With nearly 100 golf courses in every type of setting from mountains to desert to ocean, it’s little wonder that San Diego is routinely named on lists of the top golfing destinations in the world. Below are 7 of the most charming that can be found in and around the city.
(Photo: Jon Lee Clark via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Coronado Golf Course
Situated in the city of Coronado, about a 15-minute drive from downtown San Diego, this public bayfront par-72 golf course is widely considered one of the region’s finest public courses. Eye-catching views of San Diego harbour and the downtown district combined with immaculate greens and wide inviting fairways make for a world class golfing experience for players of all abilities. There’s also a clubhouse with excellent dining facilities.
LOCATION 2000 Visalia Row, Coronado RATES From $42 per day
Colina Park Golf Course
Colina Park Golf Course is a beautiful hidden gem that serves golfers and the community alike. The course is a par 3, 18-hole course in City Heights that provides a short game for all skill levels. Every hole is less than 110 yards with elevated tee boxes and contoured greens. Colina Park Golf Course is also home to Pro Kids – First Tee, San Diego, a nonprofit dedicated to helping under-served youth excel in life through education and the game of golf. 100% of all revenue goes to supporting youth programs, so you’re always golfing for a good cause.
LOCATION 4085 52nd Street, San Diego RATES From $10 per day
(Photo: Colina Park Golf Course)
Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort
Nestled in a northernmost residential community near San Diego called Rancho Bernardo, the Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Course positively oozes history and charm. First opened back in 1962, the traditional but challenging 18-hole course invites golfers of all skill levels to navigate their way past several water features and bunkers. For practise, there’s also a driving range with grass or mat tees and putting green. Other notable services and amenities include a well-equipped Golf Shop, professional golf instruction, and deluxe on-site accommodation complete with an award-winning restaurant, a bar and lounge, and luxurious spa.
LOCATION 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, San Diego RATES From $45 per day
(Photo: Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort)
The Loma Club
A historic 9-hole, par 3 walking course, live music venue and social club located in Point Loma’s beautiful Liberty Station, The Loma Club dates all the way back to the early 1900s. Originally part of the San Diego Country Club, it merged with A.G. Spalding’s Point Loma Golf Club in 1914 to create a San Diego landmark that has been in existence for over a century. Today the club serves as a gathering point for the local community and San Diego visitors to hang out and have a good time, with enticing food and beverages providing the perfect reward after a day’s golfing.
LOCATION 2960 Truxtun Road RATES From $16 per day
(Photo: The Loma Club)
Torrey Pines Golf Course
Rugged cliffs and coastal vistas provide a sensational backdrop to the rolling greens and sheer natural beauty of this world-renowned golf course. Split into two par-72 championship 18-hole courses (one 7,698 yards and the other 7,258 in length), guests can book priority tee times before availing themselves of some of the lavish facilities found at the on-site resort, including a gourmet restaurant and indulgent spa.
LOCATION 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla RATES From $202 per day ($63 for San Diego residents)
(Photo: Yuki Shimazu via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)
Aviara Golf Club
Overlooking the Batiquitos Lagoon nature preserve in picturesque Carlsbad, a 30-minute coastal drive north of San Diego, this legendary course was designed by golfing icon Arnold Palmer. It features a distinctive layout, with par 72 over 187 holes and 7,007 yards crafted around rolling hillsides and native wildflowers. Numerous water challenges present a test for even the most experienced players. An elegant Spanish colonial clubhouse complete with showers, lounge area, full-service bar, steakhouse and fine dining restaurant pis the perfect spot for unwinding.
LOCATION 7447 Batiquitos Drive, Carlsbad RATES From $xxxx per day
(Photo: greenjacket88 via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)
Riverwalk Golf Club
Perched in the heart of San Diego’s Mission Valley, this 18-hole style full length par 72 course combines magnificent golfing facilities with superb resort amenities and services. Mature palm, oak and eucalyptus trees frame undulating fairways and manicured greens, with numerous wetland areas, over 60 bunkers and an array of scenic water features. While challenging for low handicappers, the course offers multiple tees on each hole, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all abilities. Beyond the course, there’s a golf learning centre, a night lit driving range, and a beautiful clubhouse featuring a golf shop and a restaurant.
LOCATION 1150 Fashion Valley Road #1102, San Diego RATES From $46 per day
(Photo: Riverwalk Golf Club)