World-Class Greens, Ocean Views, and a Golfer’s Paradise
Nicknamed “The Golf Coast”, the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast has earned its place as one of South Africa’s premier golfing destinations. With its blend of coastal parkland courses, oceanfront holes, and subtropical climate, it offers year-round golf framed by some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery.
From relaxed rounds in local communities to championship-level challenges, The Golf Coast delivers an experience that’s as diverse as the terrain itself. Whether you’re visiting for a single round or a full-on golf getaway, Let’s Explore the courses that make this region a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
The Golf Coast’s Must-Play Courses
1. Margate Country Club – A Local Favourite with Lasting Appeal
Location: Margate
Par: 72
Course Type: Parkland with natural coastal influence
Difficulty: Moderate with smart challenges
Set just minutes from some of the South Coast’s most beautiful beaches, Margate Country Club offers a laid-back, scenic round that consistently impresses. With wide fairways, mature trees, and well-maintained greens, it strikes the perfect balance between forgiving and strategic — ideal for mid- to high-handicap players looking for a rewarding day on the course.
Regulars praise the course’s condition, affordability, and friendly service, while visiting players are often surprised by its polish and playability. The course hosts local tournaments and social leagues, and its welcoming clubhouse atmosphere makes it feel like home after just one round.
⭐️ “Not the most famous, but easily one of the best all-round golf days you can have on the South Coast. Beautiful, friendly, and well priced.” — Google Review
Nearby Attractions: Margate beachfront, Feje restaurant in Umtentweni, The Coffee Cave, and local art spots.
2. San Lameer Country Club – Championship Golf in a Coastal Estate
Location: Southbroom
Par: 72
Course Type: Championship resort-style
Difficulty: Challenging
San Lameer is the flagship course of the Golf Coast, offering pristine conditions, challenging water hazards, and world-class facilities. Designed by Peter Matkovich, the course winds through a luxury eco-estate and delivers top-tier golf with ocean breezes and birdlife at every turn.
It’s a standout for serious players seeking a challenge and a luxurious experience — just be prepared for tight fairways and fast greens.
3. Southbroom Golf Club – Small in Size, Big in Personality
Location: Southbroom
Par: 71
Course Type: Links-inspired coastal
Difficulty: Medium
Famous for its views and its walkability, Southbroom is a scenic gem of The Golf Coast. Compact yet full of character, this course is known for precision play and dramatic ocean vistas, particularly at the iconic par-3 4th hole.
A relaxed atmosphere and strong community vibe make it popular among social golfers, yet it still provides enough challenge for seasoned players.
4. Port Shepstone Country Club – Where the Forest Meets the Fairway
Location: Port Shepstone
Par: 72
Course Type: Woodland/river combo
Difficulty: Easy front nine, more challenging back nine
Blending indigenous forest with open fairways and river views, this course offers a truly unique layout on The Golf Coast. Golfers appreciate its diversity — tight tree-lined shots on the front nine, and more expansive play on the return.
It’s also a hotspot for wildlife sightings, with bushbuck and birdlife commonly seen on the course.
5. Umdoni Park Golf Club – Coastal Hills and Technical Play
Location: Pennington
Par: 71
Course Type: Elevated parkland
Difficulty: Moderate to high due to terrain and coastal winds
Set on a hilltop with panoramic ocean views, Umdoni is as beautiful as it is tricky. With sharp elevation changes and narrow approaches, this course rewards smart, controlled play. A favorite among golf purists and nature lovers alike.
Why “The Golf Coast” Should Be Your Next Golf Getaway
- Year-round play with warm subtropical weather
- Affordable green fees compared to other regions
- Coastal charm and hospitality
- Diverse course experiences — from links to forests to championship layouts
- Central access to restaurants, beaches, and adventure
Margate Country Club: Quietly Leading the Way
While the South Coast boasts internationally recognized names, Margate Country Club is becoming the go-to course for those in the know. Its excellent course maintenance, enjoyable layout, and central location make it an unbeatable choice for both daily play and extended stays.
In the spirit of The Golf Coast, Margate represents what makes this region special: authentic, accessible, and full of surprise.
