It's always difficult to recommend something for everyone, but this guide is aimed at tourists getting to know Cape Town. If you haven't been before, you'll want to play not only the best courses, but the most Capetonian ones.
Here's my list.
1. Clovelly
Start with Clovelly, a beautiful course tucked away in the mountains near Fish Hoek. Leave some time in the area after the round — between the bay, the village, and the drive over Boyes Drive on the way back, you won't want to head straight off.
2. Steenberg
One of the best courses in the Western Cape, and always in great condition. This is Cape Town Southern Suburbs at its best. Hard to get a booking, so make sure you book well ahead of time.
3. Milnerton
If you read any other golf guide, you'll see Atlantic Beach take this spot — but locals know that Milnerton just feels like Cape Town. With tee boxes right next to the beach you can jump onto the sand if you feel like giving up. One of the finest Table Mountain views from any tee box in the country.
4. De Zalze
Now we move out to Stellenbosch — an absolutely beautiful area and a stunning course to match. Again, this one feels different: a layout that suits the surroundings. Make time for some wine tasting when you're done; this region is known for great wine.
5. Pearl Valley
Saving the best for last. Pearl Valley is consistently the premium Western Cape course, and you won't be disappointed. What a way to end the trip.
A few practical notes
Wind is always a concern when playing in Cape Town, but you'll be tucked away for most of these. If the wind hits you at Milnerton, forget about a good round and just focus on having fun — the rest of the courses should be more forgiving.
For accommodation, focus your first three nights in Cape Town and, budget allowing, try to get a beach view. For days four and five, shift to Stellenbosch and find something closer to the wine farms — you don't want to be driving back to Cape Town after a tasting that has gone a little too far.
