Best Santa Barbara Golf Courses

Did you know 81.4% of golfers love playing at Santa Barbara Golf Club? This shows how great golfing is in Santa Barbara. With six public 18-hole courses and many nine-hole options, it’s a golfer’s dream. You’ll find courses with beautiful views and challenges for all skill levels.

Golfing in Santa Barbara means playing on unique terrains with amazing views. Imagine playing with the Santa Ynez Mountains or the Pacific Ocean as your view. Prices vary, so everyone can find a course that fits their budget. Whether you’re an expert or just play on weekends, Santa Barbara’s courses are unforgettable.

The Santa Barbara Golf Club, opened in 1958, has Kikuyu Grass fairways and Bentgrass/Poa Grass greens. It gets a 4.0 out of 5 rating from 344 reviews. People love the course conditions, value, and layout. The staff is especially friendly, scoring a 4.2 out of 5.

Key Takeaways

• Santa Barbara offers six public 18-hole golf courses and multiple nine-hole options
• Courses range from hillside greens to seaside bluffs with ocean views
• The Santa Barbara Golf Club has an 81.4% recommendation rate from reviewers
• Course amenities rate 4.0 out of 5 on average

Santa Barbara’s Golfing Landscape: From Greens to Blues

Santa Barbara has golf for everyone. It has six public 18-hole courses, four near downtown. You’ll see mountains and oceans.

Six Public 18-Hole Courses Near Downtown

There are great public courses in Santa Barbara. Glen Annie Golf Club in Goleta has a championship layout. Sandpiper Golf Club overlooks the Pacific and has hosted big events.

Rancho San Marcos Golf Course is set in the mountains. Santa Barbara Golf Club focuses on being eco-friendly.

Nine-Hole Options with Practice Facilities

Looking for a shorter game or practice? Santa Barbara has nine-hole courses. Hidden Oaks Golf Course is great for beginners or quick games. Twin Lakes Golf Course has a 9-hole layout and a TopTracer Driving Range.

Plan your golf trip ahead. Check greens fees and booking info. Santa Barbara’s golf offers something for everyone. It’s a memorable experience with amazing views.

Top 8 Santa Barbara Golf Courses: A Diverse Selection

Santa Barbara’s golf scene is rich and varied, appealing to all skill levels. It features eight top-notch courses, each with its own special challenges and stunning views. From seaside links to mountain retreats, these courses highlight the best of Santa Barbara golf.

Sandpiper Golf Club is a standout among Santa Barbara’s golf courses. It’s famous for its ocean views and has hosted big events like the PGA Tour’s Q-School. The course tests your skills with its links-style layout and coastal winds.

Rancho San Marcos offers a scenic mountain view experience. It winds through hills, giving players breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Valley. The course’s natural hazards make it exciting for all players.

Each course has standout holes that will test your skills and reward your play. Whether you crave ocean breezes or mountain challenges, Santa Barbara’s top golf courses offer unforgettable experiences.

Glen Annie Golf Club: Mountain Views and Ocean Breezes

Glen Annie Golf Club is just 15 minutes north of downtown Santa Barbara. It was designed by Robert Muir Graves and Damian Pascuzzo in 1996. This 18-hole course offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

The front nine has scenic lakes and waterfalls. The back nine features breathtaking mountain views and the ocean. It’s known for its excellent condition and forgiving layout, making it great for all skill levels.

After your game, relax at the Frog Bar & Grill. Enjoy a drink on the patio. The club’s prices are competitive, with rates changing based on the time and season.

For regular players, Glen Annie Golf Club offers membership options. Annual memberships come with perks like priority tee times and discounted rates. To ensure a great experience, book your tee time online or call the pro shop.

Sandpiper Golf Club: A Top 100 Public Golf Course

Sandpiper Golf Club is a top choice for golfers in Santa Barbara. It’s a championship course with over 7,000 yards and a challenging rating of 75.1. Golf Digest named it one of the Top 100 Public Golf Courses.

