20 of the Prettiest Golf Courses in California in 2025

California offers some of the most breathtaking golf experiences in the world, where stunning landscapes meet championship-level play. From coastal bluffs overlooking the Pacific to desert oases and mountain retreats, the Golden State’s courses showcase incredible diversity in both scenery and challenge. You’ll find courses nestled among ancient redwoods in the north, perched dramatically on ocean cliffs, and spread across sun-drenched valleys in the south.

Whether you’re planning your next golf getaway or simply dreaming of beautiful places to tee off, California’s top courses deserve your attention. With year-round playable weather and settings that range from Pebble Beach’s iconic shoreline holes to palm-lined fairways in Palm Springs, you’re sure to find venues that combine natural beauty with exceptional golf experiences.

1. Pebble Beach Golf Links

Nestled along California’s stunning coastline, Pebble Beach Golf Links stands as the crown jewel of American public golf courses. Consistently ranked as the #1 public course in the country, this legendary 18-hole masterpiece offers breathtaking sea views that have captivated golfers for generations.

You’ll be walking the same fairways as legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Phil Mickelson when you tee off here. The course has hosted six U.S. Opens and continues to be a regular stop on the PGA Tour with the annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, a tradition dating back to 1947.

The iconic 7th hole features one of golf’s most famous par-3s, where you might need anything from a lob wedge to a 3-iron depending on the coastal winds. Perhaps most memorable is the 18th, widely considered the most famous finishing hole in golf, with its dramatic seaside setting challenging you to decide between aggression and caution.

As Jack Nicklaus famously said, “If I had only one more round to play, I would choose to play it at Pebble Beach.” With seven more championships scheduled through 2048, this course’s prestigious legacy continues to grow.

Rating: 4.8 (4014 reviews)
Location: 1700 17 Mile Dr, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
Contact: (831) 574-5609
Website: Visit Website

2. Torrey Pines Golf Course

Perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Torrey Pines Golf Course offers some of the most breathtaking views you’ll find on any golf course. This iconic venue features two 18-hole courses—the North and South—both offering challenging play with spectacular ocean vistas that will leave you speechless.

When you tee off at Torrey Pines, you’re walking the same fairways as the pros. The course has hosted multiple prestigious tournaments, including the Farmers Insurance Open annually and the U.S. Open in both 2008 and 2021. There’s something special about playing where golf legends have competed.

The South Course is generally considered the more difficult of the two, with longer holes and more challenging bunkers. But don’t overlook the North Course, which offers equally stunning views and was renovated in 2016. Both courses feature immaculate fairways and greens that are meticulously maintained.

You’ll want to book your tee time well in advance, as this municipal course is extremely popular with both locals and visitors. The combination of championship-caliber golf, reasonable green fees (compared to other premium courses), and those unbeatable ocean views make it a must-play destination.

Rating: 4.7 (2976 reviews)
Location: 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Contact: (858) 552-1662
Website: Visit Website

3. Spyglass Hill Golf Course

Nestled in Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill Golf Course offers a uniquely dramatic playing experience. The course begins with five spectacular oceanside holes featuring sweeping views and challenging dunescape before transitioning into the serene Del Monte Forest.

You’ll feel like you’re playing two distinct courses in one round. The opening holes have been described as “Pine Valley-by-the-Sea,” while the forest section evokes comparisons to Augusta National. This striking contrast is what makes Spyglass truly special among California’s golf destinations.

Named after Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, the course maintains its literary connection with hole names like “Black Spot,” “Skeleton Island,” and “Long John Silver.” As a regular co-host of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and venue for U.S. Amateur Championships, Spyglass Hill has challenged and impressed the world’s top golfers.

Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed this challenging layout, even calling the 4th hole his favorite par-4 design ever. You’ll face a variety of strategic challenges across all 18 holes, from oceanside winds to forest elevation changes, making every round memorable.

Rating: 4.8 (602 reviews)
Location: Pebble Beach, CA
Contact: (831) 574-5608
Website: Visit Website

4. Half Moon Bay Golf Links

Perched along the breathtaking coastline of San Mateo County, Half Moon Bay Golf Links offers you a truly magical golfing experience with stunning ocean views. Just 30 minutes from San Francisco, this seaside club features two distinctly beautiful 18-hole courses that showcase the dramatic coastal bluffs of Northern California.

