Rancho Santa Fe Course
Rancho Santa Fe, CA, USA




Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club is where Bing Crosby traded his microphone for a mashie, a haven for Hollywood's elite seeking respite on verdant fairways. Carved into the rolling hills of Rancho Santa Fe, its classic parkland layout presents a traditional test, demanding strategic play rather than sheer power. Length is not the course's primary defense; instead, subtle undulations and strategically placed bunkers reward thoughtful course management and precise iron play. A slight fade off the tee will certainly benefit any player throughout their round. Originally designed by Max Behr in 1928, the course has seen sympathetic refinements over the years, preserving its Golden Age charm while subtly adapting to the modern game. While not a regular fixture on professional circuits, Rancho Santa Fe has long held a regional significance as a stern but fair examination of golfing skill. More than simply a golf course, Rancho Santa Fe fostered a tight-knit community, attracting successful individuals from various fields. Its membership has historically included titans of industry, entertainment luminaries, and decorated military figures, all drawn to the club's understated elegance and commitment to the traditions of the game. And it's rumored the club is renowned for its post-round martinis, a tradition upheld with the same dedication as its championship golf.
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
Unranked
Best in USA
Unranked
Best in CA
All courses
Golfers say this beautiful old course delivers super pure conditions and a memorable experience, though most note the greens present a serious challenge if speed control falters. Reviewers praise the friendly staff and clubhouse atmosphere, with the bar earning particular mention as a great spot for post-round drinks. Several find the routing plays dramatically different depending on wind direction, with coastal breezes creating distinct challenges moving toward versus away from the clubhouse, and a handful of holes stand out as especially picturesque. One golfer suggests the course would rank even higher if greens and surrounds played firmer.
8.4
28 players
Would be ranked higher if the greens and surrounds played firmer
Beautiful old course with super pure conditions. Greens will kill your score here if your speed is off. Very cool clubhouse with friendly staff. Handful of very picturesque holes. Plays incredibly different going towards and away from the clubhouse with the coastal wind.
Great course and a great bar to gave drinks after the round.
Public courses closest to Rancho Santa Fe.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Rancho Santa Fe has a Course Vaults score of 8.4 out of 10 based on 15 explicit golfer ratings.
Rancho Santa Fe was designed by Max Behr.
Rancho Santa Fe is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Rancho Santa Fe is 72.
Rancho Santa Fe plays 7,035 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Rancho Santa Fe is 135.