10 Best Golf Courses in California For 2025

California is a golfer’s paradise, home to some of the most stunning and prestigious golf courses in the world. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking ocean views, challenging championship layouts, or serene fairways surrounded by rolling hills, the Golden State has something for every golfer. 

In this article, we’ll take you through the 10 best golf courses in California, highlighting what makes each one special. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual weekend player, these courses offer an unforgettable golfing experience. 

So, without further ado, let’s read on our article and discover your next must-play destination!

1. Cypress Point Club: Pebble Beach, California

Cypress Point Club is one of the most exclusive and revered golf courses in the world. Located along the stunning Monterey Peninsula, this private club was designed by the legendary Alister MacKenzie in 1928. Known for its breathtaking coastal holes and challenging layout, Cypress Point is often ranked among the best golf courses globally. 

While access is highly restricted, those lucky enough to play here experience one of golf’s most unforgettable rounds.

Key Features

• Course Design: Cypress Point is a par-72 course that stretches over 6,524 yards, featuring a mix of forested, dunes, and oceanfront holes. Its most famous stretch, holes 15 to 17, plays directly along the Pacific Ocean, with the 16th hole being one of the most iconic par-3s in the world, requiring a long carry over the crashing waves.
• Scenery & Views: The course is renowned for its dramatic coastal views, rugged cliffs, and pristine natural beauty. Players navigate through cypress trees, rolling sand dunes, and Pacific Ocean backdrops, making for a visually stunning and serene golfing experience.
• Facilities & Amenities: As a highly exclusive club, Cypress Point offers a private clubhouse, top-tier practice facilities, and a world-class caddie program to its members and guests.
• Tournaments & Events: While Cypress Point once hosted the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, it was removed from the rotation in 1991 due to its private nature. However, it remains a prestigious location for elite amateur events and private member tournaments.

Why Play Here?

Cypress Point Club is a bucket-list course for golfers worldwide. Its combination of breathtaking oceanfront holes, elite design, and exclusivity makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The 16th hole alone, one of the most photographed in golf, adds to the course’s mystique and allure.

Green Fees & Accessibility

Cypress Point is a private club, and access is by invitation only. There are no public tee times, and even many top golfers never get the chance to play here. The only way to experience this masterpiece is through a personal invitation from a member.

2. Pebble Beach Golf Links: Pebble Beach, California

Pebble Beach Golf Links is one of the most iconic and celebrated public golf courses in the world. Opened in 1919 and designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, this legendary course is located along the rugged coastline of the Monterey Peninsula. 

Furthermore, known for its stunning ocean views and championship-level challenge, Pebble Beach has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and continues to be a bucket-list destination for golfers worldwide.

Key Features

• Course Design: A par-72, 7,075-yard layout that offers a mix of strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and coastal winds that challenge even the best golfers. Holes 6 through 10 and 17 through 18 run along the Pacific Ocean, making them some of the most scenic and demanding holes in golf.
• Scenery & Views: Players are treated to jaw-dropping coastal vistas, crashing waves, and dramatic cliffside fairways. The 18th hole, a breathtaking par-5 hugging the ocean, is considered one of the greatest finishing holes in golf.
• Facilities & Amenities: Pebble Beach features a luxurious clubhouse, top-tier practice facilities, a pro shop, and several fine dining options. The resort also offers world-class lodging, including The Lodge at Pebble Beach and Casa Palmero.
• Tournaments & Events: Pebble Beach has hosted six U.S. Opens (with a seventh scheduled for 2027), the annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open, further cementing its status as a premier championship venue.

Why Play Here?

Pebble Beach offers a majestic setting, a championship-caliber challenge, and a rich history. It is one of the few world-class courses that is open to the public, making it a dream destination for golf enthusiasts. The opportunity to walk in the footsteps of legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Phil Mickelson adds to the experience.

Green Fees & Accessibility

Pebble Beach is a public course, but its exclusivity comes at a price. Green fees start at around $625 per round (plus caddie or cart fees). Advance reservations are recommended, and guests staying at Pebble Beach Resorts receive priority booking.

