El Dorado Park Golf Course: Tee Times, Layout & Golfing Guide

Looking for a golf course that combines challenge, beauty, and community? Want a place where you can test your skills while enjoying stunning views? El Dorado Park Golf Course, Long Beach might be the perfect spot for you. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes this 18-hole, par 72 course stand out. From its unique design to its welcoming atmosphere, discover why El Dorado Park is a favorite among golfers of all levels.

El Dorado Park Golf Course: Overview 

El Dorado Park Golf Course, located at 2400 Studebaker Road in Long Beach, California, is a scenic 18-hole, par 72 course within El Dorado Regional Park. 

Designed by Ted Robinson, Sr. in 1962, this course has hosted prestigious events like the Queen Mary Open and the Long Beach Open. 

With Kikuyu fairways, Poa Annua greens, and challenging water hazards, it offers a rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Beyond the course, you’ll find top-notch amenities, including a driving range, chipping green, practice bunker, and putting greens. 

The full-service restaurant and event spaces can host up to 150 guests indoors and 650 outdoors, making it a popular spot for tournaments and special occasions. Let’s discuss the El Dorado Golf Course in detail.

History of the El Dorado Park Golf Course

El Dorado Park Golf Course has been a cherished part of Long Beach’s golfing community since 1962.

The course’s story began in 1962 when Ted Robinson, Sr. brought his visionary design to life. Robinson was famous for incorporating water features into his golf courses, and El Dorado Park is no exception. 

As you make your way through the course, you’ll notice several water hazards that add not only to its beauty but also its level of difficulty. 

Each hole offers a unique challenge, making the course a favorite for golfers of all skill levels.

What makes El Dorado Park Golf Course even more special is its connection to El Dorado Regional Park. 

The park was developed around the same time, thanks to land purchased by the City of Long Beach. 

This acquisition was made possible by Milton B. Arthur, a member of the Long Beach Recreation Commission, who helped secure funds through bonds issued in the 1950s and ’60s. 

Today, the park and the golf course seamlessly blend into a peaceful, green oasis where golfers can enjoy nature while perfecting their game.

Notable Events and Tournaments

El Dorado Park Golf Course has also made a name for itself in professional golf. It once hosted the prestigious Queen Mary Open. 

This tournament not only showcased the course’s challenging design but also highlighted its picturesque surroundings, earning it recognition among golfers and spectators alike.

Today, El Dorado continues to hold its place in the spotlight as the host of the annual Long Beach Open. This highly regarded professional tournament attracts top talent and further cements the course’s status as a premier golfing destination.

Community Events

The course also hosts a variety of other events, including charity golf outings, corporate gatherings, and social events. These events help bring the community together and create a fun atmosphere for both golfers and local residents.

Course Layout and Features

Holes and Par

With 18 holes and a par 72, El Dorado Park provides a full golfing experience. The design balances scenic beauty with strategic play, making every round both enjoyable and challenging.

Length and Tees

The course stretches to about 6,474 yards from the back tees, offering a good challenge for most players. 

If you’re aiming for a tougher test, the Championship Blue Tees give you 6,461 yards with a slope of 127, making them perfect for experienced golfers who want to push their limits.

Water Hazards

Water hazards are a defining feature of El Dorado Park Golf Course. These strategically placed obstacles force you to plan your shots carefully. 

A little precision can go a long way, as miscalculations might land your ball in the water.

Tree-Lined Fairways

One of the things that makes this course truly special is its mature tree-lined fairways. 

The trees don’t just make the course look beautiful; they add to the challenge by narrowing your target areas. If your drive goes off course, you could find yourself in a tricky spot, making accuracy a key factor in your game.

Grass Types

The greens are made of Poa Annua Grass, which provides a smooth and consistent putting surface. This makes it easier to control putts and improve your short game.

The fairways are covered in Kikuyu Grass, a tough and resilient grass that holds up well to frequent play. It also gives you a firm surface for better ball flight, helping you make solid contact with each shot.

