Just a short drive from Geelong CBD—about 20 minutes if you’re not stuck behind a caravan—sits the not-so-hidden gem of Curlewis, VIC. Here, the Curlewis Golf Course sprawls across the landscape like it owns the place, dishing up 18 holes that are anything but ordinary.
Whether you reckon yourself a crafty shot-shaper or just enjoy belting a few balls on the weekend, Curlewis serves it up from every angle. With tee options in white, yellow, blue and red, there’s a setup for every type of golfer—from weekend warriors to seasoned swingers.
From the get-go, Hole 1 sets the tone with a cheeky Par 4 stretching 266 metres (291 yards) from the white tees. It’s not about muscle here—strategy wins the day. No point trying to play hero; a smart tee shot and tidy approach will set you up just right. And for those stepping off the red tee at 354 metres (387 yards), it’s a spicy start that’ll have you reaching deep into the golf bag for answers.
Things keep rolling with Hole 2—a breezy 341m (373y) Par 4 from the whites. It’s clean, simple, and all about respect. No dramatic doglegs or lurking hazards, just a straightforward challenge that rewards those who keep it tight and true.
Then comes Hole 3, and this one’s a ripper. At 497m (544y) from the white tees, this Par 5 is wide open and daring you to go big. No trees, no water, just you, the fairway, and a scorecard to make or break. With a Stroke Index of 8, it might look forgiving at first glance—but smart play and decent distance control are what’ll get you home in good shape.
Beyond the layout, Curlewis is an absolute visual treat. Sweeping views, thoughtful design, and holes that weave their way across the natural terrain make every swing feel like part of something special. The mix of long, testing par 5s, clever par 4s, and some sneaky par 3s keeps the round lively from start to finish.
Whether you’re out for a quick hit with mates or chasing a new personal best, Curlewis Golf Course delivers a full-flavoured golfing experience. It’s challenging without being cruel, scenic without being showy, and absolutely worth every swing.
So, chuck the clubs in the boot, point the car toward the Bellarine, and give Curlewis a crack. It’s golf done right—and a bloody good time while you’re at it.
Location: Portarlington Road, Curlewis, VIC, Australia
Website: www.curlewisgolf.com.au
Phone: +61 (03) 5251 2534
Hole by Hole Breakdown
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 1 – Par 4
Index: 13
Lengths: White: 266 metres, Red: 354 metres
Ah, Hole 1 at our beloved course – it’s a cheeky Par 4 to kick things off. From the white tees, it stretches out to a modest 266 metres (291 yards), but don’t let the distance fool you; it demands a strategic mind. The stroke index of 13 suggests it’s not the toughest on the card, but it’s no walk in the park either. What makes this opener intriguing isn’t just about power – it’s about placement. There’s no room for heroics here; just a solid drive to set yourself up for a smooth approach. Interestingly, the red tee pushes back a fair bit to 354 metres (387 yards), turning up the challenge for those playing from it. It’s a straightforward hole, but keep your wits about you – it’s all about getting the round started on the right foot, or the right swing, should I say.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 2 – Par 4
Index: 10
Lengths: White: 341 metres, Red: 279 metres
Hole 2, a breezy par 4 stretching 341m (373y) from the white tees and a more forgiving 279m (305y) from the reds, offers a bit of reprieve with its Stroke Index of 10. This hole lacks the flashy hazards or dramatic doglegs you might find elsewhere on the course, but don’t be fooled—precision still pays off. With no major points of interest to distract, it’s a straightforward challenge; aim your tee shot well and you’re setting yourself up for a potential birdie. The fairway is generous enough to forgive a less-than-perfect drive, yet those who can place their ball with skill will definitely have the upper hand approaching the green. It’s the kind of hole that might seem simple at first glance but asks just enough of you to keep things interesting. Ideal for a solid, strategic play, it often feels like a quiet conversation compared to the shouting match of tougher holes.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 3 – Par 5
Index: 8
Lengths: White: 497 metres, Red: 300 metres
