California is home to some of the best golf courses in the U.S., with stunning landscapes and challenging designs that attract golfers from around the world. GOLF’s Top 100 Courses in the U.S. and Top 100 Courses You Can Play rankings highlight the best courses in every state, including California. From iconic ocean-side layouts to hidden gems tucked away in the hills, California offers a diverse range of golfing experiences for players of all levels. In this article, we’ll explore the top golf courses in California as rated by GOLF’s expert panelists.
At the top of the list is Cypress Point in Pebble Beach, a course renowned for its stunning beauty and challenging layout. Designed by Alister MacKenzie, Cypress Point features iconic holes like the par-3 16th that extends into the Pacific Ocean. Pebble Beach itself is another must-play course in California, with its oceanside routing and dramatic cliffs providing a thrilling golfing experience. Other top courses in California include Los Angeles – North, Riviera, and San Francisco, each offering unique design features and memorable holes for players to enjoy.
California Golf Club of San Francisco, Valley Club of Montecito, and Olympic – Lake are also among the best courses in the state, with challenging layouts and picturesque settings that showcase the natural beauty of California. Pasatiempo in Santa Cruz, Bel-Air in Los Angeles, and Monterey Peninsula – Shore in Pebble Beach offer players a mix of traditional and modern designs, with each course presenting its own set of challenges and rewards.
Rustic Canyon in Moorpark, TPC Harding Park in San Francisco, and CordeValle in San Martin are highlighted for their unique layouts and challenging features. These courses provide players with a variety of holes and strategic challenges that test their skills and decision-making on the course. Rams Hill in Borrego Springs is also noted for its oasis-like setting and stunning views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, making it a hidden gem worth exploring.
GOLF’s ranking process involves a panel of expert raters who evaluate courses based on design, playability, and overall experience. Each course is carefully assessed to determine its ranking in the Top 100 Courses in the U.S. and Top 100 Courses You Can Play lists. By incorporating the diverse experiences and expertise of its panelists, GOLF ensures that its rankings are thorough and objective, reflecting the best courses in each state.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player looking to explore new courses, California offers a wide range of golfing experiences for every skill level. From iconic seaside layouts to hidden gems in the hills, California’s golf courses provide players with unique challenges and breathtaking views that make for an unforgettable round of golf. Whether you’re teeing off at Cypress Point or tackling the challenging fairways of TPC Harding Park, California’s golf courses are sure to impress and inspire players of all levels.
