The West Coast of the United States offers some of the most breathtaking and diverse golf courses in the world. From stunning coastal views to challenging desert layouts, this region is a paradise for golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a weekend warrior, these top 10 golf courses on the West Coast provide exceptional experiences that are sure to impress.
1. Pebble Beach Golf Links – Pebble Beach, California
Pebble Beach Golf Links is arguably the most iconic golf course in the United States. Designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, this public course offers stunning ocean views, cliffside holes, and challenging greens. It’s a must-play for any golfer, with its picturesque 18th hole being one of the most photographed in the world.
2. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort – Bandon, Oregon
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort features several world-class courses, but the original Bandon Dunes course, designed by David McLay Kidd, is a standout. This links-style course offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged terrain, and challenging winds, providing a true test of golfing skill and strategy.
3. Torrey Pines Golf Course (South Course) – La Jolla, California
Located along the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Torrey Pines’ South Course, designed by William F. Bell and later renovated by Rees Jones, is famous for hosting the U.S. Open. The course’s challenging layout, coupled with its stunning coastal scenery, makes it a favorite among both professional and amateur golfers.
4. Cypress Point Club – Pebble Beach, California
Cypress Point Club, designed by Alister MacKenzie, is a private course renowned for its stunning coastal holes and dramatic scenery. The course winds through dunes, forest, and rocky coastline, offering a unique and challenging round of golf. The par-3 16th hole, which requires a tee shot over the ocean, is particularly famous.
5. Pasatiempo Golf Club – Santa Cruz, California
Pasatiempo Golf Club, another Alister MacKenzie design, is a semi-private course that offers a challenging and picturesque layout. The course features rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens, all set against the backdrop of the Santa Cruz Mountains. It’s a favorite among golfers who appreciate classic course design.
6. Chambers Bay – University Place, Washington
Chambers Bay, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., is a links-style public course that gained fame for hosting the 2015 U.S. Open. Located along the Puget Sound, the course features wide fairways, massive dunes, and challenging greens. Its stunning views and unique design make it a must-play for any golfer visiting the Pacific Northwest.
7. The Olympic Club (Lake Course) – San Francisco, California
The Lake Course at The Olympic Club, designed by Sam Whiting, is a historic private course that has hosted multiple U.S. Opens. Known for its narrow, tree-lined fairways and small, fast greens, this course demands precision and strategy. The challenging layout and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean make it a memorable experience.
8. TPC Harding Park – San Francisco, California
TPC Harding Park, a public course managed by the PGA Tour, has hosted the PGA Championship and Presidents Cup. Designed by Willie Watson and Sam Whiting, the course offers a challenging layout with tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkers, and views of Lake Merced. It’s a favorite among both locals and visiting golfers.
9. Spyglass Hill Golf Course – Pebble Beach, California
Spyglass Hill, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is known for its challenging layout and stunning views. The course starts with holes that wind through dunes and coastal forests, then transitions into more traditional parkland holes. Its combination of beauty and difficulty makes it a standout in the Pebble Beach area.
10. Rustic Canyon Golf Course – Moorpark, California
Rustic Canyon, designed by Gil Hanse, Geoff Shackelford, and Jim Wagner, is a hidden gem in Southern California. This public course offers a minimalist design that emphasizes natural terrain and strategic play. With wide fairways, firm greens, and a variety of shot options, it provides a unique and enjoyable golfing experience.
FAQs about The 10 Top Golf Courses on The West Coast
Are these courses open to the public?
Many of these courses, such as Pebble Beach, Bandon Dunes, Torrey Pines, Chambers Bay, TPC Harding Park, and Rustic Canyon, are public and welcome all golfers. Others, like Cypress Point and The Olympic Club, are private and require a membership or invitation to play.
What is the best time of year to play golf on the West Coast?
The best time to play golf on the West Coast is typically from late spring to early fall (May through October). However, the region’s mild climate allows for year-round play, especially in areas like Southern California. Coastal courses may experience fog in the summer, so spring and fall are often ideal.
Do these courses offer accommodations for out-of-town visitors?
Many of these courses are part of resorts that offer on-site accommodations. For example, Pebble Beach Golf Links and Bandon Dunes Golf Resort provide luxurious lodging options. Even if the course itself does not offer accommodations, nearby towns and cities usually have plenty of options.
Are these courses suitable for beginners?
While these courses are known for their challenging layouts, many offer multiple tee options to accommodate players of all skill levels. Beginners might find some of the courses particularly tough, so it’s advisable to start with less challenging courses and work up to these iconic layouts.
Can I book a tee time online for these courses?
Most public courses, like Pebble Beach, Torrey Pines, Chambers Bay, and TPC Harding Park, offer online booking for tee times. Private courses may have different procedures, often requiring booking through a member or by invitation.
The West Coast is a golfer’s paradise, offering a wide range of stunning and challenging courses. Whether you’re looking to play a legendary course like Pebble Beach or discover a hidden gem like Rustic Canyon, these top 10 golf courses provide unforgettable experiences for every golfer. Happy golfing!