Links-Style Course with Ocean Views

Sandpiper offers a unique links-style experience with amazing views. Every hole has stunning ocean and mountain views. This creates an unforgettable game setting.

7,000-Yard Challenge on a Seaside Bluff

The 7,000-yard layout is a tough test for all golfers. It’s set on a coastal bluff, using natural terrain to make each hole more complex. The course has a pro shop and practice facilities to help you get ready.

Booking tee times at Sandpiper is easy. You can book in advance. Playing here is more than just a game; it’s an experience at one of California’s best public golf spots.

Santa Barbara Golf Club: The Beloved “Muni”

Santa Barbara Golf Club, known as “Muni” to locals, is a cherished 18-hole course. It’s open all year, from sunrise to sunset. The views of the Santa Ynez mountains and the Pacific Ocean are stunning.

The course’s design fits perfectly with nature. It offers a fun yet challenging game. With bunkers and undulating greens, it tests your skills fairly. The club welcomes guests, making sure everyone has a good time.

Since 1958, Santa Barbara Golf Club has been a vital part of the local golf scene. It celebrated 50 years of making golf accessible to everyone. This spirit of inclusivity is like San Antonio’s evolving golf scene, welcoming players of all levels.

The Santa Barbara Golf Club’s lasting appeal shows its quality and the city’s golf culture. With its mix of challenging play, beautiful views, and welcoming policies, “Muni” is a favorite in Santa Barbara’s golf world.

Hidden Oaks Golf Course: A Quick Getaway in Hope Ranch

Hidden Oaks Golf Course is located on the edge of Hope Ranch. It offers a quick nine-hole golfing experience. The course is surrounded by blue skies and tall palm trees, making it a peaceful retreat.

Hope Ranch covers 1,800 acres with nearly 800 homes. It offers a taste of country living, just minutes from Santa Barbara’s lively downtown.

Hidden Oaks Golf Course is known for its affordable rates. Every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, you can play the entire course for just $9 between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. This makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced golfers who want a quick game.

Hidden Oaks may not have all the facilities of bigger courses. But its charm comes from its easy access and beautiful views. The course is in Hope Ranch, known for its 22 miles of bridle trails and the prestigious La Cumbre Country Club nearby.

For a quick golfing fix or a relaxed practice session, Hidden Oaks Golf Course is a great escape. It’s close to Santa Barbara’s attractions.

Twin Lakes Golf Course: A Goleta Gem for All Skill Levels

Twin Lakes Golf Course in Goleta is perfect for all golfers. It has a 9-hole par 28 course on 19,000 square feet of green. This makes it great for both new and experienced players.

Group Coaching and Private Lessons

Get better at golf with Twin Lakes’ expert help. PGA Hall of Fame coaches offer private lessons. They focus on your game.

For group lessons, there’s a Golf Coaching Program for $179. It lasts a month and is full of valuable lessons.

Nine Lush Holes on 19,000 Square Feet

Twin Lakes has more than just its 9-hole course. There’s an 8,000-square-foot putting green and a short game area. Plus, a night-lit driving range is available.

Booking a tee time at Twin Lakes is easy. They offer flexible times to fit your schedule. Green fees change based on the day and week, making it affordable for everyone.

Twin Lakes Golf Course has a rich history since the 1970s. It has recently been updated. It’s a favorite among locals for its affordable rates and great facilities.

Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a top choice for golf in Santa Barbara County.

Rancho San Marcos: A Challenging Mountain Course

Rancho San Marcos Golf Course is set in the Santa Ynez Mountains. It’s a unique place for golfers. The course has 18 holes, covers 298 acres, and is 6,939 yards long. It’s a good challenge for golfers of all levels.

Robert Trent Jones Junior designed it in 1998. The course fits perfectly into its natural setting. It has 54 bunkers and varied terrain. This makes your game both challenging and rewarding.

Prices for playing vary by day. Weekdays start at $79, and weekends and Fridays are $104. It’s smart to book your tee time early, especially when it’s busy.

