WHETHER you choose the Hunter Valley, Newcastle or Port Stephens you will have hit on a region rich in golfing treasures. Each region can boast numerous top-quality golf courses and venues and over the next few pages we feature a selection of the finest in these areas.

For golfers who are easily distracted, there are magnificent beaches and wineries and mountains further inland.

There’s plenty to see and do, so take your time to explore and make sure you acquaint yourself with the locals, who are always friendly and go out of their way to make your golfing holiday worthwhile. There’s also a wide selection of comfortable accommodation.

The entire region really is a one-stop golfing playground.

So, what are you waiting for; isn’t it time to get acquainted, or re-acquainted, with some terrific layouts in New South Wales?

Hawks Nest Golf Club

SET amongst the natural beauty of the NSW Mid North Coast, Hawks Nest Golf Club has long been regarded as one of the region’s standout golfing destinations. 

With a beautifully presented championship course, a welcoming club atmosphere and a calendar of events that attracts players from across the country, it’s easy to see why so many golfers return year after year.

The 18-hole championship course is renowned for its year round conditioning, outstanding greens and picturesque surrounds. Designed to challenge experienced golfers while remaining enjoyable for players of all abilities, every round offers something memorable.

According to Club General Manager Peter Davies, the tournament calendar is a standout feature of the club, headlined by The Sanderling Pro-Am, a two time winner of the Golf Industry Awards Tournament of the Year in 2023 and 2025. The event has helped cement Hawks Nest’s reputation as one of Australia’s premier PGA Pro-Am destinations. 

From elite professional competition to iconic amateur events such as the Ladies Classic, Myall Classic and Vets Week of Golf, there’s something on the calendar for every golfer.

The experience extends well beyond the course. Sando’s Café & Restaurant overlooks the fairways, while nearby accommodation, stunning beaches and easy access to Pacific Dunes Golf Club and Nelson Bay Golf Club, make Hawks Nest an ideal base for a golfing getaway. Stay and Play packages, courtesy bus services and a fleet of 40 motorised golf carts ensure everything is in place for groups of all sizes.

Whether visiting for a weekend with friends, a corporate golf day or one of the club’s signature tournaments, Hawks Nest Golf Club offers the perfect combination of championship golf, genuine hospitality and a spectacular coastal setting.

MORE INFORMATION:
Hawks Nest Golf Club
1 Sanderling Ave, Hawks Nest NSW 2324
Phone: (02) 4997 0145
Pro shop: (02) 4997 0740
reception@hawksnestgolfclub.com.au
www.hawksnestgolfclub.com.au

LOVEDALE FARM

A new destination for Hunter Valley golf

Sydney studio H&E Architects, behind Esteban Restaurant & Bar, Chiswick and Barangaroo House, brings its signature hospitality-led design approach to the Hunter Valley.

Lovedale Farm has appointed H&E Architects to design the clubhouse and wellness centre at the Hunter Valley’s residential and golf community.

The 1,200-square-metre clubhouse will form the heart of the 240-hectare development, anchoring the championship golf course and setting the tone for life at Lovedale Farm. Facilities will include a reception lounge, pro shop, restaurant and bar, members’ lounge, change rooms and event spaces for weddings, meetings and conferences.

Rather than creating a traditional country club, H&E Architects has been tasked with delivering a contemporary destination suited to a morning coffee, post-round drink or long lunch overlooking the 18th hole.

The architecture draws inspiration from the site’s history as a former dairy farm. Low, horizontal lines settle into the landscape, while a floating roof has been designed to complement the finishing hole. Timber, natural materials and a refined palette will connect the building to the fairways, bushland and rural character.

Inside, the design will take cues from high-end hospitality, with elevated finishes and considered spaces encouraging members, residents and guests to linger.

H&E Architects director Christopher Grinham said the aim was to create a clubhouse that responds to its setting rather than imposing upon it.

“There was also a personal pull to this project for me,” Grinham said. “I’ve loved golf since I was a young boy, so the opportunity to design a clubhouse on a championship course in the Hunter Valley was one I was always going to be drawn to.”

