Top 10 Golf Courses in Los Angeles and Southern California
Nestled amidst the rugged coastlines and rolling hills of Northern California, a golfer's paradise awaits, offering a tapestry of exceptional courses that blend challenge with breathtaking beauty. From the iconic fairways of Pebble Beach to the lush greens of Pasatiempo, each course in this region is a testament to the artistry of golf course design and the allure of the natural landscapes.
Here are the top 10 golf courses in Southern California.
1. TORREY PINES GOLF COURSE (SOUTH COURSE)
Located in La Jolla, California, Torrey Pines' South Course is a renowned municipal course that has hosted multiple PGA Tour events, including the U.S. Open. It offers stunning ocean views and a challenging layout.
2. RIVIERA COUNTRY CLUB
Situated in Pacific Palisades, California, Riviera is a classic George C. Thomas Jr. design known for its challenging layout, strategic bunkering, and hosting the PGA Tour's Genesis Invitational.
3. PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB (OCEAN NORTH & OCEAN SOUTH)
Located in Newport Coast, California, Pelican Hill features two Tom Fazio-designed courses with panoramic ocean views and challenging yet playable layouts.
4. PGA WEST (STADIUM COURSE)
Situated in La Quinta, California, PGA West's Stadium Course is a Pete Dye masterpiece known for its punishing design and hosting the PGA Tour's CareerBuilder Challenge.
5. TRUMP NATIONAL GOLF CLUB LOS ANGELES
Located in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, this oceanfront course offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a challenging layout designed by Tom Fazio.
6. LOS ANGELES COUNTRY CLUB (NORTH COURSE)
Situated in Los Angeles, California, LACC's North Course is a classic George C. Thomas Jr. design known for its strategic bunkering, tree-lined fairways, and hosting prestigious events.
7. RANCHO LA QUINTA COUNTRY CLUB (JONES COURSE)
Located in La Quinta, California, Rancho La Quinta's Jones Course is a championship layout designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. It offers scenic desert vistas and challenging play.
8. RANCHO SANTA FE GOLF CLUB
Situated in Rancho Santa Fe, California, this private club features a William P. Bell-designed course known for its parkland-style layout, lush landscaping, and challenging greens.
9. AVIARA GOLF CLUB
Located in Carlsbad, California, Aviara is a championship course designed by Arnold Palmer with scenic views of the Batiquitos Lagoon and challenging play amidst rolling hills and native vegetation.
10. SHERWOOD COUNTRY CLUB
Situated in Thousand Oaks, California, Sherwood is a Jack Nicklaus-designed course set amidst the Santa Monica Mountains. It offers a challenging layout and scenic beauty.
From the storied history of Riviera Country Club to the desert vistas of PGA West's Stadium Course, each course offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Southern California's golfing heritage. So, whether you're navigating the challenging layout of Pelican Hill Golf Club or soaking in the tranquility of Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club, let these golfing gems inspire your next unforgettable round amidst the natural splendor of Southern California's picturesque landscapes.