Looking for a golf course with amazing views and a fun challenge? Ever thought about playing at a course where you can see the Golden Gate Bridge while teeing off?
Being one of the best golf courses in San Francisco, The Presidio Golf Course has it all: beautiful scenery, a tough layout, and a rich history.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just starting, this course offers something special. Want to know what makes it stand out? Let’s take a closer look at why the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA is a must-play spot!
Overview of Presidio Golf Course, San Francisco, CA
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA is one of the historic golf courses. It’s known for its challenging layout and breathtaking scenery.
Established in 1895, it’s one of the oldest golf courses west of the Mississippi River. What started as a private course for military officers became a public golf course in 1995.
What Makes Presidio Golf San Francisco CA Special?
- Prime Location: You’ll find this course inside a national park, just minutes from downtown San Francisco. It’s a peaceful escape from the city’s fast pace.
- Challenging Layout: Prepare for tight fairways, tricky bunkers, and hilly terrain surrounded by towering Eucalyptus and Monterey Pine trees.
- Eco-Friendly Management: The course focuses on sustainable practices, using less pesticide and applying compost tea for healthier turf.
- Great Amenities: Enjoy a full-service restaurant, driving range, practice facilities, and an award-winning golf shop.
This iconic course combines history, nature, and a tough but exciting golfing experience. Let’s explore the golf course in detail in the upcoming sections.
History of Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA was founded in 1895 after a group of San Francisco businesspeople asked Colonel William M. Graham, the commander of the Presidio, to build a golf course on the military base.
The first nine-hole course was designed by John Lawson, who believed the land was naturally made for golf.
He once said, “God-shaped this land to be a golf course. I simply followed nature.”
Growing into an 18-hole Course (1910-1994)
By 1910, the course expanded to 18 holes, thanks to architects Robert Wood Johnstone and William McEwan.
For decades, it remained a private course, mainly used by military officers and members of the Presidio Golf Club.
The club took care of the course and kept it in shape, ensuring its reputation as a challenging and scenic golfing destination.
Becoming a Public Course (1995)
When the Presidio military base closed in 1994, the golf course transitioned to a public facility in 1995.
The Presidio Trust took over management, making the course accessible to all golfers.
However, the Presidio Golf Club remained a private entity and even built a new clubhouse in 1999.
Famous Visitors and Events
Over the years, many celebrity golfers have played at Presidio Golf Course, San Francisco, CA, including Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and Charles M. Schulz.
The course also saw its fair share of conflicts between civilian golfers and military authorities, with one major dispute in 1912 requiring intervention from Congress and the Secretary of the Interior.
Commitment to Sustainability
Today, Presidio Golf Course is known for its eco-friendly management. It leads the way in reducing pesticide use and practicing sustainable turf management with compost tea.
This blend of history, natural beauty, and environmental care makes it a favorite for golfers and nature lovers inside Presidio National Park, San Francisco, CA.
Course Layout and Features of Presidio Golf Course
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA is one of the scenic golf courses in California. Surrounded by Eucalyptus and Monterey Pine trees, it offers a mix of beauty and difficulty.
Course Design and Layout
- Original Design: The course was first designed as a nine-hole course in 1895 by John Lawson. By 1910, it expanded to 18 holes under Robert Wood Johnstone and William McEwan. In 1921, British designers Fowler & Simpson made further changes, lengthening and redesigning the course.
- Varied Terrain: The course sits on a mix of adobe clay, rock, and sand, which makes each hole unique and challenging.
- Hilly Layout: Be ready for elevation changes! The rolling hills demand precision and strategy, with plenty of uphill and downhill shots that can make or break your game.
Course Length and Par
- Course Length: The Presidio Golf Course plays 6,500 yards from the back tees, offering a challenging yet manageable length for golfers of various skill levels.
- Par: The course is a par-72 layout, with a mix of par-3, par-4, and par-5 holes that provide a variety of challenges and opportunities for scoring
Key Features That Challenge Golfers
- Narrow Fairways: The fairways are tight and tree-lined, requiring accurate drives. The towering Eucalyptus and Monterey Pine trees make errant shots costly.
- Smartly Placed Bunkers: While there aren’t many bunkers, the ones present are strategically positioned, forcing you to think before you swing.
- Multi-Level Greens: Many greens are tiered and sloped, making putting and approach shots tricky. You’ll need to adjust for breaks and elevation changes.
Nature and Sustainability
- National Park Setting: Playing here feels like a nature retreat. The surrounding trees, wildlife, and quiet atmosphere make it one of the most peaceful courses in San Francisco.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: The course is a leader in sustainable golf management, using less pesticide and applying compost tea to keep the turf healthy.
Playing Experience at Presidio Golf Course, San Francisco, CA
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA is known for its challenging design, making it a great fit for intermediate to advanced golfers.
