Bel Air Course
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Bel Air Country Club's rolling hills whisper of Old Hollywood glamour, where the echoes of studio deals and clandestine rendezvous mingle with the satisfying thwack of persimmon on gutta-percha long since passed. Nestled within the eponymous enclave, the parkland-style layout, while not possessing the rugged drama of seaside links or desert landscapes, provides an engaging strategic test. Its generous fairways initially appear forgiving, but subtle undulations and strategically placed bunkers punish errant approaches, rewarding thoughtful course management. Designed by George Thomas, Jr., in the Golden Age of course architecture, Bel Air has seen careful touch-ups over the decades, most notably from Tom Fazio, ensuring its relevance in the modern game. While not a frequent host of major professional championships, the club has held several prestigious amateur events, cementing its place in the Southern California golf landscape. Membership at Bel Air is highly coveted, drawing from the entertainment industry's elite and the city's business titans, fostering an environment of quiet exclusivity. The club is rumored to have several quirky rules, including restrictions on cell phone use and attire, preserving its genteel atmosphere and storied past. The members often speak fondly about how the course forces them to play target golf off the tees, as many of them have lost significant yardage over their careers.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Private column compares member-only and guest-restricted courses.
Best in World
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Best in USA
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Best in CA
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Golfers say Bel-Air is an exceptionally fun and memorable course they'd happily play every day, with many praising what some call the best collection of par 3s they've seen and green complexes that offer great variety and scoring opportunities. Reviewers consistently note the back nine is significantly tougher than the front, particularly a demanding stretch from holes 13–17, with the par-3 10th singling out as especially nerve-wracking. Most highlight the course's excellent conditioning following recent restoration work, its routing through multiple canyons, and the knowledgeable caddies who share great stories. The clubhouse atmosphere draws nearly as much praise as the golf itself, with several reviewers describing it as one of the best hangouts in golf where time seems to dissolve.
8.8
76 players
I love this golf course. Some of the most fun I have ever had playing golf. Possibly the best set of par 3s I have ever seen, every single hole is unforgettable. This is now the 3rd course i want to be a member at, I could play 36 daily
Vibes > Everything in LA. Very playable and plenty of scoring chances. One of the more nerve racking tee shots on #10 after a few. Great caddies and membership. Highly recommend.
I’m in love with Bel-Air if ever there was a course I could play every day this is it. Just think the layout is so good and I love the green complexes. Great variety. Played it twice would really like another shot at the 10th hole par three that I’ve yet to score less than 5 on. Caddies have great stories and you’ll likely see a celebrity or two and the houses that line the canyons are insane
Iconic Los Angeles golf club carved into the hills above UCLA. Dripping with history and one of the most iconic clubhouses and bridges (the swinging bridge) in golf. Fun-seeking membership of LA’s elite partiers, the golf course is a great walk despite the hills. Fun fact: golf carts are the width they are today to fit through the tunnels at Bel Air. Back 9 is extremely tough with 13-17 possibly the most demanding stretch of golf holes in LA.
BACC is a total delight and maybe the most fun hang in golf. I’m always amazed that anyone here can stay married, as I’m fairly certain time dissolves and the drinks magically multiply when hanging out in that clubhouse. The course is one you’d want to play every day and is a total marvel. Thomas was able to do something here through multiple canyons that I’m fairly certain no one else would’ve, and the club has done a wonderful job of preserving and restoring that vision. Conditions are off the charts good, and you’re sure to have a great time. Front is easier than the back, but both 9s are memorable and enjoyable… A wise man once told me, get an Uber there and back, though.
If you could hang out literally anywhere in LA, allow me to point you to Bel Air CC. Outstanding Thomas course, recently renovated and you're sure to get into some good trouble in the clubhouse.
Architectural wonder in more ways than one….An opening tee shot you’ll remember forever….A special place that renders unforgettable rounds.
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FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Bel Air has a Course Vaults score of 8.8 out of 10 based on 41 explicit golfer ratings.
Bel Air was designed by George C. Thomas, William Park Bell Sr., Jack Neville, and Tom Doak.
Bel Air is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Bel Air is 70.
Bel Air plays 6,482 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Bel Air is 134.
