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Play a Round at California's Public Golf Courses

ca public golf courses

From resorts that allow guests to play, to courses known for hosting pros, California’s landscape is filled with public golf courses. From Northern California’s rugged landscapes to the desert sands, you can find a public golf course anywhere you happen to find yourself, so be sure to pack your clubs. Here are our favorites.


Pebble Beach, Pebble Beach, CA

California’s Pebble Beach boasts some of the best golf courses in the world. Pebble Beach is recognized as not only the best public golf course in the state, but in the country. Played by pros and amateurs alike, Pebble Beach is a bucket list kind of course.

The Links at Spanish Bay, Pebble Beach, CA

While you’re out at the green, Spanish Bay offers the chance to gaze out at the blue waters of the Pacific. Spanish Bay is known to be one of the most authentic Scottish-style courses in the states, complete with a rugged coast and soft sands.

PGA West, La Quinta, CA

The La Quinta Resort features five different courses to play. A favorite amongst pros, take the chance to play in their footsteps. You can book your tee time any day of the year and enjoy a variety of perks from storage facilities to a replay round.

Indian Wells Resort, Indian Wells, CA

Recognized by a number of golf publications as amongst the best in the world, Indian Wells Resort takes inspiration from the Riviera-style of golf. Beautiful views of the surrounding mountains are shown to full advantage throughout the course. 

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa, Carlsbad, CA

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort is the only California coastal course designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer. Pay homage to his legacy by playing a round in a city that provides the world with golf supplies and accessories.

TPC Harding Park, San Francisco, CA

TPC Harding Park is a municipal golf course with two public course options. Residents of the area can enjoy special pricing although the courses are open to anyone. The stunning cypress trees and views of nearby Lake Merced can be viewed from much of the courses.

Rustic Canyon, Moorpark, CA

Rustic Canyon takes a relaxed approach to course design and follows the unique terrain for a different golf experience. Named a best value in public courses by Golf Magazine, Rustic Canyon is a local favorite.

CordeValle, San Martin, CA

South of San Jose, CordeValle provides a luxurious retreat with world-class golf. Championship golf, PGA tours and more elite golf has taken place on the stunning course that is located on some of the most historically rich parts of California.

Pelican Hill, Newport Beach, CA

For 25 years, Pelican Hill has been a beautiful spot to play. Two courses with stunning ocean views provide a distracting backdrop for the game. Known as a spectacular place to play, bring your buddies to take advantage of the various rates available.

Bayonet Black Horse, Seaside, CA

Located north of prestigious Monterey on Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll find Bayonet and Blackhorse in the town of Seaside. Creative architecture dates back to 1954 but you’ll find all modern updates and amenities. 

Key Insights at a Glance

  • California has a variety of public golf courses, from rugged landscapes to desert sands.
  • Pebble Beach in Pebble Beach, CA is recognized as one of the best public golf courses in the world.
  • Spanish Bay in Pebble Beach, CA offers a Scottish-style course with views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • PGA West in La Quinta, CA features five different courses and is a favorite among pros.
  • Indian Wells Resort in Indian Wells, CA is inspired by Riviera-style golf with beautiful mountain views.
  • Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in Carlsbad, CA is the only coastal course in California designed by Arnold Palmer.
  • TPC Harding Park in San Francisco, CA is a municipal course with stunning views of Lake Merced.
  • Rustic Canyon in Moorpark, CA offers a unique and relaxed golfing experience.
  • CordeValle in San Martin, CA provides a luxurious retreat with championship golf.
  • Pelican Hill in Newport Beach, CA has two courses with stunning ocean views.
  • Bayonet and Blackhorse in Seaside, CA offer creative architecture and modern amenities.

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