The course isn’t just about the game. You might see deer, wild turkeys, and eagles. Also, be ready for frost delays in cooler months. This can slow down your game.

Rancho San Marcos is more than a golf course. The clubhouse can host up to 350 guests for private events. They also offer tournament packages every day. It’s a great place for a memorable golf outing.

Alisal River Course (Solvang)

The Alisal River Course in Solvang is a gem for golfers. Designed by Jack Daray, Jr. and Stephen Halsey in 1992, it’s a championship-style course. It stretches 6,830 yards with a par of 72, offering a challenge for all skill levels.

It’s known for its excellence, with a 4.5 rating from 415 reviews. Ninety-five percent of players recommend it. They praise the course’s conditions, saying the greens and fairways are well-maintained.

The course is set against the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. This adds to the golfing experience. After playing, you can explore Solvang’s shops or visit Los Olivos for wine tasting.

The Alisal River Course has competitive pricing. Its high value rating means golfers feel it’s worth the cost. For current rates and tee times, contact the course directly.

The course is more than just golf. It has a clubhouse and a highly-rated bar & grill. It’s great for events, with a restaurant that rivals top dining spots in Santa Barbara. For event details, call the Banquet & Catering Department at (805) 686-7643.

La Purisima Golf Course (Lompoc)

La Purisima Golf Course in Lompoc is a top spot for golf in the Santa Barbara area. It’s known for being tough and has won many awards. This makes it a favorite among golf fans.

Golf Digest ranked it 33rd in “America’s 50 Toughest Golf Courses.” They also gave it a 4 1/2-star rating in “Places to Play.” Other publications like Golf Magazine also praised it. They named it one of the “Top 100 You Can Play” for 2004-2005, alongside famous places like Pebble Beach.

The course offers more than just a tough game. It has hosted big events like US Open Qualifiers and the LPGA Santa Barbara Open. In 1996, it was the site of the Final Stage of PGA TOUR School.

Being a member at La Purisima means playing on a course known for its excellence. The Zagat Survey 2005 named it one of the “Top 5 Golf Courses in California.” It’s a place where golfers can have an amazing time in the Santa Barbara region.

Golfing with a View: Santa Ynez Mountains and Pacific Ocean

Santa Barbara’s golf courses offer breathtaking views that make your game better. The Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean create a perfect setting. Golfers find both challenge and beauty here.

Glen Annie Golf Club has amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. It’s in the foothills east of Santa Barbara. The course combines natural beauty with smart design. Every swing is a chance to see something amazing.

Sandpiper Golf Club is a links-style course known for its unique features. It’s 7,000 yards long and offers stunning ocean views. It’s ranked as one of the top 100 public courses in the USA.

Santa Barbara Golf Club, or “Muni,” has 18 holes with views of mountains and ocean. It’s open all year. This shows Santa Barbara’s ideal golfing weather.

Hidden Oaks Golf Course is great for a quick game with beautiful views. It’s a 9-hole Par 27 course in Santa Barbara’s foothills. It’s fun, challenging, and surrounded by nature.

Year-Round Golfing: Santa Barbara’s Perfect Climate

Santa Barbara’s weather is perfect for golfers. The sun shines and the temperatures are mild all year. The Santa Barbara Golf Club, founded in 1958, is open every day from dawn till dusk.

The weather in Santa Barbara is always great for golf. The fairways are covered in lush Kikuyu grass. The greens are a mix of Bentgrass and Poa grass, always in top condition. This makes Santa Barbara a top spot for golf lovers who want reliable playing conditions.

When you plan your golf trip, check the guest rules at each course. For example, tee time bookings at Santa Barbara Golf Club are available all year. This lets you book your spot on the course anytime.

The Santa Barbara Golf Club is a favorite, with a 4.0 rating for course conditions. It has an 81.4% recommendation rate from 344 reviews. Its year-round availability and great facilities make it a great choice for your next golf trip in Santa Barbara’s perfect climate.

