Cypress Point Club in Pebble Beach, California, is one of the most exclusive and visually stunning golf courses in the world, known for its breathtaking coastal holes and private, invite-only membership.
To play at Cypress Point, you must be invited by a current member, as the club does not offer public tee times or general access.
Keep reading for a full breakdown of its history, course design, membership policies, and what makes this club so unique.
The History of Cypress Point Club
Cypress Point Club’s legacy is deeply tied to the evolution of golf course design and the exclusivity of elite private clubs.
Established in the late 1920s, it quickly became one of the most revered courses in the world, known for its dramatic scenery and strategic layout.
Despite changes in the golf world over the decades, Cypress Point has largely remained the same, preserving the original vision of its designers while maintaining its prestigious reputation.
Founding Year and Location in Pebble Beach, California
Cypress Point Club was founded in 1928, nestled along the rugged coastline of Pebble Beach, California.
The course is part of the famed Monterey Peninsula, a region known for its world-class golf courses, including Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill.
Unlike many golf courses that evolve to accommodate modern playing styles, Cypress Point has remained a time capsule of classic course architecture, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
From the beginning, exclusivity defined the club. Unlike public courses in the area, Cypress Point was designed as a private retreat for a select group of members.
The land on which the course sits was chosen specifically for its variety of landscapes, incorporating dunes, forest, and coastal cliffs.
This diversity allowed for a golf experience unlike any other, a key reason the club remains so highly regarded.
Role of Architect Alister MacKenzie and Robert Hunter in Designing the Course
The course was designed by renowned golf course architect Alister MacKenzie, in collaboration with Robert Hunter, a golf writer and course construction expert.
MacKenzie, known for his work on Augusta National and Royal Melbourne, was a master at designing courses that blend into their natural environment while providing a strategic challenge for golfers.
At Cypress Point, MacKenzie applied his signature design philosophy, which emphasized:
- Minimal earth movement – The course was designed to feel as though it naturally emerged from the landscape, rather than being sculpted through excessive alterations.
- Varied hole designs – No two holes feel alike, as MacKenzie used different landscapes to create a unique flow throughout the course.
- Strategic shot-making – Golfers must think through each shot, balancing risk and reward rather than simply relying on power.
Robert Hunter played a crucial role in bringing MacKenzie’s vision to life.
His expertise in construction and detailed understanding of golf strategy ensured that the course was both visually stunning and highly playable.
The combination of MacKenzie’s creativity and Hunter’s precision resulted in a layout that remains largely unchanged nearly a century later.
How Cypress Point Has Remained Largely Unchanged Since Its Inception
Unlike many golf courses that undergo frequent renovations to keep up with advancements in golf technology, Cypress Point has stayed true to its original 1928 design.
While some minor adjustments have been made to account for modern equipment, the course’s layout, routing, and overall strategy remain the same as when MacKenzie first designed it.
Several factors have contributed to this remarkable consistency:
- Strict membership control – As a private club with no commercial pressures, Cypress Point has no need to alter its course to attract tournaments or increase public play.
- Timeless design principles – MacKenzie’s design was so forward-thinking that it still provides a challenging test for modern golfers, even without drastic changes.
- Environmental conservation efforts – The club has worked to maintain its natural setting, ensuring that dunes, forests, and coastline remain intact.
Because of this commitment to preservation, playing Cypress Point today offers golfers an experience nearly identical to what players encountered in the early 20th century.
The lack of commercialization has kept its charm intact, making it one of the few courses in the world that still feels like stepping back in time.
Its Past Association with the PGA Tour and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
For over four decades, Cypress Point was a key part of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (formerly the Bing Crosby National Pro-Am), a prestigious tournament that pairs professional golfers with celebrities and amateurs.
The event was a favorite among players and fans, with Cypress Point providing some of the most breathtaking and memorable holes in professional golf.
However, in 1990, the club made the decision to withdraw from the tournament rather than adjust its membership policies to comply with the PGA Tour’s anti-discrimination requirements.
This marked a turning point in the club’s history, solidifying its reputation as an institution that prioritizes exclusivity over commercial exposure.
In the years since, Cypress Point has quietly evolved, with a more diverse membership that includes high-profile figures such as Condoleezza Rice.
However, it has never sought to rejoin the PGA Tour or open itself to broader public access.
