Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa

Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa

Ernie Els Signature Championship Golf Course

Coastal course with wide fairways, ocean panoramas, and wildlife sightings — a pure Garden Route experience.

A Luxurious Golfing Paradise

Nestled along South Africa’s stunning Garden Route, the Oubaai Golf Estate offers a golfing experience that is as breathtaking as it is challenging. Designed by the legendary Ernie Els, this 18-hole links-style course is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.

Course Characteristics

The Oubaai Golf Course, inaugurated in 2005, spans 6,446 meters from the pro tees, making it a uniquely long coastal course. The layout is characterised by expansive fairways, creative mounding, bunkering, and run-off areas, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Indian Ocean and the majestic Outeniqua Mountains.

• Links Design: The course embodies a classic links design and feel, with the first three holes exemplifying pure links golf. The absence of trees and the presence of veld grasses lining the manicured fairways add to its authentic links feel.
• Out-and-Back Routing: The course features an out-and-back routing due to the clubhouse’s proximity to the ocean. The first nine holes, while providing breathtaking views of the Outeniqua Mountain Range, head inland towards the estate entrance, while the final stretch returns to the clubhouse, offering unparalleled scenic views of the Gwaing River gorge and the Indian Ocean coastline.
• Hole Variety: The course includes five par 5s and five par 3s, each presenting unique challenges. The par 5s are particularly strong, with each measuring over 500 meters from the back tees. The signature 17th hole, a par 3, is played from an elevated tee to a narrow green overlooking the ocean.

Course Details

• Par and Length: The course is a par 72, with various tee options to accommodate different skill levels. The distances from the different tees are: Yellow (6,446 meters), White (6,021 meters), Blue (5,382 meters), and Red (4,771 meters).
• Greens and Hazards: The course features relatively small greens, water hazards, and well-placed bunkers, ensuring that every round is both thrilling and fulfilling. The approach shots to the greens are particularly challenging, requiring precision and strategy.

Facilities

• Practice Facilities: Golfers can warm up at the driving range, chipping area, and separate putting green located near the Oubaai Hotel & Spa.
• Golf Carts and Caddies: Golf carts are available for hire, and walkers are welcome.
• Clubhouse and Amenities: The clubhouse features a pro shop, a short-game area. The nearby Oubaai Hotel & Spa offers luxurious accommodations, event and wedding facilities, and the Freesia Spa.

Overall Experience

Playing at Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa is an experience that combines the thrill of links golf with the breathtaking vistas of the Garden Route. The course’s excellent conditioning, varied hole design, and stunning natural surroundings make every round memorable.

• Scenic Views: The final stretch of the course offers 180-degree views of the Indian Ocean and the Outeniqua Mountains, culminating in a dramatic boomerang-shaped dogleg par 5 at the 18th hole.
• Luxury and Leisure: The Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa provides a luxurious sanctuary with world-class amenities. The estate also features a heritage hiking trail, fishing spots, and activities like bird watching and whale viewing.

Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa is more than just a golf course; it is a holistic golfing and leisure experience that blends seamlessly into the natural beauty of its surroundings, making it a perfect destination for both avid golfers and those seeking a tranquil retreat.

Location