Perched on the edge of the cliffs with the mighty force of the Pacific Ocean crashing below, the Clovelly Bowling Club has the best view of any bowling club in Australia, heck, probably the world. It’s a small speck of green against a vast horizon of sea and sky blue, so it packs out quickly. But, with the Bondi-to-Coogee coastal walk at its front door, there’s plenty to keep you occupied if you have to wait. Best for: Impressing overseas visitors

‘The Boo’ aka Booroodabin Bowlo in Brisbane’s Newstead is Queensland’s oldest and most popular green. It is a completely social bowling club, which means the focus is on good times; in fact The Boo has become synonymous in the Sunshine State not just with barefoot bowls, but parties, events and weekend sessions. Best for: A group of mates

Ex-Balzac chef Matt Kemp has had a sea-change and now helms the kitchen at this stunning beachside bowlo on the far-north NSW coast, bringing his deft touch to bistro classics such as chicken schnitzel and surf ‘n’ turf. Beyond the dining room, on the bowling green, there’s another form of surf ‘n’ turf via barefoot bowls with ocean views. This Australia Day you’ll find a jumping castle, pop-up bar and The Popular Food Cart food truck serving their epic burgers (Colin Fassnidge is a fan!). Best for: A family road trip

A favourite hangout for locals, Melbourne’s Brunswick Bowling Club has a relaxed beer- garden vibe, and with just two bowling greens, you may come for the beers instead of the bowls. There are well-priced meat packs for DIY barbecuing, and this long weekend, they’ll be playing Triple J’s Hottest 100 on Sunday, January 27, while you dabble in barefoot bowls and games of Twister and Snookball. Best for: A no-frills local vibe

Founded in 1888 as Norths Bowlo, this North Sydney green is one of the oldest in the state. In 2014 it was taken over by The Grounds of Alexandria team and revamped with its signature theatrical touch into a lush garden oasis. Off the lawn, there’s stylish drinking and dining options in the greenhouse-esque dining room, or outside on the daybeds and picnic rugs with an epic view over the Sydney CBD skyline. Best for: The off-court action

This riverside green in Brisbane’s New Farm is a favourite for its relaxed vibe, cheap drinks and picturesque location. There are seven lanes and plenty of seating options, from the river deck, to the marquee and barbecue benches, most with views of the Brisbane River. Best for: Beating the heat

St Kilda Sports Club is a Melbourne icon, the wood-panelled clubhouse was built in 1876 and is heritage listed. While it’s a serious members’ club, it’s also a hotspot for beer-in-hand good times. They are offering free barefoot bowling this Australia Day complete with live music and our emblematic national dish – the sausage sizzle. Best for: A true blue experience

Chef David Moyle, who recently relocated to Melbourne from Tasmania, where he opened Franklin restaurant in Hobart, says his pick of bowling greens on the Apple Isle is Beltana Bowls Club, located just 10 minutes out of Hobart CBD. It has magnificent Mount Wellington as a backdrop and “is untouched by the hipster set”, says Moyle. Barefoot bowls happens on a Tuesday night, and you can expect barbecues, games and perhaps even a fancy dress code. Best for: Escaping the crowds

You’ll need a boat to get to Point Lookout bowlo because this spectacular green is located on Stradbroke Island. Actually you can catch the ferry or drive, but the Robinson Crusoe fantasy is apt for this sandy castaway island setting. Frozen margaritas and simple pub grub complete the picture for a fun day out off the beaten track. Best for: The adventurer

Their tagline: ‘The club with the million dollar view’, sets the bar high, but once you hit the green at Mosman Park Bowling club on the banks of Perth’s Swan River with its cheap beers, killer water views and welcoming atmosphere, that million-dollar feeling starts to sink in. This is a great spot for families with face painting and a kids’ bowling competition kicking off on Australia Day after 5pm. The menu is an ode to Aussie classics, including old faithfuls: the fisherman’s basket, hamburgers, hot beef and gravy rolls, and hot chips, of course. Best for: Bringing the kids