St Francis Links

Another creation under the watchful eye of Jack Nicklaus, St Francis Links has tried to replicate the true links-style golf courses of Scotland. The course has matured nicely over the last few years and is a welcome addition to the quaint village of St Francis Bay which has a second member’s course nearby. It is now a true Garden Route golfing destination for anyone on a South Africa Golf Holiday. The course has been ranked 4th in South Africa for 2023 and has never been out of the top 10 since its opening in 2007.

The layout demands every element of shot-making with its undulating terrain, greens and surrounds as well as its variation in length and direction. The bunkers look as though they have been simply ploughed out of the land and have been left with uneven edges and an authentic and wild feel. It is the bunkering that truly defines the quality and character of the course. In Jack’s words…”St Francis Links will challenge all who play it, and reward those who respect it”.

True to form Jack has added a water hazard with a large central lake making the course ‘links plus’. Not a welcome addition to the purist, but some of the most interesting holes are to be found around the water.

The shape of the greens come from the natural movement of the dunes. The greens have been constructed on top of the sand, changing shape in construction as the wind changed its mind. Some are more undulating than others. All putting surfaces and green surrounds present a mental and physical test requiring a mix of classic links chip-and-run technique, as well as pitching to hold the ball on the surface.

Great care has been given to protecting the natural flora of the area, and with time this course will only get more spectacular.

There are a number of lovely Bed &Breakfast properties, such as The Sands, nearby that we recommend and a lodge on the course. A luxury hotel is in the pipeline. It is definitely worth at least 2 nights stay here to play both of the courses and get a chance to enjoy the beach and scenery.

For more information about South Africa golfing holidays and playing at St Francis Links, contact us here or call +44 208 249 5919 to speak to our South Africa Golf Holiday experts.