Today, it remains one of the most exclusive private clubs in the world, accessible only to those who receive an invitation from a member.
Despite its departure from professional tournament play, Cypress Point’s mystique has only grown.
The absence of televised events adds to its allure, making it one of the most coveted courses for golfers who dream of playing a truly untouched masterpiece.
Course Layout and Unique Design
Cypress Point Club’s course layout is a masterclass in golf architecture, seamlessly integrating the rugged coastal landscape with strategic design elements.
Unlike many modern courses that require extensive land modification, Cypress Point was built with minimal disruption to the natural environment, allowing the terrain to dictate the routing.
The result is a course that feels organic, as if it has always existed along the Monterey Peninsula’s breathtaking coastline.
How the Course Blends into the Natural Landscape
One of the defining characteristics of Cypress Point is its ability to feel like a natural extension of its surroundings.
Rather than forcing a golf course onto the land, architect Alister MacKenzie worked with the existing contours, using the dunes, forests, and cliffs to shape the holes in a way that enhances both strategy and scenery.
This approach makes the course highly dynamic.
The early holes flow through rolling dunes, where wind and sand create an ever-changing challenge.
The middle stretch weaves through the towering trees of the Del Monte Forest, offering a stark contrast in both aesthetics and playability.
Finally, the course opens up to the dramatic Pacific coastline, where some of the most visually stunning holes in the world await.
These transitions are seamless, making each round feel like a journey through three distinct environments.
The Three Distinct Sections of the Course
Coastal Dunes Opening Holes
The first few holes of Cypress Point set the tone, meandering through coastal dunes that create a unique and sometimes unpredictable challenge.
The sandy, rolling terrain offers few flat lies, requiring golfers to adjust their stance and ball position on nearly every shot.
Native grasses and small bunkers blend into the natural surroundings rather than standing out as artificial hazards.
Wind plays a crucial role here, affecting both club selection and shot trajectory.
Del Monte Forest Stretch
After navigating the dunes, golfers enter the Del Monte Forest, where tall Monterey pines create a completely different atmosphere.
The inland holes feel secluded, with trees framing each fairway and demanding precision off the tee.
This portion of the course plays softer underfoot, with lush grass replacing the sandy base of the opening holes.
While not as visually dramatic as the coastal stretch, this section is strategically challenging, requiring well-placed shots to avoid the deep bunkers and tree-lined fairways.
Dramatic Oceanfront Finishing Holes
Cypress Point’s final stretch is legendary, featuring some of the most photographed holes in golf.
As the course emerges from the forest, it opens to the raw, rugged cliffs of the Pacific Ocean, where the elements become just as much of a factor as the course itself.
The 16th hole, one of the most famous par-3s in the world, requires a 230-yard carry over the Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing against the rocky coastline below.
The challenge isn’t just distance—it’s also the unpredictable wind, which can vary drastically from one round to the next.
The 17th and 18th holes follow the coastline, offering a thrilling yet punishing finish where wayward shots can be lost to the sea.
This closing stretch cements Cypress Point’s reputation as one of the most breathtaking and dramatic courses ever designed.
Signature Design Philosophy of Alister MacKenzie
MacKenzie’s philosophy was rooted in the belief that golf should be both visually stunning and strategically engaging.
At Cypress Point, he implemented several key design principles that make the course a timeless masterpiece:
- Minimal earth movement – The course follows the natural topography, ensuring each hole feels organic rather than forced.
- Risk-reward shot options – Many holes allow aggressive players to take risks for potential rewards while offering safer routes for conservative play.
- Variety in hole designs – No two holes feel the same, keeping players engaged from start to finish.
- Integration with the landscape – The course never feels artificial; it seamlessly blends into the dunes, forest, and coastline.
Signature Holes and Notable Features
Cypress Point Club is home to some of the most visually striking and strategically challenging holes in golf.
While the entire course is a masterpiece, a few holes stand out as particularly memorable, drawing admiration from players and course architects alike.
These signature holes test not only a golfer’s skill but also their ability to handle the ever-changing elements of the Monterey Peninsula.
Hole 16: The Most Iconic Par-3 in Golf
The 16th hole at Cypress Point is widely regarded as one of the most breathtaking par-3s in the world.
Playing 230 yards from the championship tees, it requires a full carry over the Pacific Ocean to a small, well-protected green.
