Shelly Beach

Shelly Beach

Shelly Beach Golf Club is an 18‑hole public access course on the New South Wales Central Coast, about 90 minutes’ drive north of central Sydney. It is a par 71 seaside layout measuring 6009 metres from the back tees, offering views over the Pacific Ocean from several parts of the property.

The club began life as Tuggerah Lakes Golf Club, initially operating as a nine‑hole course on land just west of the current layout. Golf was first played there in 1929, and a formal club structure followed in 1930 as membership and local interest grew. In 1957 the club relocated to its present coastal site at Shelly Beach, where the course has evolved into the full 18‑hole layout in use today. The current layout was designed Al Howard with significant updates and remodelling by Ross Watson in 2010.

The course is generally easy walking, with not much change in elevation and even then it is gentle slopes rather than steep hills. On the tightish site there is a mix of medium and long par 4s, and par 5s that are within reach for longer hitters in favourable wind conditions. Wind is a constant factor, particularly on the holes exposed to the coast and those holes will be play much tougher when conditions are strong or gusty.

The most memorable golf is found on the holes that run closest to the coastline, where tees and greens sit above the beach and headlands. These stretches combine firm turf, strategic bunkering and ocean views that would not look out of place on higher‑profile Australian coastal courses. These holes alone make the trip to Shelly Beach worthwhile.

Away from the water, several inland holes run parallel to one another with only light rough and scattered trees separating fairways. This can bring errant drives from adjacent holes into play and occasionally slows the pace of play when the course is busy. Because Shelly Beach is a public access venue in a popular holiday area, demand is high during New South Wales school holidays and on weekends, so mid‑week rounds outside these periods are usually more relaxed. However I would recommend playing even if it’s during a busy period.

Shelly Beach also has strong ties to professional golf through two‑time Australian Open champion Greg Chalmers, who grew up in the region. The club hosts the Greg Chalmers Junior Masters and Classic, supporting junior development and attracting competitive fields from across New South Wales.

For golfers seeking a good seaside course with several standout coastal holes Shelly Beach offers an accessible option within easy reach of Sydney and the Central Coast. There is a great clubhouse and if you are up for it the beach is just a stroll away for a post round swim.

Website: https://www.shellybeachgolfclub.com.au