From five-star country clubs to all-levels driving ranges, Santa Barbara golf courses are a destination in themselves. Our comfortable year-round weather paired with amazing views makes golfing in Santa Barbara a guaranteed good time.
Whether you’re a rookie or looking to turn pro, Santa Barbara has several public golf courses that are the par-fect playground to hone your skills. We’ve listed some of the best Santa Barbara golf courses to assist you in planning your next golf getaway in SB.
One of our favorite courses is in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Wine Country in Santa Ynez Valley. Designed by legendary golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr, Rancho San Marcos is a world class 18-hole course set on 300 spectacular acres on the floor of the Santa Ynez Valley. On your drive in, escape into the natural world with views of Lake Cachuma, centuries old oak trees, and local wildlife. It might feel a world away, but this Par 71 course is only 15 minutes west of Santa Barbara.
Heading into the foothills just east of Santa Barbara, you’ll find Goleta “The Good Land” and the beautiful Glen Annie Golf Course. Considered a local gem, this 18-hole golf course is challenging, but entirely worth the effort for the breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands. This Santa Barbara golf course includes amenities such as a tee shop and the onsite restaurant the Frog Bar and Grill.
While Hidden Oaks Golf Course may be small, it packs a punch! This special 9-hole course is a local favorite and the perfect place to practice your skills with a packed schedule. Its relaxed atmosphere, hidden away in Santa Barbara’s rolling foothills, is perfect for unwinding and enjoying hitting the green. As a Par 27 Golf Course, it can be fun yet technical and leave you with extra time to explore more of Santa Barbara.
Touching the California coastline, you’ll find the beautiful Sandpiper Golf Club. Oceanfront views and challenging foothills make playing this championship golf course a memorable one. Every hole has a view of the Pacific Ocean. This 18-hole Par 72 course has been home to a number of professional tournaments including the PGA Tour Tournament Player Series and the final stage for the PGA Tour Qualifying school. The Sandpiper golf course has brought visitors from all over the country helping to establish Santa Barbara as a recognized golf destination.
Visitors and locals alike can enjoy Santa Barbara’s golf courses on a year-round basis thanks to our spectacular weather, so there’s never a bad time to organize your next golf trip or fit in a round of golf during your Santa Barbara stay.
The best part about a day of golf in Santa Barbara is the opportunity to refuel afterward thanks to Santa Barbara’s world class restaurant, wine, and craft beer scene. Staying at Hotel Santa Barbara? Try an SB classic like Joe’s Café right across the street or wander the Urban Wine Trail for local wines in the heart of Downtown.
To book your next golf trip call 1 (800) 549 – 9869 or visit us online.