3. Torrey Pines Golf Course: La Jolla, California

Torrey Pines Golf Course is one of the most prestigious municipal courses in the world. It is perched atop the majestic coastal cliffs of La Jolla. Designed by William F. Bell in 1957, this 36-hole public golf facility features two championship courses, namely Torrey Pines South and North. 

Furthermore, Torrey Pines is home to the annual Farmers Insurance Open and multiple U.S. Opens, including Tiger Woods’ legendary 2008 victory. Thus, it is a must-play destination for golfers seeking a PGA Tour-level experience with breathtaking ocean views.

Course Design 

Torrey Pines consists of two courses:

• South Course (Par 72, 7,802 yards): A challenging championship course that hosted the 2008 and 2021 U.S. Open. Features tight fairways, deep bunkers, and long par-4s.
• North Course (Par 72, 7,258 yards): Slightly shorter and more forgiving, offering a more player-friendly experience while still maintaining a high level of difficulty.

Key Features

• Scenery & Views: Set along the Pacific coastline, both courses provide stunning ocean views, rolling cliffs, and lush landscapes, making for an unforgettable golfing experience.
• Facilities & Amenities: The course features a full-service clubhouse, pro shop, practice facilities, and dining options. Torrey Pines Lodge offers luxury accommodations for visitors.
• Tournaments & Events: Torrey Pines hosts the Farmers Insurance Open every year and has been the site of multiple U.S. Opens, with the 2021 championship producing an epic victory for Jon Rahm.

Why Play Here?

Torrey Pines delivers a world-class golf experience at a fraction of the cost of other top-tier courses. Golfers can test their skills on the same fairways as PGA Tour professionals while enjoying some of the most spectacular coastal views in California.

Green Fees & Accessibility

As a municipal course, Torrey Pines is open to the public. Green fees range from $75 to $265 for residents and $252 to $365 for non-residents, depending on the course and time of play. Tee times are in high demand, so early booking is recommended.

4. San Francisco Golf Club: San Francisco, California

San Francisco Golf Club is one of the most prestigious and exclusive private golf clubs in the United States. Designed by the legendary A.W. Tillinghast in 1915, this course is a classic Golden Age masterpiece that has remained largely unchanged for over a century. 

Additionally, known for its pristine conditions, strategic layout, and old-school charm, it is one of the few Tillinghast designs that remain untouched by modern alterations. Thus, the club maintains an ultra-private atmosphere, making it a bucket-list course for those fortunate enough to receive an invitation.

Key Features

• Course Design: A par-71, 6,716-yard layout that emphasizes shot-making, precision, and strategic play. The course features rolling terrain, tight fairways, well-placed bunkers, and undulating greens, creating a challenging but fair test for golfers.
• Scenery & Views: The course is nestled in the hills of San Francisco, offering a peaceful, parkland-style setting with towering cypress and eucalyptus trees. The famous “Duel Hole” (7th) is named after the site of an 1859 duel between two U.S. senators.
• Facilities & Amenities: As a private club, San Francisco Golf Club offers an exclusive clubhouse, top-tier practice facilities, and a world-class caddie program to its members and guests.
• Tournaments & Events: Due to its private nature, the club does not host professional events but is known for holding elite amateur competitions and member-exclusive tournaments.

Why Play Here?

San Francisco Golf Club is considered one of the purest and most authentic golf experiences in America. Its A.W. Tillinghast design, exceptional course conditions, and rich history make it a dream course for those who appreciate traditional, strategic golf.

Green Fees & Accessibility

This is an invitation-only private club with no public tee times available. The only way to play is by knowing a member or receiving a rare guest invitation.

5. Riviera Country Club: Pacific Palisades, California

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Riviera Country Club is one of the most iconic private golf courses in the world. Designed by George C. Thomas Jr. in 1926, Riviera has long been a favorite among PGA Tour professionals and Hollywood elites. 

The course has hosted multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, and the annual Genesis Invitational. Known for its classic architecture, challenging layout, and deep bunkering, Riviera remains one of the most revered golf courses in California.