Difficulty Level

El Dorado Park Golf Course offers a moderate to hard level of difficulty. If you’re a beginner, expect a challenge—but a rewarding one. For more seasoned golfers, the strategic layout and obstacles make every round exciting.

Tees for All Skill Levels

With multiple tee options, you can choose the right level of difficulty for your game. If you’re looking for a less demanding round, the Forward Tees at 5,625 yards provide a great option for newer players or those who want a more relaxed game.

Season and Playability

One of the best things about golfing at El Dorado Park is that it’s open all year. Thanks to Southern California’s mild weather, you can enjoy a round whenever you like—no need to worry about extreme seasonal changes.

El Dorado Park Golf Course: Amenities and Facilities

El Dorado Park Golf Course isn’t just about the game — it offers a range of top-notch amenities and facilities that make your visit even more enjoyable. 

Whether you’re here to sharpen your skills, grab a bite, or host an event, this course has everything you need.

Practice Areas

Want to fine-tune your game? The course has fantastic practice facilities designed to help golfers at every skill level improve their shots:

• Driving Range: Practice your long shots on the spacious, well-kept driving range.
• Putting Greens: Hone your accuracy with dedicated greens perfect for improving your short game.
• Chipping Area: Work on those tricky chip shots and sharpen your precision around the greens.
• Practice Bunkers: Get comfortable in the sand with practice bunkers that simulate real-course conditions.

These areas are perfect for beginners learning the ropes and seasoned players refining their techniques.

Additional Services

El Dorado Park Golf Course also offers several convenient services to make your experience smooth and enjoyable:

• Pro Shop: Need new gear? The on-site pro shop is stocked with golf apparel, equipment, and accessories. You can get a custom club fitting to ensure your equipment matches your game.
• Rental Services: Don’t have your own gear? No problem! The course offers cart and club rentals, so you can hit the greens without any hassle.

Restaurant and Event Spaces

After a great game, why not unwind at the full-service restaurant or plan a special event in a stunning setting?

• Indoor Dining: The cozy indoor space can host up to 150 guests, making it great for casual meals, meetings, or small celebrations.
• Outdoor Event Tent: Planning a big event? The outdoor tent accommodates 650 people, making it ideal for weddings, corporate events, and tournament banquets.
• Scenic Views: No matter where you sit, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the lush fairways, creating a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere for any gathering.

Booking Information

Booking a round at El Dorado Park Golf Course is simple and convenient. Whether you’re a regular or visiting for the first time, the course offers flexible options to help you secure your tee time with ease.

When to Book

Tee times are available year-round, so you can enjoy the course in any season. The booking window varies depending on your status:

• General Public: Reservations open 7 days in advance.
• Long Beach Residents: If you have a Long Beach Resident Card, you get priority booking, with reservations opening 8 days in advance.
• Online Reservations: Available daily starting at 6:00 AM.

How to Book

You have two simple ways to book your tee time:

• Online: Visit the official website or use the Long Beach Golf online reservation system. It’s quick and lets you check availability instantly.
• By Phone: Prefer to speak to someone? Call the course directly at +1 562-430-5411. The staff can help you find a suitable time and answer any questions.

Booking Tips

To increase your chances of getting the tee time you want:

• Book Early: Popular times, especially weekends and holidays, fill up quickly. Reserve as soon as the booking window opens.
• Resident Advantage: Long Beach residents can get a Resident Card to access earlier bookings and other perks.

El Dorado Park Golf Course: Membership Details

If you’re looking to step up your game, The Players Club Membership at El Dorado Park Golf Course is perfect for you. It’s packed with great perks to make your golfing experience more fun and affordable. 

Plus, it gives you access to several golf courses around Long Beach!

Benefits of The Players Club Membership

• Free Daily Range Balls: As a member, you get unlimited range balls every day. It’s a great way to practice and improve your skills whenever you want.

