Thirteenth Beach Golf Links Overview

Down on the coast in Barwon Heads — only about an hour from Melbourne — the Beach Course at Thirteenth Beach Golf Links dishes up 18 holes of pure golfing joy. With a quartet of tee options (White, Yellow, Blue, Red), this course is not just a walk in the park!

From the get-go, the Beach Course serves up a variety of challenges that’ll keep you on your toes. Fancy starting with a breezy 317m (347 yards) Par 4? That’s Hole 1 for you — seemingly straightforward but don’t be fooled; it’s just the warm-up. As you move on, each hole, whether it’s the long par 5s, the snug par 4s, or the tricky par 3s, adds a new layer to your game.

For instance, Hole 2 stretches a decent 387m (423 yards) and demands a sharp strategy over mere muscle. Meanwhile, Hole 3, a cheeky Par 3 spanning 180m (197 yards), requires nothing short of surgical precision.
The layout is a clever concoction of natural beauty and man-made challenges. Expect to navigate undulating fairways, dodge water hazards, and thread your ball through tree-lined avenues. And let’s not forget the doglegs that might have you bending more than a banana on a sunny arvo!

But what really sets the Beach Course apart is its knack for blending the scenic with the strategic. Every hole is a postcard-perfect picture begging for a birdie. The design leans on elevation changes to keep the views interesting and your shot choices thoughtful.

Whether you’re a seasoned swinger or a keen newbie, Thirteenth Beach’s Beach Course offers a fair crack at the whip for all. So, if you’re up for a round that’s as rewarding as it is demanding, swing by, soak in the coastal views, and maybe — just maybe — play the best golf of your life. Just don’t forget to save a yarn or two for the 19th hole.

Location: Barwon Heads Road, Barwon Heads, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.13thbeach.net/

Phone: (03) 5254 2922

Tee Boxes

Hole by Hole Breakdown

Beach Course Hole 1 – Par 4

Index: 14

Lengths: White: 317 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 317 metres, Red: 0 metres

Kicking off the round, Hole 1 at our course is a straightforward Par 4, stretching out to 317 meters (347 yards) from both the White and Blue tees. A bit of a breather to start, it’s ranked 14th on the stroke index, giving you a nice warm-up before the real challenges ahead. The layout here is clean and simple with no major frills—no bunkers to ruin your day early or water to send your ball swimming. It’s all about keeping your tee shot honest and setting yourself up for a smooth approach. This hole might not have the dramatic flair of others, but it’s a solid test of your basic golfing chops. Nail your drive, and you’re off to a promising start, but don’t let the apparent simplicity lull you into complacency—precision still pays.

Beach Course Hole 2 – Par 4

Index: 10

Lengths: White: 387 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 377 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 2 at our beloved course is a sly beast masquerading as a breather. A par 4 with a stroke index of 10, it might not look like much on the card, but don’t let that fool you. From the white tees, it stretches out to a respectable 387 metres (423 yards), while the blue markers bring it slightly closer at 377 metres (412 yards). There’s no flashy water hazard or ominous forest to wrestle with here, but navigating this hole is all about precision and strategy. The fairway generously beckons, yet positioning is key to setting up a clear shot at the green, free from subtle undulations that could turn a simple approach into a tricky putt saga. It’s one of those holes where a bit of local knowledge and a conservative game plan can make all the difference between a satisfying par and a frustrating bogey. Play it smart, and you’ll walk away with your pride intact!

Beach Course Hole 3 – Par 3

Index: 12

Lengths: White: 180 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 164 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 3, a cheeky Par 3 where precision is the name of the game. Stretching out to a tidy 180 metres (197 yards) from the white tees and a slightly shorter 164 metres (179 yards) from the blues, this one’s all about the tee shot. Don’t let the stroke index of 12 fool you; it might suggest a breather, but the challenge here is all in the approach. With no significant distractions like bunkers or water hazards, it’s a straightforward test of your ability to land on the green and stick it close. Ideal for those looking to claw back a stroke or simply hold steady, Hole 3 offers a pure golfing experience—just you, the club, and the green. So, take a deep breath, pick your club wisely, and let it fly. This hole might not have the bells and whistles, but it demands respect and a sharp aim.

