San Francisco boasts some of the best public golf courses, offering a range of experiences from historic layouts to scenic coastal views.
For a quick overview of the top five courses, they are Presidio Golf Course, TPC Harding Park, Half Moon Bay Golf Links, Lincoln Park Golf Course, and The Links at Bodega Harbour.
Keep reading for a detailed look at what makes each of these courses unique and worth visiting.
Presidio Golf Course
Nestled within the historic Presidio of San Francisco, Presidio Golf Course is one of the city's oldest and most iconic public courses.
Known for its challenging layout and stunning views, this course offers golfers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and demanding play, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of the sport.
Historical Significance and Location
Presidio Golf Course, established in 1895, holds a significant place in San Francisco's golfing history.
Originally built as a nine-hole course for military officers stationed at the Presidio, it expanded to an 18-hole layout in 1910.
The course is located within the Presidio, a former military base turned national park, providing a rich historical backdrop.
Its long-standing presence makes it one of the oldest courses on the West Coast, offering golfers a sense of playing on hallowed grounds.
Course Layout and Challenges
The layout of Presidio Golf Course is renowned for its hilly terrain and the unique challenge it presents.
The course features narrow fairways, rolling hills, and strategically placed bunkers, which test the accuracy and skill of even experienced golfers.
The San Francisco fog, a common feature, adds an extra layer of difficulty by reducing visibility and affecting the ball's flight.
This combination of natural and designed obstacles makes Presidio a true test of golfing ability, where strategy and precision are key.
Facilities and Amenities
Presidio Golf Course is well-equipped with facilities that enhance the overall golfing experience.
The clubhouse offers a cozy atmosphere where golfers can relax before or after their rounds.
It features a pro shop with a wide selection of golfing gear and apparel.
The General Store, a popular snack shack on the course, provides a variety of refreshments and light meals, making it a convenient stop during a game.
Additionally, the course's scenic beauty, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and surrounding forest, offers plenty of opportunities for memorable photographs and a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle.
Who Should Play Here?
Presidio Golf Course is ideal for golfers who appreciate a blend of history and challenge in their game.
History buffs will enjoy the rich background of the course, while those seeking a tough yet rewarding round will find the terrain and weather conditions both exciting and challenging.
The course's picturesque setting also makes it appealing to those who enjoy golfing in beautiful, natural environments.
Whether you're a local looking for a weekend round or a visitor wanting to experience a piece of San Francisco's history, Presidio Golf Course offers a unique and fulfilling golfing experience.
TPC Harding Park
TPC Harding Park is a premier public golf course in San Francisco, known for its championship pedigree and exceptional course conditions.
Situated along the shores of Lake Merced, this course has become a staple in the golfing world, attracting both amateurs and professionals alike.
Championship Pedigree
TPC Harding Park has a storied history of hosting prestigious golf tournaments, including the 2020 PGA Championship, which showcased the course's challenging nature and beautiful layout to a global audience.
The course has also been the venue for other significant events, such as the Presidents Cup and the WGC-Cadillac Match Play.
Its reputation among professional golfers and fans is stellar, with many praising the course's fairness and the quality of its playing surfaces.
This history of high-profile tournaments has cemented TPC Harding Park's status as a must-play destination for serious golfers.
Course Design and Features
The design of TPC Harding Park offers a relatively flat layout, which is somewhat unique among San Francisco's hilly courses.
The fairways are lined with mature cypress trees, creating a serene and picturesque environment.
The course stretches over 7,200 yards from the championship tees, presenting a challenging test of accuracy and strategy, particularly with its well-placed bunkers and water hazards.
The natural beauty of the course, combined with its meticulous maintenance, ensures a top-tier playing experience.
The greens are known for being fast and true, providing a fair but demanding test for putting.
Modern Amenities and Technologies
TPC Harding Park offers a range of modern amenities to enhance the golfing experience.
One standout feature is the availability of Toptracer technology at the driving range, which allows golfers to track the flight and speed of their shots with precision.