• Discounted Green Fees: Members enjoy discounted green fees, and this includes the use of carts. So, you get to play more often without breaking the bank.

• Drinks Included: Enjoy complimentary drinks while you’re out on the course. It’s all part of the great value you get with the membership.

• Merchandise Discounts: Need new golf gear? Members get exclusive discounts on golf merchandise, so you can pick up some new equipment or clothing for less.

• Access to Multiple Courses: This membership opens the door to five different golf courses in the Long Beach area, including:
  • El Dorado Park Golf Course
  • Skylinks Golf Course
  • Recreation Park 18 Golf Course
  • Recreation Park 9 Golf Course
  • Heartwell Golf Course

With access to all these courses, you’ll have plenty of options for a variety of golfing experiences.

How to Join

Joining The Players Club is simple! You can sign up at any of the participating golf courses around Long Beach. Just pick the one that’s most convenient for you.

Additional Membership Options

While The Players Club gives you access to multiple courses, there are other membership options if you’re looking for something more specific or exclusive. 

For example, the El Dorado Park Men’s Golf Club offers a membership that comes with its own set of benefits like tournament participation and social events.

El Dorado Park Golf Course Rates and Policies

El Dorado Park Golf Course offers a variety of green fees and policies to make golfing accessible and enjoyable for all kinds of players. 

Here’s a breakdown of the current rates and rules.

Green Fees

• Public Rates:
  • Weekdays: $51.75 for 18 holes.
  • Weekends and Holidays: $68 for 18 holes.

• Resident Rates:
  • Weekdays: $38.75 for 18 holes.
  • Weekends and Holidays: $50.25 for 18 holes.

• Twilight and Super Twilight Rates:
  • Twilight: These rates start late in the afternoon, giving you a cheaper way to play.
    • Public: $32.50 (weekdays), $36.25 (weekends/holidays).
    • Residents: $25.50 (weekdays), $30 (weekends/holidays).

• Super Twilight: The best deal, usually starting near sunset.
  • Public: $22 (weekdays), $23.50 (weekends/holidays).
  • Residents: $18.25 (weekdays), $22 (weekends/holidays).

Policies

• Walking Policy: You’re welcome to walk the course. It’s a great way to enjoy the game at a more relaxed pace while getting some exercise.

• Spikes Policy: To protect the greens and fairways, no metal spikes are allowed. Be sure to wear soft spikes or spikeless shoes.

• Dress Code: Golfers are expected to wear proper golf attire, which usually includes a collared shirt, golf pants or shorts, and golf shoes. This helps keep the course looking neat and professional.

• Junior and Senior Discounts: Special rates are available for juniors and seniors to make golfing more affordable.
  • Junior Discount: For golfers under a certain age (usually after 1 PM on standby):
    • Public: $6.25 (weekdays), $12.75 (weekends/holidays).
  • Senior Resident Discounts (for residents aged 61 and above):
    • 9 Holes Before 7 AM: $7.75
    • 18 Holes Before 7 AM (Standby): $16.25
    • 18 Holes Before Noon: $26.50 (weekdays), $29 (weekends/holidays)
    • 18 Holes After Noon: $16.25

Additional Policies

• Cancellation Policy: If you need to cancel, make sure to do so at least 48 hours in advance. If you miss that window, there’s a $20 fee.

• Discount Cards: Both residents and non-residents can buy annual discount/reservation cards. These cards give you access to reduced rates and other perks. The cards cost $25 for residents and $37 for non-residents.

El Dorado Park Golf Course Reviews

El Dorado Park Golf Course has received a mix of positive and constructive feedback over the years. Known for its scenic views, challenging layout, and friendly atmosphere, the course appeals to golfers of all skill levels. 

However, some reviews do highlight areas for improvement.

Positive Feedback

• Course Conditions: Many golfers rave about the well-maintained greens, which are consistently smooth and receptive. The fairways, especially after winter recovery, are noted for being in great shape and welcoming during peak seasons.

