San Diego is a city that is known for its beautiful beaches, great weather, and amazing golf courses. With over 70 golf courses in the area, choosing which ones to play can be difficult. However, there are a few courses that stand out from the rest, offering challenging holes, stunning views, and exceptional service.
One of the most popular golf courses in San Diego is Torrey Pines, pictured above. The course has hosted the US Open twice and is home to two 18-hole courses that are open to the public. The South Course is known for its challenging layout and stunning ocean views, while the North Course is more forgiving and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Golfers of all skill levels will enjoy playing at Torrey Pines.
Another great golf course in San Diego is Maderas Golf Club. This course is consistently ranked as one of the best in the country and offers a challenging layout that will test even the most experienced golfers. The course is located in the hills of Poway and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Golfers will also appreciate the exceptional service and amenities offered at Maderas Golf Club.
For those traveling outside of San Diego, also see my post on The 21 Best Golf Courses In California
Top Rated Golf Courses in San Diego
Barona Creek Golf Club
Barona Creek Golf Club is one of the top golf courses in San Diego, California. This 18-hole championship golf course is located in the rolling foothills of San Diego and offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
The course is designed by renowned golf course architect Todd Eckenrode and features stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The course is also known for its excellent course conditions, with well-manicured fairways and greens that are consistently in top shape.
One of the unique features of Barona Creek Golf Club is its commitment to environmental sustainability. Despite the recent record rainfall, the course has continued to make 9-holes available as part of their efforts to conserve water and be environmentally responsible.
Barona Creek Golf Club also offers a range of amenities, including a driving range, putting green, and a pro shop. Golfers can also enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, which offers a variety of delicious food and drinks.
Overall, Barona Creek Golf Club is a must-play course for any golf enthusiast visiting San Diego. With its challenging layout, stunning views, and commitment to environmental sustainability, it is a course that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Steele Canyon Golf Club
Steele Canyon Golf Club is a 27-hole championship golf course located in Jamul, California, designed by the legendary Gary Player. The course is one of San Diego’s finest golf clubs, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The course is divided into three distinct nines: the Canyon, Ranch, and Vineyard. The Canyon nine features dramatic elevation changes, while the Ranch nine is known for its wide fairways and challenging water hazards. The Vineyard nine is the newest addition to the course and offers a more relaxed and scenic round of golf.
Steele Canyon has been awarded Golf Digest’s Four Star Rating, one of only three golf clubs in San Diego County to receive this honor. The course is also a popular venue for weddings, banquets, and corporate events, with a range of amenities available to guests.
The club offers a range of membership options, including full golf, weekday golf, and social memberships. Members enjoy access to the course, practice facilities, and clubhouse amenities, as well as exclusive events and discounts on merchandise.
For those visiting San Diego, Steele Canyon Golf Club is a must-play course for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. With its stunning scenery, challenging layout, and world-class amenities, it’s no wonder that Steele Canyon is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the region.
Aviara Golf Club
Aviara Golf Club is a public golf course located in Carlsbad, San Diego. It was designed by Arnold Palmer and opened in 1991. The course spans 18 holes and has a length of 7007 yards with a slope of 140. Aviara Golf Club has won awards such as Best in State by Golf Digest and has been ranked inside the top 30 in the past.
The golf course is situated on 250 acres of lush grounds and is part of the Forbes Five Star resort, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club & Spa. It is the only coastal California golf course that has been designed by Arnold Palmer. The course is known for its challenging layout and scenic beauty.
Aviara Golf Club has been recognized as one of the best resort golf courses by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine. The course has hosted several LPGA events, providing players with the opportunity to test themselves on the same fairways as the top LPGA pros.
The rates for tee times at Aviara Golf Club vary depending on the day and time. Rates are higher during peak hours and on weekends. The course also offers group rates for those who want to play with friends or colleagues.
Overall, Aviara Golf Club is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts who are looking for a challenging and scenic course to play in San Diego.
Grand Golf Club
The Grand Golf Club is located within the Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort in Los Peñasquitos Canyon, San Diego. It is a Tom Fazio design from 1999 that measures 7,160 yards from the back tees, playing to a very testing slope rating of 139.
The course is known for its challenging layout and immaculate conditions. It features rolling hills, deep bunkers, and water hazards, making it a true test of golf for players of all skill levels. The greens are fast and undulating, requiring precision and accuracy on every shot.
Golfers can enjoy a range of amenities and services at the Grand Golf Club, including a driving range, practice putting green, and chipping area. The club also offers private lessons and clinics for players looking to improve their game.
In addition to its challenging course, the Grand Golf Club is also known for its beautiful surroundings. The course is situated in a picturesque canyon, surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife. Golfers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding hills and canyons as they play their round.
Overall, the Grand Golf Club is a must-play for any serious golfer visiting San Diego. With its challenging layout, beautiful surroundings, and top-notch amenities, it is one of the best golf courses in the area.
Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines is undoubtedly one of the most famous golf courses in San Diego. It is located on the coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean and is known for its stunning views and challenging course. The course has hosted the US Open multiple times, including the 2008 championship where Tiger Woods famously won despite playing with a broken leg.
Torrey Pines has two courses, the North Course and the South Course. The South Course is the more challenging of the two, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging greens. The North Course is slightly easier, but still provides a great golfing experience. Both courses are well-maintained and offer a great golfing experience for players of all skill levels.
