Penmar Course
Venice, CA, USA



Penmar, a venerable pitch-and-putt in the heart of Venice, California, isn’t chasing majors; it’s chasing accessibility. This flat, unassuming layout offers a quick, affordable round just blocks from the Pacific. Its charm resides not in championship pedigree, but in its democratic spirit. Originally conceived as a recreational amenity for the surrounding community, Penmar's design favors approach shots and putting. The short, largely treeless expanse presents a challenge to even the most skilled player, demanding precision from tee to green to hit tight fairways and elevated greens. Wind is often a factor, particularly afternoons and evenings near the ocean. While it has never hosted a major championship, Penmar is a constant hub of activity, a testament to its enduring popularity among locals and visitors alike. The course exemplifies the ethos of public golf, where anyone can pick up a club and enjoy the game. And if the round goes sideways, there's always Abbot Kinney to explore after the final putt drops.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Unranked
Best in USA
Unranked
Best in CA
Public: #133
Golfers say this casual nine-hole course in Venice wins them over with its laid-back vibe and social atmosphere rather than championship conditions. Most praise the excellent bar, café, and Friday night live music scene, noting it's more of a local hangout for an afternoon walk with beers than a serious test of golf. Reviewers appreciate the unpretentious charm and community feel, though some find the greens don't break much and pace can be slow, with one reporting a four-hour round. Several mention it's the kind of place where nobody cares if you play barefoot, and the relaxed local character eventually grows on you even if the golf itself is straightforward.
Look - if you’re looking for a proper day out at a proper track, go to rustic, robles, or rancho. If you’re looking for an afternoon walk with a few beers and a few swings discussing how Harrison Ford crash landed his plane on #8 - this is the place to do it. It’s the local watering hole. A 9er so casual you can play barefoot if you want to. Nobody cares. And if you play there enough times, it’s exactly that type of local charm that (eventually) wins you over.
Everyone loves this place. Call me crazy, but I personally don’t like a 4 hour 9 hole round.
Incredible spot! Have to hit the pens
9 hole loop in Venice. No par 5s, greens don’t break, BUT vibes are amazing and the cafe can’t be beat
Great inner city 9 hole course. Good bar/restaurant and fantastic Friday night live music scene!
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FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Penmar has a Course Vaults score of 6.6 out of 10 based on 19 explicit golfer ratings.
Penmar was designed by David W. Kent.
Yes. Penmar is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Penmar is 33.
Penmar plays 2,582 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Penmar is 113.