Sanctuary Lakes Overview

About 40 minutes from Melbourne (traffic willing!), Sanctuary Lakes Resort in Point Cook is a Greg Norman-designed course that serves up 18 holes of serious wow-factor. It’s a meticulously crafted layout that challenges scratch golfers and weekend warriors alike — and rewards patience, precision, and a bit of local knowledge.

From the long hauls of its demanding par 5s, to tight par 4s that call for finesse, and par 3s with just enough bite to keep you honest, no two holes play the same. The opener — a 379m (415y) par 4 from the black tees — might seem like a warm-up, but the fairway’s subtle undulations quickly remind you that Norman didn’t come here to hand out easy birdies.

Hole 2 is a tidy 155m (170y) par 3 that’s all about hitting your number. Get it right and you’ll feel like a pro. Get it wrong, and you might be introducing yourself to one of the course’s well-placed bunkers.

The layout itself is a scenic puzzle — packed with water hazards that punish wayward ambition, elevation changes that’ll work your legs and your club selection, and tree-lined fairways that favour the disciplined over the daring. And those doglegs? They’re proper thinkers — the kind that separate scorecards from stories.

It’s strategic, scenic, and slightly sadistic in the best way possible. Just be warned: the only thing trickier than the back nine might be the traffic in and out of Point Cook — so leave a little earlier and arrive ready to rumble.

Whether you’re chasing a PB or just out for a hit with mates, Sanctuary Lakes isn’t just another course — it’s a proper test wrapped in a postcard view. Come for the challenge, stay for the clubhouse yarns, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself planning the next round before you’ve even finished your drink.

Location: Greg Norman Drive, Sanctuary Lakes, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.sanctuarylakes.com.au/

Phone: 03-9395-2888 Pro: 03-9394-9444

Tee Boxes

Tee	Yardage	Course Rating	Slope
Black	6489	75	113
Blue	6184	73	113
White	5776	70	113
Red	5313

Hole by Hole Breakdown

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 1 – Par 4

Index: 7

Lengths: Black: 379 metres, Blue: 370 metres, White: 348 metres, Red: 325 metres

Hole 1 at Sanctuary Lakes offers a straightforward yet crafty start to the round, perfect for shaking off those first-tee nerves. A par 4 with a stroke index of 7, it stretches 379m (415y) from the black tees and 325m (355y) from the reds.

There’s no major trouble off the tee — no water, no tree lines — so you can focus purely on getting your swing in rhythm. But don’t be fooled by its clean look. The subtle undulations in the fairway can throw off your approach if you’re not dialled in, making placement just as important as power.

It’s a hole that rewards the confident but also suits the strategic player. While it might not have the visual drama of some later holes, it quietly demands your attention and sets the tone for the challenges to come. A clever opener that engages both the body and the brain right from the first swing.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 2 – Par 3

Index: 10

Lengths: Black: 155 metres, Blue: 146 metres, White: 121 metres, Red: 94 metres

Ah, Hole 2, a tidy Par 3 that might seem like a breather at first glance but don’t let its serene facade fool you. With a stroke index of 10, it’s more of a crafty test than a brute. The tee shot from the black markers stretches to 155 metres (170 yards), stepping down to 146 metres (160 yards) from the blue, a more manageable 121 metres (132 yards) from the white, and a gentle 94 metres (103 yards) from the red. What makes this hole particularly engaging is the absence of the usual suspects; no bunkers lying in wait or water hazards to ruin your day. Instead, it’s all about precision and choosing the right club to land on the green in one. It’s the kind of hole where you puff out your chest and aim to stick it close, hopefully walking off with a birdie to brag about as you saunter to the next tee.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 3 – Par 4

Index: 13

Lengths: Black: 342 metres, Blue: 304 metres, White: 294 metres, Red: 268 metres

Ah, Hole 3, a par 4 that might seem a bit tame with its stroke index of 13, but don’t let that fool you into complacency. Stretching 342 metres (374 yards) from the black tees and stepping down to 304 metres (332 yards) from the blues, 294 metres (321 yards) from the whites, and a more forgiving 268 metres (293 yards) from the reds, it’s the lay of the land here that’ll test your decision-making. There’s no standout trickery like cavernous bunkers or winding water hazards, just a straightforward challenge where positioning off the tee is key. A well-placed drive towards the generous fairway can set up a solid approach, but overshoot your mark, and you’ll find yourself wrestling with tougher angles. It’s a hole where ambition meets reality—aim smart and your scorecard will thank you. Perfect for a bit of strategic play without the theatrics.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 4 – Par 5