Beach Course Hole 4 – Par 5

Index: 8

Lengths: White: 462 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 462 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 4, a solid par 5 stretching a healthy 462 metres (505 yards) from both the white and blue tees. Don’t let the absence of a yellow or red tee fool you—this isn’t a hole to underestimate. With a stroke index of 8, it offers a fair challenge without too many tricks up its sleeve. The terrain here is straightforward, focusing purely on the golfer’s ability to manage their shots and keep a steady pace. The strategy on this hole is all about placement and power. A good drive off the tee sets the tone, but it’s the approach that will test your mettle, especially with the green tantalizingly reachable in two for the long hitters. It’s a hole that rewards the bold but doesn’t punish the cautious too harshly. Perfect for a bit of competitive banter among mates, without any major pitfalls to ruin the fun.

Beach Course Hole 5 – Par 4

Index: 16

Lengths: White: 312 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 312 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 5, a breezy Par 4 stretching a neat 312 metres (341 yards) from both the White and Blue tees. With a stroke index of 16, it’s one of those holes where you feel you might just regain your stride—if your drive behaves, that is. It’s straightforward enough, lacking the dramatics of bunkers or water hazards, but don’t let its apparent simplicity fool you. The real game here is about placement and precision off the tee. Nail that, and you’re setting yourself up for a sweet approach and a genuine shot at birdie. It’s a hole that doesn’t wear you out but keeps you on your toes, perfect for finding a bit of rhythm as you head into the meatier challenges that lie ahead. So, take a breath, pick your line, and let it fly. This hole might just be the breather you need before the storm.

Beach Course Hole 6 – Par 5

Index: 4

Lengths: White: 531 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 511 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 6, mates, a true test of your long game and strategic chops. Stretching out to 531 metres (581 yards) from the white tees and 511 metres (559 yards) from the blues, this par 5 doesn’t mess about. With a stroke index of 4, it’s one of the tougher nuts to crack on the course. The lack of notable landmarks like bunkers or water hazards means it’s all down to sheer skill and handling the subtle undulations that can trip you up if you’re not paying attention. The fairway is a broad canvas, inviting yet deceptive, encouraging you to unleash some power but reminding you to keep it smart to set up for a solid approach. Perfect for those who fancy themselves a bit of a tactician on the greens.

Beach Course Hole 7 – Par 3

Index: 18

Lengths: White: 165 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 155 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 7, a tidy little Par 3 that’s as straightforward as a putt down the hallway. Stretching 165 metres (180 yards) from the white tees and a slightly more forgiving 155 metres (170 yards) from the blue, this hole is often seen as a gentle breather on the scorecard, being the 18th in stroke index. There’s no flashy water hazards or sneaky bunkers to ruin your day here. It’s all about picking the right club, taking a deep breath, and trusting your swing. The green is inviting, with just enough contour to keep you honest. Perfect for a bit of a banter with your mates about who’s buying the next round if you don’t par it. So, line up, take aim, and let it fly—Hole 7 might just be the confidence booster needed before the tougher challenges ahead.

Beach Course Hole 8 – Par 4

Index: 6

Lengths: White: 420 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 402 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 8, a true test of skill and strategy! Stretching out at 420 metres (459 yards) from the white tees and 402 metres (440 yards) from the blue, this par 4 is no walk in the park, earning its stroke index of 6. While it might not boast dramatic points of interest like sprawling water hazards or cunningly placed bunkers, the challenge here lies in its unassuming demands. A straight drive is crucial, as the fairway offers little forgiveness for those who stray. The approach shot, too, is a thinker—requiring precision to land on a green that’s more elusive than it appears. It’s the kind of hole where par feels like a minor victory and a birdie a cause for celebration. So, gather your wits and your best clubs—Hole 8 awaits to test your mettle and your swing.