Stepping up to Hole 3, you’re looking down the barrel of a 497m (544yd) challenge from the white tees, while the red markers offer a slightly less daunting 300m (328yd) jaunt. This par 5 isn’t cluttered with the usual suspects of hazards, but don’t let its apparent openness lull you into complacency. With a Stroke Index of 8, it demands respect and a bit of noggin use. The absence of imposing trees or sneaky water hazards means your focus is squarely on managing your distance and keeping your shots straight. The real test here is the approach; getting onto the green in regulation could see you telling tales of birdies rather than bogeys back at the clubhouse. It’s a straightforward hole but play it smart, or you’ll find more trouble than you bargained for.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 4 – Par 3
Index: 2
Lengths: White: 185 metres, Red: 130 metres
Hole 4 might be the shortest on the course at just 185m (202y) from the white tees and a mere 130m (142y) from the reds, but don’t let its length fool you. With a stroke index of 2, this par 3 packs a punch. It’s a real test of accuracy with not a bunker in sight, nor a water hazard to disrupt your play, making it a clean and straightforward challenge. The simplicity of the layout demands a precise tee shot; any deviation could cost you dearly in this subtle test of skill. It’s all about choosing the right club and mastering the wind, which often likes to play games here. Nail the tee shot, and you could be writing down a satisfying score, but get it wrong, and you’ll understand why it’s rated with such difficulty despite its brevity. Perfect for a bit of a breather, yet it keeps you on your toes!
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 5 – Par 5
Index: 18
Lengths: White: 47 metres, Red: 324 metres
Ah, Hole 5, the breather of the course and the lowest on the stroke index at 18, truly a chance to catch your stride or, dare I say, pad your score. Stretching out to a mere 47 metres (51 yards) from the white tee and significantly longer at 324 metres (354 yards) from the red, this Par 5 is unique in its lack of dramatic features—no menacing bunkers lying in wait or twisted doglegs to outsmart. It’s straightforward golf, a rarity and a relief. It’s the kind of hole where you loosen your shoulders, take a deep breath, and just enjoy the swing. Perfect for a strategic play or for those looking to recover from a more tumultuous front four. The simplicity of its layout allows you to focus on the purity of the game: clear skies, trimmed fairways, and perhaps the opportunity to snag an eagle, making your mates wish they’d paid more attention.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 6 – Par 4
Index: 3
Lengths: White: 386 metres, Red: 423 metres
Hole 6 at this course truly tests your mettle with its Par 4 challenge, stretching a solid 386 metres (422 yards) from the white tees and surprisingly extending even further to 423 metres (463 yards) from the reds. Don’t let the lack of listed points of interest fool you — the absence of distractions speaks to the purity of the challenge here. It’s a straightforward bruiser, ranked a Stroke Index of 3, demanding precise drives and even more accurate approaches. The fairway is a stern test of accuracy over power; stray too far off the path, and you’ll be ruing the missed opportunities. This hole doesn’t play favourites; it’s an honest test of golf where good shots are rewarded and the errant ones are given no quarter. So, grip it and rip it, but remember — respect is earned on fairways like these.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 7 – Par 4
Index: 7
Lengths: White: 335 metres, Red: 360 metres
Hole 7 is a bit of a teaser at a par 4, stretching 335 metres (366 yards) from the white tees and surprisingly pushing out to 360 metres (394 yards) from the reds. With a stroke index of 7, it demands respect and a decent bit of strategy. The layout here is straightforward but don’t let that lull you into a false sense of security. The fairway is generous but flanked by a cheeky set of bunkers ready to punish the overly ambitious or casual swinger. Your approach shot is key — get it right and you could be in for a birdie, but misjudge the wind or the lie and you might just find yourself having a longer chat with your sand wedge than planned. It’s all about precision here, mates, and picking the right club to dance around those hazards. A brute in disguise, this one will keep you on your toes!
