What Makes Cape Kidnappers Golf Different?

Opened in 2004, the 18-hole, par-71 course follows a ridge-and-valley landscape. Its clifftop fairways sit around 140 metres above sea level.

Although the setting is coastal, Cape Kidnappers is not a traditional links course. Instead of rolling sand dunes, the layout uses ridges, ravines and exposed headlands.

Firm surfaces and coastal wind add to the challenge. As a result, controlling your ball flight can matter as much as distance.

The views draw your attention first. Yet the variety of holes gives the round its lasting appeal.

Course Insights from Our Original Interview

Look Beyond the Famous Clifftop Holes

In our interview, Eric highlighted the variety of the front nine. While the coastal holes attract much of the photography, the earlier holes offer their own changes in terrain and strategy.

His point is worth remembering: enjoy the whole course rather than treating the front nine as a lead-up to the famous views.

Pause at the 15th Green and 16th Tee

Eric singled out the views from the 15th green and 16th tee as personal favourites.

These are places to pause when the pace of play allows. Look beyond your next shot and take in the coastline, cliffs and seabirds.

Choose Your Miss Carefully

Eric’s main playing advice was to recognise the safer option. Doak’s design can make hazards appear dominant, while leaving more room elsewhere.

Rather than taking on every flag, assess the landing area and the consequences of a miss. A measured approach can help you manage both the course and your score.

He also encouraged golfers not to let a mistake overshadow the experience. The setting deserves your attention, even when the scorecard does not go to plan.