Top Golf Courses in South Africa
South Africa is a premier golfing destination, offering dramatic landscapes, world-class courses, and year-round sunshine. From championship greens in the mountains to oceanfront fairways along the coast, golfers of all levels can find a course that challenges and inspires.
Among South Africa’s top golfing regions, the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast stands out as one of the most scenic and underrated destinations. With rolling hills, subtropical weather, ocean views, and a variety of well-maintained courses, the South Coast has earned the nickname the Golf Coast of South Africa.
This guide covers the top golf courses across South Africa, highlighting the best South Coast courses, must-play holes, and tips for planning a golf-focused holiday.
Why South Africa Is a Top Golfing Destination
South Africa offers a unique mix of features for golfers:
- Courses designed by legends such as Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus
- Year-round play due to mild climate
- Diverse landscapes: beaches, mountains, vineyards, and deserts
- Modern clubhouses with hospitality and amenities
- Competitive green fees compared to international destinations
The KZN South Coast elevates this experience with coastal fairways, lush vegetation, and warm holiday vibes, making it ideal for a golf getaway.
Top Golf Courses in South Africa
Here are the most iconic courses nationwide, followed by the standout South Coast options.
1. Leopard Creek Country Club – Mpumalanga
Leopard Creek borders Kruger National Park, offering wildlife sightings during your round. Designed by Gary Player, the course features immaculate greens and sweeping views of the Crocodile River. This is a must-play for golf enthusiasts seeking an iconic African experience.
2. Fancourt – The Links, George
The Links at Fancourt is a championship course carved from flat terrain into dramatic dunes. It’s known for hosting international tournaments and providing a challenging yet scenic round.
3. Sun City – Gary Player Country Club
This course is famous for the Nedbank Golf Challenge and is designed to test all levels of skill. It features long fairways, water hazards, and strategic bunkering in a world-class resort setting.
4. Pearl Valley – Cape Winelands
Set among vineyards and mountains, Pearl Valley offers stunning scenery and challenging Nicklaus-designed holes. The combination of natural beauty and precise greens makes it a favorite for holiday golfers.
5. Durban Country Club – Durban
A historic coastal course with links-style fairways, Durban Country Club has hosted more South African Opens than any other course. Its coastal winds and rolling terrain create a classic golfing challenge.
Spotlight on the Golf Coast: KZN South Coast
The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast boasts numerous courses within easy reach of each other, offering a mix of ocean views, subtropical scenery, and leisure-focused golfing. Here are the top courses:
6. Southbroom Golf Club
Southbroom is a coastal gem, famous for its 4th hole along the beach. With lush fairways and friendly clubhouse vibes, it’s a top choice for holidaymakers and locals alike.
Highlights:
- Coastal winds for added challenge
- Ocean views from multiple holes
- Proximity to beaches, restaurants, and accommodations
7. San Lameer Country Club
Set within the luxury San Lameer Estate, this championship course combines tropical vegetation, water hazards, and resort amenities for a memorable golfing holiday.
Highlights:
- Championship layout with strategic challenges
- Wildlife and lush surroundings
- Spa, pool, and beachfront access for holidaymakers
8. Wild Coast Sun Country Club
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Wild Coast Sun features dramatic cliffside fairways, deep ravines, and the par-3 13th over a gorge. The course is ideal for golfers seeking both challenge and spectacular scenery.
Highlights:
- Cliffside and ocean-view holes
- Championship difficulty
- Resort facilities for families and groups
9. Umdoni Park Golf Club
Umdoni Park in Pennington is a hidden South Coast gem. The 18-hole course blends ocean views, indigenous forests, and elevation changes for an unforgettable round.
Highlights:
- 70% of holes with panoramic sea views
- Forested back nine with diverse wildlife
- Signature par-3 16th and par-5 18th holes
- Part of the Umdoni Park Trust, preserving nature and heritage
- Clubhouse and Botha House for relaxation post-round
Perfect for: Intermediate and advanced golfers, nature lovers, and visitors seeking scenic coastal play.
10. Port Shepstone Country Club
Featuring river views and mangrove scenery, Port Shepstone offers gentle fairways suitable for all skill levels. The club combines social golf with subtropical surroundings, perfect for casual holiday rounds.
11. Margate Country Club
Margate Country Club features rolling inland hills, tree-lined fairways, and well-maintained greens. It’s popular with locals and visitors seeking a balanced, challenging layout in a tranquil setting.
Why the South Coast Stands Out
- Year-round play: Mild climate and warm winters
- Close course proximity: Play multiple courses in a single trip
- Coastal beauty: Stunning ocean-view holes throughout the region
- Holiday-friendly atmosphere: Beaches, markets, restaurants, and family activities nearby
- Affordable golfing: High-quality courses at competitive green fees
The South Coast is more than a golf destination; it’s a coastal golfing experience.
Planning a South Coast Golf Holiday
Best time to visit: Anytime; winter months are popular with visiting golfers.
Accommodation: Beach resorts, boutique hotels, golf estates, and holiday apartments are all ideal.
Activities beyond golf: Beaches, diving at Aliwal Shoal, hiking, fishing, and cultural attractions provide variety for family members or non-golfers.
Tips:
- Book tee times in advance during holidays
- Bring shoes suitable for elevation changes
- Consider a caddie for guidance and insight
- Plan rounds for mornings or late afternoons for the best weather and light
South Coast Golf Holiday
South Africa offers some of the world’s finest golf experiences, but the KZN South Coast truly shines. With courses like Southbroom, San Lameer, Wild Coast Sun, Umdoni Park, and Port Shepstone, golfers can enjoy championship layouts, stunning ocean views, subtropical greenery, and holiday convenience.
Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf holiday or a coastal escape with a few rounds of golf, the South Coast delivers a unique combination of challenge, beauty, and relaxation.
Book your tee times, pack your clubs, and experience why this region is rightly called South Africa’s Golf Coast.
