Hey there my golf loving travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 best golf courses in California for a sunny round this year. With its sunny weather and picturesque views, California is home to some of the best golf courses in the world.
From the coast to the mountains, the Golden State offers a variety of golf courses that cater to different skill levels and preferences. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s a golf course in California that will suit your needs.
- Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Spyglass Hill Golf Course
- Torrey Pines Golf Course
- Pasatiempo Golf Club
- Rustic Canyon Golf Course
- Harding Park Golf Course
- The Olympic Club
- Riviera Country Club
- Los Angeles Country Club
- California Golf Club of San Francisco
Map Of The Best Golf Courses In California
Use this map to identify the locations of the best golf courses in California listed below:
Best Golf Courses in California
Ok, so with all of that in mind, let’s check out some of the best that California has to offer below:
1. Pebble Beach Golf Links
Pebble Beach Golf Course is one of the most iconic and revered golf courses in the world. Located in Pebble Beach, California, the course was established in 1919 and has since become a must-play destination for golfers of all skill levels. Designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, Pebble Beach Golf Course features 18 holes of stunning coastal scenery, challenging play and rich history. It has also hosted several major championships, including the U.S. Open, and has been played by many of the greatest golfers of all time.
Playing a round at Pebble Beach Golf Course is a bucket-list experience for many golfers, but it comes at a steep price. The green fees for Pebble Beach Golf Course are among the highest in the world, reflecting the course’s prestige and exclusivity. However, for those who can afford it, the experience of playing at Pebble Beach Golf Course is unparalleled.
- Location: Pebble Beach, California, United States
- Established: 1919
- Type: Public
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Jack Neville and Douglas Grant
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,828 yards (6,244 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 74.7 from the back tees
Cost:
Green fees for Pebble Beach Golf Course range from $575 to $795 depending on the time of year and the time of day. It’s worth noting that these fees can change and there may be additional costs for caddies, carts, and other services.
Check out these: 10 Best Golf Courses in the United States
2. Spyglass Hill Golf Course
Spyglass Hill Golf Course is a world-renowned golf course located in Pebble Beach, California. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and opened in 1966, Spyglass Hill is known for its challenging layout, stunning coastal scenery and unique combination of parkland and links-style holes.
It has hosted several major championships, including the U.S. Amateur and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and is widely regarded as one of the most difficult courses in the world. With its tight fairways, deep bunkers and fast greens, Spyglass Hill is a true test of skill for even the most experienced golfers.
The course is open to the public, but green fees are among the highest in the country. However, for those who can afford it, the opportunity to play at Spyglass Hill is well worth the cost and a must-play destination for any serious golfer.
Location: Pebble Beach, California, United States
- Established: 1966
- Type: Public
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Robert Trent Jones Sr.
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,960 yards (6,362 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 75.5 from the back tees
Cost:
The green fees for playing a round of golf at Spyglass Hill Golf Course range from $395 to $550 depending on the time of year and the time of day. It’s worth noting that these fees can change and there may be additional costs for caddies, carts, and other services.
3. Torrey Pines Golf Course
Torrey Pines Golf Course is a world-renowned golf course located in La Jolla, California. The course is comprised of two 18-hole courses, the North Course and the South Course, both of which offer stunning coastal views and challenging play.
The South Course has hosted several major championships including the U.S. Open and is widely regarded as one of the most difficult courses in the world. The North Course, while not as challenging as the South Course, is still a formidable test of skill for golfers of all levels.
