Best Golf Courses in San Diego

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

I grew up listening to the Beach Boys.  Their Endless Summer album is one of my all-time favorites to this day.  Every time I head for San Diego, the song I Wish They All Could Be California Girls runs on repeat through my head.  Ok, that was probably true when I was younger but now, it’s more like “I wish they all could be San Diego golf courses”. 

I have family in San Diego.  As a result, I’ve spent a lot of time playing golf here.  I know a lot of you have too.  That’s why I’ve compiled my experiences, along with those you’ve so graciously shared, to come up with a list of the top 10 courses you can play in this great city.

 

If you’re seeking a unique and challenging golfing event in a stunning natural setting, Mt. Woodson Golf Club is the place to be. Located in the beautiful San Diego County, this gem is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

The course offers a layout that will put your skills to the test, with well-maintained fairways and greens that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Signature holes like the iconic ‘I-5’ bridge hole add an extra layer of excitement to your game.

Before hitting the course, take advantage of the top-notch practice facilities to fine-tune your swing. When it’s time to unwind, the clubhouse provides a welcoming atmosphere with dining options to satisfy your post-game cravings and a pro shop stocked with all the essentials.

Whether you’re a trained pro or just starting out, Mt. Woodson Golf Club has something to offer. Expert instructors are available for golf lessons, catering to all skill levels. So, if you’re looking for one of the best golf courses in San Diego, look no further than Mt. Woodson Golf Club for an unforgettable golfing encounter.

 

Set in a charming setting with stunning ocean views, Lomas Santa Fe Executive Golf Course offers a demanding and scenic layout for golfers of all skill levels. The well-maintained fairways and greens provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable round of golf in San Diego. Whether you’re a skillful golfer or just starting out, this course has something for everyone. The unique feature of stunning ocean views adds an extra dimension to the golfing adventure, making it a must-visit for golf fans.

After your round, you can unwind at the clubhouse, which offers dining options and a pro shop for all your golfing needs. Additionally, the practice facilities provide the perfect opportunity to work on your game and improve your skills. Lomas Santa Fe Executive Golf Course truly encompasses the essence of a top-notch golf club in Santa Fe, offering not just a game of golf, but an entire event.

If you’re seeking a bold yet rewarding golfing adventure with breathtaking views, Lomas Santa Fe Executive Golf Course is a prime choice among San Diego courses.

 

Steele Canyon Golf Course, located in Jamul, offers golfers three distinct nine-hole courses: Canyon, Vineyard, and Ranch, providing a variety of playing experiences for all skill levels. This course consistently ranks among the top public golf courses in San Diego, and it’s no wonder why.

With its well-maintained grounds, exceptional customer service, and stunning ocean views, Steele Canyon Golf Course is a must-visit for any golfer. The challenging layout, designed by renowned architect Brian Curley, features unique and signature holes that will test your skills and provide an unforgettable golfing event.

Additionally, the course offers practice facilities, clubhouses with dining options and pro shops, and golf lessons for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve or a qualified golfer seeking a new challenge, Steele Canyon Golf Course nestled in the rolling hills of Jamul has something special to offer.

Tucked away in the scenic surroundings of Poway, Maderas Golf Club beckons golf lovers with its demanding layout and breathtaking views of majestic cliffs and ancient oaks. Designed by Johnny Miller and Robert Muir Graves, this hidden gem among San Diego’s golf courses offers a great golf encounter.

The course’s layout, with its pristine conditions and fast greens, has garnered acclaim, even catching the eye of the PGA Tour. Maderas Golf Club is ranked as one of the top courses in California, offering stunning mountain views and a bold yet enjoyable layout.

The luxurious event doesn’t stop at the course – the clubhouse provides excellent dining options and event spaces, making it an ideal spot for golf followers to relax and socialize after a day on the links.

If you’re seeking a golfing experience that combines breathtaking scenery, top-notch course conditions, and a touch of luxury, Maderas Golf Club is the place to be in San Diego.

As you explore the golf scene in San Diego, your next stop after Maderas Golf Club is the Enagic Golf Club at East Lake, where you’ll find a demanding par-72 layout designed by Ted Robinson. The club boasts a yardage of 7,107 with green fees ranging from $59 to $125, providing an affordable yet quality golfing adventure.

Located in Chula Vista, the Enagic Golf Club at East Lake offers stunning views and well-maintained grounds, making it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. As you step onto the course, you’ll be greeted by a range of practice facilities and rental equipment, catering to golfers of all skill levels. After an exhilarating round, take advantage of the club amenities such as dining options, pro shops, and convenient transportation via golf carts.