This technology is particularly useful for those looking to practice and improve their game.
The clubhouse provides a comfortable space for relaxation, with dining options and a well-stocked pro shop offering the latest in golf equipment and apparel.
Booking a tee time is straightforward, with options available both online and via phone, making it convenient for both locals and visitors to secure a spot on this renowned course.
Target Audience
TPC Harding Park is ideal for golfers seeking a high-quality, professional-level experience.
Its championship layout and top-notch facilities attract both seasoned players looking to test their skills and enthusiasts who want to enjoy a round on a course played by the pros.
The course's accessibility to the public, combined with its rich tournament history, makes it a prime destination for anyone looking to experience the best of San Francisco golf.
Whether you're aiming to play where the pros play or simply looking for a beautiful and challenging course, TPC Harding Park offers an unparalleled golfing experience.
Half Moon Bay Golf Links
Half Moon Bay Golf Links offers a unique golfing experience with its two distinct courses, the Ocean Course and the Old Course, both set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Located just 30 miles south of San Francisco, this venue is renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery and high-quality course design, providing an unforgettable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Course Overview
Half Moon Bay Golf Links features two 18-hole courses, each offering a different style and challenge.
The Ocean Course, designed to emulate traditional Scottish links courses, provides a true seaside golfing experience.
The Old Course, designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, offers a more traditional parkland style with lush fairways and strategically placed hazards.
The location along the rugged California coastline not only provides spectacular views but also influences the playability of both courses, making wind and weather conditions an integral part of the game.
Ocean Course Highlights
The Ocean Course is known for its links-style layout, characterized by wide fairways, natural grasses, and unobstructed ocean views.
The design takes full advantage of its coastal setting, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience akin to playing on a Scottish seaside course.
The course's proximity to the ocean means that wind can significantly affect play, adding a layer of difficulty that tests both strategy and skill.
The finishing holes, particularly the par-5 18th, are noted for their dramatic scenery, with the ocean serving as a stunning backdrop.
Old Course Features
The Old Course, crafted by Arnold Palmer, presents a different challenge with its traditional design elements.
It features tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and several water hazards that require precise shot-making.
The course is known for its meticulous upkeep and beautiful landscaping, offering golfers a visually pleasing and challenging round.
Notable holes include the picturesque par-3 17th, which offers sweeping views of the Pacific, and the signature 18th hole, which finishes with a dramatic approach shot towards the ocean cliffs.
Experience and Atmosphere
Golfers at Half Moon Bay Golf Links can expect a memorable experience, combining challenging play with awe-inspiring scenery.
The courses are designed to be accessible yet challenging, catering to a wide range of skill levels.
The atmosphere is both relaxed and refined, making it a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy a day of golf amidst some of California's most beautiful coastal landscapes.
The facilities, including a well-appointed clubhouse and a comprehensive pro shop, ensure that all needs are met, from equipment rental to dining options.
Whether you're there to challenge yourself on the links or simply enjoy the views, Half Moon Bay Golf Links offers an exceptional golfing experience.
Lincoln Park Golf Course
Lincoln Park Golf Course is one of San Francisco's most scenic and historically rich public golf courses.
Located in the northwest corner of the city, this course offers breathtaking views and a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Iconic Views and Landmarks
One of the most striking features of Lincoln Park Golf Course is its panoramic views, including iconic sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge.
The course is situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing stunning vistas on several holes.
In addition to the natural beauty, the course has historical significance as it was established in 1902, making it one of the oldest public courses in San Francisco.
The adjacent Lincoln Park, from which the course gets its name, is also home to the California Palace of the Legion of Honor, adding cultural and historical context to the golfing experience.
Course Accessibility and Difficulty
Lincoln Park Golf Course is relatively short compared to other courses in the area, with a par of 68.
However, its layout offers a surprising challenge due to the hilly terrain and the often windy coastal conditions.
