Barwon Heads Golf Club is one of Victoria’s premier coastal courses, located just 90 minutes southwest of Melbourne in the seaside town of Barwon Heads. Not to be confused with Barwon Valley Golf Course in Geelong, this is the real deal — a true championship layout offering 18 memorable holes across rolling dunes, coastal bushland, and links-style fairways. It’s as scenic as it is strategic, challenging golfers with a mix of long par 5s, tight par 4s, and elevation changes that demand more than just power.
Barwon Heads Golf Club Overview
Set on the windswept coast near the Bellarine Peninsula, Barwon Heads Golf Club blends natural terrain with thoughtful design. The course weaves through dune-lined fairways, doglegs, and subtle elevation changes, providing a true test of course management and shot shaping.
You’ll open your round with a gentle par 4 — 299m (327y) from the blacks — designed to ease you in without ambush. But don’t get too comfortable. Hole 2, a 207m (226y) par 3, brings immediate challenge with distance and wind exposure. From there, Barwon Heads settles into its rhythm: tight lines, shifting lies, and demanding tee shots that reward planning over power.
Notable Holes & Layout Highlights
- Hole 1: A forgiving par 4 (299m), perfect for warming up.
- Hole 2: Long par 3 (207m) that tests accuracy early.
- Hole 3: Dogleg par 4 (390m) that forces a strategic tee shot.
- Varied Terrain: Natural elevation changes keep approach shots interesting.
- Scenic Play: Ocean glimpses and native bushland line many holes.
The course consistently tests your club selection and positioning. Every few holes bring a shift in elevation or wind direction. Some doglegs tempt bold lines, while water hazards — though rare — keep you honest.
Style of Play
- Length: Approx. 6,100–6,400m depending on tees
- Style: Coastal/links hybrid
- Conditions: Fast fairways, firm greens, windswept at times
- Tee options: Black, Blue, White — accommodating all levels
- Vibe: Old-school class with a laid-back Aussie edge
Who It Suits
Whether you’re a low-marker looking to shape shots into the wind or a newer golfer chasing coastal views and a bit of a challenge, Barwon Heads caters to all. It’s tough but fair — demanding enough to sharpen your skills, scenic enough to soften your misses.
Final Verdict
Barwon Heads Golf Club delivers one of the most complete golfing experiences in regional Victoria. It’s playable, picturesque, and packed with character. You’ll come for the coastal views, stay for the quality layout, and leave already planning your next crack at it.
Location: Golf Links Road, Barwon Heads, VIC, Australia
Website: http://www.bhgc.com.au
Phone: +61 03 5255 6255
Barwon Heads Golf Club Tee Boxes
| Tee | Yardage | Course Rating | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 5826 | 72 | 125 |
| Blue | 5598 | 70 | 123 |
| Red | 5307 | 70 | 119 |
Hole by Hole Breakdown
Barwon Heads Hole 1 – Par 4
Index: 15
Lengths: Black: 299 metres, Blue: 295 metres, Red: 290 metres, Green: 250 metres
Ah, Hole 1 at our beloved course—a breezy start to a round that’s sure to wake up your swing without too much drama. With a par 4 that stretches 299m (327y) from the black tees, and gently tapers down to 250m (273y) from the green, it’s clear this one’s more about finesse than brute force. Rated with a stroke index of 15, it’s forgiving enough to let you shake off the clubhouse cobwebs. There aren’t any notorious bunkers or sneaky water hazards to spoil your scorecard early on, just a straightforward fairway that invites a solid drive and a confident approach. Perfect for setting a positive tone for the day, this hole is like the first sip of a cold one after the game—smooth and satisfying.
Barwon Heads Hole 2 – Par 3
Index: 7
Lengths: Black: 207 metres, Blue: 180 metres, Red: 172 metres, Green: 122 metres
Hole 2 at our course is a par 3 that might look like a breather on the card, but don’t let it fool you. With a stroke index of 7, it demands more respect than a quiet pint with your in-laws. Stretching out to 207 metres (226 yards) from the black tees, it narrows down to a more manageable 122 metres (133 yards) from the greens, offering a test for all calibres of players. There aren’t any fancy points of interest to distract you here; it’s just you, the tee, and the green. The hole plays quite straightforward but don’t underestimate the challenge it poses. Choosing the right club is key, as the green can be elusive and the slightest misjudgment can add strokes faster than you can say “fore!” It’s the kind of hole where legends can be made with a well-placed tee shot or dreams dashed with a swing that’s less than stellar. So, choose your weapon wisely and maybe, just maybe, you’ll walk off feeling like a hero.
