Top 10 Golf Courses in Northern California

May 15, 2024

Nestled amidst the rugged coastlines and rolling hills of Northern California, a golfer's paradise awaits, offering a tapestry of exceptional courses that blend challenge with breathtaking beauty. From the iconic fairways of Pebble Beach to the lush greens of Pasatiempo, each course in this region is a testament to the artistry of golf course design and the allure of the natural landscapes.

Here are the top 10 golf courses in Northern California.

1. PEBBLE BEACH GOLF LINKS

Located in Pebble Beach, California, this iconic course needs little introduction. It hugs the rugged coastline of the Monterey Peninsula and is consistently ranked among the top courses in the world.

2. SPYGLASS HILL GOLF COURSE

Also located in Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill is known for its challenging layout, stunning views, and dense forests. It's regularly ranked as one of the toughest courses on the PGA Tour rotation.

3. PASATIEMPO GOLF CLUB

Situated in Santa Cruz, California, Pasatiempo is a classic Alister MacKenzie design with challenging terrain and breathtaking views of the Monterey Bay.

4. THE OLYMPIC CLUB (LAKE COURSE)

Located in San Francisco, California, The Olympic Club's Lake Course has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and is known for its tight fairways, small greens, and demanding layout.

5. TPC HARDING PARK

Also in San Francisco, TPC Harding Park hosted the PGA Championship in 2020 and is a regular stop on the PGA Tour. It offers a challenging layout with views of Lake Merced.

6. SILVERADO RESORT AND SPA (NORTH COURSE)

Situated in Napa, California, the North Course at Silverado Resort and Spa is a classic Robert Trent Jones Jr. design with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens.

7. POPPY HILLS GOLF COURSE

Located in Pebble Beach, California, Poppy Hills underwent a major renovation in recent years and offers a challenging yet playable layout amidst the stunning Monterey Peninsula landscape.

8. CORDEVALLE GOLF CLUB

Situated in San Martin, California, CordeValle is a luxury resort course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. It's known for its scenic beauty, challenging layout, and hosting the PGA Tour's Frys.com Open.

9. THE LINKS AT SPANISH BAY

Another gem in Pebble Beach, California, The Links at Spanish Bay offers a unique Scottish links-style experience with ocean views and challenging winds.

10. HALF MOON BAY GOLF LINKS (OCEAN COURSE)

Located in Half Moon Bay, California, the Ocean Course at Half Moon Bay Golf Links offers stunning coastal views and a challenging layout along the bluffs of the Pacific Ocean.

From the dramatic vistas of Spyglass Hill to the windswept links of The Links at Spanish Bay, each course offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Northern California's golfing heritage. So, whether you're navigating the challenging layout of TPC Harding Park or soaking in the coastal views at Half Moon Bay Golf Links, let these golfing gems inspire your next unforgettable round amidst the natural splendor of Northern California's picturesque landscapes.