Key Features

• Course Design: A par-71, 7,322-yard course that is considered a shot-maker’s paradise. It features strategically placed bunkers, small greens, and narrow fairways. The 6th hole, with its bunker in the middle of the green, and the 10th hole, a short but strategic par-4, are among the most famous holes in golf.
• Scenery & Views: Nestled in the rolling hills of Pacific Palisades, Riviera offers a stunning parkland setting with mature trees, lush fairways, and a timeless design that blends seamlessly with the landscape.
• Facilities & Amenities: The club offers a world-class clubhouse, top-tier practice areas, a fitness center, fine dining, and a luxurious spa. Riviera also boasts a prestigious tennis club, making it a hub for both golf and racquet sports.
• Tournaments & Events: Home to the Genesis Invitational, hosted by Tiger Woods, Riviera has also been the site of the 1948 U.S. Open, two PGA Championships (1983, 1995), and will host the golf events for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Why Play Here?

Riviera is often referred to as “Hogan’s Alley” due to Ben Hogan’s legendary success here. It is one of the best strategic courses in the country, requiring precise shot-making and a strong short game. Its rich history, prestigious tournaments, and championship-caliber layout make it a dream course for any golfer.

Green Fees & Accessibility

Riviera is a highly exclusive private club, and access is limited to members and their guests. Membership comes with a significant initiation fee and annual dues, making it one of the most elite clubs in California.

6. Pasatiempo Golf Club: Santa Cruz, California

Pasatiempo Golf Club is one of California’s finest public-access courses, which was designed by the legendary Alister MacKenzie in 1929. MacKenzie, famous for designing Augusta National and Cypress Point, considered Pasatiempo his favorite personal design, even choosing to live off the course’s 6th fairway. 

Furthermore, this semi-private course offers a historic yet playable experience for golfers of all skill levels, as it contains a mixture of challenging greens, strategic bunkering, and rolling fairways.

Key Features

• Course Design: A par-70, 6,500-yard course featuring elevated tee shots, dramatic elevation changes, and undulating greens. The signature 16th hole is one of the best par-4s in the world, requiring a precise approach to a tricky green.
• Scenery & Views: Set in the rolling hills above Monterey Bay, Pasatiempo offers stunning ocean views, tree-lined fairways, and natural ravines, adding both beauty and challenge to the round.
• Facilities & Amenities: The course features a pro shop, practice facilities, and The Hollins House restaurant, which provides panoramic views of the course and ocean.
• Tournaments & Events: While not a PGA Tour venue, Pasatiempo has hosted several USGA championships, including the U.S. Women’s Amateur and U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur.

Why Play Here?

Pasatiempo is one of the best MacKenzie-designed courses open to the public, offering a historic and strategic test of golf. Its fast greens, unique elevation changes, and world-class design make it a bucket-list course for architecture enthusiasts.

Green Fees & Accessibility

Pasatiempo is semi-private, meaning public play is available on certain days. Green fees range from $275 to $325, with discounts for twilight and local residents. Advanced tee times are recommended due to high demand.

7. Spyglass Hill Golf Course: Pebble Beach, California

Opened in 1966 and designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Spyglass Hill Golf Course is one of the most challenging and scenic courses in California. As part of the Pebble Beach Resorts, this public course is renowned for its dramatic landscape, combining oceanfront holes with dense forest-lined fairways. 

Spyglass Hill is a regular stop on the PGA Tour, serving as one of the host courses for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. It is widely regarded as one of the toughest courses in the country, making it a must-play for serious golfers.

Key Features

• Course Design: A par-72, 7,035-yard layout that transitions from stunning oceanfront dunes on the first five holes to a demanding, tree-lined back nine. Signature holes include the par-3 3rd, which features a green surrounded by dunes and ocean views, and the brutally long par-4 16th.
• Scenery & Views: The first five holes offer breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, while the rest of the course winds through Monterey pine forests, rolling hills, and natural hazards, creating a unique mix of coastal and woodland golf.
• Facilities & Amenities: Spyglass Hill features a clubhouse, pro shop, practice facilities, and access to Pebble Beach’s world-class amenities, including lodging, dining, and a golf academy.
• Tournaments & Events: A regular host of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Spyglass Hill has tested some of the best golfers in the world. It has also been a U.S. Open qualifying course and is considered one of the most challenging stops on the PGA Tour rotation.

Why Play Here?