You can test your skills on the Old Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, which offers a classic American Parkland style layout stretching 7,001 yards. Or try the Ocean Course, Arthur Hills’ Scottish Links style masterpiece measuring 6,854 yards, where the coastal winds add an extra challenge to your game.

Beyond the fairways, you’ll find plenty to enjoy at this premier oceanfront resort. After your round, head to Mullins Steakhouse for delicious meals and drinks. On Fridays, you can even enjoy live acoustic music while savoring their prime rib special.

With more than a mile of beautiful beaches alongside the property, the views alone make Half Moon Bay Golf Links worth the visit. The contrast between the two beautifully different courses gives you compelling reasons to play both during your stay.

Rating: 4.6 (1386 reviews)
Location: 2 Miramontes Point Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Contact: (650) 726-1800
Website: Visit Website

5. Apple Mountain Golf Resort

Nestled in the historic Sierra Nevada foothills, Apple Mountain Golf Resort offers one of the most visually stunning golf experiences in California. You’ll find yourself playing through majestic stands of pine, cedar, and madrone trees that frame each challenging hole.

The championship course treats you to breathtaking snow-capped mountain views throughout your round. Wildlife sightings are common, adding to the natural charm of this mountain retreat that’s conveniently located in the heart of Apple Hill.

This year-round destination combines spectacular scenery with a fun, friendly atmosphere. The attentive staff ensures your golfing experience is memorable, whether you’re visiting during the vibrant summer months or taking advantage of their winter play options.

Your round at Apple Mountain is more than just golf—it’s an escape into nature. The course layout thoughtfully captures the beauty of the surrounding landscape while providing a satisfying challenge for golfers of all skill levels.

Rating: 4.7 (523 reviews)
Location: 3455 Carson Rd, Camino, CA 95709
Contact: (530) 647-7400
Website: Visit Website

6. Pasatiempo Golf Course

When it comes to golf history and pedigree, Pasatiempo stands in a class of its own. This semi-private course in Santa Cruz was designed by legendary architect Alister MacKenzie, who considered it his favorite layout despite also designing Augusta National and Cypress Point.

You’ll be walking in the footsteps of golfing royalty when you tee up here. Bobby Jones played in the opening day foursome back in 1929, and the course has challenged generations of top players from Tiger Woods to Juli Inkster. MacKenzie was so enamored with his creation that he made his American home alongside the sixth fairway.

The course recently underwent a meticulous green restoration project, returning the putting surfaces to MacKenzie’s original diabolical designs. The 16th green in particular is renowned as one of the most challenging putting surfaces in golf, offering a true test of your short game skills.

While Pasatiempo is primarily a private club, they generously set aside daily tee times for public play. The combination of rich history, challenging design, and breathtaking Santa Cruz scenery makes this a must-play destination for any serious golf enthusiast visiting California.

Rating: 4.6 (338 reviews)
Location: 20 Clubhouse Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Contact: (831) 459-9155
Website: Visit Website

7. Monterey Peninsula Country Club

Nestled in the heart of Pebble Beach, Monterey Peninsula Country Club boasts two spectacular 18-hole courses that will take your breath away. The Dunes and Shore Courses feature stunning layouts that make perfect use of the natural coastal terrain.

You’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the most magnificent golf scenery in California, with both courses intertwined among the dramatic coastline of the Monterey Peninsula. The location offers that perfect blend of challenging play and jaw-dropping views that serious golfers dream about.

When you visit MPCC, you’re experiencing a piece of rich golfing history combined with world-class facilities. The courses are meticulously maintained, providing an exclusive golfing experience that ranks among the finest in the state.

Walking these fairways puts you in the middle of what many consider to be some of the best golf terrain in the world, with ocean vistas and coastal beauty that make focusing on your swing a real challenge.

Rating: 4.6 (535 reviews)
Location: 3000 Club Rd, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
Contact: (831) 372-8141
Website: Visit Website

8. Pelican Hill Golf Club

Perched on the stunning Newport Coast, Pelican Hill Golf Club offers 36 holes of world-class golf designed by renowned architect Tom Fazio. The courses perfectly complement the natural landscape, weaving through breathtaking terrain with spectacular ocean views that might distract you from your game.

You’ll feel like you’re playing in paradise as you navigate the meticulously maintained fairways. With nearly 300 days of sunshine per year, the weather conditions are typically ideal for a memorable round of golf, regardless of when you visit.

The experience extends beyond just great golf. The club provides luxurious amenities including GPS-enabled golf carts, professional locker rooms, and exceptional service from the moment you arrive. If you’re looking to improve your game, PGA professionals offer lessons and clinics at the Golf Academy.