• Atmosphere and Layout: The course is set in a beautiful park with lush grass, mature trees, and plenty of shade. Golfers love the fun yet challenging layout, which offers birdie opportunities but isn’t too difficult for beginners. The variety of shots needed, due to the tree placements and water hazards, is particularly appreciated.

• Community Engagement: Reviewers often mention the friendly locals and welcoming vibe, making it enjoyable for both first-timers and regulars. The course also attracts international players, adding a nice touch of diversity to the experience.

• Pro Shop and Staff: Feedback about the pro shop is mostly positive. Staff are friendly and helpful, and while the selection of merchandise may not be extensive, visitors appreciate the free course maps, especially when navigating the course for the first time.

Constructive Criticism

• Fairways and Bunkers: While the greens get lots of praise, some golfers note that the fairways can be patchy or uneven during certain seasons, often requiring “winter rules.” Bunkers sometimes receive criticism for inconsistent maintenance.

• Course Navigation: First-time players sometimes find the course difficult to navigate due to missing basket numbers or outdated signage. While there are directional arrows in some areas, better signage could improve the experience for newcomers.

• Repetitive Hole Design: Some players feel certain holes are too similar in design, particularly across the front and back nine. A few reviewers suggest adding more distinctive “signature holes” to make the course more unique.

• Crowd Dynamics: A few reviews mention occasional disruptions caused by local groups who engage in non-golf activities like drinking or lounging in lawn chairs. While this doesn’t affect everyone, it can sometimes detract from the golfing experience.

Overall Impression

El Dorado Park Golf Course remains a popular spot for golfers in Long Beach due to its scenic beauty, fun layout, and welcoming atmosphere. 

While improvements could be made in areas like fairway conditions and navigation, most visitors enjoy their time on the course and would recommend it to others.

Conclusion

El Dorado Park Golf Course is a standout in Long Beach, California. Designed by Ted Robinson, Sr., this par 72 course offers a challenging yet enjoyable layout with mature trees, expansive fairways, and water hazards. 

Its well-maintained Poa Annua greens and Kikuyu fairways make it suitable for golfers of all levels.

The course hosts renowned events like the Long Beach Open and boasts excellent practice facilities, including a driving range and chipping areas. After your round, unwind at the full-service restaurant.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, El Dorado Park Golf Course offers a perfect blend of challenge and beauty. Book a tee time today and experience why it remains a favorite in Long Beach for locals and visitors.

Key Points 

1. El Dorado Park Golf Course was designed by Ted Robinson, Sr., and opened in 1962.
2. It is a public 18-hole, par 72 course in Long Beach, California.
3. The course spans 6,461 yards from the longest tees, with a slope rating of 127 and a USGA rating of 71.0.
4. The course features Kikuyu grass fairways and Poa Annua greens.
5. El Dorado Park Golf Course is known as a “player’s course” with tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and small greens.
6. The course hosts the prestigious Long Beach Open and was previously the venue for the Queen Mary Open.
7. It offers practice facilities including a driving range, putting greens, chipping areas, and practice bunkers.
8. The course regularly hosts community events, charity tournaments, and junior golf programs.
9. It has a full-service restaurant with indoor seating for up to 150 guests and an outdoor tent for 650 people.
10. The course is located within El Dorado Regional Park and is surrounded by lush greenery, lakes, and recreational amenities.

FAQs

1. Who designed the El Dorado Park Golf Course?

El Dorado Park Golf Course was designed by renowned golf architect Ted Robinson, Sr., known for his innovative use of water features and challenging layouts.

2. What are the course’s green fees?

The green fees at El Dorado Park Golf Course vary based on residency and day of play. Public rates are $51.75 for weekdays and $68 for weekends/holidays, while residents pay $38.75 for weekdays and $50.25 for weekends/holidays.

3. Are metal spikes allowed on the course?

No, metal spikes are not permitted at El Dorado Park Golf Course. Golfers are required to wear soft spikes or spikeless shoes to protect the course’s greens and fairways.