Index: 5

Lengths: Black: 500 metres, Blue: 485 metres, White: 480 metres, Red: 432 metres

Ah, Hole 4, the true test of your long game and strategic nous. Stretching a hearty 500m (547y) from the black tees, and scaling down to 432m (472y) from the red, this Par 5 isn’t just about power; it’s about placement. With a Stroke Index of 5, don’t be fooled into thinking this is a walk in the park. The fairway here is generous, but it’s the approach that’ll have you second-guessing your club selection. No significant hazards to speak of, but the subtle undulations and the strategic bunker placements around the green can catch out even the seasoned golfer. It’s a hole where eagles are rare and pars feel like hard-earned victories. So, choose your weapons wisely, keep your wits about you, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll come out on top.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 5 – Par 4

Index: 14

Lengths: Black: 393 metres, Blue: 363 metres, White: 320 metres, Red: 312 metres

Ah, Hole 5, mate, a sneaky little par 4 that might look benign but packs a bit of a punch. Stretching out at 393 metres (430 yards) from the black tees, it shortens up a tad to 363 metres (397 yards) on the blue, 320 metres (350 yards) on the white, and an approachable 312 metres (341 yards) from the red. With a stroke index of 14, it’s not the toughest on the card, but don’t let that fool you into complacency. The key here is all in the tee shot; place it well, and you’re set up for a solid approach. But fluff that drive, and you’ll be scrambling to save par. No notable bunkers or watery graves here, just good, honest golf where strategy and precision pay off more than brute strength. Ideal for a bit of a breather hole, it lets you gather your wits before the challenges ahead.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 6 – Par 3

Index: 16

Lengths: Black: 156 metres, Blue: 148 metres, White: 136 metres, Red: 115 metres

Ah, Hole 6, a cheeky little Par 3 that might lull you into a false sense of security with its stroke index of 16, suggesting an easier jaunt on the course. Stretching out at 156 metres (171 yards) from the black tee, it scales down to 148 metres (162 yards) from the blue, 136 metres (149 yards) from the white, and a more approachable 115 metres (126 yards) from the red. Don’t let the lack of dramatic features fool you; the real challenge here lies in mastering the subtleties of the green. Without the distraction of bunkers or water hazards, your focus shifts entirely to precision and the art of the approach. It’s a straightforward test of your short game. Nail the tee shot, and you’re setting yourself up for a satisfying par, or even better, a birdie. Miss it, and you’re scratching your head wondering how such a simple hole could complicate your scorecard. A breather, yes, but underestimate it at your peril!

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 7 – Par 4

Index: 15

Lengths: Black: 367 metres, Blue: 347 metres, White: 324 metres, Red: 298 metres

Ah, Hole 7, a delightful par 4 that’s more a breather than a brute, sporting a stroke index of 15. Whether you’re teeing off from the black markers at 367 meters (401 yards), blue at 347 meters (379 yards), white at 324 meters (354 yards), or the reds at 298 meters (326 yards), this hole offers a straightforward challenge without the frills. There aren’t any points of interest to distract you here, just a clean, open fairway begging for a solid drive. The key is all in the approach — straightforward enough to give you a shot at birdie, but don’t get too cosy; overconfidence here can easily turn par into bogey. It’s the perfect hole to recalibrate and maybe pick up a stroke as you head into the tougher challenges that lie ahead.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 8 – Par 5

Index: 4

Lengths: Black: 535 metres, Blue: 510 metres, White: 482 metres, Red: 451 metres

Ah, Hole 8 is a real test of your mettle and strategy, stretching a lengthy 535m (585y) from the black tees, scaling down to 451m (493y) from the reds. As a Par 5 with a Stroke Index of 4, it doesn’t mess around. The challenge here isn’t about dodging the scenic distractions—because frankly, there aren’t any—but rather mastering the art of placement and power. The fairway is a straight run, but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a simple smash and grab for the green. Strategic players will respect the subtle undulations and the cleverly placed bunkers waiting to punish the overly ambitious. It’s a hole where patience pays and the bold are often left ruing their bravado. Get the balance right, and you’ll walk off feeling like a champ, but tip the scales, and it’s a long walk back to the clubhouse.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 9 – Par 4

