Hey there my golf loving travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 best golf courses in Los Angeles. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner, you are sure to find a course that suits your skill level and preferences in Los Angeles.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, the City of Angels has a golf course that will challenge and delight you. With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, Los Angeles is truly a golfer’s paradise.
- Riviera Country Club
- Los Angeles Country Club
- Bel-Air Country Club
- Rancho Park Golf Course
- Wilson & Harding Golf Courses
- Hillcrest Country Club
- Brentwood Country Club
- Trump National Golf Club
- Westchester Golf Course
- Penmar Golf Course
Map of the Best Los Angeles Golf Courses
Use this map to identify the location of the best golf courses Los Angeles listed in the post below:
Best Golf Courses in Los Angeles
Ok. so here are some of the best golf courses in Los Angeles to test your skills on.
1. 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.
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2. Los Angeles Country Club
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.
3. Bel-Air Country Club
Nestled in the canyons overlooking Los Angeles, the Bel-Air Country Club is a testament to the timeless designs of George C. Thomas. This classic course has witnessed the touch of several great architects over the years, but it was Tom Doak’s recent restoration that truly revitalized its essence. Doak meticulously removed modern gimmicks and eliminated over 30 bunkers, bringing Bel-Air closer to its original design.
Despite these changes, some things remain constant such as the club’s exclusive atmosphere, the breathtaking walk over golf’s most renowned suspension bridge and a back nine that boasts what Ken Venturi described as some of the world’s finest long par-3s. The course seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering a golfing experience that is both challenging and visually captivating.
The club has hosted several professional events including the LPGA Tour and the Senior PGA Tour, and is considered one of the best golf clubs in the world.
- Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
- Established: 1925
- Type: Private
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. Bell
- Par: 70
- Length: 6,841 yards (6,254 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 73.2 from the back tees
- Cost: Since Bel Air 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.
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4. Rancho Park Golf Course
Rancho Park Golf Course is one of the most popular public courses in Los Angeles. Located in the heart of West LA, this course has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike for over 60 years. With a challenging layout and beautiful views of the surrounding area, it’s no wonder why golfers keep coming back.
Here are some of the features that make Rancho Park Golf Course a must-play:
- 18 holes of championship golf
- Driving range and practice area
- Pro shop with all the latest gear
- On-site restaurant and bar
Rancho Park Golf Course is known for its affordability and accessibility, as well as its challenging layout and historic significance, having hosted several professional events and being a popular spot for celebrities and locals alike.
So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Rancho Park Golf Course has something for everyone. With affordable rates and friendly staff, you’re sure to have a great time.
- Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
- Established: 1947
- Type: Public Total
- Holes: 18
- Designed by: William Johnson and William P. Bell
- Par: 71
- Length: 6,630 yards (6,063 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 71.5 from the back tees
- Cost: Green fees for Los Angeles residents are $38 on weekdays and $42 on weekends and holidays, while non-residents pay $48 on weekdays and $52 on weekends and holidays. The course also offers discounts for seniors, juniors and twilight play.
5. Wilson & Harding Golf Courses
Located in Griffith Park, Wilson & Harding Golf Courses offer two 18-hole courses that are perfect for golfers of all skill levels. With stunning views of the Hollywood Hills and downtown LA, this is one of the most picturesque golf courses in the city.
Here are some of the features that make Wilson & Harding Golf Courses a great choice:
- Two 18-hole courses to choose from
- Driving range and practice area
- Pro shop with all the latest gear
- On-site restaurant and bar
With affordable rates and friendly staff, Wilson & Harding Golf Courses are a great choice for anyone looking to play a round of golf in Los Angeles. So grab your clubs and head on over!
- Location: Griffith Park, Los Angeles, California, United States
- Established: 1923 (Wilson Course), 1924 (Harding Course)
- Type: Public Total
- Holes: 36 (Wilson Course: 18, Harding Course: 18)
- Designed by: George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. Bell (Wilson Course), William P. Bell (Harding Course)
- Par: 72 (Wilson Course), 70 (Harding Course)
- Length: 7,020 yards (6,416 meters) from the back tees (Wilson Course), 6,536 yards (5,977 meters) from the back tees (Harding Course)
- Course Rating: 74.1 from the back tees (Wilson Course), 71.0 from the back tees (Harding Course)
- Cost: Green fees for Los Angeles residents are $42 on weekdays and $47 on weekends and holidays, while non-residents pay $47 on weekdays and $52 on weekends and holidays. The courses also offer discounts for seniors, juniors and twilight play.
Book your trip to Los Angeles here!
6. Hillcrest Country Club
Hillcrest Country Club, located in the Cheviot Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, is a historic establishment that opened its doors in 1920. It was founded as the first country club for the city’s Jewish community. The club’s facilities include tennis courts, an Olympic-size swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course, and a clubhouse equipped with dining and meeting amenities for its members and guests. The golf course, initially designed by Willie Watson, underwent a redesign and renovation by the esteemed architect Kyle Phillips in 2019.
