San Francisco, known for its picturesque landscapes and mild climate, offers an array of private golf courses that cater to golf enthusiasts seeking exclusive and exceptional playing experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best private golf courses in San Francisco, highlighting their unique features and membership requirements.
1. The Olympic Club:
Location: San Francisco, CA
Overview:
The Olympic Club is one of the most prestigious private golf clubs in San Francisco, with a rich history dating back to 1860. It boasts three 18-hole golf courses, including the famed Lake Course, which has hosted several U.S. Open Championships. The club offers a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience against a backdrop of stunning coastal views.
2. San Francisco Golf Club:
Location: San Francisco, CA
Overview:
San Francisco Golf Club is an exclusive and revered private club known for its classic design by renowned architect A.W. Tillinghast. The course is characterized by tree-lined fairways and impeccable green conditions. Membership is highly selective, making it a haven for those who value privacy and golf tradition.
3. Meadow Club:
Location: Fairfax, CA (just outside San Francisco)
Overview:
Located in the serene Marin County, the Meadow Club is a private golf course designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, famous for his work on Augusta National. This course offers a tranquil golfing experience amidst rolling hills and redwood trees, emphasizing strategy and precision.
4. Marin Country Club:
Location: Novato, CA (north of San Francisco)
Overview:
Marin Country Club provides a picturesque private golf experience. The course is known for its beautifully landscaped fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging greens. Members enjoy access to not only golf but also a range of amenities, including tennis courts and a clubhouse.
5. Claremont Country Club:
Location: Oakland, CA (east of San Francisco)
Overview:
Claremont Country Club is a historic private golf course nestled in the Oakland hills. It offers a diverse terrain with elevation changes and scenic views of the Bay Area. The club provides a balance of challenging play and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.
6. California Golf Club of San Francisco:
Location: South San Francisco, CA
Overview:
This private golf club, designed by Alister MacKenzie, presents a challenging but fair layout set against the backdrop of San Bruno Mountain. The course is known for its fast greens and strategic bunkering, providing an exciting test for golfers of all skill levels.
7. Lake Merced Golf Club:
Location: Daly City, CA (south of San Francisco)
Overview:
Lake Merced Golf Club boasts a picturesque setting alongside Lake Merced, offering scenic views of the water and the city skyline. The club’s course, designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, provides a challenging yet enjoyable golf experience. Membership includes access to the course, practice facilities, and clubhouse amenities.
8. Peninsula Golf and Country Club:
Location: San Mateo, CA (south of San Francisco)
Overview:
Peninsula Golf and Country Club offers a private golf course surrounded by lush greenery and meticulously maintained fairways. The course layout is known for its strategic design and varying terrain, making it an engaging place for golf enthusiasts.
9. Sequoyah Country Club:
Location: Oakland, CA (east of San Francisco)
Overview:
Sequoyah Country Club is a private golf course that provides an escape from the urban hustle and bustle. With undulating fairways and beautiful tree-lined holes, this club offers a tranquil golfing experience amidst a peaceful setting.
10. Richmond Country Club:
Location: Richmond, CA (north of San Francisco)
Overview:
Richmond Country Club is a private golf course that combines classic design elements with modern amenities. The course features strategic bunkering and well-manicured greens, offering an enjoyable and challenging round of golf.
Membership Requirements:
Membership requirements for these private golf courses can vary significantly. Typically, prospective members may need to be sponsored by current members, undergo an application process, and pay initiation fees and annual dues. Some clubs may also have residency requirements or specific criteria for membership. It’s advisable to contact each club directly for the most
Considerations for Prospective Members:
- Application Process: Prospective members should be prepared to undergo a thorough application process, which may include interviews and background checks.
- Membership Categories: Some clubs offer various membership categories, such as full golf, social, or junior memberships, allowing individuals to choose a membership type that suits their preferences and needs.
- Amenities: Beyond golf, many private clubs provide amenities like dining facilities, tennis courts, swimming pools, and social events, fostering a sense of community among members.
- Cost: In addition to initiation fees and annual dues, members should consider additional costs such as cart fees, guest fees, and locker or storage fees.
- Dress Code and Etiquette: Private clubs often have strict dress codes and expect members to adhere to golf etiquette and club rules.
Best Private Golf Courses in San Francisco
| Course Name | Location | Year Established | Designer | Membership Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco Golf Club | San Francisco, CA | 1895 | A.W. Tillinghast | By Invitation |
| Olympic Club | San Francisco, CA | 1860 | Sam Whiting | By Invitation |
| Lake Merced Golf Club | Daly City, CA | 1922 | Alister MacKenzie | By Invitation |
| California Golf Club | South San Francisco, CA | 1918 | Alister MacKenzie | By Invitation |
| Meadow Club | Fairfax, CA | 1927 | Dr. Alister MacKenzie | By Invitation |
| Claremont Country Club | Oakland, CA | 1903 | William Watson | By Invitation |
| Peninsula Golf & Country Club | San Mateo, CA | 1911 | A.W. Tillinghast | By Invitation |
| The Preserve Golf Club | Carmel, CA | 2000 | Tom Fazio | By Invitation |
| Orinda Country Club | Orinda, CA | 1924 | William Watson | By Invitation |
| Green Hills Country Club | Millbrae, CA | 1929 | Dr. Alister MacKenzie | By Invitation |
Course Rankings
| Rank | Course Name | Overall Rating | Course Length (Yards) | Par |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | San Francisco Golf Club | 4.9/5 | 6,941 | 72 |
| 2 | Olympic Club | 4.8/5 | 6,842 | 71 |
| 3 | Lake Merced Golf Club | 4.7/5 | 6,300 | 72 |
| 4 | California Golf Club | 4.6/5 | 6,450 | 71 |
| 5 | Meadow Club | 4.5/5 | 6,737 | 71 |
| 6 | Claremont Country Club | 4.5/5 | 6,452 | 71 |
| 7 | Peninsula Golf & Country Club | 4.4/5 | 6,237 | 71 |
| 8 | The Preserve Golf Club | 4.4/5 | 7,067 | 72 |
| 9 | Orinda Country Club | 4.3/5 | 6,352 | 71 |
| 10 | Green Hills Country Club | 4.2/5 | 6,290 | 72 |
Signature Hole
| Course Name | Hole Number | Signature Hole Description |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco Golf Club | 18th | A stunning par-4 with views of the Pacific Ocean. |
| Olympic Club | 17th | A challenging par-3 with a narrow green surrounded by bunkers. |
| Lake Merced Golf Club | 12th | A picturesque par-5 with a lake coming into play on the second shot. |
| California Golf Club | 8th | A strategic par-4 with a tree-lined fairway and a dogleg left. |
| Meadow Club | 5th | A downhill par-3 with a challenging, undulating green. |
| Claremont Country Club | 15th | A long par-5 with a scenic view of the Bay Area from the tee box. |
| Peninsula Golf & Country Club | 16th | A par-4 with a tight fairway and a well-protected green. |
| The Preserve Golf Club | 14th | A par-4 that requires a precise approach shot to a multi-tiered green. |
| Orinda Country Club | 4th | A short par-4 with a risk-reward option for aggressive players. |
| Green Hills Country Club | 7th | A challenging par-4 with a narrow fairway and well-placed hazards. |
Conclusion:
San Francisco offers a remarkable array of private golf courses that cater to golfers seeking exclusivity, stunning scenery, and challenging gameplay. Each of these clubs has its unique characteristics, ensuring that golf enthusiasts in the area can find a private course that suits their preferences and style of play.