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 8 – Par 3
Index: 14
Lengths: White: 130 metres, Red: 120 metres
Ah, Hole 8, the shortest jaunt on the course, and a cheeky little Par 3 that lets you breathe a bit easier for a moment. Stretching just 130 metres (142 yards) from the white tees and a neat 120 metres (131 yards) from the reds, it’s a straightforward pitch where you can really take a swing at getting close to the pin without too much fuss. Don’t let the Stroke Index of 14 fool you though; it’s no pushover, especially when the wind decides to play. With no major hazards to speak of, your main game here is accuracy and managing to stay cool under pressure. It’s the perfect spot to maybe gain back a stroke or simply enjoy a brief respite before the challenges ahead. Keep it tight, aim true, and this hole could very well be your quick win of the day.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 9 – Par 4
Index: 5
Lengths: White: 326 metres, Red: 330 metres
Hole 9 at our course is a cheeky Par 4, stretching 326 metres (357 yards) from the white tees and an intriguing 330 metres (361 yards) from the reds. Don’t be fooled by the lack of listed points of interest; the real challenge here is subtler, embedded in the strategic play this hole demands. With a stroke index of 5, it’s not the toughest on the course but definitely not a walk in the park either. The fairway is deceptively welcoming, urging you to unleash a powerful drive, but precision is key to avoid the cunningly placed hazards that aren’t immediately obvious from the tee box. Mastering this hole is more about brains than brawn — a true test of one’s golfing wit and nerve. So, gather your savvy and your best clubs; it’s time to play smart.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 10 – Par 4
Index: 15
Lengths: White: 329 metres, Red: 267 metres
Ah, Hole 10, a nifty Par 4 that stretches out to a modest 329 metres (360 yards) from the white tees and a more forgiving 267 metres (292 yards) from the reds. It’s ranked a leisurely 15 on the stroke index, so it’s more of a breather than a brute—perfect for easing into the back nine. The layout’s straightforward, with no sneaky bunkers or sly water hazards to disrupt your stroll towards the green. This hole’s a clean slate, really, letting you swing away without too much fret. The real game here is about placing your tee shot just right to set up a simple approach, favouring precision over power. Ideal for a bit of strategy play or for those looking to recover some ground with a steady hand. Keep it smooth and straight, and you might just walk off with a spring in your step, ready to tackle what lies ahead.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 11 – Par 4
Index: 12
Lengths: White: 314 metres, Red: 309 metres
Ah, Hole 11 — she’s a subtle beast, mates. At a modest 314 metres (343 yards) from the white tees and 309 metres (338 yards) from the reds, you might think it’s a walk in the park. But don’t let the lack of distance fool you. With a stroke index of 12, this par 4 isn’t the toughest on the course, yet it demands respect. The fairway here is more forgiving than an old friend, which might tempt you to unleash the driver. But here’s the rub: it’s all about positioning for that second shot. Get too greedy off the tee, and you could find yourself with an awkward lie, making the approach to a subtly challenging green more difficult than a crossword puzzle on a Sunday morning. Play it smart, play it cool, and Hole 11 can be a scorecard pleaser, ready to set you up nicely as you head into the back stretch.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 12 – Par 4
Index: 17
Lengths: White: 302 metres, Red: 440 metres
Hole 12 at our beloved course is a cheeky Par 4, stretching 302 metres (330 yards) from the white tee, making it a brisk walk rather than a marathon. Don’t let the Stroke Index of 17 fool you into thinking this is a doddle; while it may seem like a breather on paper, it’s all about the placement here. With no significant hazards to speak of, the real challenge lies in mastering the subtle undulations of the fairway and the sly positioning of the green. For the long hitters, the temptation to drive the green could turn the tide of your round, but precision is key, lest you find yourself in a spot of bother. The red tee stretches the hole to a more formidable 440 metres (481 yards), turning what is a tactical play from the whites into a test of endurance and accuracy. So, pick your weapon wisely and maybe save the heroics for another hole!
