California might be known for its beaches and sunshine, but it’s also home to some of the best public golf courses in the country. From dramatic oceanfront layouts in Pebble Beach to desert courses surrounded by mountain views, golfers of every skill level can find a course worth playing.
What makes golf in California special is the variety. You can tee off along the Pacific Ocean one day and play through rolling hills or palm-lined fairways the next. Whether you’re chasing famous names like Torrey Pines and Pebble Beach or looking for a budget-friendly local gem, there’s no shortage of great options open to the public.
This guide features the top public golf courses in California, including iconic favorites, hidden gems, and affordable options that deliver an unforgettable round.
Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in California
Some of the world’s most famous golf courses are right here in California, and many of them are open to the public. These courses combine championship design, stunning scenery, and top-quality conditions.
Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime round or looking for a weekend getaway, these are the top-rated public golf courses in California that every golfer should play.
Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Location: Pebble Beach, CA
- Yardage: 7,075 yards
- Par: 72
Pebble Beach Golf Links is often ranked as the best public course in America, and for good reason. Set along the Monterey coastline, it offers sweeping ocean views from almost every hole. The layout is both beautiful and demanding, with small greens, deep bunkers, and steady coastal winds. Pebble Beach has hosted numerous U.S. Opens, and its 18th hole is one of the most famous finishing holes in golf.
While the green fee is among the highest in the country, many golfers see it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Between the views and the history, playing Pebble Beach is something every golfer should try at least once.
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Torrey Pines (South Course)
- Location: La Jolla, CA
- Yardage: 7,802 yards
- Par: 72
Torrey Pines is one of the most recognizable public golf courses in the country. Perched on the bluffs above the Pacific Ocean, it delivers sweeping coastal views and tournament-level conditions year-round. The South Course, in particular, is known for hosting the U.S. Open and the annual Farmers Insurance Open on the PGA Tour.
Designed to test every aspect of your game, Torrey Pines features tight fairways, deep bunkers, and demanding greens that can challenge even the most experienced players. Despite its championship reputation, the course remains open to the public at reasonable rates compared to other venues. Golfers from across the world visit for a chance to play where the pros compete, and to enjoy one of the most scenic stretches of golf in Southern California.
Pasatiempo Golf Club
- Location: Santa Cruz, CA
- Yardage: 6,521 yards
- Par: 70
Pasatiempo Golf Club is a classic course with deep roots in golf history. Designed by Alister MacKenzie, the same architect behind Augusta National and Cypress Point, it offers a strategic test that rewards smart play over pure distance. The layout winds through rolling hills with dramatic elevation changes, well-placed bunkers, and fast, undulating greens.
Even though it’s shorter than many modern courses, Pasatiempo is far from easy. Every hole requires attention to detail, especially on approach shots and putts. The course is also beautifully maintained, with ocean views from several holes and a peaceful setting that feels far removed from busy city life. Golfers who appreciate traditional design and pure shot-making will find Pasatiempo to be one of the most enjoyable public golf experiences in California.
Rustic Canyon Golf Course
- Location: Moorpark, CA
- Yardage: 6,906 yards
- Par: 72
Rustic Canyon Golf Course is often called one of the best value golf experiences in California. Located just north of Los Angeles, it was designed by Gil Hanse and Geoff Shackelford to blend naturally with the landscape. The course has wide fairways, firm conditions, and a minimalist style that rewards creative shot-making over power.
Unlike many modern designs, Rustic Canyon feels open and welcoming. It challenges golfers to think their way around rather than relying on distance alone. The greens are large but subtle, and the natural terrain creates plenty of variety from hole to hole. With affordable rates, friendly staff, and excellent year-round conditions, Rustic Canyon proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy top-quality golf in Southern California.
Sandpiper Golf Club
- Location: Santa Barbara, CA
- Yardage: 7,068 yards
- Par: 72
Sandpiper Golf Club sits along the Pacific Ocean just north of Santa Barbara, offering views that rival some of the most famous coastal courses in the world. Designed by William F. Bell, the course stretches across rolling seaside terrain with holes that play directly along the cliffs. The layout combines open fairways with demanding approach shots and fast, sloping greens that test every part of your game.