Beach Course Hole 9 – Par 4

Index: 2

Lengths: White: 418 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 406 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 9, a true test of mettle and strategy, clocking in at a sturdy 418m (457y) from the whites and a slightly more forgiving 406m (444y) from the blues. Don’t let the lack of listed features fool you; its challenge is subtly woven into the fabric of the layout. Ranked with a stroke index of 2, this par-4 is no stroll in the park. The fairway might appear welcoming at first glance, but it demands precision off the tee, urging players to choose their clubs wisely lest they find themselves grappling for par. The green, well-guarded and subtly contoured, adds that final twist to the tale. A hole where par feels like a birdie, and a birdie feels like a triumph. Make no mistake, conquering this beast offers bragging rights well into the clubhouse banter.

Beach Course Hole 10 – Par 4

Index: 5

Lengths: White: 376 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 356 metres, Red: 0 metres

Hole 10, a challenging par 4, stretches out to 376 metres (411 yards) from the white tees and pulls back slightly to 356 metres (389 yards) from the blues. It’s ranked a solid stroke index 5, telling you it’s no walk in the park. While this hole might not boast dramatic features like sprawling water hazards or treacherous bunkers, its difficulty lies in the subtleties of its layout. The fairway demands precision off the tee, with enough undulation to make your approach shot a test of both nerve and skill. As you step up to the tee, the game here is all about strategy and position. Nail that, and you might just walk off with a satisfying par, but any lapse in concentration can quickly turn this hole into a real battle. So, grip it and rip it, but remember—respect is the name of the game on this one.

Beach Course Hole 11 – Par 5

Index: 3

Lengths: White: 491 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 478 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 11, a true test of skill and strategy! Stretching out at 491 metres (537 yards) from the white tees and a slightly more forgiving 478 metres (523 yards) from the blues, this Par 5 is ranked a tough Stroke Index 3 for good reason. It’s a hole where the bold can be rewarded, but caution is never a bad play. The layout demands a strategic approach right from the tee shot, encouraging players to think several shots ahead. What makes this hole particularly challenging is not just its length but also the well-placed hazards that call for precision over power. There are no standout landmarks here, just the pure challenge of the game amidst rolling terrains that test your every shot. For those looking to make a move on the back nine, conquering this beast could be the turning point in your round. Keep your wits about you, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll tame this beast.

Beach Course Hole 12 – Par 3

Index: 15

Lengths: White: 156 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 148 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 12, a tidy Par 3 that might seem like a brief interlude at just 156m (171y) from the white tees and a slightly friendlier 148m (162y) from the blue. Don’t let the Stroke Index of 15 lull you into complacency—this hole can be a sly test of precision. With no major landmarks or hazards screaming for attention, the real challenge lies in mastering the subtle contours of the green. It’s all about the tee shot here; place it well and you could be in for a birdie, misjudge the wind or the bounce, and you’ll find yourself working harder than you’d expect to save par. A true sleeper hit of the course, where the smart play pays off and the reckless might rue their haste. Perfect for a bit of strategic play and a good natter about the subtleties of the game.

Beach Course Hole 13 – Par 4

Index: 7

Lengths: White: 321 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 311 metres, Red: 0 metres

Hole 13, a par 4 with a stroke index of 7, clocks in at 321 meters (351 yards) from the white tees and a slightly friendlier 311 meters (340 yards) from the blue. Don’t let the absence of trees or water fool you—this hole packs a subtle punch. The fairway plays like a gentle whisper, coaxing you into a sense of security before you realize the true test is approaching the green. The approach is all about placement; misjudge your swing, and you’ll find yourself grappling with recovery shots that could see your score balloon quicker than a snag on the barbie. It’s no beast, but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a walk in the park either. Strategic play is the go here, mate, making it a sneaky challenge that keeps even the seasoned golfers on their toes.