The tee shot alone defines the course’s dramatic coastal experience, as golfers must navigate the unpredictable wind and the psychological challenge of seeing nothing but crashing waves between them and the green.
Conditions on the 16th can change drastically depending on the time of day and season.
On a calm day, the shot plays close to its yardage, but when the wind picks up, club selection becomes incredibly difficult.
Golfers may need anything from a long iron to a fairway wood, depending on how strongly the breeze is blowing off the ocean.
If the wind is too extreme, some players opt to lay up left onto the fairway short of the green rather than risk losing a ball to the water.
Beyond the technical challenge, Hole 16 embodies everything that makes Cypress Point special—natural beauty, architectural brilliance, and a demand for fearless shot-making.
It’s a hole that golfers dream about playing and one that leaves a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to experience it.
Other Key Holes to Watch For
Hole 15: A Strategic Par-3 with Coastal Beauty
The 15th hole serves as a prelude to the drama of the 16th, offering a picturesque par-3 set along the rugged cliffs.
While shorter than its famous successor, it still presents a serious test due to the undulating green and swirling ocean winds.
Precise distance control is crucial, as missing long or short can lead to difficult recoveries.
The natural amphitheater setting makes this one of the most visually stunning spots on the course.
Hole 17: Another Coastal Par-4 with Risk-Reward Elements
Following the 16th, the 17th hole offers no relief.
This par-4 continues along the coastline, demanding strategic shot placement off the tee to set up an approach into a narrow, well-guarded green.
The Pacific Ocean lurks dangerously along the right side, and aggressive players may be tempted to take on more risk in an attempt to gain an easier approach.
However, misjudging the wind or missing right can lead to disaster.
Hole 18: A Strong Finishing Hole with Picturesque Views
Cypress Point’s 18th hole provides a scenic and satisfying finish to the round.
A long par-4 that moves inland, it offers a fair test with a generous landing area off the tee.
However, the approach shot must be precise, as the green is surrounded by bunkers that make scrambling for par a challenge.
While it may not have the raw drama of the previous holes, it serves as a strong closer to one of the most unforgettable golf experiences in the world.
Each of these holes contributes to Cypress Point’s status as a bucket-list course, combining spectacular scenery with world-class golf architecture.
Together, they define the club’s reputation as both aesthetically unmatched and strategically demanding, ensuring that no two rounds ever feel the same.
Cypress Point’s Reputation for Exclusivity
Cypress Point Club is one of the most exclusive golf courses in the world, known for its strictly private status and limited membership access.
Unlike many prestigious clubs that still offer guest play through limited public access or resort affiliations, Cypress Point remains a true members-only experience.
This level of exclusivity has made it one of the hardest courses to play, with access granted only to those who receive a personal invitation from a member.
Private Club Status and Invite-Only Membership Policy
Cypress Point operates under a highly selective, invitation-only membership system, making it nearly impossible to join without personal connections to existing members.
There is no application process, waiting list, or way to buy your way in.
Membership is extended exclusively at the discretion of the club, ensuring that the community remains tight-knit and aligned with the club’s traditions.
The total number of members is relatively small, which enhances its private, intimate atmosphere.
Unlike other elite clubs, Cypress Point rarely, if ever, makes headlines for new members, as discretion is part of its culture.
Even among well-connected golf enthusiasts, securing an invitation to join remains an elusive goal, reinforcing the club’s reputation as one of the most exclusive in the sport.
No Public Tee Times or General Access
One of the defining characteristics of Cypress Point is its lack of public tee times.
Unlike neighboring Pebble Beach Golf Links, which allows visitors to book a round (albeit at a premium price), Cypress Point does not offer any form of public play, charity events, or corporate outings.
The only way to play Cypress Point is through an invitation from a current member.
Even then, guests are typically limited in the number of rounds they can play per year.
While some private clubs allow reciprocal play for members of other elite courses, Cypress Point does not participate in such arrangements, further restricting access.
Because of these policies, even highly skilled golfers and industry insiders often struggle to find a way onto the course.
Many players have waited years for an opportunity, relying on personal relationships or rare corporate invitations.
The club’s refusal to commercialize its access has only added to its mystique, making it one of the most coveted golf experiences in the world.
Why It Is Considered One of the Most Difficult Courses to Play
The difficulty of playing Cypress Point isn’t about the course itself—though it is a challenging layout—it’s about getting access in the first place.