Hillcrest’s golf course has been a venue for prestigious golf tournaments and is a challenging course for players of different skill levels. Furthermore, its proximity to Hollywood and its historical significance as a club for the Jewish community in Los Angeles made it a popular choice for many celebrities and influential figures in the entertainment industry alike.
- Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
- Established: 1920
- Type: Private
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Willie Watson and William P. Bell
- Par: 71
- Length: 6,489 yards (5,937 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 71.9 from the back tees
- Cost: Hillcrest Country Club is a private club so green fees are not publicly available.
7. Brentwood Country Club
Brentwood Country Club is another exclusive golfing destination in Los Angeles. The course was designed by renowned architect Max Behr and offers a challenging yet rewarding round of golf. The club’s facilities are second to none with a beautiful clubhouse, a state-of-the-art practice facility, and a pool and tennis courts for members to enjoy.
The staff at Brentwood Country Club is friendly and welcoming, ensuring that your experience is enjoyable from start to finish. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Brentwood is the perfect place to hone your skills and enjoy a round of golf in a stunning setting.
- Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
- Established: 1947
- Type: Private
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Max Behr and William P. Bell
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,710 yards (6,135 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 72.1 from the back tees
- Cost: Since Brentwood Country Club is a private club and green fees are not publicly available.
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8. Trump National Golf Club
Owned by The Trump Organization, and previously known as the Ocean Trails Golf Club, Trump National Golf Club, situated in Rancho Palos Verdes, is a public golf club boasting a 7,242-yard course meticulously designed by Pete Dye and Donald J. Trump Signature Design.
The club, which includes a 45,000 sq ft clubhouse, is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island and has been ranked among the Top 100 Courses You Can Play by Golf Magazine. It is also notable for hosting the annual Michael Douglas Pro-Celebrity and Friends Golf Tournament.
It is also known for its stunning ocean views, challenging layout and luxurious amenities, including a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar, a pro shop and a driving range.
- Location: Rancho Palos Verdes, California, United States
- Established: 2005
- Type: Public
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Pete Dye
- Par: 71
- Length: 7,242 yards (6,623 meters) from the back tees Course
- Rating: 76.5 from the back tees
- Cost: Green fees are $275 on weekdays and $325 on weekends and holidays. The course also offers discounts for seniors, juniors and twilight play.
9. Westchester Golf Course
The final tow courses take away from the exclusivity of some of the options above to cater for the more casual golfers among us. The first, Westchester Golf Course, is a great choice for beginners and the course is relatively short and has wide fairways, making it easier to hit the ball straight.
The 18-hole course spans 4,364 yards from its longest tees and is designed to cater to golfers of varying skill levels, with two sets of tees available. The course’s greens and fairways are made of rye/kikuya grass, providing a unique playing experience and the property offers a pro shop, driving range and rental options for clubs and carts. Oh, and it is a stones throw away from LAX as well.
- Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
- Established: 1965
- Type: Public
- Total Holes: 18
- Designed by: Robert Muir Graves
- Par: 64
- Length: 4,364 yards (3,993 meters) from the back tees
- Course Rating: 60.0 from the back tees
- Cost: Green fees for Los Angeles residents are $24 on weekdays and $27 on weekends and holidays, while non-residents pay $32 on weekdays and $37 on weekends and holidays. The course also offers discounts for seniors, juniors and twilight play.
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10. Penmar Golf Course
Penmar Golf Course is another great option for beginners located just a few blocks from the iconic Venice Beach in Los Angeles. Comprising six par 4s and three par 3s, the course emphasizes the importance of precise approach shots and Penmar’s layout is perfect for those looking to enjoy a walking round of golf.
Its proximity to Venice Beach and the course’s design have earned it the title of “Best Nine Hole Golf Course” by Los Angeles Magazine. In addition to its well-maintained greens and fairways, Penmar Golf Course offers a range of amenities to enhance the golfer’s experience as well including practice putting greens, rental clubs and the Penmar Restaurant, where golfers can relax and enjoy a meal after their round.
Location: Venice, California, United States
Established: 1962
Type: Public Total
Holes: 9
Designed by: N/A
Par: 33
Length: 2,473 yards (2,260 meters) from the back tees
Course Rating: 64.4 from the back tees
Cost: Green fees for Los Angeles residents are $14 on weekdays and $16 on weekends and holidays, while non-residents pay $20 on weekdays and $24 on weekends and holidays.
History of Golf in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has a rich history of golf that dates back to the early 1900s. The first golf course in Los Angeles was the Los Angeles Country Club, which was established in 1897. This course was designed by Wilfrid Reid and has been a popular destination for golfers ever since.
In the early 1900s, several other golf courses were built in the Los Angeles area, including the Wilshire Country Club and the Riviera Country Club. Then during the 1920s and 1930s, golf became increasingly popular and many more golf courses were built.
Today, Los Angeles is home to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the world. From the stunning ocean views at Trump National Golf Club to the rolling hills and tree-lined fairways at the Riviera Country Club, there is something for every golfer in Los Angeles.
Conclusion
There you have it, some of the best golf courses to par it up on in Los Angeles. 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
