San Francisco is one of the most iconic cities in the United States, known for its stunning architecture, cultural landmarks, and scenic surroundings. Golf enthusiasts visiting the city are in for a treat as the area is home to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the country.
Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, selecting the right golf course can elevate your game and offer breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. In this comprehensive guide, we have curated a list of the best golf courses near San Francisco, California, so you can make the most of your golfing experience.
Key Takeaways:
- The San Francisco area offers some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the country.
- Choosing the right golf course can elevate your game and offer breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
- In this guide, we have curated a list of the best golf courses near San Francisco, California.
Golf Courses in San Francisco
San Francisco offers a variety of golf courses, both public and private. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, there’s a course suitable for all levels of expertise.
One of the most well-known courses is the San Francisco Golf Club, a private club founded in 1895 with a challenging course that has hosted several USGA championships. Other notable private clubs include the Olympic Club, Lake Merced Golf Club, and the Presidio Golf Course.
For those interested in public courses, Lincoln Park Golf Course provides stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline. Harding Park Golf Course is another popular option, having hosted numerous PGA Tour events. The course received a major renovation in 2003, and the facilities now include a pro shop and a restaurant.
Golf Courses in San Francisco: Overview
| Course Name | Type | Location | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco Golf Club | Private | San Francisco | 18 holes, clubhouse, dining |
| Olympic Club | Private | San Francisco | 45 holes, clubhouse, dining |
| Lake Merced Golf Club | Private | Daly City | 18 holes, clubhouse, dining |
| Presidio Golf Course | Private | San Francisco | 18 holes, clubhouse, dining |
| Lincoln Park Golf Course | Public | San Francisco | 18 holes, pro shop, restaurant, driving range |
| Harding Park Golf Course | Public | San Francisco | 18 holes, pro shop, restaurant, driving range |
When choosing a course, it’s important to consider factors such as location, difficulty level, and amenities. Private clubs generally offer a more exclusive experience, with access to additional facilities such as dining and fitness centers. Public courses, on the other hand, provide a more accessible option for those who want to enjoy golf without a membership commitment.
No matter which course you choose, be sure to book early to secure your preferred tee time. San Francisco’s golf courses can be popular, especially during peak season, and you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to play.
Golf Courses Near San Francisco Bay Area
If you’re willing to venture outside of San Francisco, you’ll find some of the best golf courses in the Bay Area. From the rolling hills of the East Bay to the scenic coastlines of the Peninsula, there’s no shortage of stunning courses to choose from.
Here are some of the top golf courses near San Francisco:
| Golf Course | Location | Distance from San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| The Olympic Club | San Francisco | 10 miles |
| TPC Harding Park | San Francisco | 10 miles |
| Pebble Beach Golf Links | Monterey | 110 miles |
| The Links at Spanish Bay | Monterey | 110 miles |
| CordeValle Golf Club | San Martin | 60 miles |
The Olympic Club and TPC Harding Park are both located in San Francisco and are well-known for hosting major golf championships. Pebble Beach Golf Links and The Links at Spanish Bay are two of the most iconic courses on the California coast, with stunning ocean views. CordeValle Golf Club, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, is a secluded and luxurious option for a golfing getaway.
Other notable golf courses near the Bay Area include:
- Half Moon Bay Golf Links
- Silverado Resort and Spa
- Poppy Hills Golf Course
- Presidio Golf Course
Each of these courses offers a unique golfing experience, from the rugged coastline of Half Moon Bay to the scenic vineyards of Silverado. No matter which course you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a challenging game and breathtaking views.
Golf Courses Near San Francisco with Ocean Views
Playing golf in San Francisco offers a unique experience, especially when combined with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Here are some of the top golf courses near San Francisco that provide stunning ocean views:
| Golf Course | Location | View |
|---|---|---|
| Half Moon Bay Golf Links | Half Moon Bay | Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from every hole |
| TPC Harding Park | San Francisco | Views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge |
| The Olympic Club | San Francisco | Offers ocean views from several of the holes |
Note: The Olympic Club is a private club, and access is limited to members and their guests.
“Playing golf at Half Moon Bay Golf Links is like playing golf inside a postcard.” – Golf Digest
Half Moon Bay Golf Links is known for its two championship courses, the Ocean Course and the Old Course. The Ocean Course offers some of the most stunning ocean views on the West Coast. Every hole provides a unique view of the Pacific Ocean, making it a memorable golfing experience.
TPC Harding Park is another popular golf course that offers ocean views combined with views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. The course has hosted several major tournaments, including the 2015 World Golf Championship-Cadillac Match Play and the 2020 PGA Championship.
Lastly, The Olympic Club is a historic golf course that has hosted several US Open Championships. While not every hole offers an ocean view, some of the holes provide spectacular vistas of the Pacific Ocean.
