South Africa’s Golf Coast is situated in the glorious sub-tropical province of KwaZulu-Natal in a region called the KZN South Coast. The Golf Coast has 11 golf courses in convenient proximity, over a stretch of about 120km – making it ideal for a golf road trip.
Most start at Umkomaas, which is world-renowned for diving at Aliwal Shoal, and work their way down to the Wild Coast Sun Hotel, home to the longest water slides in South Africa. Where you stop along the way is up to you, but there are many great options.
Driving north to south, the Golf Coast consists of Umkomaas Golf Club, Scottburgh Golf Club, Selborne Park Golf Estate, Umdoni Park Golf Club, Port Shepstone Country Club, Harding Country Club, Margate Country Club, Southbroom Golf Club, San Lameer Golf Course, Port Edward Country Club, ending with the Wild Coast Sun Country Club.
The road trip can be customised. If you have 11 days, play a course each day or stretch it out to include some of this beautiful region’s many attractions and activities, including seven Blue Flag beaches. If you have less time, simply play your favourite courses.
Due to the short distance between courses, staying at three courses or the surrounding accommodation on the way can easily be done. The KZN South Coast region has a wide range of accommodation to suit all needs. Some of the best options are Selborne Park Golf Estate to cover the northerly golf courses, Umthunzi Hotel & Conference or Pumula Beach Hotel near the Port Shepstone and Oribi Gorge area. Both are highly recommended scenic area and offer numerous eco-adventures. The southerly golf courses are easily covered by staying at a luxurious San Lameer Villa.
Take a direct flight to Durban on British Airways. Hire a car at King Shaka International Airport to reach the Golf Coast 45 minutes south of Durban. Golf courses are easily accessible using the N2 Port Shepstone highway from Durban, becoming the R61. The drive is scenic with rolling green hills, rural scenery and ocean views. Harding is the only golf course not en route, but is easily accessible from Port Shepstone. Here is a breakdown of the courses:
Umkomaas Golf Club
Home to one of South Africa’s leading pro golfers, Tim Clark, this course offers forests of lovely indigenous trees and a host of challenging bunkers. The par 4 third hole is reputedly the most exciting stroke in KwaZulu-Natal.
www.umkomaasgolf.wixsite.com/umkomaasgolf
Scottburgh Golf Club
From the narrow fairway on the par-4 third hole to the last drive from the par 4 18th over the trees on a wing and a prayer, this coastal semi-links course is a super start to your golfing meander down the coast.
www.scottburghgolf.co.za
Selborne Park Gold Estate
Designed by Denis Barker, the superlative Selborne Golf estate boasts a world-class parkland course that is ever-challenging with a resident pro at hand to offer advice. Considered Grand Dame of the South Coast’s championship courses.
Umdoni Country Club
Voted one of the most fun courses in South Africa, historic Umdoni is part of the Umdoni Park Trust, nestling between coast and country and offering guided environmental walks.
Port Shepstone Country Club
Dating back to 1912, the pristine riverside Port Shepstone Country Club is a regular host to championship events. The par 72 course attracts spectacular bird life. www.pscc.co.za
Harding Country Club
Relax playing 18 holes on this 9-hole course, with six water hazards to contend with and super friendly locals. willeydg@gmail.com
Margate Country Club
Margate Country Club prides itself on its friendliness, while featuring five par 3s that are highly regarded with the 11th signature hole requiring an accurate tee-shot over a picturesque ravine.
Southbroom Country Club
Appealing to discerning golfers, scenic Southbroom Country Club is a classic.
San Lameer Country Club
The first golfing estate developed in South Africa, San Lameer is situated within a magnificent nature reserve. The 18-hole championship course weaves though a wetland forest and is proud host of the SA Women’s Open.
Port Edward Country Club
Port Edward Country Club boasts a sea view from every tee box, of which there are 18 on the 9-hole course. This undulating course is an enduring challenge and the 19th is famous.
pecc@webafrica.org.za
Wild Coast Country Club
Part of the Wild Coast Sun Hotel and Casino and situated alongside the mighty Umtamvuna River is one of South Africa’s best courses. A daunting, but picturesque championship course, every green has its own challenge amid unspoilt coastal vegetation. www.wildcoastsun.co.za