California golf vacation FAQs

A sun-soaked and diverse destination on the Pacific Coast, California is world-renowned not only for its beaches, wine regions, and national parks but also for its spectacular golf. From championship layouts overlooking the ocean to iconic PGA TOUR venues in the desert, golfers are treated to world-class courses in unforgettable natural settings.

With luxury resorts, vibrant cities like Los Angeles and San Diego, and the chance to combine golf with bucket-list attractions, a California golf vacation truly has it all.

Check out some of our top tips and FAQs for a California golf trip to make your next vacation as smooth and memorable as possible!

• California offers an extraordinary variety: from renowned links near Monterey to sun-drenched desert layouts in Palm Springs.
• It’s a year-round option; some regions peak in summer, others are ideal in winter.
• The ability to combine golf with wine tasting (Napa, Sonoma), coastal drives (Big Sur), and city excursions (San Francisco, LA) makes the trip richer.
• Many courses are public-access or resort-based, so you don't need to be a member to get in.

There are over 900 golf courses across California, making it one of the densest and most diverse golf regions in the world.

California is home to hundreds of golf courses, each offering something different. Some of our favorite golf courses in California include:

• Pebble Beach Golf Links – California’s most famous course, a U.S. Open host with dramatic clifftop holes along the Monterey Peninsula.
• Spyglass Hill – A mix of coastal and forested holes, consistently ranked among the toughest courses in the world.
• The Links at Spanish Bay – A stunning links-style layout at Pebble Beach Resorts.
• Torrey Pines South Course – A municipal gem overlooking the Pacific, host of the Farmers Insurance Open and two U.S. Opens.
• PGA West Stadium Course – A Pete Dye design in Palm Springs, one of the most challenging PGA TOUR venues.

See our article on the best golf courses in California for more information.

• Palm Springs - Known as the desert golf capital of the U.S., this region is home to more than 100 courses, from lush resort layouts to PGA West’s demanding stadium tracks. With year-round sunshine, mountain backdrops, and a glamorous resort scene, it’s a desert oasis for golf travelers.
• Montere & Pebble Beach - This iconic stretch of coastline is the crown jewel of California golf. Dramatic oceanfront holes, world-class conditioning, and a rich tournament history make it a true bucket-list destination.
• San Diego - With Torrey Pines as its headline act, this region offers year-round golf in a mild coastal climate. It boasts a wealth of resort courses, blending ocean views with polished facilities perfect for both casual play and championship-level experiences.

California offers an exceptional selection of golf resorts that combine world-class courses, luxurious lodging, first-rate dining, and resort amenities, all framed by breathtaking landscapes from coast to desert. Whether you're chasing bucket-list legends or seeking a relaxing golf escape, these resorts deliver unforgettable experiences.

Some of our favorite golf resorts in California:

• The Lodge at Torrey Pines – Overlooking the renowned North Course and US Open host, South Course, this resort delivers dramatic ocean views, premium service, and classic coastal golf appeal.
• La Quinta Resort & Club – A desert golf mecca thanks to its proximity to PGA WEST, home to multiple championship courses, including the Pete Dye “Stadium Course,” La Quinta is joined by luxury casitas, pools, spa, and comprehensive resort amenities.
• The Westin Rancho Mirage and the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells – In Palm Springs country, these resorts combine high-end lodging, spa options, and access to excellent desert golf courses nearby.
• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa – A practical and scenic base near Pebble Beach. The onsite Del Monte Golf Course plus proximity to the peninsula’s major courses make it a great choice for travelers balancing luxury and access.
• The Lodge at Pebble Beach – The flagship property of Pebble Beach Resorts, offering elegant rooms overlooking the 18th hole of Pebble Beach Golf Links. Guests enjoy immediate access to the world’s most famous public course, plus fine dining and a timeless coastal setting.

Yes, courses in key regions like San Diego, Palm Springs and the Central Coast remain open throughout the year. However, some inland or mountain courses may close or reduce play in winter months.

Absolutely. California is as much about lifestyle as it is about golf. Combine your trip with:

• Wine tours in Napa Valley or Sonoma.
• Beaches and surfing in San Diego and Santa Barbara.
• City trips in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.
• National parks like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, or Sequoia.

Yes. Offering some of the world’s most iconic venues, year-round playability, and stunning natural backdrops, California is one of the ultimate golf vacation destinations. From oceanfront masterpieces to desert championship layouts, every region offers unforgettable experiences.

Yes. California hosts numerous PGA TOUR events including:

• AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (Monterey)
• Farmers Insurance Open (Torrey Pines, San Diego)
• Genesis Invitational (Riviera, Los Angeles)
• The American Express (PGA West, Palm Springs)

Most resort and public-access courses do not require handicaps, but some high-demand championship layouts may ask for proof or limit access during peak times.

California’s size and variety mean golf is playable year-round, but:

• Spring and Fall are ideal across the state, with mild temperatures and top course conditions.
• Winter is perfect for Palm Springs and San Diego, with warm desert sunshine.
• Summer is best for Monterey and Northern California, when coastal breezes keep temperatures comfortable.

Top tip: If you're looking for winter golf, head to Palm Springs or San Diego for warm, dry conditions and guaranteed sunshine.