Rancho Santa Fe has earned its reputation among golfers for good reason, with ten distinct courses sitting within a short drive of each other. The mix works well. Private clubs where tradition runs deep sit alongside public courses that focus on pure enjoyment of golf. Each course has developed its own personality over time, shaped by the natural terrain and thoughtful design. Course conditions consistently meet high standards, which makes every round feel worthwhile. Read on to find the perfect place for your next round, then secure your tee time and see what suits your style!
1. The Bridges | Rancho Santa Fe
Photo credit The Bridges
The Bridges is a private golf and country club designed around a championship golf course by the legendary Robert Trent Jones II. This 18-hole course, known for its elevation changes and seven bridges, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. Features include a 35,000-square-foot Tuscan-style clubhouse, fitness amenities, recreational courts, dining, social events, and a state-of-the-art Performance Center.
2. The Crosby Club | San Diego
Photo credit The Crosby Club
The Crosby Club's 18-hole championship course is known for its complex layout and numerous elevation changes, offering a challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. Beyond golf, the club offers a fitness center, three tennis courts, and four pickleball courts, as well as a variety of dining options. It also features a 25-yard swimming pool maintained at 81 degrees year-round and a nearly two-mile walking and biking trail along the San Dieguito River.
3. Del Mar Country Club | Rancho Santa Fe
Photo Courtesy of Raquel Benguiat
Del Mar Country Club is a popular choice for locals. It's 18-hole course is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and water features, offering a relaxing and enjoyable environment for golfers. The club's 55,000-square-foot clubhouse is ideal for large private events, while two fully-equipped fitness centers, a Junior Olympic-size swimming pool, tennis courts, and fine dining enhance the member experience.
4. The Farms Golf Club | Rancho Santa Fe
Photo Courtesy of Raquel Benguiat
The Farms Golf Club, built in 1984 with the design influence of legendary players Tommy Jacobs and Pete, Perry, and Alice Dye, offers 240 acres of unparalleled championship golfing. In addition to its challenging course, The Farms provides Bocce ball, member events, and cooking classes with Chef Christina Pancheri. Golf legend Phil Mickelson, a member, has praised this course as “one of the most challenging courses off the tee in Southern California.”
5. Fairbanks Ranch Country Club | Rancho Santa Fe
Photo Courtesy of Raquel Benguiat
With a variety of amenities ranging from tennis to croquet to three stunning and distinct golf courses, Fairbanks Ranch is a longtime RSF favorite country club. It hosted the 1984 Olympics Equestrian events, helmed by Prince Phillip of England! The club also prides itself on its 100% home-free course, prioritizing an “abundance of water, trees, plant life and nature which make it a photographer’s dream".
6. Lomas Santa Fe Executive Golf Course | Solana Beach
Photo Courtesy of Raquel Benguiat
Designed by William Bell in 1973, the Lomas Santa Fe Executive Golf Course is known for its panoramic ocean views and cool breezes. This 18-hole course offers a relaxing yet challenging golfing experience, 13 tennis courts, 7 pickleball courts, aquatic and fitness amenities, and fine dining options. The golf course has also hosted the Callaway Junior Worlds, adding to its prestige.
7. La Valle Coastal Club | Rancho Santa Fe
Photo credit La Valle Coastal Club
La Valle Coastal Club offers a complete luxury experience with its 27-hole championship golf course, tennis courts, fine dining, and a full-service spa. This private club also features boutique-style lodging and a fitness center, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and recreation. La Valle Coastal Club regularly hosts tournaments and events.
8. RSF Golf Club | Rancho Santa Fe
Photo Courtesy of Raquel Benguiat
Exclusively available to Covenant residents, the RSF Golf Club opened in 1929 and is often considered the centerpiece of the Rancho Santa Fe community. While the 18-hole course and club has grown in recent years, the RSF Golf Club remains an intimate, close-knit golfing destination with a rich heritage and modern amenities.
9. The Santaluz Club | San Diego
Photo credit The Santaluz Club
The Santaluz Club features a Rees Jones 300-acre, 18-hole championship golf course within a private, gated community. In addition to golf, members enjoy a custom spa, children’s day camp, numerous fitness opportunities, dining, and social experiences. The Santaluz Club offers memberships to both Santaluz residents and non-residents, with specific options and availability depending on the membership type.
10. Torrey Pines Golf Course | La Jolla
Photo credit Torrey Pines Golf Course
It might not be the closest to Rancho Santa Fe, but for jaw-dropping ocean views and world-class golfing, you can’t beat the Torrey Pines Golf Course. This 36-hole course, constructed in 1957 and owned by the city of San Diego, is one of the most famous golf courses in the world, offering a unique experience for those who appreciate top-tier golf in a stunning setting.
