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Top 9 Golf Resorts in California

There might be no better place to play golf than California. The Golden State is the promised land when it comes to gorgeous, well-designed courses and the luxurious resorts that accompany them. Your putting will be done to the fantastic backgrounds of rolling ocean waves, mind-blowing cliff panoramas, magnificent mountain vistas, the desert terrain of Southern California, and the fertile plains of Central. Top golf resorts in California are constantly leading the world ratings for the best courses, and there’s an amazing variety too. So be prepared to enjoy the game to the fullest on these spectacular grounds. And don’t forget to make time for unwinding at the luxurious resort too.

Ojai Valley Inn - Ojai Ojai Valley Inn
Credit: Ojai Valley Inn by ojaivalleyinn.com

Ojai Valley Inn - Ojai

The grounds get mentioned a lot in the reviews for Ojai Valley Inn. Saying that they are beautiful would be an understatement. You will be in the heart of Ventura County in one of California’s most charming small towns – Ojai – with the gorgeous Topatopa Mountains towering overhead and fantastic California flora landscaped to perfection. It is refreshing, and being close to nature is part of the appeal at this stunning 5-star golf resort. Speaking of golf, the legendary 1923-founded celebrity-loved Ojai Country Club is there for you to enjoy. An excellent par 70 course is perfect for both beginners and golf regulars, providing a fulfilling game experience surrounded by wonderful panoramas. Back at the Ojai Valley Inn, take a plunge in the resort’s Instagrammable outdoor pools, lovingly named Indigo and Pixie. Dine at on-site eateries that serve California fare. Take your relaxation up a notch by booking one of the stunning Spa Penthouses that boasts magnificent interiors, and don’t miss a chance to enjoy a treatment at the Spa Ojai. 

The Resort at Pelican Hill - Newport Beach The Resort at Pelican Hill
Credit: The Resort at Pelican Hill by pelicanhill.com

The Resort at Pelican Hill - Newport Beach

The Crystal Cove coastal perfection is right in front of you, the Catalina island contours glisten in the distance, and the ocean breeze gently blows as you strike. You’re getting such a backdrop at The Resort at Pelican Hill, one of the top golf resorts in California and a majestic place to stay and play. Here, you’ll find two gorgeous Tom Fazio-designed golf courses featuring 36 holes and spectacular panoramas that reign supreme among other U.S. golf clubs. Perched above Crystal Cove State Beach, Ocean South and Ocean North courses give off that private, desolate feeling. And all of it is just a 40-minute drive away from Los Angeles. As for the lodging, it is an upscale Northern Italy-inspired charmer with lush landscaping, luxurious bungalows, and a large mosaic-tiled outdoor swimming pool. In other words, it’s a prime and decadent golf retreat you should check out in California and one of the best hotels in Orange County

The Ritz-Carlton - Half Moon Bay The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay by ritzcarlton.com

The Ritz-Carlton - Half Moon Bay

No matter from which angle you look at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, it will always come off as stunning. With a dreamy location on the edge of a cliff in Northern California’s Half Moon Bay, it supplies guests with unapologetic five-star class. It is really in a league of its own, metaphorically and physically. There’s nothing between you and the ocean here, and it feels refreshingly amazing. The outdoor areas are pure joy to stroll through, the rooms are elegant, and there are mind-blowing views of the Pacific everywhere you look. No wonder it’s considered to be one of California’s top hotels with the best views. Then let’s talk about the golf course, one of Northern California’s finest. You’ll find 36 holes here, 16 created by Arnold Palmer (traditional) and 16 Scotland-inspired links holes designed by Arthur Hills. Needless to say, playing here feels fantastic. You’re accompanied by the roaring of the ocean and the incredible scenery. And San Francisco is never too far, at just 30 miles away. 

The Lodge at Torrey Pines - San Diego The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Credit: The Lodge at Torrey Pines by lodgetorreypines.com

The Lodge at Torrey Pines - San Diego

Not only is The Lodge at Torrey Pines among the best golf resorts in the San Diego area, but it also offers a special La Jolla moment – an amalgam of a jaw-dropping Pacific location and a high-end retreat. Golf professionals know the deal, Torrey Pines Golf Course is an iconic tournament-level venue with an overwhelming oceanside setting that both the pros and amateurs of the game will acknowledge as top-notch. The Lodge at Torrey Pines has special offers that allow you to experience the famed course effortlessly and try to score an Albatross inspired by the La Jolla grandeur. Elegant and thoroughly designed rooms and suites will give you an extra touch of luxury. The Grill at Torrey Pines is the best place for upscale dining next to the golf course, and inventive A.R. Valentien allows you to taste San Diego cuisine with an ocean vista. 