This golf resort truly embodies the essence of the San Diego golf event, offering a perfect blend of challenge, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty.

• Breathtaking Views: Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning vistas surrounding the course.
• Affordable Excellence: Enjoy a top-tier golfing experience without breaking the bank.
• All-Inclusive Amenities: From practice facilities to dining options, the club has everything you need for a memorable day on the course.

Situated in the heart of Chula Vista, the Chula Vista Golf Course offers a picturesque and challenging playing encounter for golf fans of all levels. This San Diego golf course boasts well-maintained fairways and greens, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned players.

The course’s clubhouse, dining options, and pro shop ensure you have everything you need for a complete golfing event. Need a break from walking? Rental golf carts are available for your convenience.

If you’re looking to improve your skills, Chula Vista Golf Course provides golf lessons, and you can even rent equipment if you don’t bring your own. Whether you’re a local or just visiting San Diego, this public golf course is a must-visit.

 

If you’re in the mood for another exciting round of golf in San Diego, you’ll definitely want to check out the Riverwalk Golf Club, which offers 27 holes of championship golf along the scenic San Diego River.

When you step onto the course, you’ll be greeted by stunning views and water features that create a beautiful setting for your game.

The clubhouse at Riverwalk Golf Club isn’t only a place to relax after your round but also offers a complete golfing adventure with amenities for dining and gatherings.

As you make your way through the three distinct 9-hole layouts at Riverwalk Golf Club, you’ll find a versatile encounter, allowing you to enjoy different combinations for a unique game every time.

With its dynamic and enjoyable golfing adventure, Riverwalk Golf Club is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast in San Diego.

• Stunning Views and Water Features
• Complete Golfing Experience with Clubhouse Amenities
• Versatile Playing Options with Three 9-hole Layouts

Tucked away in the heart of San Diego, The Loma Club beckons golfers with its rich history and captivating views of the city skyline and surrounding landscapes. This historic course is a gem, offering a unique and demanding layout that caters to golfers of all levels. The stunning views of the San Diego skyline and surrounding areas add an extra layer of enjoyment to your game.

The Loma Club isn’t just about the course; it provides a comfortable clubhouse, complete with dining options and a well-stocked pro shop. This means you can gear up, grab a bite, and relax before or after your round. The club has carefully preserved its historic charm, making every visit a memorable event.

For golf enthusiasts visiting San Diego, The Loma Club is a must-visit. Its rich legacy, beautiful views, and enjoyable course make it one of the best golf clubs in the area. While Torrey Pines might get all the attention, The Loma Club offers a different, equally captivating event for those looking to explore the golf scene in San Diego.

While The Loma Club offers a captivating view of the San Diego skyline, Carlton Oaks Golf Club provides golfers with stunning ocean views and unique, challenging layouts, making it a charming destination for golf lovers.

When you step onto the course at Carlton Oaks, you can expect more than just breathtaking ocean views. The well-maintained fairways and greens will elevate your golfing adventure, and the signature holes add an extra layer of challenge and excitement.

The club’s top-notch practice facilities offer the perfect opportunity to refine your skills before hitting the South Course. Whether you’re a trained golfer or just starting out, Carlton Oaks Golf Club has something to offer for everyone.

If you’re looking to experience the best of San Diego golf, make your golf reservations at Carlton Oaks Golf Club and get ready for an unforgettable golfing encounter in the beautiful surroundings of Singing Hills.

Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Singing Hills, the Willow Glen Golf Course offers golfers a unique and memorable adventure with its diverse amenities and stunning championship courses.

This San Diego gem isn’t just about golf; it also boasts a casino and spa, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and recreation.

The course, designed by the renowned architect Ted Robinson, seamlessly blends desert-style and parkland layouts, providing a demanding yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. Wildlife sightings and scenic beauty further enhance the allure of this golfing paradise.

With three 18-hole championship courses, Willow Glen Golf Course at Singing Hills stands out as a premier golf resort. It has hosted various professional and amateur tournaments, adding to its prestige.

If you’re looking to tee off at this remarkable location, consider making golf reservations in advance to ensure you secure your preferred tee times. It’s no wonder that golf legend Johnny Miller has praised the course for its exceptional design and playability.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice enthusiast, Willow Glen offers an unforgettable golfing escapade.

Conclusion

I love San Diego.  Quite frankly, it seems impossible not to.  Between the best weather in the country, cultural diversity, white sand beaches, and great golf, there’s never a dull moment in this great city.

I have a trip planned for this spring and can’t wait to pack my bags.  In the meantime, let me know about some other courses that are worth playing.  I’m always open to suggestions and I’m sure others are too.