The Italian-inspired clubhouse adds to the upscale atmosphere, with dining options and Caffè II for refreshments before or after your round. Twilight tee times give you the opportunity to play as the California sun sets, creating a truly magical golfing experience.

Rating: 4.6 (721 reviews)
Location: 22800 S Pelican Hill Rd, Newport Coast, CA 92657
Contact: (844) 878-0942
Website: Visit Website

9. San Dimas Canyon Golf Course

Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, San Dimas Canyon Golf Course offers you a picturesque golfing experience. The lush fairways wind through the natural canyon terrain, creating a stunning backdrop for your game. Oak trees line many of the holes, providing welcome shade during warmer months.

You’ll appreciate the course’s thoughtful design that takes advantage of the natural elevation changes. These variations add both challenge and visual interest as you play through the 18 holes. Water features come into play on several holes, enhancing both the difficulty and the scenic beauty.

The driving range and practice facilities give you plenty of space to warm up before your round. When you’re finished with golf, the clubhouse offers a relaxing spot to unwind with fellow golfers. The venue also doubles as a popular wedding location, thanks to its beautiful surroundings.

San Dimas Canyon is known for being beginner-friendly while still offering enough challenges to keep experienced players engaged. You’ll find reasonable green fees here compared to many other Southern California courses, making it a great value for the quality of play and scenery.

Rating: 4.1 (615 reviews)
Location: 2100 Terrebonne Ave, San Dimas, CA 91773
Contact: (909) 599-2313
Website: Visit Website

10. The Links at Spanish Bay

Nestled along 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, The Links at Spanish Bay offers some of the most breathtaking coastal views you’ll find anywhere in California. The course beautifully meanders through sweeping sand dunes with the Pacific Ocean as your constant companion.

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Scotland as you navigate the rolling fairways that flow through stunning dunescapes. The course briefly weaves between towering Monterey Pines before returning to the white sandy beaches for an exhilarating finish along the wind-swept coastline.

For an extra special experience, book a twilight round to hear the famed Spanish Bay bagpiper who puts the course to bed every evening. It’s a magical touch that enhances the already spectacular setting.

The Robert Trent Jones Jr. design transformed what was once an abandoned sand mine into one of America’s greatest public courses. Each hole presents unique challenges with ocean breezes, strategic bunkering, and multi-tiered greens that demand precision and thoughtful shot-making.

Rating: 4.8 (850 reviews)
Location: 2700 17 Mile Dr, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
Contact: (831) 574-5607
Website: Visit Website

11. Poppy Hills Golf Course

Tucked away in the majestic Del Monte Forest of Pebble Beach, Poppy Hills Golf Course offers a breathtaking experience for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. You’ll find yourself immersed in the stunning scenery as you navigate through towering Monterey Pines with occasional glimpses of the iconic Monterey Bay.

Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., this championship course blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The layout features rolling elevation changes that follow the natural contours of the land, creating a unique challenge that’s both fair and memorable.

What makes Poppy Hills special is the combination of championship-quality conditions and accessibility. The flawless bentgrass greens and impeccable turf maintenance have earned it recognition among Golf Digest’s Top 100 Courses You Can Play. You might even spot young deer playing among the trees as you make your way through the course.

Beyond the excellent golf, you can enjoy the full-service amenities including a driving range, practice area, golf shop, and on-site dining. Owned by the Northern California Golf Association, Poppy Hills maintains high standards of hospitality that make every visit enjoyable.

Rating: 4.6 (720 reviews)
Location: 3200 Lopez Rd, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
Contact: (831) 625-1513
Website: Visit Website

12. Rancho Solano Golf Course

Tucked away in Fairfield, Rancho Solano Golf Course offers you a picturesque golfing experience that’s worth adding to your California golf bucket list. Designed by Gary Roger Baird, this scenic challenge winds through the rolling hills of Fairfield, creating a visually stunning backdrop for your game.

The course is known for its exceptional layout that balances beauty with challenging play. You’ll find yourself navigating through meticulously maintained fairways, with dramatic elevation changes that provide sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

After your round, you can unwind at the Bella Verdi Bistro on site. The clubhouse features floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the beautiful course views, making it a perfect spot to relax with friends and discuss your game highlights.

Rancho Solano is part of Fairfield Golf’s two-course experience, along with Paradise Valley. This gives you options for varying your play while staying in the same area. The course’s location between San Francisco and Sacramento makes it an accessible getaway for a day of golf in a naturally beautiful setting.