The tight fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and multi-level greens require careful shot placement and strategy.
Beginners might find the course tough due to its hilly terrain and the need for precise shots. But don’t worry, there are various tee options to help players of all skill levels adjust their game and enjoy the experience.
Key Strategies for Playing Well
- Elevation Management: With its hilly layout, understanding how elevation changes affect the ball flight is key. Adjusting for these changes will help you pick the right club and shot selection.
- Tree Management: Tall Eucalyptus and Monterey Pine trees line the course, and they can get in the way of your shots if you’re not careful. Make sure you’re choosing the right club and aiming high to avoid the trees.
- Wind and Fog: San Francisco’s weather is known for its wind and fog, which can affect how the ball flies. Be prepared to adjust your shots, possibly using more clubs or changing your ball flight to suit the conditions.
- Greens Strategy: The multi-level greens require you to think about both your approach shot and your putting strategy. Study the slope and speed of the greens to help you make accurate putts.
- Fairway Positioning: With narrow fairways, positioning is essential. Try to aim for the high side of the fairway to avoid the rough or any hazards that might come your way.
Impact of San Francisco’s Weather on Gameplay
San Francisco’s weather plays a big role in how you’ll play at Presidio Golf Course.
The wind, especially on elevated tees and greens, can make it tough to judge your shots. Adjust your club selection and shot trajectory to manage the wind’s impact on your game.
Late afternoon fog can reduce visibility, making it tricky to gauge distances and track the ball. Trust your instincts and rely on your experience to get through it.
Cool temperatures can cause the ball to fly slower, so you may need to use a longer club to reach your target distance.
Green Fees, Tee Times & Booking at Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA offers a range of green fees based on the day and time. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Non-Resident Rates:
- Greens Fee with Cart:
- Monday to Thursday: $122
- Friday to Sunday: $132
- Greens Fee Walking:
- Monday to Thursday: $102
- Not available Friday to Sunday
- Twilight Walking:
- Monday to Thursday: $82
- Friday to Sunday: $87
- Twilight with Cart:
- Monday to Thursday: $89
- Friday to Sunday: $99
- Super Twilight (Cart Included):
- Monday to Thursday: $37
- Friday to Sunday: $51
San Francisco City Rates:
- Greens Fee with Cart:
- Monday to Thursday: $97
- Friday to Sunday: $107
- Greens Fee Walking:
- Monday to Thursday: $77
- Not available Friday to Sunday
- Twilight Walking:
- Monday to Thursday: $57
- Friday to Sunday: $67
- Twilight with Cart:
- Monday to Thursday: $69
- Friday to Sunday: $79
- Super Twilight (Cart Included):
- Monday to Thursday: $37
- Friday to Sunday: $51
- SF City Senior with Cart:
- Monday to Thursday: $80
- Friday to Sunday: $85
- SF City Senior Walking:
- Monday to Thursday: $60
- Friday to Sunday: $85
Other Discounts:
- Junior Rates: Juniors play for a flat rate of $25 when accompanied by a paid player or after twilight.
- Senior Discounts: Residents aged 65 and older can enjoy reduced rates, such as $80 with a cart on weekdays.
- Resident Discounts: San Francisco residents receive lower rates than non-residents.
- Loyalty Club: Members can book tee times up to 14 days in advance without a booking fee, typically $20 per player for non-members who book 8-30 days out.
Booking Tee Times
You can book tee times at Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA in several ways:
- Online Booking: You can reserve your tee time through the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA website. Services like GolfNow offer discounted tee times and online booking.
- Walk-in Options: Walk-in tee times are available but subject to availability.
Amenities & Facilities at Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA provides a comprehensive range of amenities designed to enhance your golfing experience. Here’s an overview of these features:
Pro Shop
- The Pro Shop is stocked with golf equipment, including clubs, balls, gloves, and accessories from leading brands. You’ll also find stylish golf apparel for men and women, ensuring you look your best on the course.
- The Pro Shop offers convenient club rentals for those who don’t want to bring their own clubs. It’s an excellent option for visitors or anyone wanting to try out new equipment before buying.
- The knowledgeable staff can assist with equipment selection, fitting, and maintenance, helping you optimize your game.
Practice Facilities
- The driving range is a key facility for warming up before your round or working on your swing. It’s well-maintained and offers a peaceful space to practice.
- The putting greens are carefully manicured to provide a realistic environment for practicing your putting skills. The greens mimic the conditions you’ll encounter on the course, helping you get ready for the challenges ahead.
- The chipping area features various targets and slopes, allowing you to practice different short-game shots from various lies and angles.
Clubhouse & Dining
- The Ironwoods Bar & Grill, located in the clubhouse, serves delicious American cuisine with seasonal ingredients. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal before or after your round.
- The bar is a perfect spot to unwind, offering craft beers, wines, and cocktails. It’s an ideal place to chat about the day’s golf or simply enjoy time with friends and family.