Barwon Heads Hole 3 – Par 4
Index: 3
Lengths: Black: 390 metres, Blue: 373 metres, Red: 382 metres, Green: 300 metres
Hole 3 is a sly par 4 that’ll have you second-guessing your club choice from the get-go. With tee lengths setting up at 390m (426y) from the Black, 373m (408y) from the Blue, and a more forgiving 300m (328y) from the Green, it’s no slouch on the challenge meter, sitting proudly with a stroke index of 3. The real kicker here is the dogleg right in the centre, tempting you to cut the corner, but beware—overdo it, and you’re playing hide and seek with whatever nature threw in your path. It’s a strategic masterpiece, where positioning off the tee is more than half the battle. Play it smart, and you might just outfox this cunning little number.
Barwon Heads Golf Club Hole 4 – Par 3
Index: 14
Lengths: Black: 165 metres, Blue: 144 metres, Red: 119 metres, Green: 98 metres
Ah, Hole 4 at Barwon Heads Golf Club — a cheeky little Par 3 that might just let you catch your breath after the opening trio. Stretching out at 165 metres (180 yards) from the Black tees, it tapers down to a more forgiving 98 metres (107 yards) from the Green. With a stroke index of 14, it’s not the beast of the course, but don’t let that fool you into complacency. The absence of typical distractions like bunkers or water hazards means your focus is purely on the green. Precision is key here; it’s all about choosing the right club and mastering the tee shot. Get it right, and you could be writing down a satisfying number. But overshoot, and you’ll be chipping back onto the dance floor, hoping to salvage par. A straightforward challenge, but one that requires a sharp eye and a steady hand.
Barwon Heads Hole 5 – Par 5
Index: 17
Lengths: Black: 458 metres, Blue: 451 metres, Red: 431 metres, Green: 355 metres
Ah, Hole 5, the quintessential breather on the course, stretching out at 458m (501y) from the black tees, a bit shorter from the blues at 451m (493y), and even more forgiving from the reds at 431m (471y). If you’re feeling sprightly, or you’re just having a rough round, the green tees offer a nice respite at 355m (388y). Being a par 5 with a stroke index of 17, it’s one of those holes where you can really let the big dog eat and maybe get back a shot or two you left behind on the front four. No real threats of bunkers swallowing your hopes or water to send your ball swimming. It’s all about the open fairways and the green that’s as welcoming as a cold pint on a hot day. Just grip it and rip it, and let the Hole 5 work its magic in helping you claw back to a respectable scorecard.
Barwon Heads Hole 6 – Par 4
Index: 9
Lengths: Black: 348 metres, Blue: 327 metres, Red: 295 metres, Green: 215 metres
Ah, Hole 6 – she’s a crafty one at par 4. Measuring up at 348 metres (381 yards) from the black tees, she shortens slightly to 327 metres (358 yards) from the blue, and is a more manageable 295 metres (323 yards) from the red. For those looking for a less daunting challenge, the green tees offer a sweet 215 metres (235 yards). Now, you might glance over the specs and reckon it’s a walk in the park, but don’t let the distance fool you. With a stroke index of 9, this hole is no pushover. It’s all about the approach and setting yourself up for a solid second shot. The fairway’s subtle undulations can play tricks with your eyes, making club selection crucial. And while there aren’t any dramatic features like sprawling bunkers or sneaky water hazards, the real game here is about precision and reading the lay of the land right. So, choose your clubs wisely and keep your wits about you to score well here.
Barwon Heads Hole 7 – Par 4
Index: 4
Lengths: Black: 368 metres, Blue: 364 metres, Red: 358 metres, Green: 234 metres
Ah, Hole 7, a par 4 that’s as deceptive as a mirage in the Outback. Stretching out to 368 metres (402 yards) from the black tees, 364 metres (398 yards) from the blue, 358 metres (391 yards) for the red, and a more forgiving 234 metres (256 yards) from the green, it doesn’t initially throw up any visual scares. But don’t let the lack of obvious threats fool you; this is a hole with a stroke index of 4 for a reason. The key here is precision over power—overcook your drive and you’ll be playing hide and seek with your ball in the rough. The approach is a real test, subtly demanding a well-angled shot to a green that’s less welcoming than it appears. A true golfer’s puzzle, Hole 7 asks for strategy and finesse, making it a standout in a round full of brutes and breathers.