The elevation changes and narrow fairways require precise shot-making, while the undulating greens test putting skills.
The course’s shorter length makes it accessible for beginners and casual golfers, but the varying difficulty levels across different holes ensure that even experienced players will find it engaging.
The famous 17th hole, with its view of the Golden Gate Bridge, is both a visual and strategic highlight, requiring careful navigation to avoid hazards.
Facilities and Community Involvement
The clubhouse at Lincoln Park Golf Course is modest but provides essential services, including a pro shop with basic golfing supplies and rentals.
The course's location within a public park means it is frequently used for community events and gatherings, fostering a welcoming atmosphere.
The course is also notable for its inclusivity, offering affordable green fees and hosting programs to encourage youth and community participation in golf.
This makes it an excellent choice for those new to the sport or looking for a relaxed, community-oriented golfing experience.
Who Will Enjoy This Course?
Lincoln Park Golf Course is ideal for beginners and golfers who appreciate a historic and scenic setting.
Its shorter length and accessible design make it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a casual round without the pressure of a more challenging course.
Additionally, history enthusiasts and tourists will enjoy the combination of golfing with cultural and historical landmarks nearby.
The course’s stunning views and friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the unique charm of San Francisco's public golf scene.
The Links at Bodega Harbour
The Links at Bodega Harbour is a stunning coastal golf course located in Bodega Bay, California, offering a unique blend of challenging play and breathtaking scenery.
Situated about 70 miles north of San Francisco, this course provides an idyllic retreat from the city, with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Northern California coastline.
Location and Scenic Beauty
The Links at Bodega Harbour is set in a picturesque coastal environment, providing golfers with panoramic views of the ocean, rolling dunes, and lush natural landscapes.
The course's location along the Sonoma Coast makes it a prime destination for those looking to combine a day of golf with a scenic getaway.
The beauty of the area is enhanced by the diverse wildlife and flora, making each round of golf a visually enriching experience.
The distant location from major urban centers adds to the course's appeal as a serene and peaceful destination, perfect for a relaxing day on the links.
Course Design and Layout
Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., The Links at Bodega Harbour features a classic links-style layout, characterized by its elevated tees, undulating fairways, and strategically placed bunkers.
The course's design takes full advantage of the natural terrain, incorporating the landscape's contours into the play.
One of the most notable aspects of the course is the wind, which can vary greatly and significantly influence play, adding an extra layer of challenge and strategy.
The holes are thoughtfully designed to test all aspects of a golfer's game, from precision shots over water hazards to managing tricky lies on uneven ground.
The course's layout encourages strategic thinking and careful shot planning, making it a rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Condition and Maintenance
The Links at Bodega Harbour is known for its excellent maintenance and pristine conditions.
The greens are meticulously cared for, ensuring a smooth and consistent putting surface, while the fairways are kept in top shape, providing optimal playing conditions throughout the year.
Given the course's coastal location, golfers should prepare for potentially variable weather, including fog and strong winds.
It's advisable to dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions, as the coastal climate can shift quickly.
The course staff are attentive and helpful, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for an enjoyable round.
Ideal Golfers
The Links at Bodega Harbour is perfect for golfers seeking a challenging and picturesque round of golf.
Its coastal setting and meticulously designed layout make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate both the strategic demands of links golf and the beauty of a seaside course.
This course is particularly suited for golfers who enjoy the nuances of playing in wind and adapting to varying conditions.
Additionally, it offers a great experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a more tranquil, nature-oriented golfing experience.
Whether you're a seasoned player or a casual golfer, The Links at Bodega Harbour offers a unique and memorable golfing adventure.
Conclusion
The five public golf courses near San Francisco each offer unique experiences, from the historic charm of Presidio Golf Course to the coastal beauty of The Links at Bodega Harbour.
Whether you seek challenging play, scenic views, or a combination of both, these courses cater to all skill levels and preferences.
Explore these top destinations to enjoy some of the best golfing in the Bay Area.
