King Island isn’t just known for its rugged landscapes, warm hospitality and incredible produce – it’s also home to world-class golfing experiences, including Cape Wickham, the number one golf course in Australia.
Nestled in the heart of the Bass Strait, our small but mighty island is home to three unique courses that have put it firmly on the map for golf enthusiasts and amateurs alike: Cape Wickham, Ocean Dunes, and the King Island Golf Club. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just love a casual round with a side of spectacular views, King Island offers a golfing experience that is equal parts challenging and totally unforgettable.
King Island’s Golf Courses.
Cape Wickham, Australia’s Number One Golf Course.
Located at the Northern tip of the island, Cape Wickham is nothing short of spectacular. Opened in 2015, this world-renowned course quickly climbed the global rankings and often ranks among the top public golf courses worldwide. Designed by acclaimed architect Mike DeVries, the course makes full use of its coastal location with an 18-hole layout along the cliffs. Every hole offers a view of the ocean, with the iconic Cape Wickham Lighthouse standing tall in the background. If you’ve played Wickham, you’ll know — returning with fewer golf balls than you started with is almost guaranteed.
Ocean Dunes, Ranked #4 Golf Course in Australia.
Opened in 2016, the course was designed by respected golf architect Graeme Grant. Ocean Dunes is a true test of skill, with rolling fairways, well-placed bunkers, and strong ocean winds challenging every swing. Several holes run right alongside the roaring ocean, creating a raw, scenic, and unforgettable golfing experience. In 2025, development begins to expand on-site accommodation and clubhouse facilities, further cementing this as a must-play golf destination.
King Island Golf Club.
For a more relaxed, traditional experience, the King Island Golf & Bowling Club near Currie is a solid choice. This community-run course proudly holds the title of the island’s oldest. It may lack the cliffs of Cape Wickham or Ocean Dunes, but it offers something just as memorable. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the locals are always happy to share a yarn at the clubhouse.
The History: How Golf Landed on King Island.
Golfing on King Island has always had its roots in the local community, with the King Island Golf & Bowling Club a beloved institution for decades. However, the island’s global reputation as a golf destination truly took off in the mid-2010s, when Cape Wickham and Ocean Dunes were developed.
The vision behind these world-class courses was to create a golfing experience that rivalled Scotland and Ireland’s famous coastal links. With the natural beauty and rugged coastline of King Island providing the perfect canvas, the developers saw an opportunity to create something special. Their gamble paid off, as these courses now attract golfers from around the world, eager to experience the raw beauty and challenge of golfing on King Island.
Tee off at the World’s Best Courses.
Both Cape Wickham and Ocean Dunes have earned international recognition, regularly ranking among the best golf courses in the world. In 2024, Cape Wickham claimed the number 12 spot in Australia and often appears in the global top 25 lists. Ocean Dunes also maintains a strong international reputation, ranking within Australia’s top 10 and among the best public courses worldwide.
But golf on King Island isn’t just about rankings, it’s about the experience. Here, you won’t battle crowds. Instead, you’ll hear crashing waves, spot wallabies, and play against a dramatic coastal backdrop. The island’s remote setting gives every round a sense of calm and focus. Meanwhile, the ever-changing weather keeps things interesting, with wind and shifting conditions testing even the best swings.
Plan Your Golfing Escape to King Island
With direct flights from Melbourne, Burnie and Launceston, unforgettable golf is waiting for you with just a quick hop over the Strait. For more information about getting to King Island as well as baggage allowances click here.
So, pack your clubs and prepare for an unforgettable round — or three — on one of Australia’s most spectacular golf destinations.
