle Dunes,” Barnbougle Bougle Run The first of two new entries for Tasmania appears at #5 (it’s also a new entry in the national chart at #57) and we welcome the new 14-hole short course at Barnbougle which is named Bougle Run. Fashioned by Bill Coore on land next to the Lost Farm layout, this fun track comprises twelve par threes and two par fours, with holes laid out across some wild terrain. It only opened for play last year and we’ve yet to receive a review but we’re expecting quite a few of those in the months ahead… Country Club Tasmania The other new Tasmanian entry (at #10) is the 18-hole layout at Country Club Tasmania in Launceston which is a 1982 design from Peter Thomson and Mike Wolveridge. Currently, the club operates a 9-hole layout whilst an extensive 30-month upgrade project is carried out, with completion set for early next year. Expect to see this newcomer climb further up the Tasmanian table next time around. The two courses departing our Tasmania rankings to make way for these two newcomers are Kingston Beach [was #9] and Devonport [was #10]. They now revert to GEM status which still allows reviews to be posted for both tracks. Western Australia Like the other two states under consideration, there’s no movement at the very top of the order, with the leading five courses all staying exactly where they were in the pecking order. That’s good news for the Championship course at Lake Karrinyup Country Club (pictured above) as it retains its #1 in state status, despite falling a couple of rungs on the national ladder to #18. Host venue for four editions of the Australian Open between 1952 and 1974, this Alex Russell Russell design from the late 1920s was upgraded by Mike Clayton a few years back during a major overhaul that saw every green and bunker reconstructed. Cottesloe The only upward move within the top ten places in the WA listings is made by the course at Cottesloe Golf Club in the Perth suburb of Swanbourne, climbing two spots to #6. The club was founded in 1908 but moved to its current location in 1931, when club pro David Anderson set out a new 18-hole course for the membership. The Thomson, Wolveridge and Perrot design firm made alterations in the 1980s before former club champion Graham Marsh was engaged to carry out a number of course improvements shortly before the club’s centenary celebrations in 2008. Bunbury Further down the table, the 18-hole layout at Bunbury Golf Club advances five positions to #15. Located between the Collie River and the Leschenault Estuary, this tight parkland track has been in operation since just after World War II, with fairways bounded by a mix of Tuart, Gum and Wattle trees, along with blackboys and other native shrubs – hit it straight around here or you’ll soon run out of golf balls. Vines Another relatively big move (up six to #20) is made by the Ellenbrook course at The Vines Resort in the northeastern outskirts of Perth. Graham Marsh and Ross Watson created three 9-hole loops at the resort in the late 1980s then Marsh returned a decade later to add another nine to form the 18-hole Lakes and Ellenbrook layouts. The Lakes garners plenty of plaudits as a nationally ranked course (currently it’s listed at #99 in Australia) but the Ellenbrook also has its moments, with some of the holes used to form a composite course when the Heineken Classic tournament was hosted at The Vines during the 1990s. View the South Australia ranking here View the Tasmania ranking here View the Western Australia ranking here If you have any comment to make on the above article then please use the “WRITE A RESPONSE” link at the bottom of this page. Jim McCann Editor Top 100 Golf Courses