The course is open to the public, but green fees can be expensive, especially during peak season. However, for those who can afford it, the experience of playing at Torrey Pines Golf Course is well worth the cost. From the challenging holes to the stunning views, the course is a true gem of the golfing world and is a must-play destination that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
- Location: La Jolla, California, United States
- Established: 1957
- Type: Public
- Total Holes: 36 (two 18-hole courses: the North Course and the South Course)
- Designed by: William F. Bell (original design), Rees Jones (renovation)
- Par: 72 for both courses
- Length:
- South Course: 7,698 yards (7,036 meters) from the back tees
- North Course: 7,258 yards (6,636 meters) from the back tees Course Rating:
- South Course: 78.1 from the back tees
- North Course: 76.3 from the back tees
Cost:
The green fees for playing a round of golf at Torrey Pines Golf Course range from $63 to $229 depending on the time of year and the time of day. It’s worth noting that these fees can change and there may be additional costs for caddies, carts and other services.
Check out these: Tips for Travelling with Golf Clubs
4. Pasatiempo Golf Club
Pasatiempo Golf Club is a world-renowned golf course located in Santa Cruz, California. The course was designed by legendary golf course architect Alister MacKenzie, who also designed Augusta National Golf Club as well. The course features 18 holes of challenging play, stunning coastal views and rich history.
It has also hosted several major championships including the U.S. Women’s Amateur, and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the world. With its unique layout, breathtaking scenery and rich history, Pasatiempo Golf Club is a must-play destination for any serious golfer.
The course is open to the public, but green fees can be expensive, especially during peak season. However, for those who can afford it, Pasatiempo Golf Club is a must-play destination for all levels of ability.
- Location: Santa Cruz, California, United States
- Established: 1929
- Type: Public
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Alister MacKenzie
- Par: 70
- Length: 6,521 yards (5,966 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 72.5 from the back tees
Cost:
The green fees for playing a round of golf at Pasatiempo Golf Club range from $120 to $295 depending on the time of year and the time of day. It’s worth noting that these fees can change and there may be additional costs for caddies, carts and other services.
5. Rustic Canyon Golf Course
Rustic Canyon Golf Course is a unique public golf course located in Moorpark, California. The course was designed by Gil Hanse and opened in 2002 with the aim of providing a high-quality golfing experience at an affordable price. Rustic Canyon Golf Course features 18 holes of challenging play with a layout that takes advantage of the natural terrain and features sand dunes, native grasses and rolling hills.
The course has received numerous accolades for its design and affordability and is considered one of the best public golf courses in California. With its stunning scenery and challenging play, Rustic Canyon Golf Course is a must-play destination for any golfer looking for a unique and affordable golfing experience.
Playing a round at Rustic Canyon Golf Course is a great value for any golfer. The course is open to the public, and green fees are relatively affordable compared to other courses of similar quality. And off the tees, you can also find a driving range, practice greens and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar as well.
- Location: Moorpark, California, United States
- Established: 2002
- Type: Public
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Gil Hanse
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,931 yards (6,337 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 73.4 from the back tees
Cost:
The green fees for playing a round of golf at Rustic Canyon Golf Course range from $39 to $89 depending on the time of day and the day of the week. It’s worth noting that these fees can change and there may be additional costs for carts, caddies and other services. However, Rustic Canyon Golf Course is known for its affordability compared to other courses of similar quality, making it a great value for any golfer.
Book your trip to California here!
6. Harding Park Golf Course
Harding Park Golf Course is a public golf course located in San Francisco, California. The course was originally designed by Willie Watson and opened in 1925 and has since undergone several renovations to improve its quality and prepare it for professional events.
The course features 18 holes of challenging play with a layout that takes advantage of the natural terrain and features tree-lined fairways, bunkers, and fast greens. The course has hosted several major championships, including the 2020 PGA Championship and several PGA TOUR events and is widely regarded as one of the best public golf courses in California. W
The course is open to the public and green fees are relatively affordable compared to other courses of similar quality and offers a challenging layout that will test golfers of all levels with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards and fast greens.
The course also features a driving range, practice greens, and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Harding Park Golf Course offers a unique and enjoyable golfing experience that won’t break the bank.