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 13 – Par 3
Index: 1
Lengths: White: 153 metres, Red: 136 metres
Ah, Hole 13, the deceptive little gem of the course. Don’t let its brevity fool you; at 153 metres (167 yards) from the white tees and 136 metres (149 yards) from the reds, it’s the shortest hole here but packs a punch with a stroke index of 1. This par 3 might seem like a quick stop before the more beastly challenges ahead, but it demands precision and a cool head. There’s no room for error here; without the usual distractions of bunkers or water hazards, it’s all about the tee shot. Nail that, and you’re golden. Underestimate it, and you’ll find yourself grappling for par. So, choose your club wisely, aim true, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll conquer the slyest hole on the course.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 14 – Par 4
Index: 16
Lengths: White: 320 metres, Red: 422 metres
Hole 14 is the kind of par 4 that might seem a bit tame on the card, especially with its stroke index of 16, but don’t be fooled—there’s a game here to be played. Spanning 320 metres (350 yards) from the white tees and a surprising 422 metres (462 yards) from the reds, this hole offers a different kind of challenge depending on where you’re teeing off. Despite the lack of traditional points of interest like pesky water hazards or sneaky bunkers, the true test here lies in mastering the subtle undulations of the fairway and the strategic placement of your shots. It’s a straightforward hole but demands respect—overconfidence here can easily turn a potential birdie into a scramble for par. So, keep your wits about you and play it smart; let your clubs do the talking and this hole can be a quiet achiever in your round.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 15 – Par 5
Index: 6
Lengths: White: 504 metres, Red: 382 metres
Hole 15, a sturdy Par 5 stretching 504 metres (551 yards) from the white tees and a more manageable 382 metres (418 yards) from the red, presents a true test of both power and strategy. With a Stroke Index of 6, this hole doesn’t mess about. It’s the kind of hole where tales of triumph and tragedy are forged between the tee box and the green. Here, the absence of notable points of interest actually turns into the hole’s subtle challenge — it’s all about the lay of the land and managing your game plan wisely. Long hitters have a chance to shine, yet overshooting could cost dearly if you’re not careful with your approach. Whether you’re aiming to conquer it with sheer strength or play it safe with strategic strokes, Hole 15 offers a robust challenge that keeps even the most seasoned golfers on their toes — making it a standout tale at the day’s end.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 16 – Par 4
Index: 4
Lengths: White: 360 metres, Red: 300 metres
Ah, Hole 16, the quintessential test of nerve and strategy that stands out even at a stroke index of 4. Stretching out at 360 metres (394 yards) from the white tees and a more forgiving 300 metres (328 yards) from the reds, this par 4 doesn’t mess about. There aren’t any flashy points of interest to distract you here; it’s all about the purity of the game. The fairway is a straightforward affair, but don’t let that fool you. Precision off the tee is paramount to setting up a second shot that feels less like a gamble and more like a calculated move. The green is approachable but guarded with subtle undulations that challenge even the most seasoned putters. It’s a hole where par feels like a hard-earned victory, and anything better is a reason to boast long after the round is over.
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 17 – Par 3
Index: 9
Lengths: White: 129 metres, Red: 116 metres
Ah, Hole 17, the cheeky little Par 3 that’s a bit of a breather before you tackle the final challenge. Measuring up at just 129 metres (141 yards) from the white tees and a slightly shorter 116 metres (127 yards) from the reds, it’s the shortest hole on the course. But don’t let its modest length fool you – with a stroke index of 9, it demands a precise tee shot. The green, though welcoming, is guarded by subtle undulations that could make or break your par dreams. It’s a straightforward test of accuracy: no dramatic bunkers or water hazards here, just you and the green waiting quietly for that satisfying thwack of a well-placed iron. Perfect for a bit of light relief, unless, of course, your short game has taken the day off!
Curlewis Golf Club Hole 18 – Par 4
Index: 11
Lengths: White: 276 metres, Red: 269 metres
As you step up to the tee on the 18th, you’re facing a par 4 that’s a tidy 276 metres (302 yards) from the whites and a slight shave shorter at 269 metres (294 yards) from the reds. With a stroke index of 11, it’s neither the beast nor the bunny of the course, but don’t let that fool you into complacency. The layout here is straightforward enough to give you a bit of a breather as you finish your round, yet it still demands a strategic play. The drive is all about positioning; get it right, and you’re setting up for a solid approach shot that could see you finishing with a flourish. While there’s nothing too flashy about the 18th, its subtle challenges make it a classic closer that keeps you thinking all the way back to the clubhouse. So, choose your club wisely, aim true, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll give your mates something to grumble about over a pint.
Course Stats Summary
- Holes: 18
- Total Par: 71
- Longest Hole: 504 metres
- Shortest Hole: 47 metres