Capital Corporation managing director Jim Hunter said the appointment was a statement of intent, with the clubhouse expected to become a landmark for the Hunter Valley.

The wellness centre will sit alongside the clubhouse within a community where more than half the site will remain fairways, bushland and walking trails.

Home and land packages at Lovedale Farm start from $1.179 million. The display home is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm, at 1184 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale.

MORE INFORMATION:
Lovedale Farm
lovedalefarm.com.au

Nelson Bay Golf Club

Nelson Bay Golf Club has quietly been reshaping what golfers can expect from a course on the Port Stephens coast.

The 27-hole championship layout, set between native bushland and sweeping bay views, has long been known for its relaxed atmosphere, abundant wildlife and enjoyable mix of holes. Three interchangeable nine-hole courses provide variety for members and visitors alike, with each round offering a different experience and ensuring golfers always have something new to enjoy.

However, the focus has shifted just as strongly towards something less visible, but equally important to regular golfers – year-round playability.

A series of drainage upgrades and course infrastructure improvements has significantly improved how the course handles wet weather, allowing it to recover faster after heavy rain and stay open more consistently when conditions elsewhere might force closures.

It’s a shift that’s been particularly important with golf available seven days a week. Adding to that accessibility is the club’s brand-new fleet of 55 golf carts, improving comfort and flow across the 27 holes. It’s an upgrade that makes the course even more appealing, particularly during the warmer months when coastal conditions can be demanding.

Nelson Bay features tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers and well-maintained greens, while the natural bushland setting and glimpses of Port Stephens create a memorable backdrop. It’s a course that offers both challenge and enjoyment, whether chasing a personal best or simply spending a day on the fairways with friends.

“We’ve put a strong focus on making sure the course is not only enjoyable, but reliable,” says General Manager David Lulham. “If golfers are planning a round—whether they’re members or travelling visitors—we want them confident the course will be ready for them.”

That reliability is also strengthening Nelson Bay’s position as a destination for visiting golfers. Through its Stay & Play partnership with Mantra Nelson Bay, the club offers an easy option for a coastal golf getaway, with quality accommodation minutes from the, course and the region’s beaches, marina and dining precinct.

Off the course, the clubhouse continues to play a central role in the experience, offering a welcoming space for post-round meals, drinks and social gatherings overlooking the fairways. It remains a key part of the club’s appeal – equal parts golf hub and community meeting place.

For golfers, the outcome is simple – more opportunities to enjoy one of the Port Stephens region’s premier golf courses.

MORE INFORMATION:
Nelson Bay Golf Club
57 Dowling St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315
Phone: (02) 4981 1132
www.nelsonbaygolf.com

Muree Golf Club 

PERFECTLY positioned in Raymond Terrace, Muree Golf Club offers one of the Hunter Region’s best golfing experiences, just 20 minutes from Newcastle, 15 minutes from Newcastle Airport, and a short drive from Nelson Bay CBD. Whether you’re a local golfer or visiting the area, Muree is an easy destination that’s well worth the trip to Raymond Terrace.

Established in 1940, Muree Golf Club is one of the region’s longest-established golf courses, combining over 85 years of history with a welcoming country-club atmosphere. Set across a well maintained 18-hole championship layout, the course offers an enjoyable challenge for golfers of every skill level.

Members enjoy exceptional value, with affordable membership options, generous green fee discounts, and a vibrant golfing calendar. Weekly competitions are held every Wednesday and Sunday, providing plenty of opportunities to test your game, meet fellow golfers, and enjoy some friendly competition.

Need a cart? No problem. Motorised cart hire is available, making your round comfortable and accessible year-round.

Off the course, visitors can relax in the clubhouse with delicious meals, cold drinks, and friendly hospitality that has made Muree Golf Club a favourite destination for generations.

Whether you’re looking for your new home club, a great social round, or an affordable championship course close to Newcastle, Muree Golf Club at Raymond Terrace delivers outstanding value, rich history, and a memorable golfing experience.