Rating: 4.6 (475 reviews)
Location: 3250 Rancho Solano Pkwy, Fairfield, CA 94534
Contact: (707) 429-4653
Website: Visit Website

13. Coyote Hills Golf Course

Nestled in Fullerton, Coyote Hills Golf Course offers you an exceptional golfing experience with panoramic views of Los Angeles and Orange County. This award-winning 18-hole, par 70 course features five distinct tees to accommodate players of all skill levels.

You’ll appreciate the outstanding practice facilities that complement the main course. The comprehensive instruction programs provide opportunities to refine your skills regardless of your current ability, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned golfers.

If you’re looking to enhance your golfing journey, consider joining their Players Club. Members enjoy perks like free range balls, discounted tee times, instructional clinics, and special events that create a vibrant community of golf enthusiasts.

Beyond golf, Coyote Hills doubles as a stunning wedding venue. Their versatile event spaces, all-inclusive packages, and dedicated event experts can transform your special day into an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of the beautiful course landscape.

Rating: 4.4 (938 reviews)
Location: 1440 E Bastanchury Rd, Fullerton, CA 92835
Contact: (714) 672-6800
Website: Visit Website

14. Avila Beach Golf Resort

Nestled along the Central Coast, Avila Beach Golf Resort offers you a truly unique golfing experience. This picturesque par-72 championship course stretches 6,500 yards and was designed by Olin Dutra and Desmond Muirhead, opening in 1969.

You’ll find the front nine tucked into oak-lined valleys with smooth, elevated greens and challenging hilly terrain. The back nine presents a completely different experience as you navigate across a tidal estuary with several forced carries over water and multi-level greens to test your skills.

What makes this course special is its diverse landscape. The resort sits between surrounding hills and the edge of Avila Bay, creating stunning views throughout your round. The kikuyu grass fairways (similar to those at Riviera Country Club) and quick bentgrass greens provide an excellent playing surface for golfers of all abilities.

Beyond golf, you can enjoy the resort’s beautiful event facilities and neighborhood bar serving tasty sandwiches and small bites, making it a perfect day trip destination just 3 miles off Highway 101.

Rating: 4.3 (1316 reviews)
Location: 6464 Ana Bay Rd, Avila Beach, CA 93424
Contact: (805) 595-4000
Website: Visit Website

15. The Golf Club of California

Nestled in Fallbrook, The Golf Club of California offers a stunning championship layout that beautifully integrates with the natural landscape. As you play through the course, you’ll be surrounded by ancient oaks, majestic sycamores, and towering eucalyptus trees that create a picturesque setting for your golf experience.

The fairways and undulating greens are complemented by beautiful red-top grasses, making every hole a visual treat. This golf gem in north San Diego has hosted competitive tournaments such as the Gira de Golf (Mexico Open Qualifier) and the ASHER Tour, showcasing its challenging yet captivating design.

Beyond just playing a round, you can improve your game with instruction from experienced coaches or enjoy the amenities of the clubhouse. The course was designed to provide an extraordinary Southern California golf experience, and it certainly delivers with its combination of natural beauty and thoughtful layout.

For convenience, you can download their mobile app to book tee times without service charges. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just appreciate beautiful courses, The Golf Club of California offers a memorable experience that blends challenge with scenic beauty.

Rating: 4.4 (286 reviews)
Location: 3742 Flowerwood Ln, Fallbrook, CA 92028
Contact: (760) 451-3737
Website: Visit Website

16. Monarch Beach Golf Links

Looking for a golfing experience that blends challenging play with breathtaking ocean views? Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point delivers both in spectacular fashion. Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., this par-70 championship course offers something truly special – views of surf breaks on every single hole.

You’ll feel the coastal magic as you navigate this unique layout, one of only a handful of oceanfront golf courses in California. The dramatic bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean create a stunning backdrop for your game, making even a challenging round feel like a scenic retreat.

What makes Monarch Beach particularly appealing is its balance of challenge and playability. The course is thoughtfully designed to test your skills while remaining fair and enjoyable. Plus, you can join their Troon Rewards program to earn free rounds and discounts the more you play.

The resort atmosphere adds to the experience, with upscale amenities complementing your time on the links. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just enjoy beautiful courses, the combination of stunning natural beauty and thoughtful design makes Monarch Beach a must-play destination.

