California’s coastline is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches. For golf enthusiasts, combining the sport with stunning ocean views makes for an unforgettable experience. This weekend itinerary highlights a curated selection of some of the best oceanfront golf courses along California’s coast, designed to showcase diverse landscapes and elevated play while maximizing your time behind the wheel and on the greens.
Your journey begins at the famed Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, just north of San Diego. Known for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Torrey Pines features two 18-hole courses that have hosted multiple U.S. Open Championships. The South Course, in particular, offers panoramic ocean views from nearly every hole, combining challenging play with spectacular scenery.
Tips: Book your tee time well in advance, especially for the South Course. Arrive early to enjoy a stroll along the nearby coastline before your round.
Take the scenic coastal route along the Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) for a leisurely drive featuring ocean vistas, beaches, and charming coastal towns.
This Pete Dye-designed golf course offers a unique experience perched on a bluff just above the Pacific Ocean. Its layout blends natural terrain with ocean fronts, giving players a balance of challenge and relaxed coastal ambiance. Don’t miss the signature par-4 seventh hole, which plays along the cliff edge with sweeping views.
Finish your day with a short drive to your accommodation. Aliso Viejo offers comfortable lodging options and easy access to dinner spots in Laguna Beach or Dana Point.
Start your day at the Pelican Hill Golf Club, featuring two oceanfront courses designed by Tom Fazio. The courses weave through coastal bluffs with spectacular views of Newport Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The challenging layouts and immaculate conditions make it a must-play.
Pro tip: If time permits, enjoy a breakfast or brunch at the Pelican Hill Resort to savor coastal cuisine with stunning ocean panoramas.
Travel north along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, enjoying stops in Santa Barbara or Solvang for quick breaks and local culture. This leg features some of the most picturesque stretches of California’s coast, including rolling hills and vineyards.
Arrive in the Monterey Peninsula area and tee off at one of the crown jewels of oceanfront golf. Spyglass Hill offers holes that wind through forested terrain before opening up to dramatic ocean outlooks along the back nine. The challenging layout is complemented by stunning views of Carmel Bay.
Book tee times early: These popular courses fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Plan weeks or even months ahead.
Pack appropriately: Coastal weather can be unpredictable—bring layers, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking the courses.
Driving tips: Opt for the Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) for the most scenic routes, allowing frequent photo stops. Avoid peak traffic times when possible.
Balance golf with leisure: Allocate time to explore nearby beaches, local eateries, and charming towns between rounds to enrich your trip experience.
Each course offers varying levels of challenge, with some (like Spyglass Hill and Torrey Pines South) known for their tough shots and strategic play, while others offer a more relaxed pace ideal for casual players. Check course ratings and consider your skill level when booking.
While many of these oceanfront courses are challenging, most offer forward tees and courteous layouts to accommodate beginners. It’s recommended to play with a guide or instructor if you’re new to oceanfront golf, where wind and terrain can add complexity.
Yes, all courses listed here are public or resort courses that welcome non-members. However, advanced booking is essential due to popularity, especially on weekends.
Golf carts are available and recommended at some courses due to their length and terrain, especially at Spyglass Hill and Pebble Beach. However, many players prefer walking to fully enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
California’s coastal weather is generally mild year-round, but spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) offer the best combination of pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant scenery.
This coastal golf trail offers an exceptional weekend escape filled with world-class golfing, spectacular views, and unforgettable drives. Whether you seek the challenge of championship courses or the serenity of oceanfront fairways, California’s coast provides the perfect backdrop. Prepare to tee off with the Pacific breeze at your back and the horizon stretching endlessly ahead.
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