Few courses in the world are as off-limits to the general golfing public, and that scarcity makes it one of the hardest tee times to secure.
Several factors contribute to its status as one of the most difficult courses to play:
- No online booking or guest reservations – Unlike other elite courses, there is no way for a non-member to directly book a round.
- No public tournaments or open events – The club does not host any events that provide outside access.
- Strict guest policies – Even members must adhere to limits on guest play, ensuring that access remains highly controlled.
Because of these barriers, playing Cypress Point is considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most non-members.
The exclusivity, combined with the course’s natural beauty and legendary design, ensures that those who do get the opportunity to play often rank it among the most memorable rounds of their lives.
Understanding Membership at Cypress Point Club
Membership at Cypress Point Club is among the most exclusive in golf, with an invitation-only policy that ensures access remains highly restricted.
Unlike many other private clubs, there is no way to apply, no waiting list, and no published criteria for consideration.
This secrecy has only enhanced the club’s mystique, making membership one of the most coveted yet unattainable honors in the golf world.
Strict Invitation-Only Membership Process
Cypress Point does not accept applications for membership.
Instead, new members are invited by existing members and approved through a quiet, highly selective internal process.
The club does not publicize how members are chosen, but tradition, exclusivity, and personal connections play a significant role.
There is no formal committee that reviews external applications because no outsider can apply.
Unlike other elite clubs where financial status or professional achievements may help secure an invitation, Cypress Point’s process remains centered around its longstanding culture of discretion and exclusivity.
Estimated Number of Members and Guest Access Policies
While exact numbers are not publicly available, Cypress Point’s membership is estimated to be fewer than 250 members at any given time.
This small number ensures that the club remains intimate, with a select group of individuals who share a deep appreciation for both golf and the club’s traditions.
Guest access is also highly limited.
Members can invite guests, but even they are subject to restrictions on how often they can play.
There are no publicly available details on guest quotas, but unlike some private clubs where guests can play relatively frequently, Cypress Point remains exceptionally strict about maintaining an exclusive experience.
Even within the golf industry, receiving a guest invitation is one of the hardest tee times to secure.
Many prominent golfers, executives, and celebrities have never had the opportunity to play, as even well-connected individuals must rely on personal relationships with current members to gain access.
The Club’s Evolution Regarding Membership Policies Over the Years
Cypress Point’s membership policies have evolved over time, particularly regarding diversity and inclusion.
Historically, the club’s exclusivity extended beyond golf ability or professional status, and it was among the private clubs that initially resisted changing membership policies in response to broader societal shifts.
In 1990, the club withdrew from the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am rather than alter its policies to comply with the PGA Tour’s anti-discrimination guidelines.
This decision underscored Cypress Point’s commitment to maintaining control over its membership structure, even at the cost of losing its place in a high-profile event.
Since then, however, the club has quietly diversified, with notable new members reflecting a more modern approach while still upholding its traditional invitation process.
Notable Members, Including Figures Like Condoleezza Rice
Although Cypress Point does not publicly disclose its membership roster, a few notable individuals are known to be members.
One of the most well-documented figures is Condoleezza Rice, the former U.S. Secretary of State and an avid golfer.
Her membership represents a shift from the club’s historically exclusive policies to a more contemporary approach.
Other members are rumored to include business leaders, influential figures in golf, and select celebrities, but details remain largely private.
This discretion is part of what makes Cypress Point unique—unlike many high-profile clubs where membership is seen as a status symbol, Cypress Point operates under a culture of low-profile prestige.
Membership at Cypress Point is not just about playing one of the world’s most beautiful golf courses—it’s about being part of a tradition that values privacy, camaraderie, and the purity of the golfing experience.
The club’s continued exclusivity ensures that those who are invited remain part of a truly rare and private golfing circle.
Cypress Point and the PGA Tour: A Historical Perspective
Cypress Point Club’s relationship with the PGA Tour was once a defining part of its identity, as it played a central role in one of golf’s most beloved events.
However, that association ended in 1990 when the club chose to withdraw from the tournament rather than comply with new anti-discrimination policies.
While its departure from the professional golf spotlight only heightened its mystique, the club has since evolved in ways that reflect broader societal changes.
Participation in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from 1947–1990
For over four decades, Cypress Point was a regular stop on the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, formerly known as the Bing Crosby National Pro-Am.