What makes Sandpiper special is its balance of beauty and challenge. Golfers can enjoy the ocean breeze, elevation changes, and a peaceful setting that feels far from the crowds. It’s also one of the few public courses in California where you can play oceanfront golf without paying Pebble Beach prices. For many, Sandpiper is a must-play stop when traveling along the Central Coast
PGA WEST Stadium Course
- Location: La Quinta, CA
- Yardage: 7,300 yards
- Par: 72
The PGA WEST Stadium Course is one of the toughest and most famous public golf courses in California. Designed by Pete Dye, it’s known for dramatic visuals, deep bunkers, and plenty of water that comes into play on several holes. This desert layout was built to challenge professionals, but it remains playable for everyday golfers who enjoy a true test of skill.
The course features sharp doglegs, large undulating greens, and a mix of risk-and-reward holes that keep every round exciting. Its signature 17th hole, called “Alcatraz,” is a par 3 surrounded by water and one of the most photographed holes in golf.
PGA WEST hosts multiple PGA Tour and amateur events, but anyone can book a tee time and see what makes it so legendary. For golfers visiting Palm Springs, this course is a bucket-list experience.
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CordeValle Golf Club
- Location: San Martin, CA
- Yardage: 7,360 yards
- Par: 72
CordeValle Golf Club offers a high-end public golf experience tucked away in the foothills between San Jose and Monterey. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course blends naturally with its surroundings, featuring rolling fairways, oak-covered hills, and a peaceful setting that makes it feel like a private retreat.
While it’s part of a luxury resort, CordeValle is open to the public and delivers country club-level conditions. The layout challenges golfers with elevation changes, fast greens, and strategic bunkering. Every hole feels distinct, and the scenic backdrop adds to the experience. CordeValle has hosted professional tournaments, including PGA Tour and LPGA events, but it remains welcoming to everyday players.
For golfers looking for a mix of championship design and relaxed California charm, CordeValle stands out as one of the finest public golf courses in Northern California.
Half Moon Bay Golf Links
- Location: Half Moon Bay, CA
- Yardage: 7,001 yards
- Par: 72
Half Moon Bay Golf Links offers one of the most dramatic coastal golf experiences in California. Located just south of San Francisco, the course sits on bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, where waves crash against the cliffs below. Designed by Arthur Hills, the layout combines open seaside holes with inland fairways lined by cypress trees, creating a perfect mix of challenge and beauty.
The closing hole, a par 4 that runs along the cliffs, is one of the most photographed in the state. Golfers will find fast greens, steady ocean breezes, and some of the best sunset views anywhere in golf. Despite its resort setting, Half Moon Bay remains open to the public and is often less crowded than other coastal courses. It’s an ideal stop for golfers visiting the Bay Area who want a memorable round with incredible scenery.
Yocha Dehe Golf Club
- Location: Brooks, CA
- Yardage: 7,337 yards
- Par: 72
Yocha Dehe Golf Club, located in Northern California’s Capay Valley, is one of the state’s best-kept secrets. Part of the Cache Creek Casino Resort, the course offers a peaceful and beautifully maintained layout surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and oak trees. Designed by Brad Bell, it’s known for its excellent course conditions, from smooth greens to perfectly trimmed fairways.
Each hole feels private, giving golfers a relaxed experience without crowded fairways. The design is fair but demanding, with generous landing areas that still reward accuracy. The setting is quiet and scenic, offering a very different atmosphere than many of California’s coastal or city courses. Yocha Dehe consistently ranks among the top public golf courses in California thanks to its playability, value, and attention to detail. For golfers in Northern California, it’s well worth the trip.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course
- Location: Pebble Beach, CA
- Yardage: 7,041 yards
- Par: 72
Spyglass Hill Golf Course is one of the toughest and most scenic public courses in California. Also located within the Pebble Beach resort area, it’s a Robert Trent Jones Sr. design that takes golfers from oceanfront holes to dense pine forests in just a few swings. The opening stretch runs along the Pacific, offering breathtaking views, while the inland holes demand accuracy and strong course management.
The course is known for its fast, sloping greens and challenging bunkers that test even skilled players. Despite its difficulty, Spyglass Hill remains fair and incredibly well maintained year-round. It’s a regular stop on the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and many golfers consider it just as memorable as Pebble Beach itself. For those who want a true championship challenge, Spyglass Hill delivers one of the most complete public golf experiences in California.