Beach Course Hole 14 – Par 5

Index: 11

Lengths: White: 514 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 514 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 14, a par 5 that stretches out to a solid 514 metres (562 yards) from both the white and blue tees, proving it doesn’t play favourites. Now, don’t let the stroke index of 11 fool you into thinking this is a stroll in the park. It’s a straightforward beast that requires a bit of noggin to play it right. Without any flashy points of interest like bunkers or water hazards, Hole 14 offers a purist’s challenge: just you, the fairway, and your strategy. It’s all about placement and power, the kind of hole where a well-thought-out series of shots can set up an eagle opportunity, but a lapse in focus can just as easily turn par into a hard-earned achievement. A true test of endurance and precision as you start to feel the round in your legs and back. Keep it smooth, and this hole can be a breather before the final stretch.

Beach Course Hole 15 – Par 4

Index: 13

Lengths: White: 358 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 348 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, Hole 15, a cheeky Par 4 that often feels like a breather amid the challenge, measuring a comfortable 358 metres (392 yards) from the white tees and 348 metres (381 yards) from the blue. With a Stroke Index of 13, it’s not the toughest nut to crack at the club, but don’t let your guard down just yet. The straightforward layout invites a bit of strategic play; however, it’s all about placement and pacing. There’s no dramatic scenery or tricky obstacles to wrestle with, just pure, unadulterated golf. It’s the kind of hole where you’ll want to tidy up your game and maybe recover some strokes, especially if the rest of the round has been giving you a bit of stick. A solid tee shot here sets the tone for a strong finish, so take a deep breath and let it fly.

Beach Course Hole 16 – Par 3

Index: 17

Lengths: White: 114 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 105 metres, Red: 0 metres

Ah, the sixteenth! A cheeky little par 3, the shortest hole on our course, stretching just 114m (125y) from the white tees and a nifty 105m (115y) from the blue. There’s no yellow or red tee business here, keeping things straightforward. With a stroke index of 17, it’s a breather on the card but don’t let its modest length fool you — precision is the name of the game. The absence of notable landmarks or pesky hazards means it’s all down to you and the club selection. It’s a prime spot for those looking to claw back a stroke or simply enjoy an uncluttered tee shot with mates. So, take a deep breath, choose your iron wisely, and maybe you’ll be the one buying the round of drinks back at the clubhouse.

Beach Course Hole 17 – Par 4

Index: 1

Lengths: White: 394 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 381 metres, Red: 0 metres

Hole 17 at our course is where you’ll really need to bring your A-game. As the toughest on the card with a stroke index of 1, this par-4 stretches out to 394 metres (431 yards) from the white tees and 381 metres (417 yards) from the blue. There’s no room for a breather here; every shot counts. The fairway is a chessboard minus the mercy, demanding strategic play and precision to avoid the strategically placed hazards that aren’t immediately obvious but become painfully apparent as you progress. The approach to the green is no less daunting, requiring a well-thought-out shot to land safely and avoid a scorecard disaster. Make no mistake, this hole could be the decider in your round, testing both your skill and mental fortitude. So, keep your cool, plan each swing, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll come out on top.

Beach Course Hole 18 – Par 4

Index: 9

Lengths: White: 410 metres, Yellow: 0 metres, Blue: 392 metres, Red: 0 metres

As you step up to the final tee on Hole 18, you’re facing a solid challenge with a par 4 stretching 410m (449y) from the white and 392m (429y) from the blue. The stroke index of 9 means it’s not the hardest on the course but don’t let that fool you into complacency. With strategic play in mind, the fairway demands precision from the tee shot; veer too far off the path, and your scorecard might just feel the pinch. While the hole lacks standout natural obstacles like water or dense woodland, its subtle contours and the clever placement of bunkers can catch even the seasoned golfer off guard. It’s a fitting finale that requires both nerve and finesse, rewarding those who’ve kept their cool and punishing the overly ambitious. So choose your shots wisely and maybe, just maybe, you’ll finish strong and earn bragging rights back at the clubhouse.

Course Stats Summary

• Holes: 18
• Total Par: 72
• Longest Hole: 531 metres
• Shortest Hole: 114 metres