Clifton Springs Golf Club Overview

About 90 minutes from Melbourne, Clifton Springs Golf Course offers up a coastal round that’s equal parts challenge and charm — with a side of lightning-fast greens that reckon they’re straight out of Augusta. This 18-hole beauty isn’t just another tick on the golfer’s bucket list; it’s a full-blown adventure wrapped in sweeping views and a layout that’ll test golfers of all stripes.

From the get-go, Clifton Springs sets a cracking pace. Hole 1, a solid par 4 stretching 362 metres (396 yards) from the blue tees, isn’t mucking around. It demands a confident tee shot and a precise approach — otherwise, you’ll be watching your ball roll off the green like it’s being chased.

Hole 2 offers a quick breather — a 274m (299y) par 4 that plays kind if you keep it simple. It’s as welcoming as a cold tinnie after a long day. But don’t get too comfortable. Hole 3 is where the fun really kicks off — a 406m (444y) par 4 that demands respect and smart shot-making. It’s as tricky as a trivia night after a few schooners.

The real star here? The greens. Some days they’re friendly, other days they’re borderline evil — running quicker than a rumour in a clubhouse. If your short game’s feeling shaky, you’ll be in for a ride.

Clifton Springs is a proper mix of muscle and mind. You’ll find wide-open par 5s where you can unleash the big stick, tight par 4s that force precision, and sneaky par 3s that test club choice and control. The course meanders through scenic elevation changes, with tree-lined fairways, well-placed doglegs, and the odd water hazard thrown in to keep things honest.

Whether you’re hunting for a new PB or just chasing laughs with your weekend crew, Clifton Springs delivers. It’s strategic, scenic, and not afraid to humble you with a quick green and a cruel bounce.

So grab the clubs, round up the crew, and come see why this course has earned its reputation as a bit of a sleeper hit on the Bellarine. Just don’t forget your putter — and maybe bring a backup.

Location: 92-94 Clearwater Drive, Clifton Springs, VIC, Australia

Website: www.cliftonspringsgolfclub.com.au

Phone: 03-5251-2501

Tee Boxes

Tee	Yardage	Course Rating	Slope
Blue	5783	70	125
Red	5213

Hole by Hole Breakdown

Clifton Springs Hole 1 – Par 4

Index: 1

Lengths: Blue: 362 metres, Red: 316 metres

Hole 1 at our course sets the tone right from the tee, a challenging par 4 stretching 362 metres (396 yards) from the blues and 316 metres (346 yards) from the reds. Don’t let the lack of landmarks fool you; this hole is a subtle beast. Ranked as the stroke index 1, it demands precision and power right out of the gate. The fairway is a clean sweep, but don’t be deceived by its straightforward look. The real test is managing your drive to avoid overhitting, setting yourself up for a strategic approach to a green that’s more guarded than it first appears. The absence of bunkers or water hazards might seem inviting, but the slight undulations in the green can easily trip up even the most seasoned players. This hole isn’t just a game opener; it’s a clear statement—underestimate it at your peril.

Clifton Springs Hole 2 – Par 4

Index: 18

Lengths: Blue: 274 metres, Red: 266 metres

Ah, Hole 2, a cheeky little Par 4 that’s as inviting as a cold pint on a hot day. Stretching out to 274 metres (299 yards) from the blue tees and a wee bit shorter at 266 metres (291 yards) from the reds, this hole might seem like a straightforward affair, but don’t be fooled. Rated as the easiest on the scorecard with a Stroke Index of 18, it’s a perfect spot to recover or bolster your score early in the round. There aren’t any flashy features to distract you here—no serpentine bunkers or menacing water hazards lurking. Instead, it’s all about placing your tee shot on the sweet spot of the fairway and setting yourself up for a simple approach. Ideal for a solid birdie chance or a comfy par, Hole 2 lets you take a breather before the course starts to show its teeth. Keep it tidy here, and you’ll be smiling as you head to the next challenge.