MORE INFORMATION:
Muree Golf Club
7 Walker Cr, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324
Phone: (02) 4987 2142
www.mureegolfclub.com.au

Charlestown Golf Club

NESTLED in a tranquil pocket between the vibrant Charlestown shopping precinct and the stunning shores of Lake Macquarie, Charlestown Golf Club and Driving Range, where great golf meets great community, offers far more than just a round of golf. 

It is a destination where championship golf, modern facilities, exceptional hospitality and a genuine sense of community come together to create an experience that keeps members and visitors returning time and again.

The centrepiece of the club is undoubtedly its picturesque 18-hole championship course. Towering native gums line the fairways, colourful wildflowers bloom throughout the seasons, and an abundance of native flora and fauna calls the course home, with each hole presenting its own unique challenge. Whether an experienced golfer chasing a personal best or a social player simply enjoying the outdoors, the course rewards thoughtful shot-making and provides an enjoyable test for golfers of every ability.

One of the defining features of Charlestown Golf Club is its commitment to continuous improvement. Significant investment is consistently made to enhance every aspect of the course, from greens and fairways to irrigation, landscaping and clubhouse surrounds. These ongoing upgrades ensure members and visitors enjoy playing conditions that continue to improve year after year while preserving the unique character and charm that have made the course a favourite throughout the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region.

Complementing the course is the club’s impressive state-of-the-art 26 bay driving range. Designed to welcome beginners to accomplished golfers, it has quickly become one of the region’s premier practice and entertainment facilities. Families, friends, juniors and corporate groups can enjoy a relaxed, fun-filled environment where first swings become lifelong passions and experienced golfers can refine every aspect of their game.

Supporting every golfer is the club’s outstanding Pro Shop, owned and managed by award-winning PGA professionals Ryan and Janelle Smith. Recognised as one of the largest and best-stocked golf retail spaces in the region, the Pro Shop caters for everyone from beginners taking up the game to seasoned players seeking the latest equipment, with a comprehensive range of clubs and accessories available for both purchase and hire.

Off the course, Charlestown Golf Club continues to impress with warm, welcoming clubhouse facilities that make every visit memorable. Guests can enjoy a fully licensed bar, gaming lounge, and outstanding meals prepared by The Urvins Dining, whose quality Australian and Italian-inspired cuisine has become a favourite among members and visitors alike. Whether stopping in after a round, catching up with friends, or enjoying one of the club’s many entertainment or social events, the clubhouse offers a vibrant and friendly atmosphere. For those looking to unwind, the clubhouse deck provides the perfect vantage point, overlooking one of the finest finishing holes in the Newcastle region. 

In a region renowned for its natural beauty, Charlestown Golf Club has created something special – a destination where championship golf meets exceptional hospitality, where native bushland blends seamlessly with first-class facilities, and where every visitor is welcomed with genuine warmth. 

Whether seeking a memorable round of golf, a fun day on the driving range, an outstanding dining experience or the perfect venue for your next celebration, Charlestown Golf Club and Driving Range offers an experience that is every bit as rewarding off the course as it is on it.

MORE INFORMATION:
Charlestown Golf Club and Driving Range
1A Barker Ave, Hillsborough NSW 2290
Phone: (02) 4943 7944
admin@charlestowngolfclub.com.au
www.charlestowngolfclub.com

Harrigan’s Hunter Valley

WHETHER planning a golfing getaway with friends or simply looking for the perfect place to unwind after a day on the course, Harrigan’s Hunter Valley delivers everything needed for a memorable stay in Australia’s premier wine region.

Located in the heart of Pokolbin NSW, Harrigan’s relaxed atmosphere it’s an ideal base for golfers exploring the Hunter Valley’s renowned championship courses. After a morning on the fairways, there’s nothing better than returning to a hearty bistro meal, an ice-cold beer, or a glass of premium Hunter Valley wine while overlooking the beautiful surrounds.

The bistro menu offers something for every appetite, from premium steaks and fresh seafood to gourmet burgers, woodfired pizzas and seasonal pub favourites. Whether celebrating a great round or simply catching up with friends or family, Harrigan’s is the perfect place to relax over lunch, dinner or drinks. The extensive beverage selection features local wines, craft beers, Guinness on tap, refreshing cocktails and a variety of favourite spirits.