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Hidden Gem Public Courses in California
California has no shortage of famous golf destinations, but some of the state’s best rounds are found at courses that fly under the radar. These hidden gems might not host major tournaments, yet they deliver great layouts, scenic views, and excellent value for the money. Whether you’re a local golfer or visiting from out of state, these underrated public golf courses in California deserve a spot on your list.
Pacific Grove Golf Links
- Location: Pacific Grove, CA
- Yardage: 5,727 yards
- Par: 70
Often called the “Poor Man’s Pebble Beach,” Pacific Grove Golf Links offers ocean views and coastal charm at a fraction of the price. The front nine plays through tree-lined fairways near the town, while the back nine opens up to rolling dunes and stunning views of the Monterey Bay.
The layout is short by modern standards, but the natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere make it a favorite among both locals and travelers. Greens are smooth, conditions are well kept, and the sea breeze adds just enough challenge to keep things interesting. For golfers looking for a relaxed round with incredible scenery, Pacific Grove is one of California’s best hidden gems.
Corica Park
- Location: Alameda, CA
- Yardage: 6,857 yards
- Par: 72
Corica Park in Alameda has quietly become one of the best public golf courses in Northern California. Originally a local muni, it was redesigned into a modern links-style layout that offers firm fairways, creative green complexes, and plenty of strategic choices. The course feels open and playable for all skill levels but still rewards smart shot selection.
Set just across the bay from San Francisco, Corica Park is known for its excellent maintenance and fast pace of play. The design encourages running the ball up to the greens, a feature rarely found on California courses. The facility also includes one of the best practice ranges in the Bay Area, making it a popular spot for both serious golfers and weekend players. If you’re after great golf without the high price tag, Corica Park delivers outstanding value.
Angeles National Golf Club
- Location: Sunland, CA
- Yardage: 7,141 yards
- Par: 72
Angeles National Golf Club is one of the top public golf options in the Los Angeles area. Designed by Jack Nicklaus II, the course sits at the base of the Angeles National Forest, giving it a scenic backdrop of rugged hills and open desert terrain. The layout is modern and challenging, with water hazards, deep bunkers, and fast greens that make every round interesting.
Despite its championship setup, Angeles National is friendly to everyday golfers, offering multiple tee boxes and wide fairways that keep the course playable. The staff maintains it to a high standard year-round, and it’s known for having some of the best conditions of any public course in Southern California. For those who want a PGA-quality experience without resort prices, Angeles National is a standout choice.
La Purisima Golf Course
- Location: Lompoc, CA
- Yardage: 7,105 yards
- Par: 72
La Purisima Golf Course is one of those quiet California courses that serious golfers love to talk about. Set among rolling hills near California’s Central Coast, it offers a challenging layout surrounded by natural beauty. Designed by Kenneth H. Hunter Jr. and Robert Muir Graves, the course has earned a reputation for its tough greens, narrow fairways, and peaceful setting.
The design forces golfers to think carefully about every shot. There aren’t many flat lies, and the greens are fast with subtle breaks. Because it’s away from major cities, La Purisima never feels crowded. It’s just you, the course, and the countryside. Many golfers compare it to a private club experience without the high price. If you’re looking for a course that rewards accuracy and focus, La Purisima is one of California’s best hidden gems.
Monarch Dunes Golf Club
- Location: Nipomo, CA
- Yardage: 7,317 yards
- Par: 71
Monarch Dunes Golf Club is a Central Coast favorite that often flies under the radar. Designed by Damian Pascuzzo and Steve Pate, the course sits among natural dunes and rolling terrain, creating a layout that feels both open and challenging. Wind can play a big role here, adding variety to each round and forcing golfers to adjust their strategy from hole to hole.
The course offers wide fairways and large, contoured greens that make it playable for all skill levels. Conditions are consistently excellent, with firm turf and scenic views across the property. Monarch Dunes also features a shorter 12-hole par-3 course that’s perfect for a quick round or warm-up. Between the natural setting, thoughtful design, and friendly staff, Monarch Dunes delivers a first-class public golf experience without the high-end price tag
The Links at Spanish Bay
- Location: Pebble Beach, CA
- Yardage: 6,821 yards
- Par: 72
The Links at Spanish Bay is part of the Pebble Beach Resort family, but it tends to get less attention than its famous neighbor, and that’s exactly what makes it a hidden gem. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Tom Watson, and Sandy Tatum, this course was built to feel like a true Scottish links. Rolling dunes, tight lies, and steady ocean breezes give it a character unlike almost any other course in California.