Rating: 4.7 (1161 reviews)
Location: 50 Monarch Beach Resort N, Dana Point, CA 92629
Contact: (949) 248-3002
Website: Visit Website

17. Indian Wells Golf Resort

Indian Wells Golf Resort offers a stunning 36-hole golfing experience in the heart of Greater Palm Springs. Just minutes from Palm Springs International Airport, this beautiful destination features two championship courses that have earned spots in Golfweek Magazine’s Top 25 “Best Municipal Courses in the United States.”

The resort showcases the Celebrity Course and Players Course, playfully nicknamed “Beauty and the Beast.” These impressive layouts have hosted prestigious events including Golf Channel’s Big Break and the PGA’s Skins Game, cementing their reputation among California’s elite courses.

You’ll be impressed by the magnificent 53,000 square-foot clubhouse that serves as the centerpiece of this golfing paradise. The resort is conveniently located within walking distance of four luxury hotels in Indian Wells, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or special event.

Whether you’re planning a golf tournament, group outing, or even a dream wedding ceremony, Indian Wells Golf Resort provides a picturesque backdrop with its beautifully maintained courses and stunning Palm Springs scenery.

Rating: 4.6 (672 reviews)
Location: 44-500 Indian Wells Ln, Indian Wells, CA 92210
Contact: (760) 346-4653
Website: Visit Website

18. Pacific Grove Golf Links

Nestled along the stunning Monterey Peninsula, Pacific Grove Golf Links offers you breathtaking ocean views that few California courses can match. This municipal 18-hole course is often called “the poor man’s Pebble Beach” because it delivers similar coastal beauty at a fraction of the price.

The front nine starts inland with tree-lined fairways, but the magic happens when you reach the back nine. Suddenly, you’re playing alongside crashing waves and dramatic coastline views with the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse watching over your game.

What makes this course truly special is how accessible it remains despite its world-class location. You can enjoy links-style golf in a setting that feels both rugged and refined, where deer often wander across fairways and ocean breezes challenge your club selection.

The course perfectly balances natural beauty with playability, making it ideal for golfers of all skill levels. You’ll find yourself reaching for your camera almost as often as your clubs as you play through this scenic gem.

Rating: 4.6 (681 reviews)
Location: 77 Asilomar Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
Contact: (831) 648-5775
Website: Visit Website

19. Los Verdes Golf Course

Perched atop rolling hills in Rancho Palos Verdes, Los Verdes Golf Course offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views you’ll find on any California course. Designed by renowned architect Billy Bell, this challenging 18-hole course combines natural beauty with strategic play.

From nearly every hole, you can enjoy sweeping panoramic vistas stretching from Malibu to Catalina Island. The proximity to the ocean doesn’t just provide spectacular scenery—it also adds an extra challenge to your putting game as the sea breezes influence ball movement on almost every hole.

If you’re looking to improve your skills, Los Verdes offers comprehensive instruction programs and excellent practice facilities. Their Players Club membership program provides range benefits, discounted cart fees, clinics, and exclusive events for golf enthusiasts of all levels.

Beyond golf, Los Verdes doubles as a stunning wedding and event venue. With space for up to 350 guests and those magnificent ocean views as your backdrop, it’s no wonder many consider this course one of California’s best values for both golf and special occasions.

Rating: 4.2 (746 reviews)
Location: 7000 Los Verdes Dr, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Contact: (310) 377-7888
Website: Visit Website

20. Rustic Canyon Golf Course

Nestled in Moorpark, California, Rustic Canyon Golf Course offers a breathtaking experience that celebrates golf’s traditional roots. Designed by Gil Hanse without detailed blueprints, this course seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, creating a truly unique playing experience.

You’ll find wide-open fairways that melt into the native landscape, punctuated by bunkers with shaggy eyebrows of thick fescue. The canyon hills showcase beautiful sagebrush, cactus, waves of brome, and stipa grass, with picturesque oak trees dotting the course for added character.

What makes Rustic Canyon special is its emphasis on strategic play. The ground game is crucial here, as the greens favor a bump and run approach. Each hole challenges you to find the proper approach position on the expansive fairways to best attack the pin locations.

Opening in 2002, this sprawling 18-hole course delivers stunning mountain vistas throughout your round. The natural barrancas have been preserved and incorporated into the design, adding both beauty and challenge to your game.

Rating: 4.4 (333 reviews)
Location: 15100 Happy Camp Canyon Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021
Contact: (805) 530-0221
Website: Visit Website