Barwon Heads Hole 8 – Par 3
Index: 13
Lengths: Black: 168 metres, Blue: 149 metres, Red: 128 metres, Green: 97 metres
Ah, Hole 8, a tidy little Par 3 that might seem a bit unassuming at first glance but don’t let that fool you. Stretching out from 168m (184y) at the Black tee to a more forgiving 97m (106y) at the Green, it’s a perfect spot to snag a well-earned birdie or even a cheeky ace if your iron play is up to scratch. With a Stroke Index of 13, it’s more of a breather in the round—no menacing bunkers to spoil your day or twisted doglegs to outsmart. The challenge here lies in mastering the tee shot; get that right, and you’re golden. Mostly, it’s about enjoying the swing and relishing the walk towards what could be one of the smoother scores on your card. Just a straightforward pitch, a clean putt, and you’re setting the pace for a strong finish. Keep it crisp, mates!
Barwon Heads Hole 9 – Par 4
Index: 1
Lengths: Black: 400 metres, Blue: 370 metres, Red: 357 metres, Green: 294 metres
Ah, Hole 9 — she’s a crafty one, mates. Sitting at the top of the stroke index, this par 4 can really test your metal. From the black tee, you’re looking at a solid 400m (437y) drive, scaling down to a more manageable 294m (321y) from the green, but don’t let the shorter distance fool you. The real character of this hole is its cunning dogleg right in the centre, demanding a strategic play off the tee. Nail the angle, and you’re golden; miss it, and you might as well be hunting for your ball in the bush. It’s a hole where brains trump brawn, making you think twice before you swing. Whether you’re teeing off from the black, blue at 370m (404y), or red at 357m (390y), you’ll want to keep your wits about you. So, line up, take a deep breath, and show Hole 9 who’s boss.
Barwon Heads Hole 10 – Par 4
Index: 11
Lengths: Black: 322 metres, Blue: 306 metres, Red: 279 metres, Green: 225 metres
Ah, Hole 10, a sneaky little Par 4 that’s more about strategy than strength. Stretching out to 322 metres (352 yards) from the black tees, it scales down to a more approachable 225 metres (246 yards) from the greens, making it accessible yet challenging for players of all stripes. With a Stroke Index of 11, it’s neither the toughest test on the course nor a walk in the park. The absence of standout natural features like water or bunkers means your focus is squarely on the fairway and the green—precision and positioning are your best mates here. The real game here is about reading the subtle contours of the landscape, choosing your shots wisely, and not getting too cheeky with the driver. It’s a breather in parts but can bite back if you underestimate its quiet complexity. Ideal for a bit of mid-round banter and a good place to steady the ship or make a strategic play.
Barwon Heads Golf Club Hole 11 – Par 4
Index: 5
Lengths: Black: 346 metres, Blue: 346 metres, Red: 304 metres, Green: 250 metres
Ah, Hole 11 — a sly one at par 4, where the stroke index of 5 should clue you in on the challenge ahead. Stretching 346 metres (378 yards) from both the Black and Blue tees, and a slightly more forgiving 304 metres (332 yards) from the Red, with the Green tees offering a cosy 250 metres (273 yards), this hole doesn’t flaunt its difficulties with flashy hazards. Instead, it’s all about the subtle art of placement and strategy. The fairway is deceptively welcoming, but its true test lies in the approach. A well-guarded green demands precision, lest your ball dance around the rim like a nervous first date. No grand distractions here, just pure golfing grit. Make no mistake, Hole 11 might not look like a bruiser, but it’ll test your mettle and then some.
Barwon Heads Hole 12 – Par 4
Index: 2
Lengths: Black: 385 metres, Blue: 385 metres, Red: 381 metres, Green: 283 metres
Ah, Hole 12 at our beloved course — a true test of mettle and precision. Stretching 385 metres (421 yards) from the Black and Blue tees, and a slightly more forgiving 381 metres (417 yards) from the Red, this par 4 is no walk in the park, despite what the shorter 283 metre (310 yard) Green tee might suggest. Ranked a tough Stroke Index 2, this hole demands respect and a savvy game plan. Without any major landmarks or points of interest, the beauty of this hole lies in its straightforward challenge. It’s all about the tee shot here, my friends. Place it well, and you’re in for a solid par or even a birdie if the golfing gods are smiling. But errant swings are punished just as easily, making this hole a silent guardian of the scorecard. Keep your wits about you, and this brute might just become a breather.
Barwon Heads Golf Hole 13 – Par 3
Index: 16
Lengths: Black: 130 metres, Blue: 128 metres, Red: 123 metres, Green: 115 metres
Ah, Hole 13 at Barwon Heads Golf Club — a cheeky little par 3 that might seem like a breather at first glance, but don’t let the modest yardage fool you. Stretching just 130m (142y) from the black tees, 128m (140y) from the blue, 123m (134y) from the red, and a cosy 115m (126y) from the green, it’s a test of precision rather than power. With a stroke index of 16, it ranks as one of the easier challenges on the course, yet it demands a sharp eye and steady hand. There’s no room for error here; what you see is what you get. The straightforward layout means it’s all about the tee shot. Hit it sweet and you’re golden; miss it and you’re scrambling to save par. Perfect for a bit of friendly wagering, this hole might just help you snag a pint or two when the scores are tallied back at the clubhouse.
