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Best Golf Courses In San Diego

If you live in the San Diego area and are trying to get a feel for the wonderful world of golf, or perhaps you are an avid golfer already and are visiting the San Diego area, then you may want to know where the best golf courses in the area are. There are several golf courses in the area, but you don’t want to play on just any old course, do you? You more than likely want to play on the best golf courses in San Diego. 

The golf course you play on can determine the outcome of your game just as much as the equipment you are using. A good golf course can mean an excellent game, and a bad course can mean a not-so-good one. So choose wisely when searching for a golf course to play on. Let’s take a look at ten of the best golf courses in San Diego.

Encinitas Ranch

This super playable course offers a distant view of the ocean, elevated tees, and a great assortment of amenities. It offers five sets of tees, open fairways, and bunkers. Because of its extreme playability, it is an excellent course for anyone to play on and one that is sure to leave every golfer satisfied with their score.

Oaks North Golf Club

If you like a challenging game, then Oaks North in San Diego should definitely be on your list of must-visits. There are several shots that will test your precision and knowledge. The club offers a wonderful place for all golfers of any age and skill level to practice and offers a JC Junior Players Card in the hopes of encouraging younger players.


The Grand Del Mar

Located in Los Peñasquitos Canyon, these courses are known for being challenging, yet fair. The design, itself is marvelous and incorporates its environment impeccably. The dramatic heights, diverse bunkers, and beautiful fairways make for a lovely game. The excellent playability mixed with the serene natural beauty are what make this San Diego golf course so outstanding. This amazing golf course experience is reserved only for resort guests, members, and Villa owners, so it is very exclusive, but well worth it. 

Balboa Park Golf Course

While this may not be quite as manicured as some other courses on the list, what it lacks in that area, it certainly makes up for in challenge. This course is set in the canyons, so it involves multiple changes in elevation, making this game a challenging one that you are not to soon forget.

Coronado Golf Course

This gem of a course is special, not only because of its charm and beautiful scenery, but also because of its affordability. The course itself is somewhat challenging, but offers a great time for any golfer. It offers an excellent round for any and all golfers, no matter their skill level and is definitely a must visit. The views alone are worth it, but add in the fact that it is extremely affordable and you’ve got yourself an excellent golf course!


Aviara Golf Club

Designed by the famous Arnold Palmer, this course has been named one of the best golf courses in all of the US by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine. The stunning views of the Batiquitos Lagoon you get while playing the course create an aesthetic you don’t want to miss and the extra premier facilities such as the practice driving range, putting and pitching greens, deluxe golf shop, and GPS system on all golf carts really make this course unique.


Maderas Golf Club

This beautifully scenic golf course offers a great view and challenge. It was rated the top golf course in San Diego by Zagat Survey six years in a row, this is a course you certainly won’t want to miss. The course winds through cliffs and offers stunning surroundings including three pristine lakes, five exquisite waterfalls, and 40 acres of beautiful terrain, studded with beautiful wildflowers. It winds through creeks and forests and offers lovely scenery to take in as you play the course. The course itself was designed for both quality and challenge and is an excellent test of your skills.


Omni La Costa Resort and Spa

Located in the foothills of San Diego, this golf course holds quite a lot of history. Some of the most famous golfers have played here, including Sinatra, Hope, and Wadkins. Dating back to the 1969 Tournament of Champions, this course has held some of the more famous tournaments over the years including hosting the Match Play Championships from 1999-2006 and the LGPA Tour’s inaugural Kia Classic in 2010. They redesigned their North Course, and while keeping the integrity of the original design, they modified all 18 holes, bunkers, fairway, and even some subtle elevation changes. Overall, it is in much better conditions than it was before.


Singing Hills Golf Resort at Sycuan

Set in the beautiful hills of El Cajon, this golf resort boasts three equally amazing golf courses. One of the three courses, Pine Glenn, offers a quick 18 holes, but if you are looking for a more intense experience, then either Willow Glen or Oak Glen are great options. Though challenging, both courses are fun and will allow you to enjoy the game. This resort also offers the opportunity to improve your game by practicing on one of the practice greens, driving ranges, and short game areas. This is a beautiful resort with a lot to offer any golfer.


Torrey Pines Golf Club

If you are in the San Diego area, then Torrey Pines Golf Club is a must-visit. You would be nuts to miss out on the opportunity to play on this famous course. Even if you are a beginner, you should still take the chance to see this place. It is well-known for its North and South championship 18-hole courses, as both are long and challenging. However, they both offer unrivaled panoramas of the beautiful coastline. While you can expect to pay a premium, the views and challenging games are well worth it. However, if you are a local (with a San Diego city resident card) you receive a much better price!

If you are in the San Diego area and are looking to play some golf, then you should absolutely check out one (or several) of the courses listed above. Happy golfing!

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