This event, famous for pairing professional golfers with celebrities and wealthy amateurs, was one of the most high-profile tournaments on the PGA Tour.
Cypress Point was part of the tournament’s rotating course lineup, alongside Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill.
Players and fans alike cherished its inclusion, as it provided some of the most scenic and memorable moments in tournament history.
The 16th hole, with its dramatic carry over the Pacific Ocean, became one of the most iconic shots in televised golf.
For many years, the tournament was a unique showcase of Cypress Point’s beauty, allowing the general public to see the course in a way that would otherwise be impossible due to its private status.
It was a rare glimpse into one of golf’s most exclusive clubs, helping to build its reputation as a bucket-list course for those lucky enough to receive an invitation.
The Decision to Withdraw from the Event Due to Anti-Discrimination Policies
In the late 1980s, the PGA Tour began enforcing new anti-discrimination guidelines, requiring all tournament host clubs to adopt inclusive membership policies.
At the time, Cypress Point had an all-male, predominantly white membership, and while some private clubs chose to adjust their policies in response to the new requirements, Cypress Point declined to do so.
Rather than change its long-standing invitation-only membership structure, the club voluntarily withdrew from the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in 1990.
This decision ended Cypress Point’s long-standing presence on the professional golf circuit, marking the end of a 43-year run in one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments.
The club’s departure was met with mixed reactions.
Some saw it as a principled stance on maintaining private club autonomy, while others viewed it as a refusal to modernize in an evolving golf landscape.
Regardless of the interpretation, the move reinforced Cypress Point’s reputation for prioritizing exclusivity over external pressures, further solidifying its status as a private sanctuary for its members.
How the Club Has Changed Its Stance on Diversity in Later Years
While Cypress Point initially resisted changes to its membership policies, the club has quietly evolved in the decades since.
Though still highly exclusive, the club’s invitation process has become more diverse, including members from broader backgrounds than in its earlier years.
One of the most public indicators of this shift was the inclusion of Condoleezza Rice, the former U.S. Secretary of State, as a member.
Rice, an avid golfer, has also been a member at Augusta National, another historically exclusive club that has diversified its membership in recent years.
Her presence at Cypress Point signaled a gradual but notable shift in the club’s approach to inclusion.
Despite these changes, Cypress Point remains one of the most private golf clubs in the world, with no public statements regarding its membership policies.
Unlike clubs that have actively promoted diversity initiatives, Cypress Point has taken a low-profile approach, slowly broadening its membership while maintaining the discretion and exclusivity that define its identity.
Ultimately, the club’s exit from the PGA Tour only increased its allure, as it became even more inaccessible to the general public.
While it no longer has a presence in professional golf, it remains one of the most respected and sought-after courses for those lucky enough to gain access.
What It’s Like to Play at Cypress Point Club
Playing Cypress Point Club is a rare privilege, offering a golf experience unlike any other.
The course delivers a pure and traditional round, free from the commercial distractions found at many top-tier golf resorts.
With a focus on minimalism, natural beauty, and strategic shot-making, Cypress Point offers a round that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
The Traditional, Minimalist Golfing Experience
Cypress Point embraces a classic, understated approach to golf, staying true to the traditions of the game.
There are no large-scale resort facilities, no grand clubhouse, and no commercialized branding—just golf in its most natural and authentic form.
The emphasis is on enjoying the game, the course, and the surroundings, rather than indulging in luxury amenities.
The pace of play is relaxed, and there are no crowds, no tee-time rush, and no noisy distractions.
Unlike public or resort courses, where tee sheets are packed and rounds can feel hurried, Cypress Point offers a calm, almost meditative golfing experience, where players can fully immerse themselves in the setting.
There are no on-course beverage carts or flashy services—just the essentials. The focus remains on the architecture of the course and the challenge of the game, making it an experience that resonates with golf purists.
How the Course Conditions and Layout Compare to Other Elite Golf Courses
Cypress Point’s course conditions are impeccable year-round, with meticulous maintenance ensuring that every fairway, green, and bunker is kept in top-tier shape.
Unlike high-traffic resort courses, where wear and tear are inevitable, Cypress Point benefits from limited play and an attentive grounds crew, keeping the course in near-perfect condition at all times.
The greens are fast and true, often playing firmer than many modern championship courses.
They are designed to reward precision, and misjudging speed or break can quickly turn a birdie opportunity into a bogey or worse.