The layout plays right along the coast, with several holes offering uninterrupted views of the Pacific. Golfers will find creative shot options, firm fairways, and plenty of chances to use the ground game. In the evening, a bagpiper walks the course, adding to the classic links atmosphere. Spanish Bay might not have the fame of Pebble Beach, but many players say it’s just as enjoyable, and a little more relaxed.
Best Value Golf Courses in California
Not every great round has to come with a high green fee. California has plenty of public courses that deliver excellent conditions and memorable layouts without breaking the bank. These spots prove that you can find first-class golf at reasonable prices, whether you’re playing near the coast, the desert, or in wine country. Here are some of the best value golf courses in California that combine quality, scenery, and affordability.
Goose Creek Golf Club
- Location: Mira Loma, CA
- Yardage: 6,556 yards
- Par: 71
Goose Creek Golf Club is a Southern California favorite known for its great layout and outstanding value. Located between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, the course offers country club conditions at municipal prices. The design by Brian Curley and Lee Schmidt features wide fairways, smooth greens, and a mix of holes that keep the round interesting from start to finish.
Goose Creek is always well maintained, with firm fairways and fast greens that roll true. It’s also one of the area’s most walkable courses, making it popular with golfers who enjoy a traditional round. Regular players praise the friendly staff and consistent course conditions that rival much pricier options. For golfers looking to play one of the best-kept public courses in Southern California, Goose Creek is hard to beat.
Oak Quarry Golf Club
- Location: Riverside, CA
- Yardage: 7,002 yards
- Par: 72
Oak Quarry Golf Club offers one of the most dramatic and affordable golf experiences in Southern California. Built on the site of an old marble and limestone quarry, the course features striking elevation changes, natural cliffs, and wide-open views of the surrounding mountains. Designed by Dr. Gil Morgan and Schmidt-Curley Design, Oak Quarry combines visual appeal with strategic challenges that keep golfers engaged throughout the round.
The signature par-3 14th hole, which plays over the quarry itself, is one of the most photographed in the region. Despite its stunning setting and championship layout, Oak Quarry remains open to the public at very reasonable rates. Course conditions are consistently top-notch, and the greens are smooth and fast. For golfers who want a course that looks and feels like a private club without the cost, Oak Quarry delivers incredible value.
Recreation Park 18 (Big Rec)
- Location: Long Beach, CA
- Yardage: 6,405 yards
- Par: 72
Recreation Park 18, known to locals as “Big Rec”, is one of Southern California’s best bargains for public golf. Located just a few miles from the beach, this historic course dates back to the early 1900s and offers a fun, classic layout that appeals to players of all levels. The fairways are generous, the greens are smooth, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals who want good golf without high prices.
While Big Rec doesn’t have the coastal views of more famous courses, it makes up for it with excellent value and steady course conditions. Twilight rates are especially affordable, and the course stays in good shape year-round. Add in a friendly staff and easy access from anywhere in Los Angeles or Orange County, and you’ve got one of the best public golf deals in California.
Buenaventura Golf Course
- Location: Ventura, CA
- Yardage: 6,054 yards
- Par: 70
Buenaventura Golf Course is a short but fun layout that offers excellent value for golfers along California’s Central Coast. Originally opened in 1932 and redesigned by Forrest Richardson, the course blends classic design elements with modern playability. Tree-lined fairways, small greens, and a mix of reachable par 4s make it enjoyable for all skill levels while still providing enough challenge to keep things interesting.
The course is known for being in great condition year-round, with smooth greens and well-kept fairways. It’s also one of the best walking courses in the region, and its affordable rates make it popular among locals and visitors alike. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere sets it apart from busier city courses. If you’re looking for a laid-back round in a coastal town without paying resort prices, Buenaventura is a solid pick.
Regional Guide to Public Golf in California
From the foggy coastlines of Northern California to the sun-drenched fairways of the desert, the state offers a huge range of golf experiences. Each region has its own style, scenery, and signature courses worth playing. Here’s a quick guide to help you find the best public golf courses across California, no matter where you’re headed.