Clifton Springs Hole 3 – Par 4

Index: 2

Lengths: Blue: 406 metres, Red: 343 metres

Ah, Hole 3, she’s a tricky beast. With a par 4 and a stroke index of 2, this one’s not just a walk in the park. Stretching out to 406 metres (444 yards) from the blue tees and 343 metres (375 yards) from the reds, it demands respect and a solid strategy. There might not be any flashy points of interest to gawk at, but don’t let that fool you. The real challenge here lies in its deceptive simplicity. The fairway might look welcoming, but it’s all about placement and playing it smart. Nail your drive, keep your approach tight, and you might just walk away with a par. Underestimate it, and it’ll eat your scorecard for breakfast. So, line up, take a deep breath, and show Hole 3 what you’re made of. This one’s a true test of your mettle on the links.

Clifton Springs Hole 4 – Par 4

Index: 5

Lengths: Blue: 340 metres, Red: 324 metres

Ah, Hole 4 – she’s a sly one, sitting at a snug 340 metres (372 yards) from the blue tees and a touch less at 324 metres (354 yards) from the reds. With a par of 4 and a stroke index of 5, don’t be fooled by the lack of headline-grabbing features like sprawling bunkers or menacing water hazards. This hole is all about subtlety and strategy. The fairway is a clean sweep, tempting you to unleash a full drive, but the real game here plays out on the approach. Precision is key to landing on a green that’s more guarded by its subtle contours than any sand trap. It’s a test of nerve and finesse, perfect for a bit of tactical play. Making par here feels as rewarding as a cold one after the round. So, line up, take a deep breath, and play smart.

Clifton Springs Hole 5 – Par 4

Index: 3

Lengths: Blue: 355 metres, Red: 341 metres

Ah, Hole 5, mate, she’s a sneaky challenge wrapped in a par 4. Stretching a solid 355 metres (388 yards) from the blue tees and a tad shorter at 341 metres (373 yards) from the reds, this hole doesn’t flaunt its difficulties openly. With a stroke index of 3, this one’s a bit of a bruiser, subtly demanding precision over power. The fairway might look welcoming, but it’s the approach that’ll test your mettle. No significant doglegs or dramatic elevations to speak of, but don’t let the apparent simplicity fool you. The green is guarded with a finesse that requires a well-thought-out second shot. Choose your clubs wisely and respect the subtle complexities, or you might find yourself recounting tales of ‘what could have been’ rather than ‘what was’ when you’re back at the clubhouse.

Clifton Springs Hole 6 – Par 3

Index: 11

Lengths: Blue: 142 metres, Red: 108 metres

Hole 6, a par 3 with a manageable stroke index of 11, might seem like a breather at first glance, but don’t let your guard down. Stretching 142 metres (155 yards) from the blue tees and a more forgiving 108 metres (118 yards) from the reds, this hole lacks the headline features like bunkers or water hazards, but it’s the subtle contours of the green that often catch players off-guard. The real challenge here is in the approach; it’s all about precision and choosing the right club to ensure your ball stays true amidst the gentle undulations that can easily turn a potential birdie into a scrambling par. So, take a moment to appreciate the simplicity of the layout, then focus up — this hole is a test of your finesse rather than brute force.

Clifton Springs Hole 7 – Par 4

Index: 8

Lengths: Blue: 359 metres, Red: 336 metres

Hole 7, a par 4 with a stroke index of 8, might not look daunting at first glance, stretching 359 metres (392 yards) from the blue tees and 336 metres (367 yards) from the red. But don’t be fooled—this hole is more of a tactical chess match than a straightforward sprint to the green. The absence of typical distractions like bunkers or water hazards means your focus is purely on mastering the subtle undulations and the strategic placement of your shots. Precision off the tee is crucial; too conservative and you’re left with a tricky approach, too bold and the rolling contours of the fairway can leave you with an awkward lie. It’s a thinker’s hole, where smart play is rewarded and rash decisions frowned upon. Keep your wits about you, and par is well within reach.

Clifton Springs Hole 8 – Par 4

Index: 15

Lengths: Blue: 322 metres, Red: 307 metres

Ah, Hole 8, mates—a deceptive beauty she is, a Par 4 with a bit of cheek. Stretching out to 322 metres (352 yards) from the Blue and pulling back slightly at 307 metres (336 yards) from the Red, it’s a hole that might seem straightforward but demands a sharp strategy. Rated a 15 on the stroke index, which means it offers a bit of a breather compared to the brutes before, it’s quite the spot to claw back a shot or two. Though devoid of the dramatics of bunkers or water hazards, the challenge lies in mastering the subtle undulations and the strategic play of the fairway. A solid tee shot could set you up for a satisfying approach, or leave you mumbling excuses. So, choose your club wisely, aim your drive with care, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll walk off with a grin as wide as the fairway.