Looking to make a weekend of it? Harrigan’s on-site accommodation offers spacious rooms suitable for couples, families and golfing groups, allowing golfers to stay just steps from the pub. Wake refreshed and ready to explore everything the Hunter Valley has to offer, from world-class golf courses and award-winning wineries to local breweries, artisan producers and iconic attractions.

Live music every weekend adds to the welcoming atmosphere, while the Sports Bar is the ideal spot to catch the latest sporting action.

Conveniently located, Harrigan’s makes planning the next golf escape easy. Spend the day on the greens before returning for exceptional hospitality, great food and genuine country charm. Harrigan’s Hunter Valley is more than just a place to stay, is the complete destination for the ultimate Hunter Valley experience.

MORE INFORMATION:
Harrigan’s Hunter Valley
2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Ph: (02) 4998 4300
www.harriganshuntervalley.com.au

The Landmark Nelson Bay

RIGHT in the heart of Port Stephens, The Landmark Nelson Bay has stunning self-contained apartments offering an unrivalled view of the blue waters of Nelson Bay and surrounds.

With studio, one-bedroom and two bedroom apartments, there really is something to suit everybody.

Take a short stroll down the road and there is a world of entertainment right on your doorstep from award-winning dining facilities to crystal clear waterways, and boutique shopping.

Facilities include a spacious lobby with a recreational area featuring pool table, games room and steam room. Outside is the sun deck and lagoon-style heated pool with outdoor spa.

It’s all about location at The Landmark Nelson Bay and as well as being right in the heart of Nelson Bay, the Resort is also well located to a number of championship golf courses.

The 27-hole Nelson Bay Golf Course is located right next door. The highly regarded Pacific Dunes Golf Course is located an easy 20 minute drive from the Resort with a James Wilcher-designed layout that combines two distinct nine-hole loops to create a spectacular 18-hole course.

The Landmark Nelson Bay have golfing packages to suit your every need or you can ask the friendly staff to tailor-make something to suit.

And best of all, they also do group rates so if your social club is looking for a weekend away make sure to ask when you book.

MORE INFORMATION:
www.landmarknelsonbay.com.au

Pacific Dunes

RANKED in the top 100 courses Australia wide, Pacific Dunes strikes a perfect balance between challenge and fairness. 

Designed by James Wilcher, this Port Stephens’ gem celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025 and has earned a reputation for strategic play and scenic beauty.

Port Stephens’ beaches, marine life and national parks make it a top destination for golfers and travellers alike, and Pacific Dunes offers stay-and-play packages with nearby local resorts that each provide a unique gateway to the region’s stunning landscapes.

A must-play experience, the Pacific Dunes course features two distinct nines, a tight, tree-lined front and a more open, water-laden back. Pacific Dunes demands smart play, where precision and strategy are rewarded, and mistakes can prove costly.

Beyond the course, Pacific Dunes Greenhouse offers excellent dining, catering for the single golfer or large
social and corporate groups, leaving nobody disappointed in what is one of the finest public-access courses in New South Wales.

Located only 25 minutes from Newcastle, 20 minutes from Nelson Bay and 10 minutes from Newcastle Airport, Pacific Dunes is the perfect location for a Port Stephens Getaway.

Head Golf Professional Jamie Hook can book an unforgettable golfing experience. Whether it’s a surprise getaway for your partner or a boys’ or girls’ trip away, Pacific Dunes has you covered.

Book now by contacting jamiehook@pacificdunes.com.au or visit the website for more information on their packages.

MORE INFORMATION:
Pacific Dunes
Huntingdale Place, Medowie NSW 2318
Phone: (02) 4916 0500
golfshop@pacificdunes.com.au
www.pacificdunes.com.au

Waratah Golf Club

LOCATED at Argenton, just minutes from beautiful Lake Macquarie, Waratah Golf Club is one of the Hunter’s most historic and respected golfing venues. Welcoming members and visitors alike, the club offers public bookings seven days a week, giving golfers the opportunity to experience a challenging course and a club steeped in tradition.

