St Andrews Beach Golf Club

St Andrews Beach Golf Club sits on the Mornington Peninsula south of Melbourne, occupying a remarkable stretch of coastal dunescape near Fingal. Tom Doak routed the course through naturally rolling sandhills and native vegetation, creating a links-style layout that takes full advantage of the property's dramatic topography. The course opened in 2007 and quickly established itself among Australia's most respected modern designs, earning consistent recognition in national and international rankings. The routing moves through varied terrain, with several holes playing along elevated ridgelines that offer views across Port Phillip Bay, while others descend into valleys framed by tea-tree and coastal scrub. The fairways follow the natural contours of the land, and the greens feature the bold, flowing shapes characteristic of Doak's work. Wind is a significant factor, changing the character of holes from day to day and requiring thoughtful club selection and strategic positioning. St Andrews Beach operates as a private club with a relatively small membership, fostering a relaxed atmosphere focused on the golf experience itself. The club's approach emphasizes walking the course and appreciating the natural setting. The design has drawn comparisons to classic links courses in its playing characteristics—firm turf, ground-game options, and strategic variety—while remaining distinctly suited to its Australian coastal environment. The course has hosted various amateur competitions and continues to attract attention from golfers seeking out Doak's international portfolio.