“The most important golf shot is the next one”, says the legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus In California, each course offers a fresh challenge and a new opportunity for golfers to experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and meticulously crafted design. It is known for being a host to some of the world’s best golf courses, and also prestigious golf tournaments.
The state of California has a diverse landscape, and the perfect climate, and not to forget its stunning backdrop for golf. Here are the top 7 golf courses in California:
1. Pebble Beach Golf Links
The Pebble Beach Golf Links is known for its spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, and not to forget the challenge it poses for the players on the course. Built in 1919, it is a par-72 course with extends to over 7000 yards. What makes it stand out are the deadly cliff-side holes, among which mention worthy is the 7th hole. It is a par-3 which features swirling winds. From several Major tournaments including the US Open, to hosting the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, it serves as a destination for top golfers and their fans to witness a good game.
2. Riviera Country Club
The Riviera Country Club was designed by a group of top-notch architects that involved George C, and Thomas Jr. The classic Southern California course was opened in 1926 and is located at the Pacific Palisades in California. It not only has an exceptionally challenging structure but also has perfectly positioned bunkers, undulating greens and the cherry on the top are the views of the Santa Monica Mountains. It is widely regarded for its ‘Bunker Hill’ on the 6th hole and iconic saddle on the 10th hole. It is famous for hosting the Genesis Invitational Signature event.
3. Spyglass Hill Golf Course
The Spyglass Hill Golf Course in California was built by the famous Robert Trent Jones Jr., in 1966. Golf architecture runs in his blood, and well the Trents are known to create some of the most difficult golf courses. The rugged and diverse terrain of the course, which has both coastal and forested landscapes, begins with challenging holes, gradually moving denser into pine forests for its back nine holes.
4. Torrey Pines Golf Course
The Torrey Pines Golf Course is located in San Diego, split into the North and South Courses. The South Course was designed by Rees Jones, and later on it was crafted into perfection in 2001. It is known for having hosted the US Open twice in 2008 and recently three years ago in 2021. The North Course, on the other hand, was designed by William Bell and was also reinvented. However, it is the former that is widely regarded. The course altogether is famous for its coastal cliffs, ocean views, and challenging conditions throughout the 18 holes.
5. Pasatiempo Golf Club
In his final years, he resided beside the sixth fairway. The course, a prime example of Mackenzie’s design, has seen its intricate greens and striking bunkers meticulously restored first by Tom Doak and later by Jim Urbina. The five par-3 holes offer both a challenge and a thrill, with the 181-yard par-3 18th hole, which stretches across a canyon, standing out. It hosted two USGA championships: the 1986 U.S. Women’s Amateur and the 2004 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur. In 2014, Pasatiempo earned a Golf Digest Green Star environmental award for its efforts to address drought conditions.
6. CordeValle Golf Club
CordeValle Golf Club is located between the scenic hills of San Martin, California. It is known for its landscape and exceptional design. The 7169-yard, par-72 structure creates a challenging, and fun experience for golfers of all skill levels. CordeValle’s natural terrain and serene atmosphere create a tranquil golfing experience, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It also has several amenities like a world-class clubhouse, fine dining, and a relaxing spa. It is the perfect vacation spot for the golfers and their fans.
7. The Links at Spanish Bay
This is another course located in Pebble Beach California. It was yet another excellent project designed by the famous Robert Trent Jones Jr. It is widely regarded for its classic links-style golf experience. It has several rolling fairways, large greens, and an infrastructure that is based on the impact of the coastal winds. It poses a huge challenge for the golfers playing on the course and thus is a treat for the spectators to watch a good game of golf.