Index: 11

Lengths: Black: 364 metres, Blue: 356 metres, White: 330 metres, Red: 310 metres

Ah, Hole 9, the perfect mix of challenge and chance, wrapping up the front nine with a par 4 that’s as cunning as it is captivating. Measuring up at 364 metres (398 yards) from the black tees, and slightly less daunting from the blue at 356 metres (389 yards), white at 330 metres (361 yards), and red at 310 metres (339 yards), this hole doesn’t sport the usual distractions of bunkers or water hazards. Instead, it plays its tricks with a thoughtful layout requiring a strategic approach. The stroke index of 11 might suggest a bit of a breather, but don’t let your guard down too soon. Precision off the tee is key to setting up a clear shot at the green, which, undulating subtly, can make or break your scorecard as you make the turn. So, choose your clubs wisely and aim with care; this hole is more about brains than brawn.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 10 – Par 4

Index: 9

Lengths: Black: 389 metres, Blue: 370 metres, White: 343 metres, Red: 317 metres

Ah, Hole 10, a cheeky Par 4 that teases with its strategic play. Stretching out at 389m (426y) from the black tees, down to a more manageable 317m (347y) from the reds, it’s where the back nine begins to bare its teeth, ranked a solid 9 on the stroke index. Deceptively straightforward, this hole offers no extraordinary quirks or dramatic vistas, yet its challenge lies in mastering the basics. With a fairway that rewards precision over power, your tee shot calls for finesse — play it too bold and you’ll find yourself flirting with tougher angles on your approach. While it may not boast the dramatic flair of other holes, its subtle complexity requires a golfer to really dial in their distances and execute with sharp accuracy. A well-earned par here feels like a quiet victory as you set the tone for the tougher tests to follow.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 11 – Par 3

Index: 12

Lengths: Black: 169 metres, Blue: 161 metres, White: 142 metres, Red: 125 metres

Ah, Hole 11, a tidy par 3 that might look like a breather but plays with the subtlety of a sly wink. Stretching from 169m (185y) on the Black tee down to a more approachable 125m (137y) on the Red, it offers a straightforward test with a stroke index of 12, hinting that it’s not quite as docile as it appears. The true challenge lies in mastering the tee shot; this is where precision earns its keep. Without the usual distractions of bunkers or water hazards, it’s all about picking the right club and embracing the wind’s whims. A solid strike can set up a birdie chance, but any lapse in concentration can just as easily balloon the score. Ideal for those who fancy themselves sharpshooters on the greens, Hole 11 ensures the round stays lively as you head into the back nine.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 12 – Par 5

Index: 17

Lengths: Black: 517 metres, Blue: 486 metres, White: 477 metres, Red: 455 metres

Ah, Hole 12, a sneaky challenge wrapped in a par 5’s clothing. Stretching out to a respectable 517 metres (566 yards) from the black tees, this hole is more about strategy than sheer strength. At a stroke index of 17, it might seem like an easy stroll through the park, but don’t let that fool you. The layout demands a well-thought tee shot, with a choice to play safe or go big, depending on how your round’s shaping up. From the blue tees, you’re looking at 486 metres (531 yards), white at 477 metres (522 yards), and the reds offer a slight reprieve at 455 metres (498 yards). With no major landmarks or tricky water hazards to wrestle with, your attention here is purely on mastering the distance and keeping your ball on the straight and narrow. Perfect for a bit of a breather, yet it keeps you on your toes — just the way a mid-round hole should.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 13 – Par 4

Index: 2

Lengths: Black: 405 metres, Blue: 383 metres, White: 376 metres, Red: 337 metres

Ah, Hole 13, mate — she’s a tricky one. With a par of 4 and a stroke index of 2, this hole isn’t just a walk in the park. Stretching out to 405 metres (443 yards) from the black tees, and a slightly more forgiving 383 metres (419 yards) from the blue, it’s a test of both precision and power. The white tees offer a tad less challenge at 376 metres (411 yards), and the reds are a nice touch at 337 metres (368 yards) for those wanting a bit less stretch in their swing. While the hole might seem straightforward, lacking any dramatic points of interest like pesky water hazards or cunningly placed bunkers, don’t be fooled. The true challenge lies in mastering the subtle undulations of the fairway and the sly placement of the green, which can make or break your score here. This hole doesn’t hand out birdies easily, and pars feel like hard-earned victories. So, when you’re standing on the tee, club in hand, remember — strategy is king on this deceptive brute.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 14 – Par 4