Golf Course Amenities: Beyond the Greens

Santa Barbara golf courses have more than just beautiful fairways. You’ll find facilities that make your golfing experience better. From well-stocked pro shops to welcoming clubhouses, these extras add value to your game.

Clubhouses and Pro Shops

Most courses have impressive clubhouses where you can unwind after playing. Pro shops offer top-notch gear and apparel. At Sandpiper Golf Club, ranked among California’s top 25 public courses by Golf Digest, you’ll find a shop with premium equipment.

Dining Options and Beverage Carts

Enjoy meals at on-site restaurants. The Frog Bar & Grill at Glen Annie Golf Club serves delicious meals with mountain views. Beverage carts also cruise the course, offering refreshments and snacks to keep you energized.

Always check course websites for the latest green fee details and amenities. Many facilities offer online booking for easy tee time reservations.

Tee Time Bookings: Securing Your Spot on the Course

Booking your tee time in Santa Barbara is critical for a great golfing experience. With over 900 golf courses in California, getting a good spot can be tough. Santa Barbara’s beauty draws golfers all year, so booking early is a must.

Most golf courses in Santa Barbara let you book online. You can also call to book by phone for a more personal touch. During busy times, like at Sandpiper Golf Club, spots fill up fast, so plan early.

Changes in Los Angeles golf courses show the need for fair booking rules. A $10 deposit for tee times has helped. Santa Barbara doesn’t have this rule, but it’s smart to follow booking rules and show up on time.

Remember, each golf course has its own booking rules. Check their websites for the latest on tee times and rates. By booking early, you’ll get your spot on Santa Barbara’s beautiful courses and enjoy your game.

Green Fees and Rates: What to Expect

Santa Barbara golf courses have prices for everyone. Green fees change, with early or twilight players getting special deals. For example, Golfnow offers a $25 rate at some courses, down from the usual $37.

Tee times affect prices, with twilight rounds starting at 2:00 PM being cheaper. Rounds usually finish in under 4.5 hours, especially after holes 4 through 11.

Prices can vary for locals and visitors. Some find non-resident fees too high, so look for discounts. Courses like Sandpiper offer beautiful views but cost more. Always check prices by calling or visiting the course’s website.

Golf Instruction: Improving Your Game in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara’s golf scene is perfect for improving your game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s a lesson for you. Courses offer both group and private lessons to help you overcome challenges and improve your game.

The Alisal River Course is known for its golf school packages. These packages include 18 to 30 hours of one-on-one instruction. They cater to different learning styles. The peak season is from May to August, with lower prices during off-peak months.

Looking for something more budget-friendly? Santa Barbara has many instructors at various prices. Uncertified instructors charge about $44 for a one-hour lesson. Head Professionals can cost up to $105. Group lessons are also available, making it easier to learn with friends or meet new golfers.

When booking lessons, ask about guest access and policies. Some courses have special rules or rates for non-members. Learning to play in Santa Barbara’s beautiful settings is as fun as playing in Austin’s golf scene. With over 30 top instructors and world-class courses, you’ll find the perfect place to improve your game.

Combining Golf with Santa Barbara’s Attractions

Santa Barbara has six public 18-hole golf courses. They offer more than just beautiful views and special features. After golfing, you can dive into the city’s lively culture.

The Urban Wine Trail is a must-visit for wine lovers. Foodies will enjoy local dishes at places like Opal Restaurant and Bar. A walk on Stearns Wharf or shopping on State Street adds a coastal touch to your golf trip.

Goleta is home to some of Santa Barbara’s best golf courses. You can see monarchs at the Coronado Butterfly Preserve or try craft beer at M. Special. These activities add to your golfing fun, making Santa Barbara a great vacation spot. Golf fans in Florida can also find variety in St. Augustine’s public courses.

Santa Barbara’s golf resorts offer luxury. They have outdoor pools, spa salons, and fitness studios. The Lemon Tree Inn has 92 air-conditioned rooms with great views. Hotel Milo offers modern rooms with amenities like coffeemakers and minibars.

These places ensure you relax and enjoy Santa Barbara’s perfect climate and golf all year round.