Barwon Heads Hole 14 – Par 5
Index: 6
Lengths: Black: 500 metres, Blue: 493 metres, Red: 446 metres, Green: 363 metres
Ah, Hole 14, mate — a real tester at a solid par 5. Stretching out to 500m (547y) from the black tees, and slightly less daunting from the blue at 493m (539y), red at 446m (488y), and green at 363m (397y), it’s designed to make or break your back nine. With a stroke index of 6, it’s not the toughest on the course, but it’s no walk in the park either. The challenge here is all about placement and pacing. The fairway is generous enough, but it’s the approach that demands respect. No significant doglegs or dramatic elevation changes, but the green is subtly guarded with contours that can turn a good score bad in a heartbeat. It’s a straightforward hole, but keep your wits about you, especially with the second shot. Play it smart, and it might just treat you well.
Barwon Heads Hole 15 – Par 4
Index: 8
Lengths: Black: 386 metres, Blue: 340 metres, Red: 327 metres, Green: 278 metres
Ah, Hole 15. She’s a crafty Par 4 that doesn’t let you off easy with a Stroke Index of 8. From the Black tee, you’re looking at 386 metres (422 yards) of fairway, followed by 340 metres (372 yards) from the Blue, 327 metres (357 yards) from the Red, and a somewhat friendlier 278 metres (304 yards) from the Green. Without any fancy points of interest to distract you, it’s all about the strategic play here. The fairway’s straightforward enough, but don’t be deceived—positioning is key. It’s one of those holes where a smart tee shot sets you up for a solid approach, but play it too cavalier and you’ll find yourself scrambling to save par. The greens are subtle, no dramatic undulations, but they hold well. A hole that might seem like a breather on paper, but it demands respect and a sharp eye.
Barwon Heads Hole 16 – Par 5
Index: 18
Lengths: Black: 449 metres, Blue: 449 metres, Red: 426 metres, Green: 377 metres
Ah, Hole 16 – a bit of a breather after some tough ones out there. It’s a par 5, stretching to a comfy 449 metres (491 yards) from both the Black and Blue tees, and for those who prefer a slightly shorter challenge, the Red tees are at 426 metres (466 yards), and the Green at a very approachable 377 metres (412 yards). With a stroke index of 18, this one ranks as the easiest on the course, so it’s your chance to really let loose and maybe claw back a stroke or two. There aren’t any dramatic features here – no treacherous bunkers or sneaky water hazards to ruin your day. It’s all about straightforward golf, enjoying the swing, and aiming for a clean score. Great for a morale boost before tackling the final stretch!
Barwon Heads Hole 17 – Par 3
Index: 12
Lengths: Black: 159 metres, Blue: 154 metres, Red: 148 metres, Green: 122 metres
Ah, Hole 17, a cracking par 3 that’ll have you measuring your swing as carefully as a master tailor. From the black tee, it stretches out to 159 metres (174 yards), stepping down slightly to 154 metres (168 yards) from the blue, 148 metres (162 yards) from the red, and a more forgiving 122 metres (133 yards) from the green. Now, don’t let the lack of dramatic features fool you; what makes this hole intriguing is its deceptive simplicity. With a stroke index of 12, it’s hardly a walk in the park, but it’s not the beast of the course either. It’s all about precision and choosing the right club to land on the green smoothly. Get it right, and you’ll feel like a hero; a bit off, and you’re scrambling to save par. So, take a moment, choose wisely, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll finish strong as you head into the final challenge.
Barwon Heads Hole 18 – Par 4
Index: 10
Lengths: Black: 346 metres, Blue: 344 metres, Red: 341 metres, Green: 262 metres
As you step up to the tee on the 18th, you’re faced with a deceivingly straightforward par 4, measuring up at 346 metres (378 yards) from the black tees, and slightly less from the blues and reds. With a stroke index of 10, it’s neither the toughest nor the easiest on the course, but it demands respect. The fairway is generous enough, but it’s the approach that’ll test your mettle. No major frills here—no water hazards or doglegs—just pure, strategic golf. The slightly elevated green can play tricks with distance perception, and it’s well-guarded by a couple of bunkers that are all too eager to spoil your scorecard. It’s a solid finishing hole where par feels like a small victory and a birdie, a proper triumph as you wrap up the round. So choose your clubs wisely and remember, this hole is more about precision than power.
Course Stats Summary
- Holes: 18
- Total Par: 70
- Longest Hole: 500 metres
- Shortest Hole: 130 metres