Playing golf with ocean views is an experience not to be missed. These top golf courses near San Francisco offer some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, making them a perfect choice for avid golfers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Best Public Golf Courses in San Francisco
San Francisco offers an impressive selection of public golf courses for enthusiasts of all levels to enjoy. Here are some of the best options:
| Golf Course | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Gleneagles Golf Course | San Francisco | Famous for its challenging slope, this 9-hole course offers stunning views of the city skyline. |
| Presidio Golf Course | San Francisco | Designed by renowned architect Robert Wood Johnstone, this 18-hole course offers breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. |
| Lincoln Park Golf Course | San Francisco | A historic 18-hole course that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline. |
Gleneagles Golf Course is a popular choice for local golfers due to its challenging layout and beautiful views. It’s recommended to book a tee time in advance to ensure availability, especially on weekends. Presidio Golf Course is another favorite among golfers, offering a unique experience with its historic clubhouse and beautiful surroundings.
Lincoln Park Golf Course is known for its challenging greens and stunning ocean views. It’s located in the heart of San Francisco and is a popular choice for those looking for a quick round of golf without having to travel too far.
Overall, San Francisco’s public golf courses offer a unique and challenging experience for golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these courses are sure to provide an unforgettable golfing experience.
Golf Resorts Near San Francisco
If you’re looking for the ultimate golfing experience near San Francisco, consider one of the area’s premier golf resorts. These resorts offer world-class amenities, luxurious accommodations, and beautiful courses that are sure to elevate your game.
| Resort Name | Location | Featured Course |
|---|---|---|
| Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay | Half Moon Bay, CA | The Ocean Course |
| CordeValle Golf Club | San Martin, CA | The Robert Trent Jones Jr. Course |
| Monarch Beach Golf Links | Dana Point, CA | The Robert Trent Jones Jr. Course |
Note: These resorts are located within a few hours’ drive from San Francisco
“At Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, guests can enjoy stunning ocean views from the resort’s two championship golf courses. The Ocean Course is particularly notable for its challenging layout and breathtaking ocean vistas that can be seen from every hole.”
The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is a luxurious resort located on the coast of Half Moon Bay, about an hour drive from San Francisco. Here, guests can enjoy two championship golf courses, including the highly acclaimed Ocean Course that boasts stunning ocean views and challenging play. The resort also features luxurious accommodations, a spa, and fine dining.
“CordeValle Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a truly unique golfing experience. The Robert Trent Jones Jr. Course is known for its beautiful setting, challenging layout, and the signature par-3 17th hole that features an island green.”
The CordeValle Golf Club is located in San Martin, about two hours’ drive from San Francisco. This exclusive resort boasts a Robert Trent Jones Jr. course that is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in California. The course has a beautiful setting with rolling hills and natural wildlife, making for a memorable golfing experience. The resort also offers luxurious accommodations and excellent dining options.
“Monarch Beach Golf Links is a perfect destination for those looking for the ultimate golf and spa experience. The Robert Trent Jones Jr. course offers challenging play and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean, while the resort’s spa provides an unparalleled relaxation experience”
The Monarch Beach Golf Links is located in Dana Point, California, about six hours’ drive from San Francisco. The resort offers an 18-hole, par-70 Robert Trent Jones Jr. course that provides stunning ocean views and a challenging game. The resort also features luxurious spa facilities and accommodations, making it an ideal destination for golf and relaxation enthusiasts.
Golf Courses Near San Francisco: Tee Times
Booking tee times in San Francisco is a breeze when you know where to look. Most golf courses in the area offer online booking options, which allow you to schedule your tee time with just a few clicks. If you prefer to call, check the golf course’s website for the phone number or use an online directory to find it.
To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book your tee time well in advance, especially for popular courses. Some courses offer memberships that give you priority booking privileges, providing a great option if you plan to play often. In addition, many courses offer discounted rates for booking during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or midweek afternoons.
Before booking your tee time, make sure to check the course’s dress code, rules, and regulations. Some courses require collared shirts or prohibit denim, while others have unique policies such as no outside food or drinks. Understanding the course’s protocol will ensure a smooth and enjoyable golf experience.
Tips for Booking Tee Times in San Francisco
Here are some tips to help you secure the perfect tee time:
- Book in advance: Popular courses fill up quickly, so be sure to book your tee time well in advance.
- Check for discounts: Many courses offer discounted rates for booking during off-peak hours.
- Join a membership: Memberships often provide priority booking privileges for members.
- Check the dress code: Make sure to follow the dress code and other course regulations.
- Consider the weather: San Francisco’s weather can be unpredictable, so plan according to the forecast.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to book the perfect tee time at one of the top golf courses near San Francisco.
Are There any Golf Courses in Napa Valley, California that are Worth Visiting?
Napa Valley in California offers some of the top golf courses in napa valley that are definitely worth visiting. With its stunning landscape and perfect weather, golf enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking to improve your skills, these golf courses in Napa Valley promise a memorable experience amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Conclusion
Choosing the right golf course near San Francisco is essential for golfers looking for a challenging game and stunning views. In this article, we have explored the top golf courses in San Francisco and the surrounding area, catering to a range of preferences and budgets.
From the public golf courses in the city to the luxurious golf resorts near San Francisco, there is an option for every golfer. Whether you’re looking for ocean views, world-class facilities, or a complete golfing experience, the San Francisco Bay Area has it all.
Don’t miss out on the chance to play a round of golf at one of the top-rated courses in the area. Book your tee time online or by phone, and get ready to experience the beauty of San Francisco while playing your favorite sport.
Takeaway
Explore the recommended golf courses and make the most of the stunning golfing opportunities in the San Francisco Bay Area.