Spyglass Hill is known for being one of the toughest yet most beautiful courses on the West Coast. Its unique blend of oceanfront and forest golf, combined with challenging elevation changes and fast greens, makes it a must-play for those seeking a true test of skill.

Green Fees & Accessibility

As part of Pebble Beach Resorts, Spyglass Hill is open to the public, but tee times fill up quickly. Green fees range from $465 to $495, making it one of the pricier public courses, but the unforgettable experience makes it well worth the cost. Advance reservations are highly recommended.

8. PGA West: La Quinta, California

Located in the Coachella Valley, PGA West is home to some of the most prestigious and challenging golf courses in the United States. Known as the “Western Home of Golf in America,” PGA West boasts six courses, including the Stadium Course, designed by Pete Dye, and the Nicklaus Tournament Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus. 

It was opened in 1986, and this destination is an exclusive destination for golf enthusiasts and has been a regular host for PGA Tour events, including the CareerBuilder Challenge (now the American Express).

Key Features

• Course Design: The Stadium Course is a par-72, 7,300-yard course known for its tough layout, featuring water hazards, island greens, and strategic bunkering. The Nicklaus Tournament Course is another challenging layout, with wide fairways and large greens. Both courses offer a variety of challenges, requiring a strong mix of shot-making, course management, and putting.
• Scenery & Views: Set in the desert landscape with views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, PGA West offers spectacular desert vistas, palm trees, and lush fairways amidst an arid backdrop. The water features and canyons provide additional natural beauty.
• Facilities & Amenities: PGA West features clubhouses, practice facilities, a fitness center, and an upscale pro shop. The resort also boasts luxury accommodations, dining options, and access to the PGA West Golf Academy for both beginners and experienced golfers.
• Tournaments & Events: PGA West hosts several professional tournaments, including the PGA Tour’s American Express, formerly known as the Bob Hope Classic. The resort has also been a host for LPGA and Champions Tour events.

Why Play Here?

PGA West is perfect for golfers looking for a diverse range of challenging courses, desert beauty, and world-class amenities. Whether you’re playing the famous Stadium Course or the more approachable Nicklaus Tournament Course, PGA West offers a premier golfing experience.

Green Fees & Accessibility

PGA West is a private club, but public access is available on certain courses. Green fees for the Stadium Course range from $295 to $395 depending on the time of year. The Nicklaus Tournament Course has similar pricing, with advanced reservations strongly recommended. Membership options are available, providing additional access to PGA West’s exclusive facilities and courses.

9. The Quarry at La Quinta: La Quinta, California

Opened in 1994, The Quarry at La Quinta is one of the most exclusive and challenging private courses in California. Designed by Tom Fazio, this private desert course offers a unique and rugged layout set against the backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains. 

Known for its striking natural features and environmental sensitivity, The Quarry has garnered a reputation as one of the top golf experiences in the Coachella Valley. The course has also been featured on numerous top golf course lists for its design and exclusivity.

Key Features

• Course Design: The par-72, 7,300-yard layout features elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and dramatic doglegs. The signature 8th hole, a long par-4 that requires a carry over a canyon, is a true test of a golfer’s skill. Fazio’s design blends desert terrain with lush fairways, offering a challenging yet visually stunning round.
• Scenery & Views: Situated in the desert foothills, The Quarry offers breathtaking views of the Santa Rosa Mountains and surrounding desert landscape. The course is dotted with natural rock formations, caves, and water features, which add to its beauty and difficulty.
• Facilities & Amenities: The Quarry offers world-class amenities, including an elegant clubhouse, practice areas, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The club also features luxurious dining, a pro shop, and access to a golf academy for lessons and improvement.
• Tournaments & Events: Though a private course, The Quarry has hosted several charity events and corporate outings. Its exclusivity makes it a highly sought-after venue for private tournaments and special events.

Why Play Here?

The Quarry at La Quinta offers a distinctive and challenging golf experience set in a dramatic desert landscape. Its exclusive membership and difficult layout make it a top choice for golfers seeking both challenge and beauty. The pristine desert setting, coupled with Fazio’s brilliant design, creates a truly unique golfing experience.

Green Fees & Accessibility

The Quarry is a private course, with limited access for guests of members. As a highly exclusive destination, it is not open to the public for general play. Membership is required, and rates vary depending on the membership level and amenities included. Advanced tee time reservations for members are a must.

