California is home to some of the finest golfing destinations in the world. This is especially true in the lower half of the state, where the weather conditions are warm all through the year. Regardless of whether you prefer the amenities that come with a high-class golf resort, or you enjoy playing inexpensive, yet tough courses, Southern California delivers the golfing experience for you.

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There are many superb golf courses in Southern California, that choosing the best 7 is a chore for anyone. Nevertheless, with much consideration, I chose the following as some of the best in the lower half of the Golden State.
1. Pelican Hill Golf Club
Situated just south of Newport Beach, Pelican Hill houses some of the best golf in Southern California. The club was made by Tom Fazio (who’s got more courses ranked in the top 100 than any other golf course architect) in the early 90′s and showcases two awesome courses: Ocean North and Ocean South. While the two courses provide remarkable views of the Pacific Ocean, each one has their own unique feel, with the intention that golfers can get two distinct experiences. In 2005, Fazio returned to Pelican Hill to renovate the two courses in an effort to restore the pristine dynamics of the golf club.
Irrespective of your handicap, Pelican Hill is one of the most enjoyable golf courses in Southern California. If you are a golfing enthusiast, you must play a round at Pelican Hill Golf Club.
2. Torrey Pines Golf Course
Torrey Pines is often viewed as one of the premier municipal courses in all of California. With great views of the Pacific Ocean, this Southern California golf course is home to the PGA Tour’s Farmer’s Insurance Open each year. However, the course has held its fair share of major PGA events too, including the unforgettable 2008 U.S. Open, in which Tiger Woods overcame Rocco Mediate after 19 holes of playoff golf.

With incredible views along with an superb course design, Torrey Pines presents goflers with the perfect experience. If you are in the area, or if you are thinking about planning a trip, you should put this destination on top of your list.
3. La Quinta Golf Resort
Situated just a couple of hours outside Los Angeles in the golfing haven of Palm Springs, La Quinta Golf Resort is home to six incredible courses, which includes PGA West. The resort is so well-liked, that it was awarded the Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators.
In addition to being among the top golfing destinations in Southern California, La Quinta is also a excellent place for newbies to be taught the sport. This is because the resort hosts the Jim McLean Golf School, which was rated among the top teaching facilities in the United States by several sources, such as: U.S. News & World Report, CNN, & Travel & Leisure.
So, whether you are searching for a excellent place to hone your skills, or if you would like to vacation and enjoy a good day on the course, La Quinta is among the best golf resorts in Southern California to do so.
4. Indian Wells Golf Resort
If you watched the last season of Big Break on the Golf Channel, you’ve already noticed how well-designed the Indian Wells Golf Resort is. Similar to the La Quinta Golf Resort, Indian Wells is situated just a couple of hours outside of Los Angeles, in Palm Springs.
The resort has a couple of distinct courses that players can test their abilities on. Both courses were ranked in Golfweek’s Top 20 “Best Courses You Can Play” in California. So, no matter what course you select, you know you’ll get a premier golfing experience.
5. Red Hawk Golf Course
Redhawk Golf Course is perhaps among the best courses in Southern California for the price you pay. It’s very well-kept and managed and was rated 7th among California’s public golf courses.
The course is also one of the toughest in California, too. With a course rating of 75.7, a slope rating of 149, and one of the only island greens in Southern California (the par three 8th hole) this golfing destination will surely keep you challenged all day long.
6. La Costa Golf Resort
The La Costa Golf Resort contains two unique courses: the North Course, as well as the South Course. The resort was made by Dick Wilson and, since it opened up in 1965, the course has hosted 37 PGA Tour events. Throughout the years, the last 4 holes of the South Course have played so difficult that they have acquired the nickname of “The Longest Mile in Golf” by several professionals.
The course was renovated in 2011 to keep the resorts amazing feel. With all of the conveniences and the extraordinary golf that La Costa provides, it definitely should be on the list of the best golf courses in Southern California.
7. Strawberry Farms Golf Course
Strawberry Farms was created in 1997 by James W. Lipe Jr. The course winds through 6,700 yards of canyons and wetlands and provides golfers with fantastic surroundings. With a well-kept facility, and plenty of tough holes, Strawberry Farms is the perfect destination for Southern California golfers.
There is a long list of excellent golf courses in Southern California that golfing fanatics can play. No matter if you’re a rookie, or you’ve been playing for some time now, you will find there’s course out there for you. So, for anybody who is in the mood, go ahead and check out these amazing Southern California golf resorts.


For a list of the best courses in Northern California, follow the link to continue reading.
Learn more about the best courses in Southern California by following the link provided.