Northern California
Northern California combines coastal beauty with traditional parkland layouts. The region is home to Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill, but it also includes local favorites like Pasatiempo in Santa Cruz and Corica Park in Alameda. Golfers will find rolling hills, ocean breezes, and courses that blend seamlessly with nature. The weather is mild year-round, making it ideal for consistent play.
Central California
Central California’s golf scene mixes wine country charm with scenic coastal courses. Standouts include Sandpiper Golf Club in Santa Barbara, La Purisima in Lompoc, and Monarch Dunes in Nipomo. These courses offer ocean views, challenging terrain, and a relaxed pace that reflects the Central Coast lifestyle. With fewer crowds than major cities, it’s an underrated area for golf trips.
Southern California
Southern California delivers a little bit of everything — coastal cliffs, desert landscapes, and mountain backdrops. Top public options include Torrey Pines in La Jolla, Rustic Canyon in Moorpark, and PGA WEST in La Quinta. Courses in this region range from championship-level tests to affordable local gems. With great weather nearly every day of the year, it’s one of the best places in the world for year-round golf.
Tips for Playing Public Golf Courses in California
Playing golf in California can be a memorable experience, but a few simple tips can help you make the most of your round. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or teeing it up close to home, here’s how to enjoy the state’s best public courses.
1. Book early for popular courses.
Tee times at famous spots like Pebble Beach or Torrey Pines can sell out weeks or even months in advance. If you have your heart set on a specific course, plan ahead or look for weekday openings to improve your chances.
2. Take advantage of twilight rates.
Many California courses offer discounted afternoon tee times, especially during summer when the days are long. Twilight golf can save you money and still give you enough time for a full round.
3. Be ready for changing weather.
Coastal areas can be cool and foggy in the morning, while desert courses heat up fast. Bring layers, sunscreen, and plenty of water. California golf can feel like a different season from one region to the next.
4. Don’t overlook local gems.
While big-name resorts get the attention, smaller municipal and regional courses often provide excellent value and friendly service. You’ll find great golf at places like Corica Park, Goose Creek, and Buenaventura without the crowds or price tags.
5. Respect pace of play.
Public courses can be busy, so keep up with the group ahead and be ready when it’s your turn. Most courses encourage four-hour rounds, and staying on pace helps everyone enjoy their day.
Conclusion
California offers one of the most diverse golf experiences in the country. From world-famous courses like Pebble Beach and Torrey Pines to affordable gems tucked into quiet coastal towns, there’s something here for every type of golfer.
What makes public golf in California so special is the range — ocean views, mountain settings, and desert layouts all within a day’s drive. Whether you’re looking to cross a bucket-list course off your list or find a new local favorite, you’ll never run out of great places to play.
So grab your clubs, book a tee time, and see why these are the best public golf courses in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 public golf course in California?
Pebble Beach Golf Links is widely considered the number one public golf course in California. It’s hosted multiple U.S. Opens and offers world-class views of the Pacific Ocean. The course is expensive, but many golfers see it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Which public golf courses in California have ocean views?
Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, Sandpiper, Half Moon Bay, and The Links at Spanish Bay all feature holes that overlook the Pacific Ocean. Each offers a different coastal experience, from dramatic cliffside holes to wide-open seaside fairways.
What is the most affordable public golf course in California?
Pacific Grove Golf Links is one of the best bargains for oceanfront golf. You’ll also find great value at courses like Goose Creek in Mira Loma, Corica Park in Alameda, and Recreation Park 18 in Long Beach, all offering quality golf at fair prices.
Are California public golf courses beginner-friendly?
Yes. Many public courses in California, such as Buenaventura, Monarch Dunes, and Corica Park, are designed to be playable for golfers of all skill levels. They offer multiple tee boxes, forgiving fairways, and a welcoming environment for newer players.
What is the best time of year to play golf in California?
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Golf in California can be played year-round, but the best months are typically March through November. Coastal areas stay cool in summer, while desert and inland courses are ideal during spring and fall when temperatures are mild.
Sean’s parents first put a golf club in his hands at the age of 8. He immediately fell in love with the game of golf. Today he’s passing on that love to his own kids.