10. TPC Harding Park

Located in the heart of San Francisco, TPC Harding Park is a historic and prestigious public course that has hosted several major professional tournaments, including the 2020 PGA Championship. 

Designed by William Watson in 1925, with modifications by A.W. Tillinghast, Harding Park offers a challenging yet accessible layout that blends natural beauty with tournament-ready conditions. Its rich history and connection to professional golf make it one of the most iconic courses in the Bay Area.

Key Features

• Course Design: The par-70, 7,000-yard layout features wide fairways, large greens, and strategic bunkering. Notable holes include the par-4 15th, where golfers must navigate a long drive and an approach to a well-guarded green. The course is designed to be challenging but fair, offering an enjoyable test for golfers of all skill levels.
• Scenery & Views: Situated near Lake Merced, Harding Park is surrounded by majestic trees and offers scenic views of the lake and San Francisco skyline. The natural landscape, with its mature trees, undulating terrain, and tranquil setting, provides a peaceful and picturesque golfing experience.
• Facilities & Amenities: The course offers excellent amenities, including a clubhouse, practice areas, pro shop, and dining options. There are also golf lessons and a driving range, making it an ideal destination for golfers looking to improve their game.
• Tournaments & Events: As the site of the 2020 PGA Championship, TPC Harding Park has hosted numerous professional events, including the World Golf Championships and Champions Tour tournaments. It continues to be a top choice for professional golf events and is a favorite among both amateurs and professionals.

Why Play Here?

TPC Harding Park is a historic course that combines challenging play, natural beauty, and professional pedigree. Whether you’re a local golfer or visiting San Francisco, playing at Harding Park offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of golf legends and experience tournament-level conditions in a public setting.

Green Fees & Accessibility

TPC Harding Park is a public course, but it operates under the TPC (Tournament Players Club) system, meaning that while it’s open to the public, reservations and tee times are required. Green fees range from $180 to $250, depending on the time of day and season. Discounted rates are available for San Francisco residents, and advanced booking is strongly recommended.

Final Thoughts

California is undoubtedly home to some of the most iconic and exceptional golf courses in the world, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. From the exclusivity of Cypress Point Club and San Francisco Golf Club to the world-class public courses like Pebble Beach and Torrey Pines, there’s something for every golfer to enjoy. 

Whether you’re seeking dramatic oceanfront vistas, challenging championship layouts, or a rich history, these courses provide opportunities to test your skills and enjoy breathtaking landscapes. With its varied terrain, prestigious events, and unparalleled beauty, California remains a top destination for golf enthusiasts around the globe.

Key Takeaways

• California offers a wide variety of golf courses, ranging from exclusive private clubs to accessible public courses, catering to golfers of all levels.
• Many of the top golf courses in California, including Pebble Beach and Cypress Point, provide breathtaking coastal vistas, making them memorable for both their design and natural beauty.
• Courses like Cypress Point Club, Pebble Beach, and Riviera are globally recognized for their high-status history, making them bucket-list destinations for avid golfers.
• Courses like Torrey Pines and Riviera have hosted major tournaments, such as the U.S. Open and PGA Championships, offering golfers the chance to play on championship-caliber greens.
• Some of the most iconic courses, such as Cypress Point and Pasatiempo, were designed by legendary architects like Alister MacKenzie and Robert Trent Jones Sr., adding historical and architectural significance.
• Several of California’s best golf courses, including San Francisco Golf Club and Riviera Country Club, are private, requiring exclusive invitations or membership for access.
• Many top golf courses in California, such as Pebble Beach and Torrey Pines, offer luxurious facilities, including fine dining, accommodation, and practice areas, enhancing the overall golfing experience.
• Not all of California’s best courses are private; places like Pebble Beach and Torrey Pines offer public access, allowing everyday golfers to experience world-class layouts.
• From the iconic 16th hole at Cypress Point to the strategic design of Riviera, California courses are known for their standout holes and layouts that challenge golfers of all skills.
• Green fees for top courses like Pebble Beach and Torrey Pines can be expensive, with peak-season rates and limited tee times, making early reservations essential for those looking to play at these prestigious venues.

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