Waratah is proud to once again host the prestigious W.E. Alexander Open on 15–16 August. The longest consecutively held amateur golf tournament in NSW, the championship has been a feature of the state’s golfing calendar for generations, with an honour roll that includes Peter O’Malley, Nathan Green, Blake Windred and Dimi Papadatos. Defending champion Harry Atkinson returns to defend his title against another outstanding field.

Whether you’re a local golfer or visiting the Hunter, Waratah Golf Club offers an enjoyable golfing experience for all golfers.

MORE INFORMATION:
Waratah Golf Club
Phone: (02) 4958 1847
www.waratahgolfclub.com.au

Space, comfort and convenience in Nelson Bay

Golf groups looking for a spacious and comfortable base in Port Stephens will feel right at home at 24 Irawari Crescent, Nelson Bay.

Located just 280 metres from the picturesque Nelson Bay town centre, this impressive dog-friendly holiday property provides plenty of room for families, couples and groups of golfing friends. With a four-bedroom, three-bathroom main residence and a separate one-bedroom, one-bathroom granny flat, the property can accommodate up to 11 guests.

After a day exploring the region’s golf courses, guests can cool off in the sparkling in-ground swimming pool, relax in one of the multiple living areas or gather for a drink and barbecue in the large undercover entertaining area.

The self-contained granny flat is located near the pool and is ideal for anyone seeking extra privacy. It features a spacious bedroom, a new bathroom, air conditioning, Smart TV, Wi-Fi, an open-plan living and dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen. With no stairs to negotiate, it is also a convenient retreat for parents or older members of the group.

Inside the main house, guests will find generous living areas, reverse-cycle and split-system air conditioning, large Smart TVs and an extensive collection of books and games. The enormous kitchen includes a dishwasher, full-sized refrigerator and freezer, microwave, oven, cooktop and air fryer, making it easy to prepare breakfast before an early tee time or dinner after a full day on the course.

The adjoining dining spaces can comfortably seat up to 12 people, while the home’s multiple bathrooms help ensure there is no morning rush when everyone is preparing for golf.

Additional features include Wi-Fi, a gas barbecue, an upstairs balcony, ample storage, laundry facilities and parking suitable for a boat. A dog bed is also provided for four-legged guests, although cats are not permitted.

Nelson Bay’s waterfront, shops, restaurants, cafés and local attractions are only a short drive or walk away. Despite its convenient location, the property enjoys a peaceful residential setting.

Whether planning a weekend golf getaway or a longer Port Stephens holiday, 24 Irawari Crescent offers the space, facilities and relaxed atmosphere needed for a memorable group escape.

For more, or to book a stay, contact McGrath Port Stephens (02) 4980 4400.

Novotel Newcastle Beach – Your beachside escape in the heart of the city

TUCKED into Newcastle’s East End, Novotel Newcastle Beach offers the perfect balance of coastal tranquillity and city vibrance as your beachside escape in the heart of the city.

Surrounded by coastal walks, great coffee, and lively nightlife, the hotel is just steps from the golden sands of one of Australia’s most iconic surf beaches.

From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a location that places the very best of Newcastle right at your fingertips.

The hotel’s spacious, contemporary rooms are thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind, featuring plush bedding, sleek furnishings, and modern amenities.  A variety of room types offers options for single travellers or groups looking to share. 

On-site facilities include a fully equipped fitness centre, convenient secure undercover parking, and a modern restaurant open for breakfast and dinner, showcasing fresh, seasonal produce and locally inspired flavours. 

After a round, enjoy the hotel’s happy hour and bar snacks menu, available daily from 3pm-6pm featuring $5 Sydney Brewery Beers and $8 house wines.

With an unbeatable location, warm hospitality, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, this 4.5-star hotel is an ideal choice for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure. 

Novotel Newcastle Beach – the perfect choice for your next golfing adventure.

MORE INFORMATION:
Novotel Newcastle Beach
5 King St, Newcastle NSW 2300
Phone: (02) 4032 3703
sales@novotelnewcastle.com.au
www.novotelnewcastlebeach.com.au