The fairways are kept in pristine shape, offering ideal lies while still preserving the natural undulations that define the course’s character.
Compared to other elite courses like Augusta National or Pebble Beach, Cypress Point stands out for its untouched, natural beauty.
While Augusta is manicured to perfection and Pebble Beach is a public-access masterpiece, Cypress Point feels more organic, with holes seamlessly woven into the landscape rather than shaped by modern design techniques.
The routing is also unique. Unlike many courses that finish with their most dramatic holes, Cypress Point places its signature holes in the middle of the back nine.
This unconventional flow keeps players engaged throughout the round, making each hole feel like part of a carefully curated journey.
Caddie Service and How It Enhances the Round
Cypress Point is a walking-only course, and the experience is elevated by its highly skilled caddie program.
The caddies are not just bag carriers—they are deeply knowledgeable guides, offering expert insights into the subtle breaks of the greens, the ideal lines off the tee, and the best approach strategies for each hole.
Having a great caddie at Cypress Point can make all the difference, especially for first-time players unfamiliar with the course’s nuances.
They help with club selection on the unpredictable coastal holes, where wind can dramatically alter distances.
On the inland forest holes, their course knowledge ensures that players avoid hidden hazards and strategically place their shots for the best angles into the greens.
Beyond their technical knowledge, the caddies add to the overall experience, sharing stories about the club’s history, its legendary members, and memorable rounds played over the years.
Their presence enhances the intimate and personal nature of a round at Cypress Point, making it feel like a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Visitor Experience: What to Expect If You Get an Invite
Receiving an invitation to play Cypress Point Club is a rare and coveted opportunity.
The club’s exclusivity means that very few golfers ever get the chance to experience its legendary course.
For those lucky enough to step onto its fairways, the experience is unlike any other—steeped in tradition, understated elegance, and a sense of golfing history that is impossible to replicate elsewhere.
How Guest Access Works (Being Invited by a Member)
The only way to play Cypress Point is by receiving an invitation from a current member.
Unlike some private clubs that offer limited public tee times, reciprocal play with other clubs, or corporate outings, Cypress Point maintains a strict members-and-guests-only policy.
Members have discretion over guest invitations, but even then, guest play is limited.
While members can bring guests, the club imposes restrictions on how frequently non-members can play, ensuring that the course remains uncrowded and that the membership experience is preserved.
If you are fortunate enough to receive an invitation, the process is simple—your host will arrange the round, and all you need to do is show up ready to enjoy one of the finest golf experiences in the world.
There are no online booking systems or third-party reservations, and attempting to gain access through unauthorized means is frowned upon and unlikely to be successful.
The Atmosphere and Experience Inside the Clubhouse
Cypress Point’s clubhouse reflects the club’s philosophy: understated, traditional, and focused on the game.
Unlike the grand, luxurious clubhouses found at many high-end private clubs, Cypress Point’s facilities are modest and unpretentious, designed to complement the course rather than overshadow it.
The interior is warm and welcoming, with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation and camaraderie rather than flashy displays of wealth or status.
Visitors will not find extravagant dining halls or opulent decor—the clubhouse exists to serve golfers, not to be a social club or networking hub.
One of the most notable aspects of Cypress Point’s clubhouse experience is the lack of commercial influence.
There is no high-end pro shop selling branded merchandise to the public, no marketing-driven experience designed for tourists—just a pure, members-only setting where golf remains the central focus.
Dress Code and Etiquette Guidelines for Visitors
Cypress Point adheres to a traditional golf dress code, and guests are expected to follow it without exception.
The club maintains a quiet but firm adherence to tradition, meaning that visitors should arrive properly attired and conduct themselves with respect for the club’s culture.
While specific dress code guidelines are not publicly available, they generally align with those of other elite private clubs:
- On the course: Collared shirts, tailored slacks or Bermuda-length shorts, and traditional golf shoes are required. Denim, untucked shirts, and athletic wear are not permitted.
- In the clubhouse: Smart casual attire is expected. Jackets may be required for certain areas or dining settings, depending on the occasion.
- Cell phone and technology use: As with many traditional clubs, Cypress Point maintains a discreet, no-disruption policy regarding mobile phones and electronic devices. Expect to keep devices on silent and use them only in designated areas, if at all.
Etiquette is just as important as attire.