Clifton Springs Hole 9 – Par 3

Index: 12

Lengths: Blue: 174 metres, Red: 138 metres

Hole 9, a cheeky par 3, might look straightforward at first glance, but don’t be fooled. At 174 metres (190 yards) from the blue tees and 138 metres (151 yards) from the reds, it demands a solid tee shot. This hole carries a stroke index of 12, placing it in the lighter echelon of challenges on the course, but that doesn’t mean it’ll hand you a par on a silver platter. The lack of notable features like bunkers or water hazards means the real test is managing the subtle undulations of the green—tricky enough to make you second-guess your club selection. Ideal for those looking to regain some ground before making the turn, this hole is a breather with a bite. Just when you think you’ve got it in the bag, it might just surprise you. Keep your wits about you and play smart.

Clifton Springs Hole 10 – Par 5

Index: 9

Lengths: Blue: 480 metres, Red: 447 metres

Ah, the 10th! Stretching out to a healthy 480 metres (525 yards) from the blues and a slightly more forgiving 447 metres (489 yards) from the reds, this par 5 offers a bit of a breather after the front nine, but don’t let your guard down just yet. With a stroke index of 9, it’s smack in the middle of the difficulty scale, demanding a bit of strategy without too much punishment for the average golfer. The hole plays fairly straightforward — no severe doglegs or menacing water hazards here. However, the real game is in managing your shots to avoid a dance with the bunkers strategically placed to catch any wayward approaches. It’s a hole that rewards the thinkers, the ones who can keep their cool and plan a couple of shots ahead. So take a deep breath, choose your clubs wisely, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll walk off with a birdie to brag about as you head into the back nine.

Clifton Springs Hole 11 – Par 3

Index: 16

Lengths: Blue: 158 metres, Red: 130 metres

Ah, Hole 11, a cheeky Par 3 that might seem a breather but can easily catch you off guard. Stretching out at 158m (173y) from the blue tees and a more manageable 130m (142y) from the reds, it’s deceptive in its simplicity. With a stroke index of 16, it’s one of the easier challenges on the course, but don’t let that fool you into complacency. There aren’t any dramatic features to navigate around, no menacing bunkers or sly water hazards lying in wait. It’s just you, the tee, and the green. The real game here is about precision and choosing the right club. Nail your tee shot, and you could be writing down a satisfying number on the scorecard. Overshoot it, and you’ll be mumbling excuses to your mates back at the clubhouse.

Clifton Springs Hole 12 – Par 4

Index: 14

Lengths: Blue: 300 metres, Red: 296 metres

Ah, Hole 12, a bit of a breather in the lineup, sitting at a cozy par 4 with a stroke index of 14. Measuring up at a comfortable 300m (328y) from the blue tees and just a smidge less at 296m (324y) from the reds, it’s one where you can let your guard down—just a tad, mind you. With no menacing bunkers to spoil your stroll or water features to make your ball quiver, the real game here is all about precision and enjoying the straightforwardness of the fairway. It’s the sort of hole that invites a bit of swagger with the driver, letting you chase a birdie if your tee shot lands just right. A solid drive can set the tone for a satisfying scorecard, making it a welcome pause before the course bares its teeth again. So, take a breath, take a swing, and let Hole 12 remind you why you love this game.

Clifton Springs Hole 13 – Par 5

Index: 13

Lengths: Blue: 478 metres, Red: 431 metres

Hole 13, a par 5 stretching a generous 478m (523y) from the blue tees and 431m (471y) from the reds, offers a bit of a breather with its stroke index of 13. This hole is refreshingly straightforward without any tricky doglegs or daunting water hazards to spoil your scorecard. The real game here lies in mastering the long, open fairway, a perfect opportunity for those looking to let loose with the driver. While there aren’t any notorious bunkers or dense woods, don’t let the apparent simplicity fool you—the green has its own subtle challenges, with undulations that could turn a potential birdie into a bogey if you’re not careful with your approach. It’s a hole where strategy and a cool head will pay dividends, making it an enjoyable challenge mid-round.