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club - Dana Point Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
Credit: Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club by waldorfastoriamonarchbeach.com

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club - Dana Point

The ocean takes center stage at this top-rated Southern California resort. Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club provides a top-notch stay experience paired with all-encompassing vistas, beautifully designed outdoors, and contemporary rooms with first-hand water views. Their golf course is organically woven into the dramatic landscape over Salt Creek Beach and looks as if it was always there. It is a pretty challenging par 70 championship course yet a considerable pleasure to golf. As for the rooms, keep an eye out for the over-the-top Penthouse Suites for the highest degree of luxury. The private beach club will give you a stylish way to enjoy the Pacific coast, the spa and wellness center will ensure proper relaxation, and the series of pools will provide a cooling escape from the heat. As for the dining, you’ve got oceanside Bourbon Steak Orange County, casual AVEO Table + Bar, and 33°North for drinks. 

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa - Palm Desert JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
Credit: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa by marriott.com

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa - Palm Desert

The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is big and beautiful and a great choice if your kids are in tow for this golf vacation, as it’s one of Palm Springs’ best family resorts. It’s 450 acres of pure luxury, complete with lakes, outdoor pools, spellbinding desert gardens, and, of course, golf. You don’t have to go anywhere to make a stroke; the superb course is part of the hotel grounds and extremely convenient. Trademark Ted Robinson’s design is attentive to every landscape detail; the sight of the Santa Rosa Mountains in the distance and two championship golf courses provide an outstanding game of golf. Take a break in style at the on-site spa and salon with its various therapies. On the sports side of things, there’s not only golf here, but you’ve also got an amazing tennis court. While on the culinary front, a whopping ten restaurants will satisfy even the most demanding taste cravings. To add even more chic, there are pink flamingos walking the grounds.

La Quinta Resort & Club - La Quinta La Quinta Resort & Club
Credit: La Quinta Resort & Club by laquintaresort.com

La Quinta Resort & Club - La Quinta

It’s not one course you’re getting access to by staying at the fashionable La Quinta Resort & Club, it’s five. All set in the magical Santa Rosa Mountains, these courses and their location set you up for a truly unforgettable backdrop for your games. The resort itself is a definition of self-indulgence with a wide choice of casitas, suites, and villas. And wait until you hear about this resort’s number of pools. Ready? There are 41. Add the renowned spa facilities, yoga classes, fitness center, and high-end dining spots, and you’re getting one of the best golf resorts in California, hands-down. 

Park Hyatt Aviara - Carlsbad Park Hyatt Aviara
Credit: Park Hyatt Aviara by hyatt.com

Park Hyatt Aviara - Carlsbad

Are you looking for a top golf resort in California for a family holiday? Park Hyatt Aviara is that accommodation. This five-star family-friendly lodging in San Diego is the place to be when it comes to a luxurious Southern California retreat. The 7,007 yards of the superb Arnold Palmer-designed Aviara Golf Club par 72 course are golf perfection, accessible to guests of the Hyatt. Guests loved the picturesque grounds of the hotel, the spacious contemporary rooms, and the impeccable level of service. Also, a great perk you’re getting here is an awesome pool area with water slides. Classy suites overlook the Batiquitos Lagoon and provide the perfect spot for California sunset watching. If you’d like to play golf even off-course, the hotel has a fun addition in the form of Topgolf Swing Suites that provide an immersive digital golfing experience. 

Fairmont Grand Del Mar - San Diego Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Credit: Fairmont Grand Del Mar by granddelmar.com

Fairmont Grand Del Mar - San Diego

Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a splendid oasis of luxury in the heart of San Diego’s Carmel Valley. Coming here, you’re sure to be charmed by the stunning grounds that feature lots of greenery and elegant Mediterranean-inspired architecture. And then there’s the beautiful golf course. Designed by Tom Fazio and featuring 380 acres of terrain, it’s among the best in California. Staying at Fairmont, you get exclusive access to these grounds and countless opportunities to practice and score. Choose from a plethora of stylish suites that play with the traditional Spanish architecture concepts of San Diego while adding a luxurious feel. The Deluxe Veranda Room is worth drawing special attention to with its large panoramic arched balcony. Among the San Diego hotels with the coolest pools, the Fairmont has four aesthetically-alluring heated pools and a wellness center to get you to the heights of relaxation. 

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