8.15

Victoria Golf Club

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
1893
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
Year Round
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Links
Unknown
Par
70
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10
City
Victoria

Score

8.15
Design
40%
8.3
Conditions
25%
7.9
Desirability
15%
7.8
Scenery
10%
8.9
Fun
5%
7.9
Uniqueness
5%
8.0

Difficulty

Overall
Moderate

Slope 127

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Low

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
$
$
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Victoria Golf Club is one of Canada’s few courses open almost every day of the year, and it hosts the oldest international golf tournament in North America, the Victoria-Seattle Interclub match since 1895.

About

Victoria Golf Club is Canada’s oldest golf course on its original site, designed in 1893 along the coastal rocks of Vancouver Island. This par 70, 18-hole private club features exceptional seaside scenery and has hosted decades of amateur championships. Its natural, links-style routing embraces ocean views from many holes and delivers a classic, storied golf experience.

Caddie Tip

Stay right off the tee on Mount Baker (13) to avoid ocean breezes that push balls left; approach shots play shorter downwind. Many greens slope back-to-front and are fast—keep approaches below the hole whenever possible, and give extra attention to coastal wind direction. Course knowledge is invaluable for reading putts.

The Main Challenge

The greatest challenge is navigating firm, fast greens and managing coastal winds. Key holes like Mount Baker (13) and The Bay (par 4) feature forced carries and strategic shot-making with ocean hazards and tight fairways. Strong breezes and undulating green complexes test even experienced players.

The Good

Golfers love the dramatic seaside views, unique coastal winds, and historic atmosphere at Victoria. The experience of playing among wildlife, sailboats, and an ever-present ocean backdrop gives each round a storybook feel. Its proximity to Victoria’s gardens and walking trails adds exceptional local charm.

The Not So Good

Golfers most commonly seek better practice facilities and more modern amenities; the small driving range is functional but limited, and updating bunker consistency and tee areas is often mentioned. Play can become slow during peak events, and guest access is restrictive for non-members.

Signature Hole:

#

13

No items found.

The signature hole is Mount Baker (No. 13), a 379-yard, short par 4 that begins the stretch around the point. The ocean hugs the fairway left for its full length, and Ben Hogan once famously putted off its undulating green into out-of-bounds. Risk-reward and scenic drama define this memorable challenge.

Clubhouse

No items found.

Victoria’s stately clubhouse is a registered historic place, featuring a restaurant overlooking the ocean, member lounges, event spaces, a pro shop, locker rooms, and terrace seating. Renovations have preserved its classic charm and comfort, providing an elegant base for social and golf activities.

Practice Facilities

No items found.

Expect a modest driving range, putting greens, and short game area. Facilities are sized to fit the coastal location, with pro staff available for lessons. Members benefit from well-kept greens and personalized service, though range length is limited compared to newer layouts.

Dress Code:

Standard

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

Canada