Clifton Springs Hole 14 – Par 4

Index: 4

Lengths: Blue: 347 metres, Red: 313 metres

Hole 14 at our course is a true test of your mettle. This 347m (379y) from the blue and 313m (342y) from the red tee, par 4 challenge ranks a solid 4 on the stroke index, hinting at its subtle complexities. Don’t let the absence of obvious landmarks fool you; what makes this hole particularly intriguing is its strategic layout. The fairway gently undulates, demanding precision from the tee shot to avoid an unfavourable second shot that could cost you dearly. While there aren’t any menacing bunkers or lurking water hazards, the real trick is in managing the elevation changes and the slightly deceptive angles to the green. Here, your approach must be as sharp as a tack; too short, and you’re chipping uphill, too long, and you’re flirting with a tricky downhill putt. It’s a hole where par feels like a minor victory, and a birdie, a triumph to recount with pride.

Clifton Springs Hole 15 – Par 4

Index: 17

Lengths: Blue: 309 metres, Red: 302 metres

Hole 15 is where you can catch your breath a bit, mates. With a par 4 and a stroke index of 17, it’s one of the more forgiving challenges on the course. Stretching out to 309 metres (338 yards) from the blue tees and 302 metres (330 yards) from the reds, it doesn’t throw up any nasty surprises like bunkers that eat balls for breakfast or deceptive water hazards. The lack of distinctive landmarks or tricky doglegs means your strategy here can be straightforward — keep it clean and aim true. It’s a chance to regain some strokes or solidify your score before the final stretch. So, take a deep breath, adjust your grip, and enjoy one of the more relaxed tees off the day.

Clifton Springs Hole 16 – Par 5

Index: 7

Lengths: Blue: 485 metres, Red: 390 metres

Ah, Hole 16, a deceptive beauty stretching a solid 485 metres (530 yards) from the blue tees and a more manageable 390 metres (426 yards) from the reds. Ranked a sneaky number 7 on the stroke index, this par 5 can be a bit of a sleeping giant. It’s one of those holes where the game plan truly unfolds from the tee—no significant landmarks to distract, merely a straight shot down the fairway. But don’t let the apparent simplicity fool you; precision and power must strike a fine balance to set up for a satisfying birdie or a safe par. The absence of notable hazards means the challenge lies in mastering the distance and keeping the ball straight — a test of true grit and technique. Perfect for a player looking to stretch their legs and their swing as the round nears its close.

Clifton Springs Hole 17 – Par 3

Index: 10

Lengths: Blue: 162 metres, Red: 131 metres

Ah, Hole 17, a classic par 3 that’ll test your mettle without wearing you out. Sitting at 162 metres (177 yards) from the blue tees and a more gentle 131 metres (143 yards) from the reds, it’s where the game really heats up, despite the lack of traditional distractions like bunkers or water hazards. With a stroke index of 10, it’s not the most daunting challenge on the course, but don’t let that fool you into complacency. The green is more elusive than it appears, subtly guarded by the natural contours of the land, demanding a well-placed tee shot. Get it right, and you’re in for a smooth finish; get it wrong, and you’ll be dancing around more than a joey in a jumper. This hole is a true test of precision and a fine penultimate challenge.

Clifton Springs Hole 18 – Par 4

Index: 6

Lengths: Blue: 330 metres, Red: 294 metres

As you step up to the tee of the 18th hole, a par 4 stretching a decent 330 metres (361 yards) from the blue tees and 294 metres (321 yards) from the reds, you’re almost at the clubhouse—almost. Don’t let the absence of obvious frills fool you; with a stroke index of 6, this hole is more cunning than it appears. It’s a straightforward challenge, true, but the real test is in managing your approach. The fairway is generous, yet subtly sculpted to test your accuracy and strategic thinking. The green, well-guarded by a deceptively positioned bunker, tempts you to go big, but wisdom suggests playing it safe. This final hole isn’t the toughest you’ve faced today, but underestimate it at your peril—it might just reshuffle the scorecards before you shake hands at the 19th hole.