In addition to the two courses, Torrey Pines also has a driving range, putting greens, and a pro shop. The pro shop offers a wide selection of golf equipment, clothing, and accessories. The driving range and putting greens are great places to warm up before a round or practice your swing.
Overall, Torrey Pines is a must-play course for any golf enthusiast visiting San Diego. The stunning views, challenging course, and rich history make it a memorable experience for any golfer. However, due to its popularity, it can be difficult to secure a tee time, so be sure to plan ahead and book early.
Maderas Golf Club
Maderas Golf Club is one of the top-rated golf courses in San Diego County. It is located in the northern part of San Diego and boasts of personal-touch service and unparalleled course conditions. The golf course is a masterpiece that has been designed to exceed the expectations of golf enthusiasts.
The golf course spans 40 acres of pristine fairways that are paired with waterfalls, lakes, and native flora, making it a perfect place to challenge your skills while enjoying the California sunshine. The course has 18 holes that wind their way around a landscape of rocky outcrops, winding creeks, and mature woodland.
Maderas Golf Club is a popular venue for golf enthusiasts who are looking for a challenging yet enjoyable golf experience. The club offers golf club rentals, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a game of golf without having to bring their own equipment.
If you are looking for a golf course that offers a unique and unforgettable golf experience, Maderas Golf Club is the place to be. With its stunning natural surroundings and impeccable service, you are sure to have a memorable golfing experience.
Affordable Golfing Options
San Diego offers a range of golf courses for players with varying budgets. Here are some affordable golfing options for those looking to hit the greens without breaking the bank.
Municipal Courses in San Diego
San Diego’s municipal courses offer affordable green fees and are great options for golfers looking for a budget-friendly round.
- The Tecolote Canyon Golf Course, located in the heart of San Diego, offers a challenging 18-hole course at an affordable price. Green fees range from $18 to $36, depending on the time of day and day of the week.
- Another great option is the Admiral Baker Golf Course, located in South San Diego. With two 18-hole courses, this municipal course offers a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels. Green fees range from $19 to $45, depending on the time of day and day of the week.
Nine-Hole Layouts
For those looking for a quick round of golf, San Diego has several nine-hole layouts that offer affordable green fees.
- The Enagic Golf Club at Eastlake, located in Chula Vista, offers a nine-hole course with green fees ranging from $15 to $25. The course is well-maintained and offers challenging holes for golfers of all skill levels.
- Another great option is the Balboa Park Golf Course, located in the heart of San Diego. With a nine-hole course that winds through the park, this course offers stunning views and affordable green fees ranging from $14 to $23.
Overall, San Diego offers a range of affordable golfing options for players of all skill levels. From municipal courses to nine-hole layouts, golfers can enjoy the greens without breaking the bank.
Golfing Facilities
San Diego’s Golfing Landscape
San Diego’s golfing landscape is as diverse as the city itself. From seaside courses to mountain courses, San Diego has something for everyone. Here are some of the best courses in the city, broken down by region.
Carlsbad
Carlsbad is home to some of the most challenging courses in San Diego. The Crossings at Carlsbad is a championship course that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The course is known for its challenging layout and difficult greens. Golfers who are up for a challenge will enjoy playing here.
Coronado
Coronado is a beautiful island located just across the bay from downtown San Diego. The Coronado Golf Course is a public course that offers stunning views of the city skyline and the bay. The course is known for its challenging conditions and its beautiful setting.
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is located in the heart of San Diego and is home to one of the oldest golf courses in the city. The Balboa Park Golf Course is a public course that offers a challenging layout and stunning views of the city. Golfers who are looking for a challenging round of golf in the heart of the city will enjoy playing here.
Mission Valley
Mission Valley is located just east of downtown San Diego and is home to some of the most popular courses in the city. The Riverwalk Golf Club is a public course that offers 27 holes of golf and stunning views of the San Diego River. The course is known for its challenging layout and its beautiful setting.
Overall, San Diego’s golfing landscape offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a challenging round of golf or a beautiful setting to play in, San Diego has it all.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, San Diego’s golfing scene is a paradise for enthusiasts seeking an exceptional golfing experience amidst beautiful landscapes and challenging courses. With over 70 golf courses to choose from, the city offers a wide array of options for golfers of all skill levels.
Notably, Torrey Pines stands as a prominent gem in the city, known for its rich history, challenging South Course, and breathtaking ocean views. Meanwhile, Maderas Golf Club consistently ranks among the nation’s best, offering a test of skill within the picturesque hills of Poway.
For those who seek affordability without compromising on quality, San Diego’s municipal courses and nine-hole layouts provide budget-friendly options. These courses allow golfers to enjoy the game without breaking the bank.
The golfing facilities in San Diego, including well-stocked pro shops, comprehensive driving ranges, and accommodations on the courses, ensure that golfers have access to all the amenities they need for a memorable golfing experience.
San Diego’s diverse golfing landscape, ranging from seaside courses in Carlsbad to the historic Balboa Park course, offers a unique opportunity to explore the city while enjoying a round of golf.
So whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting, San Diego’s golf courses have something exceptional to offer, making it a destination that truly stands out on the golfing map. Be sure to explore the golfing treasures that this beautiful city has to offer on your next visit.