- Location: San Francisco, California, United States
- Established: 1925
- Type: Public
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Willie Watson (original design), Sam Whiting (renovation)
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,169 yards (6,552 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 75.2 from the back tees
Cost:
The green fees for playing a round of golf at Harding Park Golf Course range from $99 to $299 depending on the time of day and the day of the week. It’s worth noting that these fees can change and there may be additional costs for carts, caddies and other services. However, Harding Park Golf Course is known for its affordability compared to other courses of similar quality, making it a great value for any golfer.
Check out these: 3 Best Golf Club Travel Bags
7. The Olympic Club
The Olympic Club Golf Course is a private golf course located in San Francisco, California. The course was originally designed by Willie Watson and opened in 1924, and has since undergone several renovations to improve its quality and prepare it for professional events. The Olympic Club Golf Course features 45 holes of challenging play, including the Lake Course and the Ocean Course, both of which offer stunning coastal views and challenging play.
The Lake Course has hosted several major championships including six U.S. Opens, and is widely regarded as one of the most difficult courses in the world. The Ocean Course, while not as challenging as the Lake Course, is still a formidable test of skill for golfers of all levels.
The course is private, and offers a challenging layout that will test golfers of all levels with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards and fast greens. The property also features a driving range, practice greens and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar. While it may be difficult to gain access, for those who can the experience of playing on such a historic and challenging course is well worth the effort.
- Location: San Francisco, California, United States
- Established: 1893 (golf course opened in 1924)
- Type: Private
- Total Holes: 45 (Lake Course: 18, Ocean Course: 18, Cliffs Course: 9)
- Designed by: Willie Watson (Lake Course and Ocean Course), Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish (Cliffs Course)
- Par: 71 (Lake Course), 71 (Ocean Course), 36 (Cliffs Course)
- Length: 6,947 yards (6,345 meters) from the back tees (Lake Course), 6,854 yards (6,267 meters) from the back tees (Ocean Course), 3,580 yards (3,271 meters) from the back tees (Cliffs Course)
- Course Rating: 75.5 from the back tees (Lake Course), 74.2 from the back tees (Ocean Course), 35.7 from the back tees (Cliffs Course)
Cost:
Since The Olympic Club Golf Course is a private course, green fees are not publicly available. Membership fees are also not publicly available, but they are known to be expensive and exclusive.
8. Riviera Country Club
Riviera Country Club is a private golf club located in Pacific Palisades, California, just a few miles from Los Angeles. The course was designed by George C. Thomas Jr. and opened in 1926, and has since undergone several renovations to improve its quality and prepare it for professional events. The course features 18 holes of challenging play with a layout that takes advantage of the natural terrain and features tree-lined fairways, deep bunkers and fast greens.
The course has hosted several major championships including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship and is widely regarded as one of the best golf courses in the world. With its stunning scenery, rich history and challenging play, Riviera Country Club is a must-play destination for any serious golfer.
The course is private, but course offers a challenging layout that will test golfers of all levels, with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards and fast greens. The property also features a driving range, practice greens and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar. While it may be difficult to gain access to Riviera Country Club, for those who can, the experience of playing on such a historic and challenging course is well worth the effort.
- Location: Pacific Palisades, California, United States
- Established: 1926
- Type: Private
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: George C. Thomas Jr.
- Par: 71
- Length: 7,322 yards (6,691 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 77.0 from the back tees
Cost:
Since Riviera Country Club is a private course, green fees are not publicly available. Membership fees are also not publicly available, but they are known to be expensive and exclusive.
Check out these: Best Golf Courses in Los Angeles
9. Los Angeles Country Club
Los Angeles Country Club is a private golf club located in Los Angeles, California. The club was founded in 1897 and has since undergone several renovations to improve its quality and prepare it for professional events. The course features 36 holes of challenging play, with two courses: the North Course and the South Course.
Both courses have hosted several major championships including the U.S. Open and the Walker Cup, and are widely regarded as some of the best golf courses in the world. The courses offer a challenging layout that will test golfers of all levels, with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and fast greens. With its rich history, stunning scenery and challenging play, Los Angeles Country Club is a must-play destination for any serious golfer.