Cypress Point expects quiet respect for the game, its traditions, and the course itself.
There is no tolerance for slow play, excessive celebration, or behavior that disrupts the experience for others.
The Overall Feel of the Club’s Culture and Exclusivity
Cypress Point operates with a culture that prioritizes golf, tradition, and privacy above all else.
Unlike some modern private clubs that cater to social prestige or business networking, Cypress Point is purely about the love of the game.
The exclusivity isn’t just about limiting access—it’s about curating an experience that remains true to the club’s founding principles.
There are no public-facing events, no desire for media attention, and no pressure to modernize or commercialize.
The club’s members value their privacy, and visitors are expected to do the same.
For those who visit, the experience is a rare glimpse into a golfing world that few get to see.
There are no distractions—just golf in its purest form, played on one of the most spectacular courses in the world, in an atmosphere that feels more like a private retreat than a country club.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and those fortunate enough to play Cypress Point often describe it as one of the most unforgettable rounds of their lives.
Can You Play Cypress Point Without a Membership?
Cypress Point Club is one of the most exclusive and difficult golf courses to access, with no public tee times and no ability to apply for membership.
Playing here without a direct invitation from a member is nearly impossible, but there are a few rare exceptions where non-members have found ways onto the course.
If you're hoping to experience Cypress Point, understanding how guest access works and exploring alternative options in Pebble Beach may be your best approach.
The Reality of Securing an Invitation to Play
Unlike some private clubs that allow limited public access through charity events, corporate outings, or reciprocal play with other elite courses, Cypress Point offers none of these options.
The club does not hold public tournaments, does not accept outside reservations, and does not grant tee times to high-profile guests simply because of their status.
The only legitimate way to play Cypress Point is through a personal invitation from a current member.
Even if you are well-connected in the golf world, this is no guarantee, as guest play is highly restricted, and members often reserve invitations for close friends, family, or business associates.
Networking within elite golf circles or having a long-standing relationship with a member is usually the only way to secure a round.
Ways Golfers Have Managed to Experience the Course
While access is incredibly difficult, a few rare opportunities have allowed non-members to play Cypress Point over the years:
- Personal or Business Connections with a Member – The most common way non-members get to play is through an invitation from a friend, colleague, or client who is a member.
- Elite Amateur or Professional Status – On occasion, high-level amateur golfers or professionals have been invited as guests of members. However, this is not a guarantee, and Cypress Point does not cater to tour players outside of personal invitations.
- Exceptionally High-Profile Charity or Private Events – Though extremely rare, there have been private, invitation-only charity rounds held at Cypress Point where select individuals have had the chance to play. However, these are not publicized, and access is typically reserved for members and their close circles.
If none of these avenues apply, the harsh reality is that playing Cypress Point is simply out of reach for most golfers.
There are no shortcuts, no public access days, and no special favors granted to those without a member connection.
Alternative World-Class Courses in Pebble Beach for Non-Members
For those who can’t secure an invitation, Pebble Beach still offers incredible golf experiences at other world-famous courses nearby.
While none have the same level of exclusivity as Cypress Point, they provide similar breathtaking scenery and championship-caliber golf.
- Pebble Beach Golf Links – One of the most famous public courses in the world, offering stunning coastal views and a rich history, including multiple U.S. Opens.
- Spyglass Hill Golf Course – A challenging layout featuring a mix of coastal dunes and forested inland holes, similar to Cypress Point’s terrain.
- Spanish Bay – A links-style course with sweeping ocean views and a scenic layout designed to blend with the natural dunes.
- Monterey Peninsula Country Club (Shore Course) – While still private, this club has occasionally allowed outside play through charity events or select invitations.
While none of these courses can fully replicate Cypress Point, they offer spectacular golf experiences in the same breathtaking Monterey Peninsula setting.
If playing Cypress Point isn’t an option, these alternatives provide the next best thing for golfers looking to experience world-class golf along the Pacific coast.
Conclusion
Cypress Point Club remains one of the most exclusive and awe-inspiring golf courses in the world, offering a pure and traditional golfing experience that few ever get to enjoy.
With its breathtaking coastal holes, strict invite-only membership, and deep-rooted traditions, the club continues to captivate those fortunate enough to step onto its fairways.
For golfers who dream of playing here, securing an invitation is rare, but the allure of Cypress Point ensures it remains one of the most coveted rounds in the sport.