- The clubhouse is also a popular venue for weddings, corporate meetings, and social events. With scenic views and an elegant atmosphere, it’s a sought-after location for special occasions.
Additional Amenities
- The clubhouse offers locker rooms with shower facilities, perfect for freshening up after a round.
- Lessons are available for players of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. Experienced instructors will help you improve your technique and overall performance.
- The course offers ample parking and is easily accessible by both car and public transportation, making it convenient for visitors from around the city.
Reviews and What Golfers Say About Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA
Golfers who have played at the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA often have positive things to say, particularly about the scenic views, well-maintained greens, and challenging layout.
Here’s what reviewers highlight:
What Golfers Love:
- Scenic Views: The natural beauty of the course is frequently praised, with majestic trees lining the fairways and spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge visible from some holes.
- Challenging Layout: Many golfers appreciate the challenging layout, which offers a fun and rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels. The greens are known for their slopes and strategic challenges, making the course a great test of skill.
- Great Public Course: The course is often rated as one of the best public courses in San Francisco, providing a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for golfers.
Areas for Improvement:
- Pace of Play: Some golfers mention that rounds tend to take longer than expected, which can be frustrating, especially on busy days.
- Maintenance Issues: While the course is generally well-maintained, a few reviewers suggest it could benefit from more attention, such as addressing worn spots on the fairways and improving the overall condition of the greens.
- Staff Service: There have been complaints about the staff’s attitude, particularly when verifying resident status and managing tee times. A few golfers reported feeling that the service was unfriendly.
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA, Overall Experience:
Despite some areas for improvement, many golfers find the course’s natural beauty and challenging play compelling enough to return.
The efforts of the greens crew in maintaining the course’s condition are often appreciated. Overall, Presidio Golf Course, San Francisco, CA is considered a must-play destination for its unique character, stunning views, and engaging layout.
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA: Nearby Attractions
The Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA is situated in the scenic Presidio National Park, offering easy access to several iconic San Francisco attractions. Here are a few highlights:
1. Golden Gate Bridge
Just a short drive from the golf course, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge, enjoying stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
2. Presidio National Park
The Presidio itself is a beautiful park offering a variety of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and historic sites to explore. It’s a fantastic place for nature walks and learning about San Francisco’s military history.
3. Crissy Field
Located within the Presidio, Crissy Field is a former military airfield turned national park. It offers beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge, a beach, and picnic areas. It’s also a popular spot for kite flying and leisurely walks.
Final Thoughts: Is Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA Worth It?
The Presidio Golf Course stands out in San Francisco for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and challenging layout. With its narrow fairways, multi-level greens, and strategic features, the course provides a fun yet challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, there’s always a new challenge to tackle.
For those who enjoy a historic course set amidst beautiful scenery, Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA offers an unforgettable experience.
If you’re ready to experience this remarkable course for yourself, don’t wait! Book your tee time today, explore the course, and enjoy the stunning beauty of the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA.
Key Points
- The Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA offers a difficult course design with narrow, tree-lined fairways, multi-level greens, and strategic bunkers, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced golfers.
- Originally designed in 1895 and later redesigned by renowned architects, the course has a rich history and has been part of San Francisco’s golfing culture for over a century.
- Golfers are treated to stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the surrounding natural beauty, including tall Eucalyptus and Monterey Pine trees that line the fairways.
- The Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA is committed to environmentally sensitive management, including reducing pesticide use and employing eco-friendly maintenance practices.
- San Francisco’s weather, including wind, fog, and cool temperatures, can significantly impact gameplay, requiring players to adjust their shot strategies.
- The course offers varying green fees based on the day of the week and time of day, with special rates for San Francisco residents, seniors, and juniors.
- The Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA provides a driving range, putting greens, and a chipping area, allowing golfers to refine their skills before or after their rounds.
- The clubhouse features the Ironwoods Bar & Grill for dining, a comfortable bar area, and event space for weddings and corporate gatherings.
- Tee times can be booked via phone, online services like GolfNow, or walk-in availability. Members can book in advance without a booking fee.
- Located within the Presidio National Park, the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA offers easy access to iconic attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Crissy Field, and various scenic hiking trails.
FAQs
1. What are the operating hours of the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA?
The Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA is open for public play every day from dawn to dusk, allowing golfers to enjoy the course throughout the day.
2. How can I book a tee time at the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA?
Tee times at the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA can be booked by visiting their website, calling the golf shop directly, or using online booking services like GolfNow. It is recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
3. What amenities are available at the Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA?
The Presidio Golf Course San Francisco CA offers a range of amenities, including a full-service restaurant (Ironwoods Bar & Grill), a driving range, practice facilities, an award-winning golf shop, and a beautifully appointed clubhouse suitable for events and dining.