Index: 6

Lengths: Black: 364 metres, Blue: 356 metres, White: 327 metres, Red: 296 metres

Hole 14 at our course is a sly test of precision and nerve. Sitting at a par four, it measures up at 364 metres (398 yards) from the black tees, down to a more forgiving 296 metres (324 yards) from the reds. Don’t let the lack of eye-catching landmarks fool you; this hole is ranked a tricky stroke index of 6 for good reason. The fairway might look welcoming, but it’s the subtly undulating greens that can make or break your score here. The challenge is all about placement and picking the right club. Overclub and you’re wrestling with a tricky downhill putt, underclub and you’re chipping uphill. It’s a perfect blend of risk and reward where keeping your wits about you could make all the difference. This hole isn’t just a walk in the park—it’s a tightrope walk without a net!

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 15 – Par 4

Index: 18

Lengths: Black: 315 metres, Blue: 308 metres, White: 284 metres, Red: 273 metres

Ah, Hole 15, the breather before the storm. Rated the easiest on the card with a stroke index of 18, this par 4 doesn’t pack many surprises but keeps you honest. Measuring up at 315 metres (344 yards) from the black tees, down to a more manageable 273 metres (299 yards) from the reds, it’s a straightforward dash to the green. No intimidating bunkers swallowing your balls or wicked water hazards to make your knees knock. It’s all about the tee shot here; nail that, and you’re setting up for a stress-free birdie or a solid par. Ideal for regaining your rhythm or for a bit of show-off before you tackle the tougher closing holes. Just don’t get too cocky — even the simplest holes can humble a golfer who gets ahead of themselves!

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 16 – Par 5

Index: 3

Lengths: Black: 523 metres, Blue: 513 metres, White: 491 metres, Red: 466 metres

Ah, Hole 16 – she’s a lengthy Par 5, stretching a solid 523m (572y) from the black tees, with the blue at 513m (561y), white at 491m (537y), and red at a slightly less daunting 466m (510y). As the third hardest on the card, this one’s no walk in the park, mates. The challenge here isn’t about dodging the usual suspects like bunkers or water hazards; rather, it’s all about mastering the art of placement and approach. The fairway is generous, but don’t let that fool you into complacency. The real test is reaching in two for those big hitters, or strategically planning your shots to make par. With no major landmarks to distract, it’s a pure test of skill and strategy, making each shot a critical part of the narrative you’ll write for your round. So, lace up, focus up, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll conquer this beast with a smile.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 17 – Par 3

Index: 3

Lengths: Black: 202 metres, Blue: 192 metres, White: 155 metres, Red: 135 metres

Ah, Hole 17, the penultimate challenge in our round—a par 3 that’s no gentle stroll in the park. Stretching out to a daunting 202 metres (221 yards) from the black tees, it scales down to 192 metres (210 yards) from the blues, 155 metres (170 yards) from the whites, and a somewhat friendlier 135 metres (148 yards) from the reds. Don’t let the lack of scenic distractions fool you; this hole is a true test of your mettle, boasting a stroke index of 3. It’s all about precision and the nerve to commit to your club choice. Underclub, and you’re short, flirting with whatever trouble guards the green, which, by the way, can be quite unforgiving with its subtle breaks. Overdo it, and you’re chipping back towards the pin, hoping to save par. It’s a hole where heroes are made, and scores are tested—make sure your swing thoughts are clear, and your execution is spot on.

Sanctuary Lakes Resort Hole 18 – Par 4

Index: 8

Lengths: Black: 414 metres, Blue: 386 metres, White: 346 metres, Red: 304 metres

Wrapping up the round on the 18th, a par 4 with a stroke index of 8, this hole offers a classic test of skill and strategy. Starting from the black tee at 414 metres (453 yards), the hole gradually shortens across the blue at 386 metres (422 yards), the white at 346 metres (378 yards), and finally the red at 304 metres (332 yards). There’s no flashy water hazards or cunning doglegs here, just a straightforward challenge that requires a solid tee shot followed by a precise approach. The fairway is generous, but don’t let it lull you into a false sense of security—the real test is judging the distance and navigating the subtle contours of the green. It’s the kind of hole that might seem like a gentle handshake to wrap up the game, but take it lightly at your peril. This hole has seen more hopes dashed than an underdog in a grand final, making it a fitting finale to a day on the links.