Playing a round at Los Angeles Country Club is a dream come true for many golfers. The club is private, and also features a driving range, practice greens and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar. While it may be difficult to gain access to Los Angeles Country Club, for those who can, the experience of playing on such a historic and challenging course is well worth the effort.
- Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
- Established: 1897
- Type: Private
- Total Holes: 36 (North Course: 18, South Course: 18) Designed by: George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. Bell (North Course), Herbert Fowler (South Course)
- Par: 70 (North Course), 71 (South Course)
- Length: 7,060 yards (6,456 meters) from the back tees (North Course), 7,029 yards (6,427 meters) from the back tees (South Course)
- Course Rating: 75.3 from the back tees (North Course), 75.2 from the back tees (South Course)
Cost:
Since Los Angeles Country Club is a private club, green fees are not publicly available. Membership fees are also not publicly available, but they are known to be expensive and exclusive.
10. California Golf Club of San Francisco
As the name suggests, California Golf Club of San Francisco is a private golf club located in South San Francisco, California. The club was founded in 1918 and has since undergone several renovations to improve its quality and prepare it for professional events. The course features 18 holes of challenging play with a layout that takes advantage of the natural terrain and features tree-lined fairways, deep bunkers and fast greens.
The course has hosted several major championships including the U.S. Junior Amateur and the U.S. Senior Amateur, and is widely regarded as one of the best golf courses in the world. With its stunning scenery, rich history and challenging play, California Golf Club of San Francisco is a must-play destination for any serious golfer.
As with the last few listed here, the club is private, and also features a driving range, practice greens and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar.
- Location: South San Francisco, California, United States
- Established: 1918
- Type: Private
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: William Lock and Alister MacKenzie
- Par: 71
- Length: 6,859 yards (6,272 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 74.4 from the back tees
Cost:
Since California Golf Club of San Francisco is a private club, green fees and membership fees are also not publicly available, but they are known to be expensive and exclusive. However, the club is considered one of the best golf clubs in the world.
The Appeal of California’s Golf Courses
With over 900 golf courses throughout the state, California offers golfers a wide range of options to choose from. One of the main appeals of California’s golf courses is the weather with mild temperatures year-round, golfers can enjoy playing their favorite sport in comfortable conditions.
Additionally, the state’s diverse geography provides a variety of terrain from coastal courses to mountain courses that offer unique challenges and stunning views.
Another draw of California’s golf courses is the quality of the courses themselves. Many of the state’s courses have been designed by some of the top golf course architects in the world, such as Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Jack Nicklaus. These courses often feature lush greens, challenging bunkers, and stunning water hazards.
In addition to the quality of the courses, they also offer a range of amenities to enhance your golfing experience. Many courses have pro shops where you can purchase equipment and apparel, as well as restaurants and bars where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink after your round.
Choosing the Right Golf Course for You
When it comes to choosing the right golf course for you, there are a few things to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Location – Consider the location of the golf course. Is it close to your home or hotel? Is it easily accessible? You don’t want to spend all your time driving to and from the course.
- Course Difficulty – Think about your skill level when choosing a golf course. If you’re a beginner, you may want to start with an easier course. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced golfer, you may want a more challenging option.
- Course Design – Look at the design of the course. Is it a links-style course or a parkland-style course? Does it have water hazards or sand traps? Make sure the course design suits your playing style.
- Course Conditions – Consider the condition of the course. Is it well-maintained? Are the greens and fairways in good shape? A poorly maintained course can negatively impact your game.
- Course Amenities – Think about the amenities offered at the course. Does it have a pro shop? Are there practice facilities? Is there a restaurant or bar on site? These amenities can make your golfing experience more enjoyable.
Conclusion
There you have it, some of the best golf courses to drive on in California. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anything you think I need to add.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
